[Brooklynn]

Originally Posted by gemy

It certainly can be a controversial idea. That is why for toy breeds and or companion breeds I suggested something like TT, or Canine Good Neighbour. If we look at dog breeds to evidence a "fitness to function", for our dear Yorkie, well I guess not many are using yorkies as ratters these days. I think they have evolved to be more companion dogs. And as companion dogs, their temperament should align with that function.

Perhaps for toy and or companion breeds, it will be a long time in coming, where the US and Canada align more with some of what the European countries are doing already today. But in my opinion the conformation ring, is a poor milieu to prove "fitness to function", other than the dog can move around the ring. And the brief physical examination.

I as a passionate lover of Yorkies, I want to keep a great temperament, health, and fitness in this breed. I want to be able to do my part as little as it may be to hand down to the next generation, a beautifull toy dog, that is capable of so much.

The issue of awarding conformation titles not soley on conformation rings, is a pretty big one.

It would affect every breed. I doubt I will be alive to see it.

But for my breed that is a working breed, I would support this idea. Working ability is inherited, along with many other things. If we only breed dogs that never earn any working titles, then over time, we erode their working ability as a breed. Unfortunately it is already starting to happen here in N.A. after only 15-20 yrs of breeding.

Many other working breed, herding, non-sport, etc, already are speaking louding about those concerns.

I would support it for a working or herding breed because they are still functional in that aspect....however, in most toy breeds you don't have them doing that sort of stuff. Yorkies aren't ratters any more. Most toys are just that companion dogs. But I still believe in a good structured dog and totally support that. They need to be fit and healthy. Of course my guys are lazy couch potatoes like their momma LOL...but they are of a healthy weight and they do run outside, run in and out the doggy door.