The Top Five Reasons You Need a Mentor
Jan 13, 2026
America was built by people who were ruggedly, and sometimes stubbornly, independent. If you live in the US, you’re probably at least a little bit reticent to ask for help or admit you don’t know something. And if you live outside of the US, you might be a little bit shy about asking for help, too.
That’s normal. I’m not here to beat you up about that, just to give you some food for thought about being willing to learn from others.
This is something that took me a long time to learn. My ancestors were Oklahoma settlers, dirt farmers, people who took care of themselves and their needs. They were self-sufficient, made do, made their own clothes and quilts and homes, and while they lived in a small town and knew everyone, they were loathe to ask for help. And the rest of the people in town were the same…there was a lot of pride wrapped up in their ability to take care of themselves and their family.
And yet…how do you feel when someone asks you to help them learn how to do something? Pretty good, right?
It’s wonderful to give others that good feeling, too. It’s a double gift – you find a mentor and they get to feel good about themselves while helping you learn.
Here’s why everyone in any aspect of dog sports needs at least one mentor:
- Accelerates Learning and Helps You Avoid Common Mistakes
A mentor helps you learn from another’s experience so you don’t repeat avoidable mistakes. They can guide you through the complexities of conformation showing, from understanding how the Winners class works to handling techniques to conditioning and preparation, helping you progress faster with better results than learning on your own.
- Builds Confidence and Ring Readiness
Being new to shows can feel overwhelming. Mentors offer personal support and reassurance, helping you navigate ring procedures, etiquette, and what time you need to be ringside, ready to show. This boosts your confidence so you and your dog perform at your best.
- Provides Personalized, Practical Advice
Unlike generic articles, mentors tailor advice based on your dog’s breed, personality, and your goals, including giving you pedigree insight, grooming techniques, and how to understand what each judge is really looking for.
- Expands Your Network and Community Support
Mentors often introduce you to other experienced handlers and breeders. This network becomes a support system at shows, during training, and even in your broader breeding or handling goals, turning acquaintances into lifelong friends.
- Makes the Journey More Enjoyable
Showing dogs is a long-term commitment, and having someone to celebrate wins with, as well as coach you through losses, makes the experience more rewarding and less isolating. A mentor helps keep your focus on growth, fun, and shared passion.
So, yeah…go ahead and be ruggedly independent and self-sufficient. You can still ask for help when you need it. Most people love to help those newer to the world of showing dogs, because they remember how it felt when they were in your shoes.
Get brave – ask for help. I double-dog-dare you, and know it’ll do you and the person mentoring you a world of good!
