Basic Showmanship Presentation
This is a basic presentation, novices should start and work on perfecting this presentation, second year 4-Hers and onward should further elaborate and make it their own personalized showmanship (see "Advanced Showmanship Presentation" below).
You will begin to be judged when you are called to the ring. Have your rabbit with you in a carrying cage and not in your lap so that your rabbit doesn't overheat and you're not late getting to the table. How you carry your animal, your posture, and how you place your rabbit on the table are very important. Always carry your rabbit in what is called the "football hold" having the head tucked under one arm so he can't see and the feet and legs supported with your arm and body for a firm hold, basically just like a football, do not ever scruff your bunny. Make sure you have your own clean carpet piece, set it on the table first or have someone carry it for you. We always put duct tape on the bottom of the carpet so it won't fly off the table if the rabbit kicks. pose your rabbit face forward, be sure that the feet are flat on the table and the tail is out, if you are a junior your rabbit doesn't need to be completely posed, just set him up so he doesn't move. If you have a running breed you may want to ask the judge before you begin if you can keep your hands on your rabbit during showmanship if he wants to move. Keep your hands at your sides, if your bunny moves you'll be able to grab him faster than if you had your hands behind your back. A showmanship presentation is a form of public speaking so remember to smile and look at the judge, eye contact is very important.
Introduction
When introducing yourself you should say 3-4 things about yourself, always start with your name and always include how long you've been in the rabbit project, sometimes certain bits of information are required in the introduction depending on the competition, in most state competitions you need to say where you are from, just check with experienced showman or leaders for any such requirements.
Say: "Hello, my name is ________, this is my ___ year in the rabbit project, and in the _________ 4-H club."
Next you need to introduce your bunny, again say 3-4 things about your rabbit, always including his name, class, and breed, a class includes age (junior, intermediate, or senior), sex (buck or doe), and color:
"This is my rabbit "Thumper" he is a junior blue buck and he is a Rex."
Body of Presentation
Keep in mind that whatever you are checking for throughout your showmanship that the judge should have a clear view of what you are doing, how you hold your rabbit or what pose it's in may vary by breed. You can start your health check wherever you would like and go in whatever order works best for you, but right now we'll start with the eyes.
Eyes
Turn your rabbit to either side to check the first eye, you'll be checking the eye that is facing toward the judge so he can see what your doing. There are 3 things that you check for in the eye1: proper eye color (this varies by the color of the animal), 2: weepy eye (also called conjunctivitis, symptoms are runny or gooey eyes), 3: wall eye (also called moon eye, this is a cataract in the eye making it look cloudy causing blindness). Gently open the eye, if you have a lop pull the ear out of the way, you'll say "I will start my presentation by checking my rabbits right/left eye for proper eye color and my rabbit has ______ colored eye which are correct for this color, I'm also checking for wall eye and weepy eye and there is none". Then turn your rabbit to the other side and check that eye as well.
Ears
Your rabbit should be in the side pose to check the ears as well as the eyes, so it's recommended that after you check the right eye you also check the right ear and the same for the left side. There are 2 things that you are checking for in the ears 1: ear mites (you will not actually see the mites but rather what is called ear canker, scabs in the ears left from where the mite have chewed the ears), 2: ear tattoo (this is only in the left ear, read off each letter or number. In most 4-H competitions it is not required for your rabbit to have a tattoo but you still need to check for it, if your rabbit has a registration in the right ear you should also read that off). Check the ear that is facing the judge, gently open the ear and look inside say "I'm checking the right/left ear for ear mites and there is none, I'm checking the left ear for a tattoo and it's "H" "5" "0"." Then turn your rabbit over and check the other ear.
Shoulders
To check the shoulders put your rabbit in whichever pose works best for your breed and make sure that the feet are flat on the table. There is only one thing that you need to check for on the shoulders 1: dislocation (your just going to run your hand over the shoulders to make sure that they feel the same). Say "Now I am checking the shoulders for dislocation and there is none."
Hips
The hips are the same as the shoulders, put your rabbit in the pose that gives the judge the best view of the hips and make sure the feet are flat on the table, say "I'm checking the hips for dislocation and there is none."
Tail
Turn your rabbit to the rear or back pose so that he is facing you, and make sure that he's not sitting on his tail. There is just one thing to check the tail for 1: screw tail (also called wry tail, twisted or kinked tail bones that might feel like a pigs tail). Gently grab the base of the tail and pull to the end feeling the bones say "I'm checking the tail for screw tail, bob tail, and broken tail and there is none."
