I do wonder how many know-it-alls blowing hot air here about Westminster and animal welfare have actually ever been to a dog show. There is no way you could walk through the Westminster show, meeting the dogs and their owners and handlers, along with the thousands of curious-minded dog owners (and would-be dog owners), and come away thinking it's anything other than an inspiring celebration of everything canine. And, indeed, regardless of which dog gets a ribbon, the takeaway message is always: a.) no dog is a loser and b.) find a dog at your local shelter (who doesn't love a mutt?) or with a responsible breeder. The amount of paranoid fantasy and grandstanding here is as comical as it is appallingly misinformed.
6
@Mark R.
Attending dog shows does not provide a complete picture of how some of those dogs were unconscionably bred.
Attending dog shows does not provide a complete picture of how some of those dogs were unconscionably bred.
2
Are you talking about MSG or at the daytime show at the Piers? Speak for yourself, I did what you said couldn't be done yesterday (Day 1) and on Saturday's Meet the Breeds (which pretty much encourages meeting and learning about breeds.
For the record, some of the so called "responsible" breeders who submit dogs for conformation are as bad as puppy mill breeders. They inbreed the dogs to achieve a certain aesthetic and this causes genetic defects.
Google brachycephalic dogs for example. Unscrupulous breeders worsen the breathing issues of english bulldogs, pugs, etc. when they strive for a flatter faced look.
Worse yet, these breed clubs actually write the standards used by the AKC (and by which they are judged in competitions), which would be fine if they didn't update them to include exaggerated traits that compromise the dogs' health.
As for the commenter who wrote that responsible breeders aren't in it for the money, that's not true in the case of those who compromise their dogs. Some of these dogs sell for thousands of dollars which is well above what it costs to breed/test/feed/inoculate/shelter.
Google brachycephalic dogs for example. Unscrupulous breeders worsen the breathing issues of english bulldogs, pugs, etc. when they strive for a flatter faced look.
Worse yet, these breed clubs actually write the standards used by the AKC (and by which they are judged in competitions), which would be fine if they didn't update them to include exaggerated traits that compromise the dogs' health.
As for the commenter who wrote that responsible breeders aren't in it for the money, that's not true in the case of those who compromise their dogs. Some of these dogs sell for thousands of dollars which is well above what it costs to breed/test/feed/inoculate/shelter.
7
"...those who compromise their dogs"
So backyard breeders and puppy mill breeders. Got it. No reputable breeder will ever sell their dogs at a pet store. Puppy mill breeders make money by selling at volume. And anyone who sells a "designer breed" is no reputable breeder either.
So how much does it take to raise a litter of puppies up to the age where they are ready to be taken from their mother? You calculated labor too right? That's a 24/7 job for a minimum of 8 weeks. Add to the fact that a reputable breeder will screen all potential owners (interviews, references, home checks) and will most likely have a condition in the contract that if the owner fails or surrenders the dog, the breeder MUST take the dog back and care for it for the life of the dog (or till it finds a suitable owner.) How many puppy mills or bad breeders could say that?
Listen, I get you are not crazy about dog shows or particularly the AKC. Sure, there are bad breeders, but practically every good breeder is AKC registered.
So backyard breeders and puppy mill breeders. Got it. No reputable breeder will ever sell their dogs at a pet store. Puppy mill breeders make money by selling at volume. And anyone who sells a "designer breed" is no reputable breeder either.
So how much does it take to raise a litter of puppies up to the age where they are ready to be taken from their mother? You calculated labor too right? That's a 24/7 job for a minimum of 8 weeks. Add to the fact that a reputable breeder will screen all potential owners (interviews, references, home checks) and will most likely have a condition in the contract that if the owner fails or surrenders the dog, the breeder MUST take the dog back and care for it for the life of the dog (or till it finds a suitable owner.) How many puppy mills or bad breeders could say that?
Listen, I get you are not crazy about dog shows or particularly the AKC. Sure, there are bad breeders, but practically every good breeder is AKC registered.
4
All true dog lovers know which dog is best in any situation: their dog.
