I have never shown a dog in my life - and I doubt, even though I have owned a lot of purebreds, that any of them would have done well in any show. And - I never plan to show any dog in the future. But - it is a wonderful hobby for many dog lovers.
Most of the judges in the larger more important shows have raised, bred, and shown one or more breeds of dogs for many years. These judges are very educated and knowledgable about the breeds they judge. You show people correct me if I'm wrong, but I believe you have to be certified to judge different breeds, and most judges start out judging a breed and then go on to become certified to judge the Best of Class, and finally after years of experience and certification, they can judge the Best of Show. Being able to judge The Best of Show in a dog show like the Westminster is something very few people are qualified to do. And, it is always done by a person (usually a middle-aged or older person) who has spent the better part of their life working with animals in the ring.
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IksDolls -- QUOTING YOU -- Yorkies were originally breed to be ratters. It's in their nature but show me when a "ring judge" has ever considered that.----------------------------
I am sure that most judges are well aware of the history of most breeds and certainly are familiar with the history of the breeds that they judge. In fact, I have heard the narrators say that the judges keep in mind the temperment, nature, and personality of every breed they judge. They not only expect the dog being judged to possess the personality and temperment that should be found in that breed, but also allow for it --- meaning that when the little Bichon jumps and plays and wins the hearts of the audience, this should be seen as his nature, and should not give him an edge over a more aloof, quiet, less demonstrative breed such as the Russian Wolfhound - who also is expected to be true to his nature.
I agree with you that the show ring is somewhat of a "beauty contest." But, I, for one, absolutely love to see those outstanding animals that are so true to the standards of their own breed. They are the "most beautiful" to me.
And - you're right, being able to purchase, own, and show dogs is expensive.
But, many other hobbies or things that people love to do are just as or more expensive. We can't fault people for this.
"Bragging rights" --- I'd brag too if I had a little champion show dog. I already brag about my little guy. Imagine what I'd be like if he went out and actually won a show - or even a race for that matter. I'm proud of him if he pees on his pee pad - For sure, people having beautiful show dogs takes none of the joy and pleasure I get from having my little pup. But - I certainly give people who show their dogs credit for their accomplishments too.
I find it hard to think that people who show their dogs look down on me or my pet in any way. I'm sure most of them would enjoy any little pup that was put in their lap.
Carol Jean |