Dog Training in Cumbria

Westmorland Canine Association has been training pedigree dogs for the show ring for over ninety four years.

Formed under the auspices of The Kennel Club, WCA has been in existence since 1928.

The world of dog shows has changed a lot since the club first opened its' doors to local people who wanted to show their dogs. The club continues to offer help and encouragement to its' members through training, and match nights, and holds two shows a year, a limited show for members and a larger open show that is open to anyone who wishes to enter.

Membership is not restricted in any way, if you have a pedigree dog registered with Kennel Club and want to train your dog for the show ring we can help you.

For the novice handler there are always plenty of experienced people around to offer advice and help. For everyone who enjoys the sport of dog showing we provide a training opportunity and a chance to practice with your dog. We hold training meetings during the year that provide an opportunity for both the dog and handler to get advice from our training expert Claire Akrigg who has a particular interest in helping members to get the best from their exhibit.

Our Chairman, Hilary Gilpin is a senior judge who has judged extensively at Championship shows in England and on the continent, she has judged at Crufts and she is always willing to share her knowledge to help members understand what the judge is looking for in the ring.

The Officers and Committee are always willing to help, and club members often help each other. It may be the person you are sitting next to at a club meeting that offers just that one vital bit of insight into a breed characteristic, a trimming issue, or just plain common sense advice that makes all the difference as to how you show your dog.

Dog Training Competitions

During the year each of the winners and runners up at our match nights qualify for our Dog of the Year competition (DOTY) held in December alongside a fun evening of companion show style classes that are open to everyone. So you can come along and cheer your friends if you haven't qualified for DOTY, and spend an enjoyable evening with your dog.

Please look at our Calendar for current events..