9
It is against the rules for one judge alone to pass merit on the same dog at the Breed, Group, and Best in Show level. At shows across the country one judge will typically look at the Breed specimens, but not the Group. Or they may look at the Breed and Group, but not Best in Show. This is to help keep the judging more objective, and not based solely on one person's image of the breed standard. This is why even at fairly small dog shows, there is an entire panel of judges, so they can be assigned breeds and groups that do not conflict with these rules. Showing dogs, by the way, is a fabulous family activity!
JMK, Secretary, The Palisades Kennel Club
JMK, Secretary, The Palisades Kennel Club
2
I would like to add, that by "showing" I include all the other kinds of Performance events as well. Agility, Obedience, Rally, Tracking, Field work & Hunting, Nose Work, Freestyle, Earthdog, Barn Hunt, Weight Pulls, Carting, Therapy Work, Flyball, Disc Dog, Dock Dog, Search and Rescue, Racing, Herding, Tricks, etc. Each one gives you an opportunity to work with your dog, establish an amazing bond, and allows your dog the freedom to use their special skills to excel. Conformation is just one small facet of what is possible--don't get hung up on it. It is not at all the totality of what responsible dog owners can do with their dogs. Get out there and Do More Things With Your Dog.
5
Wow, over 80% of the responders here, dog lovers all, don't like or approve of Westminister!
No lab has ever won!? Well that says it all, doesn't it -- Who doesn't love a lab? Too common for the snots, I suppose.
Guess, this is just another rotten racket for revenue & sans conscience when it comes to the effect on this peculiar beauty contest has on the health of dogs.
How long has this been going on? Well, I've got a classic on my bedstand, Big Red, published around 1950, and it portrays the same with this New York dog show.
And look at what they've done to Rin Tin Tin's rear end.
Maybe somebody should start a show for real dogs and run this fiendish cult out of business.
No lab has ever won!? Well that says it all, doesn't it -- Who doesn't love a lab? Too common for the snots, I suppose.
Guess, this is just another rotten racket for revenue & sans conscience when it comes to the effect on this peculiar beauty contest has on the health of dogs.
How long has this been going on? Well, I've got a classic on my bedstand, Big Red, published around 1950, and it portrays the same with this New York dog show.
And look at what they've done to Rin Tin Tin's rear end.
Maybe somebody should start a show for real dogs and run this fiendish cult out of business.
5
But look at other dog show competitions, labs kick butt in obedience trials and other hunting-based trials. Conformation is just one of many types of dog shows.
2
I have a very special dog, a FBD: a Florida Brown Dog.
Not everyone can have one!
Mine's name is Grace, and she's beautiful. I am so fortunate that she's in my life.
Not everyone can have one!
Mine's name is Grace, and she's beautiful. I am so fortunate that she's in my life.
11
Leash laws? (See photo)
However Westminster and other animal "shows" market their event, it is stupid humans putting money and ego before respect for animal welfare. Time to find a new hobby. If they love animals, there is lots of work to be done in animal shelters.
5
Really, it's absurd to think that one person can master the standards of over a hundred or more different breeds of dogs, but that is exactly what all breed dog shows purport is the case when a BIS judge selects his/her winner. It's great theatre but really is a farce.
And of course beauty over brains is a different subject about which others have made excellent comments.
And of course beauty over brains is a different subject about which others have made excellent comments.
2
There are no losers.
Dogs rule.
Dogs rule.
11
Many of these animals are beautiful, but I wonder about the damage done by inbreeding. It's probably a good thing that most Americans in general, and New Yorkers in particular, would qualify as mutts.
7
Susan N. Levy Brooklyn, NY - They aren't inbred. You must have no idea what the term means. They are the opposite of, "inbred.'
3
Judging from the comments here... most people couldn't distinguish between an irresponsible breeder or a responsible breeder. Listen, I think it's great that some of you have shelter or mixed breed dogs. But the reason they are there is because of bad owners or irresponsible breeders. Please don't get it confused with a responsible breeder. Saying all breeders are bad is like saying every person who owns a gun is a murderer.
21
Agreed. There are responsible breeders but they don't breed to win conformation contests, they breed for the health and continuance of the line.
6
I love dogs, and will tune in to Westminster just to see all the breeds in one place. It is a ridiculous beauty pageant, though. I wonder if the movie "Best in Show" is more heavily streamed around Westminster than at other times.