The Underside
Now it's time to turn your rabbit over on its back, to do this use what is called the "rock and roll" method, the only correct way to flip a rabbit. First the rabbit needs to be facing you. Now there are 2 different ways to hold your rabbit, use whichever one is easier for you, the first way is to put your hand either over one or both of the ears and to also grab the scruff of the neck, or the other way is to put your hand at the back of the neck with your fingers pointing at you and put your index finger between the ears wrapping it around one of the while grabbing the scruff with the rest of your hand. Put your other hand on the rump of your bunny. Lift up with the hand holding the scruff and pull the rump towards you with your other hand. This might seem a little tricky at first but will be easier than any other way once you learn it, it's also safer for the animal and you have more control.
Nose
There is only one thing to check for on the nose 1: signs of snuffles (white mucus on or in the nose). When you're checking the nose just look at it you don't need to touch it to see whether or not it's ill, the symptoms are visible, say "Next I'll check my rabbit's nose for signs of snuffles and there is none."
Teeth
There are 2 things to check for on the teeth, 1: malocclusion (also called buck teeth and wolf teeth, good teeth are when the top overlap the bottom, malocclusion is when the teeth are twisted, overlong, or when the bottom overlap the top. There is also a form of malocclusion when the top and bottom teeth meet together this is called butting teeth), 2: broken teeth (when one or more teeth have broken off, they will usually grow back). Put your hand so it's resting lightly on your rabbit's face above the nose and using your fingers gently pull up on the lips, don't push up from below the mouth or the rabbit can bite you, say "I'm checking the teeth for malocclusion or broken teeth and there are none."
Forelegs
There is just one thing to check for on the forelegs, 1: bowed legs (legs that are bent or turned inward or outward). To check for bowed legs push up on the elbow one at a time, don't worry if they goes off to the side a little, this is relatively normal especially if your animal is ticklish, just make sure that the bones are straight. Then to check for snuffles look at the inside of the feet and legs near the dew claw and make sure that there are no mats, say "Now I'm checking the fore legs for bowed legs and there are none"
Claws
There are 3 things to check for on the claws, 1: broken claws, 2: missing claws, 3: discolored claws (like the eyes the color of the claws depends on the color of the animal, check to see that each claw is the right color on each foot). Press your thumb on the middle of the bottom of your rabbit's foot to better expose the claws, if your bunny has longer fur you may need to also use your finger to brush the fur back, and remember rabbits have 5 claws on each front foot, say "now I'm checking my rabbits claws to make sure they are not broken, missing, or discolored, and they are not."
Belly
There is only one thing that you need to check for on the claws 1: abscesses (also called boils, one or more lumps under the skin caused by an infected wound where pus builds up, they can be found anywhere on the animal but are found most commonly on the belly and sides of the rabbit). Starting at or near the chin feel with your hand down the belly and sides of your rabbit, if you want to check elsewhere for abscesses then you can, say "I am checking my rabbit for abscesses on the belly and sides where they are most common, and there are none."
Hocks and Claws
To give the judge a clear view of the rest of what you need to check for on the underside, you need to turn your rabbit either 90 degrees to the right or left or turn him so the back feet are facing the judge. There is one thing to check for on the hocks, 1: sore hocks (scabs or sores on the bottom of the back feet, not bare spots). Check the claws on the back feet for the same 3 things as on the front, 1: broken claws, 2: missing claws, 3: discolored claws. Check the hocks just by looking at them if you have a wool breed you may need to push the fur out of the way, check the claws by brushing the fur out of the way if you need to, and remember rabbits have only 4 claws on each back foot, say "Now I'm checking the hocks for sore hocks, and there are none, I'm also checking the claws to make sure that they are not broken, missing, or discolored, and they are fine."
Back Legs
You only need to check for one thing on the back legs, 1: cow hocks (legs that turn in or out at the heel joint). Using your hand push out and stretch both legs together at the knee joint called the stifle, say "now I'm checking my rabbit's rear legs for cow hocks, and there is none."
Sex
To sex your rabbit scissor the tail with your index finger and your middle finger, then pull up with your thumb, say "I'm sexing my rabbit" or you can say " I'm checking my rabbits gender and it's a buck/doe." if you have a buck you also need to check if both testicles have descended, say"because I have a buck I'm checking to see if both testicles have descended and they have/have not."
