IOEBA Junior Handler Program

Our Mission Statement

The International Olde English Bulldogge Association (IOEBA) Junior Handler Program provides youth between the ages of seven and eighteen with an educational and structured experience in the show ring. Participants are evaluated on their ability to present, control, and showcase their dogs, rather than the quality or conformation of the dogs themselves. The program focuses on teaching proper handling, ring procedures, and sportsmanship while subtly fostering confidence, responsibility, and composure that may benefit Juniors both inside and outside the ring.

Program Purpose

The purpose of the IOEBA Junior Handler Program is to guide youth through the fundamental skills of showmanship. Juniors learn to understand breed standards, canine structure, movement, and balance, while developing presentation skills that reflect care, conditioning, and respect for their dogs. By participating in the program, youth handlers gain practical experience in preparation, attention to detail, and ethical conduct. Mentorship from experienced handlers, breeders, and judges supports Juniors as they refine their skills, gain confidence, and navigate the responsibilities of the show ring.

Age Divisions and Class Structure

The IOEBA Junior Handler Program organizes participants into three age groups, each offering two levels of competition: Novice and Open. This structure ensures that Juniors compete in classes suited to their experience and skill level, rather than solely by age.

The age divisions and corresponding class levels are as follows:

7 to 10 years: Juniors in this division focus on foundational handling, ring etiquette, and proper presentation.

11 to 14 years: This division allows Juniors to refine and expand their handling abilities.

15 to 18 years: The oldest division emphasizes advanced handling, professional presentation, and mastery of ring procedures.

Classes within each division are separated into Novice and Open levels. The Novice level is intended for Juniors who are new to handling or have limited experience, providing instruction and guidance as they develop foundational skills and confidence in the show ring. The Open level is for Juniors who have demonstrated proficiency and developed a higher degree of skill, confidence, and showmanship. Advancement from Novice to Open is based on demonstrated ability and consistent performance, rather than age, and is determined by an IOEBA Judge.

When a handler reaches the age threshold of a new division, they are required to begin at the Novice level of that division, regardless of prior experience or accomplishments. This ensures that all participants receive the foundational instruction appropriate for their age group and promotes fairness, consistency, and structured skill development throughout the program.

The program is designed to accommodate Juniors joining at any age within the 7 to 18 range. A participant who begins at age fifteen for example, with no prior experience will enter the Novice level of their age division and progress according to demonstrated ability rather than simply by age.

Approved Dogs

Only dogs that are considered a recognized breed and registered with the International Olde English Bulldogge Association (IOEBA) may be entered in the Junior Handler Program. Dogs may be intact or altered. The evaluation focuses solely on the handler’s performance and not the dogs conformation.

Note to Parents and Guardians: Selecting a well-mannered, experienced dog that your child has a strong rapport with is essential. Dogs in the ring can become excited, and incidents early in a Junior’s career can be discouraging and may impact future participation. For safety reasons, if a child is unable to maintain control of their dog, they may be asked to leave the ring. Always consult an IOEBA approved Judge or Host if you are unsure whether a dog is suitable for your child’s age, size, or experience.

Handler Evaluation Standards

In the IOEBA Junior Handler Program, evaluation is based on the handler’s overall performance in the ring. Judges assess handling skill, teamwork, ring awareness, presentation, and sportsmanship. 

  • The handler must maintain consistent control of the dog at all times.

  • The handler and dog should work together smoothly as a coordinated team.

  • The dog should be stacked and posed efficiently and presented in a manner that highlights its strengths.

  • The handler should move the dog at an appropriate speed, maintaining control throughout the required gaiting patterns.

  • Proper ring procedure and etiquette must be followed at all times.

  • Juniors should demonstrate basic knowledge of handling and be able to answer simple handling related questions when asked.

  • The dog must be clean, well-groomed, and properly prepared for the ring.

  • The handler’s appearance should be neat, professional, and non-distracting.

  • Respectful and sportsmanlike behavior toward judges, mentors, and fellow exhibitors is expected.

  • Interference with other exhibitors or dogs is not permitted.

A Junior Handler may be excused or disqualified for unsafe or rough handling, interference with another exhibitor or dog, disrespectful or unsportsmanlike behavior, loss of control of the dog, or any action that compromises the safety of the ring or its participants.

Handlers should enter the ring counterclockwise with the dog on the left, set up and present their dog for examination as instructed by the judge, and perform gaiting patterns as directed while demonstrating control, confidence, and effective handling skills.

Point Schedule

  • 1st Place: 15 points

  • 2nd Place: 10 points

  • 3rd Place: 5 points

All 1st Place Class Winners advance to compete for Best Junior Handler.

  •  Best Junior Handler Win (with multiple class winners competing): 25 points

  •  Best Junior Handler Win (single class winner, no competition): 10 points

All points awarded are recorded and accumulated toward IOEBA Best Junior Handler of the Year standings.

Conduct and Ethics

Juniors are expected to uphold the highest standards of integrity while participating in the program. Handlers may not accept compensation for presenting another exhibitor’s dog, and any borrowed or co-owned dogs must be used primarily as learning opportunities rather than to gain competitive advantage. Reported violations of program rules may be reviewed by the IOEBA Executive Broad, which may impose suspension or removal from the program when necessary. Participants are encouraged to demonstrate personal responsibility, care for their dogs, and ethical behavior at all times.

Role of Parents, Guardians, and Mentors

Adults play a supportive role by guiding Juniors without influencing outcomes or decisions. Parents, guardians, and mentors may not contact judges regarding placements or show results, nor attempt to sway competition in any way. Handler sponsorship by kennels, breeders, or companies is not permitted in order to preserve fairness and maintain the educational focus of the program. Mentorship should focus on encouragement, advice, and reinforcement, allowing Juniors to develop skills and confidence independently while benefiting from guidance and expertise.

Program Oversight and Vision

The IOEBA Executive Board oversees the Junior Handler Program to ensure its integrity, fairness, and alignment with the organization’s mission. The ultimate goal is to provide a professional, educational, and supportive environment where youth can develop handling skills, knowledge, and confidence, while representing the values and standards of the International Olde English Bulldogge Association with pride and professionalism.