I've raised and shown Saint Bernards, but have yet to have a litter here. I currently have two, a 7 year old spayed female with a weight puller title , and a 3 year old AKC Champion male.
1. How dose your daily routine and there life style differ from those of a family pet?
Nothing different here that I can think of.
2. How do you 'get into' dog showing?
Went to the local dog shows and met some local breeders. When I got my first puppy I went to basic obedience, handling classes and a few local fun matches. Fun matches are dog shows for people learning to handle their dog in the show ring and the points don't count.
3. How do you pick the right dog (After you pick the breed of dog you want)?
I visited several breeder's places, went to club meetings, helped groom dogs for shows, etc. for over a year before I ever got my own dog.
I got to see them at every stage of their lives, from puppy to senior. Sparkling clean to a stinky drooling mudball. Some breeder's dogs were very inconsistent in quality, as if they had purchased stock from all over the place. Others were more consistent, like you could see where their breeding program was going. Line breeding can be a GOOD thing if done properly and the breeder is keeping track of the inbreeding coefficient by computer software and outcrosses when needed.
4. How do you find a handler?
Just go to shows and ask around. Get someone who knows your breed of course.
5. Where can you find a trainer?
Ask around at dog shows.
6. How do you learn to handle your dog in a show? (like are there classes)
First, study the breed standard and purchase a video or two on the breed standard as well. Do a basic obedience class first with whatever breed puppy you end up with. Then, take handling classes and go to a few fun matches. You should eventually be able to stack your dog blindfolded. Believe it or not, handling classes are 75% for the handlers and 25% for the dogs. Usually there are some other people in your area who are also new to showing, and you can meet up with them and practice in your back yards and critique each other's handling. Plus make some good friends.
Good luck
Daryl