Fur
Now the under side is all done, turn your rabbit back over by lifting his head up and setting him on his feet then brush his coat into place with your hands. You only need to check for one thing in the fur, 1: fur mites (like ear mites, you won't actually see the mites, the symptoms are balding, scabs, and flaky skin, don't confuse with dry skin). With your hand, brush the fur from the tail to the neck, you should also blow in the coat over the body, say "now I'm checking my rabbits fur for fur mites, and there is none."
Poses
There are four poses 1: front pose (rabbit facing forward) 2: left side pose (left side or tattoo side facing the judge) 3: right side pose (right side facing the judge or tattoo side facing you) 4: rear pose (rear facing the judge), you should also show 5: underside. Make sure that whenever you turn your rabbit that the feet don't drag on the carpet, and don't just turn the carpet, lift your rabbit all the way off the table and turn. There are 2 ways that you can go over the poses the first is to do it all at once either at the beginning or end of your presentation, put your rabbit in each pose (make sure he's posed correctly) and say "this is my rabbit's left side pose, this is my rabbit's rear pose..." The other way is to say them as you go through your presentation when your rabbit is already in that pose anyway, say "this is my rabbit's left side pose, while in this pose I'll check the eyes for..." Either way works well but with the second way you don't move your rabbit as much making less stressful for your rabbit.
Conclusion
Look up at the judge and smile, say "This concludes my presentation, are there any questions?" Do your best to answer the questions, if you don't know the answer don't guess, just tell the judge that you don't know. When you are excused, thank the judge and correctly pick up your rabbit and don't forget your carpet.
This is a basic presentation, novices should start and work on perfecting this presentation, second year 4-Hers and onward should further elaborate and make it their own personalized showmanship (see "Advanced Showmanship Presentation" below).
You will begin to be judged when you are called to the ring. Have your rabbit with you in a carrying cage and not in your lap so that your rabbit doesn't overheat and you're not late getting to the table. How you carry your animal, your posture, and how you place your rabbit on the table are very important. Always carry your rabbit in what is called the "football hold" having the head tucked under one arm so he can't see and the feet and legs supported with your arm and body for a firm hold, basically just like a football, do not ever scruff your bunny. Make sure you have your own clean carpet piece, set it on the table first or have someone carry it for you. We always put duct tape on the bottom of the carpet so it won't fly off the table if the rabbit kicks. pose your rabbit face forward, be sure that the feet are flat on the table and the tail is out, if you are a junior your rabbit doesn't need to be completely posed, just set him up so he doesn't move. If you have a running breed you may want to ask the judge before you begin if you can keep your hands on your rabbit during showmanship if he wants to move. Keep your hands at your sides, if your bunny moves you'll be able to grab him faster than if you had your hands behind your back. A showmanship presentation is a form of public speaking so remember to smile and look at the judge, eye contact is very important.
Introduction
When introducing yourself you should say 3-4 things about yourself, always start with your name and always include how long you've been in the rabbit project, sometimes certain bits of information are required in the introduction depending on the competition, in most state competitions you need to say where you are from, just check with experienced showman or leaders for any such requirements.
Say: "Hello, my name is ________, this is my ___ year in the rabbit project, and in the _________ 4-H club."
Next you need to introduce your bunny, again say 3-4 things about your rabbit, always including his name, class, and breed, a class includes age (junior, intermediate, or senior), sex (buck or doe), and color:
"This is my rabbit "Thumper" he is a junior blue buck and he is a Rex."
Body of Presentation
Keep in mind that whatever you are checking for throughout your showmanship that the judge should have a clear view of what you are doing, how you hold your rabbit or what pose it's in may vary by breed. You can start your health check wherever you would like and go in whatever order works best for you, but right now we'll start with the eyes.
Eyes
Turn your rabbit to either side to check the first eye, you'll be checking the eye that is facing toward the judge so he can see what your doing. There are 3 things that you check for in the eye1: proper eye color (this varies by the color of the animal), 2: weepy eye (also called conjunctivitis, symptoms are runny or gooey eyes), 3: wall eye (also called moon eye, this is a cataract in the eye making it look cloudy causing blindness). Gently open the eye, if you have a lop pull the ear out of the way, you'll say "I will start my presentation by checking my rabbits right/left eye for proper eye color and my rabbit has ______ colored eye which are correct for this color, I'm also checking for wall eye and weepy eye and there is none". Then turn your rabbit to the other side and check that eye as well.
