How to volunteer

YKC team leaders

There are many reasons why you might be interested in volunteering. The Young Kennel Club may be something you are passionate about and you’d like to offer help in return. You might want to encourage younger dog enthusiasts using your canine experience. Perhaps you're looking to gain new skills, expand your CV, increase your confidence or discover a new hobby for yourself.

Whatever the reason, the Young Kennel Club promises you will be satisfied that your time and effort has been well spent.

How do I get involved?

Email us with your contacting information and a brief overview about who you are.

Opportunities

Crufts ring party
The Young Kennel Club has its own finals ring at Crufts and we invite senior members (18-24 years) to run the ring over the four days. This is a great responsibility and gives you experience of stewarding at shows, dealing with judges, competitors and the general public. It's also a chance to learn about the organisation and running of a large dog show.
Crufts stewarding
The Kennel Club Crufts team offer Young Kennel Club members a limited number of Crufts steward positions each year – available exclusively for members aged 18 and over. 
Training days
Training young handlers is a unique skill and we require trainers with expertise and confidence in all of the different canine activities. The rewards are huge as you watch your young handlers' confidence and skills grow.
Events
At our events, we always need keen, enthusiastic volunteers to help us promote the club, speaking to the general public and potential new members. It's perfect for those passionate about the Young Kennel Club.
Summer camp team leaders
One of our most popular volunteer schemes, open to those over 21 years. The role involves mentoring a group of around ten children and encouraging them throughout their dog training experience. If you are energetic, enthusiastic and enjoy working with young handlers, we need you.
Judging
If you are on a Kennel Club judging list, then you can offer to judge at a Young Kennel Club qualifier or final. The club likes to offer younger, newer judges the experience of judging to set you off on your judging career.