Do you still talk to your breeder? The best way to get started in conformation is by following a mentor, and your breeder should be completely willing to let you tag along with him/her. They'll also know certain faults that occur over and over in your dog's bloodline which will help your hubby to handle Sheena's pup so that it is minimized. Basically, handling class is going to teach your hubby how to properly handle a GSD in the ring. He should learn how to stack, how to gait, how to minimize faults, how to bring out the dog's best qualities, ring etiquette, and to familiarize the dog to the ring setting. However, you can see that two of the things he should be learning have a lot to deal with the dog itself and it requires a critical analysis of the dog. Yet another reason for your original breeder to be in the picture Plus, showing is a lot of politics. Some judges favor certain aspects of dogs over others, and it's best if you have somebody to show you the ropes as to which show you should enter, which judge will like you, which judge won't give you a flying chance in heck, when you should pull out, etc.

You should certainly find a handling class, but your breeder should be your very first contact. Once you've got a good relationship going with your breeder, everything else falls into place Good luck!

Oh and as for what shows are like, it's nothing terribly exciting if you're not naturally in love with conformation. ;] The best way to experience it is to just go ahead and visit one, even if they don't have White Shepherds so that you get a feel for the show atmosphere.