Ears
Your rabbit should be in the side pose to check the ears as well as the eyes, so it's recommended that after you check the right eye you also check the right ear and the same for the left side. There are 2 things that you are checking for in the ears 1: ear mites (you will not actually see the mites but rather what is called ear canker, scabs in the ears left from where the mite have chewed the ears), 2: ear tattoo (this is only in the left ear, read off each letter or number. In most 4-H competitions it is not required for your rabbit to have a tattoo but you still need to check for it, if your rabbit has a registration in the right ear you should also read that off). Check the ear that is facing the judge, gently open the ear and look inside say "I'm checking the right/left ear for ear mites and there is none, I'm checking the left ear for a tattoo and it's "H" "5" "0"." Then turn your rabbit over and check the other ear.
Shoulders
To check the shoulders put your rabbit in whichever pose works best for your breed and make sure that the feet are flat on the table. There is only one thing that you need to check for on the shoulders 1: dislocation (your just going to run your hand over the shoulders to make sure that they feel the same). Say "Now I am checking the shoulders for dislocation and there is none."
Hips
The hips are the same as the shoulders, put your rabbit in the pose that gives the judge the best view of the hips and make sure the feet are flat on the table, say "I'm checking the hips for dislocation and there is none."
Tail
Turn your rabbit to the rear or back pose so that he is facing you, and make sure that he's not sitting on his tail. There is just one thing to check the tail for 1: screw tail (also called wry tail, twisted or kinked tail bones that might feel like a pigs tail). Gently grab the base of the tail and pull to the end feeling the bones say "I'm checking the tail for screw tail, bob tail, and broken tail and there is none."
The Underside
Now it's time to turn your rabbit over on its back, to do this use what is called the "rock and roll" method, the only correct way to flip a rabbit. First the rabbit needs to be facing you. Now there are 2 different ways to hold your rabbit, use whichever one is easier for you, the first way is to put your hand either over one or both of the ears and to also grab the scruff of the neck, or the other way is to put your hand at the back of the neck with your fingers pointing at you and put your index finger between the ears wrapping it around one of the while grabbing the scruff with the rest of your hand. Put your other hand on the rump of your bunny. Lift up with the hand holding the scruff and pull the rump towards you with your other hand. This might seem a little tricky at first but will be easier than any other way once you learn it, it's also safer for the animal and you have more control.
Nose
There is only one thing to check for on the nose 1: signs of snuffles (white mucus on or in the nose). When you're checking the nose just look at it you don't need to touch it to see whether or not it's ill, the symptoms are visible, say "Next I'll check my rabbit's nose for signs of snuffles and there is none."
Teeth
There are 2 things to check for on the teeth, 1: malocclusion (also called buck teeth and wolf teeth, good teeth are when the top overlap the bottom, malocclusion is when the teeth are twisted, overlong, or when the bottom overlap the top. There is also a form of malocclusion when the top and bottom teeth meet together this is called butting teeth), 2: broken teeth (when one or more teeth have broken off, they will usually grow back). Put your hand so it's resting lightly on your rabbit's face above the nose and using your fingers gently pull up on the lips, don't push up from below the mouth or the rabbit can bite you, say "I'm checking the teeth for malocclusion or broken teeth and there are none."
Forelegs
There is just one thing to check for on the forelegs, 1: bowed legs (legs that are bent or turned inward or outward). To check for bowed legs push up on the elbow one at a time, don't worry if they goes off to the side a little, this is relatively normal especially if your animal is ticklish, just make sure that the bones are straight. Then to check for snuffles look at the inside of the feet and legs near the dew claw and make sure that there are no mats, say "Now I'm checking the fore legs for bowed legs and there are none"
Claws
There are 3 things to check for on the claws, 1: broken claws, 2: missing claws, 3: discolored claws (like the eyes the color of the claws depends on the color of the animal, check to see that each claw is the right color on each foot). Press your thumb on the middle of the bottom of your rabbit's foot to better expose the claws, if your bunny has longer fur you may need to also use your finger to brush the fur back, and remember rabbits have 5 claws on each front foot, say "now I'm checking my rabbits claws to make sure they are not broken, missing, or discolored, and they are not."
