GSDCA Junior Program

The GSDCA Juniors Program was designed to stimulate interest, encourage participation, and support young handlers of German Shepherd Dogs. 

1. The GSDCA has a special, free membership available for Juniors who would like to join.  To join the GSDCA as a Juniors membership, click here.
2. Juniors also receive recognition for completing a title in a performance event (obedience, agility, herding, or tracking). 
3. Performance Award plaques are awarded at the National to any junior finishing an AKC performance title.
4. A seminar is offered annually at the National Specialty Show.  All interested juniors, parents, guardians, and sponsors are encouraged to attend.  The seminar offers hands-on ring time and tutoring with experienced handler.

Juniors are judged on their ability to present (handle) their dogs the same as those who compete in the breed ring. AKC recommends the loose leash temperament test be part of a judge’s evaluation of any junior handling a German Shepherd at either a specialty or All-Bred Show.

Although the GSDCA has programs to recognize the success of it's Juniors, it believes that Juniors are motivated not by prizes but by the opportunity to exhibit in the sport, to learn and develop as handlers, and to met and enjoy new friends as they prepare for the future of the sport of dogs. 

The GSDCA wants to encourage, teach, and support Junior handlers of German Shepherd Dogs as an important part of the future of this breed.