It's quite a big thing for you both isn't it - learning how to behave yourself!!
What you need to do is find what makes you comfortable. It also depends on your dog. Often dogs look for you and don't like you going out of their sight - so when the judge is doing the head etc from the front - try and stand behind the judge so your girl can see you. Forget the lead, just rest it on her shoulders and lay it down on the table - only when the judge has hold though
If you fidget with the lead - Abby'll pick up that you're nervous and it may make her worried too
The judge should see she's a baby and make certain allowances
When the judge goes down the side and behind - move to take the head. Hold the head from the front keeping its height right and extending the neck nicely. If your girl has a tendency to sit, like Buddy did, you might have to be round the back encouraging her to stand up!
If she's leaning while walking - practise using the lead to pull her straight - gently though - you don't want to string her up like some do
Holding her muzzle can be tough if she's got a sore mouth - try holding her cheek - gently of course rather than her full mouth.
The once you've got all this in order you've cracked it - easy innit
seriously - be confident and positive and Abby will respond more positively herself. Give her gentle encouragement during the table and movement saving a big hug etc for after the judging.
As she's such a baby and you're learning too - don't worry about getting it perfect. You have to learn your style and Abby's style too. And as other far more experienced and successful will tell you - you never stop learning or having to practise with them.
ENJOY - it's fun!