Belly
There is only one thing that you need to check for on the claws 1: abscesses (also called boils, one or more lumps under the skin caused by an infected wound where pus builds up, they can be found anywhere on the animal but are found most commonly on the belly and sides of the rabbit). Starting at or near the chin feel with your hand down the belly and sides of your rabbit, if you want to check elsewhere for abscesses then you can, say "I am checking my rabbit for abscesses on the belly and sides where they are most common, and there are none."
Hocks and Claws
To give the judge a clear view of the rest of what you need to check for on the underside, you need to turn your rabbit either 90 degrees to the right or left or turn him so the back feet are facing the judge. There is one thing to check for on the hocks, 1: sore hocks (scabs or sores on the bottom of the back feet, not bare spots). Check the claws on the back feet for the same 3 things as on the front, 1: broken claws, 2: missing claws, 3: discolored claws. Check the hocks just by looking at them if you have a wool breed you may need to push the fur out of the way, check the claws by brushing the fur out of the way if you need to, and remember rabbits have only 4 claws on each back foot, say "Now I'm checking the hocks for sore hocks, and there are none, I'm also checking the claws to make sure that they are not broken, missing, or discolored, and they are fine."
Back Legs
You only need to check for one thing on the back legs, 1: cow hocks (legs that turn in or out at the heel joint). Using your hand push out and stretch both legs together at the knee joint called the stifle, say "now I'm checking my rabbit's rear legs for cow hocks, and there is none."
Sex
To sex your rabbit scissor the tail with your index finger and your middle finger, then pull up with your thumb, say "I'm sexing my rabbit" or you can say " I'm checking my rabbits gender and it's a buck/doe." if you have a buck you also need to check if both testicles have descended, say"because I have a buck I'm checking to see if both testicles have descended and they have/have not."
Fur
Now the under side is all done, turn your rabbit back over by lifting his head up and setting him on his feet then brush his coat into place with your hands. You only need to check for one thing in the fur, 1: fur mites (like ear mites, you won't actually see the mites, the symptoms are balding, scabs, and flaky skin, don't confuse with dry skin). With your hand, brush the fur from the tail to the neck, you should also blow in the coat over the body, say "now I'm checking my rabbits fur for fur mites, and there is none."
Poses
There are four poses 1: front pose (rabbit facing forward) 2: left side pose (left side or tattoo side facing the judge) 3: right side pose (right side facing the judge or tattoo side facing you) 4: rear pose (rear facing the judge), you should also show 5: underside. Make sure that whenever you turn your rabbit that the feet don't drag on the carpet, and don't just turn the carpet, lift your rabbit all the way off the table and turn. There are 2 ways that you can go over the poses the first is to do it all at once either at the beginning or end of your presentation, put your rabbit in each pose (make sure he's posed correctly) and say "this is my rabbit's left side pose, this is my rabbit's rear pose..." The other way is to say them as you go through your presentation when your rabbit is already in that pose anyway, say "this is my rabbit's left side pose, while in this pose I'll check the eyes for..." Either way works well but with the second way you don't move your rabbit as much making less stressful for your rabbit.
Conclusion
Look up at the judge and smile, say "This concludes my presentation, are there any questions?" Do your best to answer the questions, if you don't know the answer don't guess, just tell the judge that you don't know. When you are excused, thank the judge and correctly pick up your rabbit and don't forget your carpet.
Advanced Showmanship Presentation
Basic showmanship is only a starting point, and is fitting only for your first year or two. Every year you should add to your presentation, elaborate and personalize it. If your showmanship is the same as the next persons or the same as it was last year then you need to think about what to add to make it better. Your goal is to give the best presentation you can give, and then to improve that presentation next year. Below is a list of conditions and other ideas that you can find and look for in a health check that you can use to add to the basics, don't add too much at once so that you stumble through, and only add as much as you understand. If you want you can explain to the judge a little about some of what you are checking for so that he/she knows that you know what you are talking about, just keep it brief. You will notice that some of the terms on the list are unique to certain breeds, fur types, etc. if you have a rabbit like that it's recommended that you make those things a priority in adding to your showmanship, talk about fur on a Rex, ears on a lop, etc. Also keep in mind that for some of the conditions below you may need to say "if I had a______, I would check for...", because you would only check a nursing doe for mastitis and not a buck. If you don't fully understand any of the below terms, check out the glossary and/or the disease page. And as always, if you have any questions about anything, we're happy to help you, just send us an email.
