I think some of you are confused by the "reason" people show, and how they treat their dogs. Yes, there are those that show for their ego and mistreat the animals but that is not the norm. Most show dogs are treated well and retired after a healthy time involved in breeding programs. Some are always treated as pets and others become pets after they have made their contribution.
Reputable breeders (whether they are hobby or more experienced) "show" their dogs because their purspose for breeding is to promote the high standards of the breed. If breeders didn't do this the breed would get more diluted with poor breeding and they would all start to look like the mutts that some backyard breeders come up with.
Sorry if that offends anyone but if you consider yourself a backyard breeder you need to rethink what you are doing. There are already enough dogs around, why breed if you don't want dogs that look and act like the breed they are supposed to BE.
There is a HUGE difference between a BYB and a hobby breeder. Please strive for the best with these little animals. This is NOT about the individuals involved, it's about this wonderful breed and what you are contributing. |