Question:
We are relatively new to llamas and just finished showing at our first show. We did not do well in the halter classes. I overheard some people talking about selecting show llamas. How do I select the correct llamas to take to a show?

Answer:
I am assuming that your objective is to win at shows or at least place high in the class. Winning at llama shows is more complex than it may seem to the casual observer. Winning really starts when you first purchase your breeding stock or your show llamas. Halter classes are judged primarily on conformation, although the complete llama as a package is also generally considered.

The best method of learning about correct llama conformation and what judges are looking for is to attend an ALSA Show Clinic or Beginners Judging Clinic. These clinics not only teach how to show but also how to evaluate halter show llamas. After attending one of these clinics you will be much better equipped to evaluate your selection of show breeding stock and what llamas to take to a show. The following criteria should be considered when selecting show quality breeding stock. This same evaluation is used to select from your own herd to take to a show.

1. Conformation
Correct conformation includes such things as a well balanced animal, a straight top line, a smooth gait, and correct movement in both the front and rear legs. An easy method of evaluating a smooth gait is to observe the head and tail. If the head bobs up and down when on the move on a smooth, flat surface, then usually that llama will have a front leg anomaly and if the tail bounces, a rear leg fault. For further conformational evaluation, have the llama walk at you, away from you and walk at a side profile. When walking at and away from you, look for straight legs both front and rear and watch the feet. The feet should track in a straight line. They should not dish in or wing out as a part of the gait. On the side profile, look for a smooth gait with a correct length of stride and a smooth gait in both the front and rear legs. There are, of course, many other conformational factors to consider but these are the basics.

2. Presence
The llama with that "here I am" style is an added benefit in the show ring. Remembering that halter classes are judged on a comparative basis and that there are no perfect llamas, the animal with the great presence may have a slight advantage. Judges try to remain completely objective and judge on conformation but the llama with a great ring presence may subconsciously receive additional consideration.

3. Disposition

You will not want to show or to breed for show llamas that have a nasty disposition. They are simply not happy in the show ring and usually don’t show as well. Thus, llamas with a good, pleasant disposition make better show animals.

4. Wool
As you develop a show quality breeding herd, you need to make the decision on what wool division you want to breed for and consequently show in. Each has its advantages. Light wooled llamas are easier to groom but heavy wooled llamas sure look good and are easier to sell. For many breeders the medium wool llama splits that difference and satisfies their criteria.

Prior to each show you need to make your selection regarding what to take to that show. We do not recommend taking bred females. Being bred can be stressful enough without adding the stress of travel and a show. We have actually found that a llama may lose as much as 10 lbs. by traveling to a show. They always regain the weight and it does not seem to effect them negatively in the long run. Beyond that, use exactly the selection process that we discussed above in selecting breeding stock when choosing your show string. Select llamas to show in halter classes that have correct conformation, good balance, and that "something extra" presence and you will usually place high in the class.

In conclusion, let me make the point that shows are fun without winning. There is great camaraderie in the llama community and we need to keep shows enjoyable. If however, you go to a show to win, then start be selecting the correct llamas to take to the show A good rule of thumb for the serious show person is to first learn what judges look for and then only take animals that are good enough to place first, second, or third and leave the rest at home.