You can also add a little to your introduction about your rabbit such as where they were developed, whether or not your rabbit is a rare breed. Is your rabbit an old breed or a new breed? Are you showing a color or breed that is under development? Are you showing a color that was just excepted into A.R.B.A.? Each breed is unique and there is always something about your rabbit that you can share with the judge. However, be brief and don't add too much to your introduction. You don't want to sound like an encyclopedia, but you do want to sound like a knowledgeable showman.
What You Can Add To A Basic Showmanship
Ears
nicks, tears, ear length, correct ear carriage
Fur
type, prime coat, color definition, color faults, density, length, bangs, etc.
Tail
bobbed tail, broken tail, correct tail carriage
General Type
overall conformation
Markings
correct markings, clean markings, missing markings
Teeth
butting teeth, broken teeth
Forelegs
signs of snuffles, good bone
Belly and Chest
mastitis, rupture, pigeon breast, dewlap, green dewlap also called wet dewlap or blue dewlap
Other on Underside
hutch stain, vent disease, cysts, split penis, correct under color
Other Overall
other disqualifications, other faults, signs of max factor
Learn the standard for your breed. No rabbit is perfect. Be able to point out weaknesses or faults in the rabbit you are showing.
Basic showmanship is only a starting point, and is fitting only for your first year or two. Every year you should add to your presentation, elaborate and personalize it. If your showmanship is the same as the next persons or the same as it was last year then you need to think about what to add to make it better. Your goal is to give the best presentation you can give, and then to improve that presentation next year. Below is a list of conditions and other ideas that you can find and look for in a health check that you can use to add to the basics, don't add too much at once so that you stumble through, and only add as much as you understand. If you want you can explain to the judge a little about some of what you are checking for so that he/she knows that you know what you are talking about, just keep it brief. You will notice that some of the terms on the list are unique to certain breeds, fur types, etc. if you have a rabbit like that it's recommended that you make those things a priority in adding to your showmanship, talk about fur on a Rex, ears on a lop, etc. Also keep in mind that for some of the conditions below you may need to say "if I had a______, I would check for...", because you would only check a nursing doe for mastitis and not a buck. If you don't fully understand any of the below terms, check out the glossary and/or the disease page. And as always, if you have any questions about anything, we're happy to help you, just send us an email.
You can also add a little to your introduction about your rabbit such as where they were developed, whether or not your rabbit is a rare breed. Is your rabbit an old breed or a new breed? Are you showing a color or breed that is under development? Are you showing a color that was just excepted into A.R.B.A.? Each breed is unique and there is always something about your rabbit that you can share with the judge. However, be brief and don't add too much to your introduction. You don't want to sound like an encyclopedia, but you do want to sound like a knowledgeable showman.
What You Can Add To A Basic Showmanship
Ears
nicks, tears, ear length, correct ear carriage
Fur
type, prime coat, color definition, color faults, density, length, bangs, etc.
Tail
bobbed tail, broken tail, correct tail carriage
General Type
overall conformation
Markings
correct markings, clean markings, missing markings
Teeth
butting teeth, broken teeth
Forelegs
signs of snuffles, good bone
Belly and Chest
mastitis, rupture, pigeon breast, dewlap, green dewlap also called wet dewlap or blue dewlap
Other on Underside
hutch stain, vent disease, cysts, split penis, correct under color
Other Overall
other disqualifications, other faults, signs of max factor
Learn the standard for your breed. No rabbit is perfect. Be able to point out weaknesses or faults in the rabbit you are showing.
Group Showmanship Guide
Group showmanship is... like a box of chocolates, you never know what you're going to get. As the name implies, an entire class (or group) will be called to the ring together and judged at the same time. You will begin to be judged when you are called to the ring. Have your rabbit close by so that you're not late getting to the table. How you carry your animal, your posture, and how you place your rabbit on the table are very important. Always carry your rabbit in what is called the "football hold" having the head tucked under one arm so he can't see and the feet and legs are supported with your arm and body for a firm hold, basically just like a football, do not ever scruff your bunny (pick him up by the scruff alone). Make sure you have your own clean carpet piece, set it on the table first or have someone carry it for you. We always put duct tape on the bottom of the carpet so it won't fly off the table if the rabbit kicks. pose your rabbit face forward, be sure that the feet are flat on the table and the tail is out, if you are a junior your rabbit doesn't need to be completely posed, just set him up so he doesn't move. If you have a running breed you may want to ask the judge before you begin if you can keep your hands on your rabbit during showmanship if he wants to move. Keep your hands at your sides, if your bunny moves you'll be able to grab him faster than if you had your hands behind your back.
One of the most important things in showmanship is that you keep your eyes glued to the judge (with the occasional glance at your rabbit to make sure he's not moving), you smile til it hurts, and you stand up straight. Every judge will run things differently, some will only ask questions, they might have you handle your rabbit, and/or they might have you switch rabbits with your neighbor. Just answer the questions and follow instructions to the best of your ability, for more advice read "Showmanship Do's, Don'ts, And Never Evers "and " What You Need To Know"below.
Group showmanship is... like a box of chocolates, you never know what you're going to get. As the name implies, an entire class (or group) will be called to the ring together and judged at the same time. You will begin to be judged when you are called to the ring. Have your rabbit close by so that you're not late getting to the table. How you carry your animal, your posture, and how you place your rabbit on the table are very important. Always carry your rabbit in what is called the "football hold" having the head tucked under one arm so he can't see and the feet and legs are supported with your arm and body for a firm hold, basically just like a football, do not ever scruff your bunny (pick him up by the scruff alone). Make sure you have your own clean carpet piece, set it on the table first or have someone carry it for you. We always put duct tape on the bottom of the carpet so it won't fly off the table if the rabbit kicks. pose your rabbit face forward, be sure that the feet are flat on the table and the tail is out, if you are a junior your rabbit doesn't need to be completely posed, just set him up so he doesn't move. If you have a running breed you may want to ask the judge before you begin if you can keep your hands on your rabbit during showmanship if he wants to move. Keep your hands at your sides, if your bunny moves you'll be able to grab him faster than if you had your hands behind your back.
One of the most important things in showmanship is that you keep your eyes glued to the judge (with the occasional glance at your rabbit to make sure he's not moving), you smile til it hurts, and you stand up straight. Every judge will run things differently, some will only ask questions, they might have you handle your rabbit, and/or they might have you switch rabbits with your neighbor. Just answer the questions and follow instructions to the best of your ability, for more advice read "Showmanship Do's, Don'ts, And Never Evers "and " What You Need To Know"below.
What You Need To Know
Senior showmen should know all of the following for showmanship, they are usually asked the most questions and are expected to have very good handling abilities and have a lot of all around rabbit knowledge. Intermediates should learn as much of the following as they can, you can never know too much. They should also be very confident in their handling of the rabbit, have a decent amount of knowledge of diseases, and know a lot about the breed that they raise/have. Juniorsand novices
You can use this list as a check list as you learn, every thing in black are things that everyone from novice to senior should know, after that start at your age group and work your way up. Don't let the color of the text stop you from going on to more difficult things, years of experience matter too and judges may have different opinions on what you should know for both your age and experience levels.
should work first on handling, many struggle with flipping their rabbit over and keeping good control of the animal, other than this a very basic knowledge of diseases, knowing the highlights of their breed's standard, and other basic rabbit knowledge. To see more of what is expected of each age category see Showmanship Questions & Answers.
Handling
Health & Diseases*
Terminology*
Your Rabbit
History
Misc.
*Everyone should learn and study on terminology and diseases as there is always more to learn every year.
Senior showmen should know all of the following for showmanship, they are usually asked the most questions and are expected to have very good handling abilities and have a lot of all around rabbit knowledge. Intermediates should learn as much of the following as they can, you can never know too much. They should also be very confident in their handling of the rabbit, have a decent amount of knowledge of diseases, and know a lot about the breed that they raise/have. Juniorsand novices
You can use this list as a check list as you learn, every thing in black are things that everyone from novice to senior should know, after that start at your age group and work your way up. Don't let the color of the text stop you from going on to more difficult things, years of experience matter too and judges may have different opinions on what you should know for both your age and experience levels.
should work first on handling, many struggle with flipping their rabbit over and keeping good control of the animal, other than this a very basic knowledge of diseases, knowing the highlights of their breed's standard, and other basic rabbit knowledge. To see more of what is expected of each age category see Showmanship Questions & Answers.
Handling
- How to correctly carry your rabbit
- How to correctly pose your rabbit
- How to correctly flip your rabbit
- How to handle other breeds
- How to correctly check for various conditions
- How to correctly place a rabbit in and remove it from a cage
- Keep complete control of the rabbit
- Proper indoor & outdoor housing
- Recommended feeding rations
- Proper sanitary maintenance
- Any changes in care in different seasons
Health & Diseases*
- How to give a thorough health check
- To identify, treat, and prevent diseases
- To identify other conditions such as broken bones, parasites, etc.
- Basic first aid for your animal
Terminology*
- Know terms concerning your breed and variety
- Know terms concerning rabbits in general
- Know terms used in showing rabbits
Your Rabbit
- The A.R.B.A. standard for your breed and variety
- What size your rabbit is and the classes
- Of any faults that your rabbit may have
- Of any Disqualifications that your rabbit may have
- Names of any markings or other characteristics that are specific to your breed and/or variety of rabbit
- What market(s) are open to your breed
- Grooming your rabbit
- Several good qualities about your breed (more than temperament)
- Some down sides to your breed (more than temperament)
History
- When and where your breed was developed or discovered
- What breeds were used in the development of your breed
- Who developed/discovered your breed
- When your breed was introduced to the USA
- When your breed was accepted by A.R.B.A.
- The basic story of your breeds development
- Any other interesting historical facts about your breed
Misc.
- Know body types and fur types
- Identify breeds
- Rabbit marketing and which breed(s) best support each market
- Parts of the rabbit
- Rabbit bones
- Identify colors
- Basic Color genetics
- Be a good sport!!!
- Smile and have fun! Always show the judge your personality
*Everyone should learn and study on terminology and diseases as there is always more to learn every year.
Showmanship Tips
- If your showmanship presentation sounds the same as the next person's than add to it and/or change it, remember to stand out and be different (see "Advanced Showmanship")
- Always give your rabbit a thorough health check just prior to your presentation so that if you find anything wrong, you won't be surprised in the middle of it and you can give an explanation for your rabbit's condition or find a replacement
- Put rolled pieces of duct tape on the bottom of your carpet so that it won't slide or fly off the table if the rabbit kicks
- Bring an extra shirt to showmanship competitions (sometimes bad things happen)
- Also bring an extra carpet
- Never put your hands behind your back, keep them at your sides because it takes half the time to grab a moving rabbit
- Always look for opportunities to show the judge what you know, they love a good history lesson, just make sure that you don't stray form the question
- When answering a question or explaining something don't worry too much about time, the judge wants to know what you know
- Never answer a question with a question; exp. "isn't that when..."
- Study a breed that you don't have and haven't ever had before, this often times comes in handy
- Learn how to correctly pose and judge a breed from each body type and fur type
- Let your rabbit play a little before showmanship so that he isn't too full of energy, but don't let him get to the point where he is exhausted
- If your giving a presentation on a hot day don't hold your rabbit in your lap prior to your presentation so that he doesn't go into heat stress
- Never stop smiling, I know, you probably feel stupid with a big grin on your face, but you score good points with the judge
- During your presentation, check the rabbit's type and any markings and/or color, point out the good points on your rabbit and the faults (no animal is perfect)
- If you have a running breed you may want to ask the judge before hand if you can keep your hands on your rabbit to keep it from running down the table as they normally do. You may also need to ask whoever is setting tables up if there will be room for an extra table to run your rabbit to check the type
- Personalize your presentation as much as you can, judges get a little bored hearing the same thing over and over again (can you blame them?). Say your rabbit's name once and a while rather than just saying "I'm checking my rabbit's ...". Also don't be afraid to show some sense of humor (be the comic relief)
- Prior to the competition, look at all the present breeds, identify them, and look up the basics if you don't already know them, also make sure you have an understanding of how to pose and judge those breeds
- Practice and perform your presentation in the same order each time after deciding which way is convenient for you, this way you are less likely to forget something
- Compete in competitions at ARBA shows, you can learn a lot in different areas
- Consider suggestions and even criticism from judges, leaders, and other 4-Hers, this is how everyone improves (after all that's why you're reading this)
- listen to the questions that are asked during other classes, it may help you to know what you may be asked and also the judges style, you may even learn something new
- Always be a good sport!!!