And can someone please tell me why the handlers dress so consistently awfully? I know they should not distract from the dogs--so they could wear scrubs. Instead, they wear bad suits from the 80's and hosiery. What gives?
And can someone please tell me why the handlers dress so consistently awfully? I know they should not distract from the dogs--so they could wear scrubs. Instead, they wear bad suits from the 80's and hosiery. What gives?
5
My guess on the "hosiery", ie, stockings, is that they keep your legs comfortable and healthy while doing lots of standing, walking, and, yes, running, as the dog handlers often, if not always, have a spot of jogging the dog they are showing as a way of demonstrating the gait of the dog. It's the same reason that ballet dancers train and perform wearing tights. The tights offer support, comfort and protection to the legs of the dancer and help to prevent injury. These dog handlers spend the better part of two days at this show on their feet and they probably would prefer not to end up with the sore feet, tired legs and vericose veins that "fashionable" types will get from abandoning stockings for bare legs.
3
Modern cross breeds breeds enrich the English language, such as the noteworthy and appropriate trope, "Dumber than a Labradoodle." The popular (and good natured) Beagle/Pug mix has a flexible moniker: "Peagle" or "Bug."
1
As a "cat person" I do know that I have had pure bred cats (Siamese) that came with a lot of physical problems (cancer, neurotic behavior) as they grew older and they did not live very long. Now I adopt my cats from the Humane Society. One of them lived to be 18 years old (he was rescued from a hoarder and was in horrible shape (bad teeth, emaciated)) when the Human Society saved him. The cat I still have will be 15 years old in May. This tinkering with bloodlines to get the "perfect" animal is just wrong, in my opinion whether it be a cat or a dog. People, if you want a cat or dog - adopt!!!!!
11
Well said.
1
I have owned purebred Dachshunds my entire life. My dogs have all lived long and healthy lives (16+ years). They have had wonderful temperaments and competed in conformation, obedience, tracking and field events well in to their teen years. I obtained my dogs from ethical, responsible breeders, not pet stores or backyard breeders looking to make a buck. A responsible breeder knows the health history of the dogs used in her breeding program, gets their dogs screened for diseases and genetic disorders. Without responsible breeders, there would be no dogs or cats. It is your job as a potential pet owner to vet breeders to find one who is "doing it right"!
4
The herding group, which means German Shepherds and Australian Shepherds, two of the smartest dogs breeds of all, has won exactly once at Westminster. In all those years, exactly one time. Westminster is a joke.
2
Well there's also herding trials if that's what you mean. It doesn't happen during Westminster but happens nonetheless. Westminster is a conformation show.
4
Many breeds have never won Westminster. That says nothing about the value of the show.
6
SFHillRunner -- These dogs are the healthiest in the world. They have to be in peak physical condition to compete at this level. All responsible breeders do extensive health testing and provide the best veterinary care for their animals -- an unhealthy dog would never perform well in the show ring and would not produce the healthy puppies we are all proud of!
7
The Westminster Dog Show has probably done more to ruin healthy breeds than any institution. Prior to the dog show breeders selected dogs for the function that the breed was known for: rat hunting, duck retrieving, tracking, shepherding, etc. Then Westminster started and breeders were rewarded to develop the perfect look! The result has been genetic disorders brought into healthy breeds just so the color, tail, ears, height, etc. are just perfect.
Just imagine if you had 10 to 12 generations of human runway models as your family tree. Well, better not imagine that. It would be a horror.....
Just imagine if you had 10 to 12 generations of human runway models as your family tree. Well, better not imagine that. It would be a horror.....
16
You clearly know little about the history of dog sports. The Westminster KC show was not the first show in the world nor even the first in the United States. Many breeds compete in field trials, hunt tests, herding trials and other events that test a dog's ability to do the work it's breed was intended to perform. Breed standards are about more than just the look of a dog. But when they do describe ideal physical traits, those specifications relate back to the breed's function.
4
I'm hard-pressed to figure out which are the more inbred...the dogs or their owners, whose lives revolve around yet another insignificant beauty pageant. Yawnnnnnnnnnnnn. Selecting an animal based on a so-called pedigree while thousands of animals die in shelters each year is repugnant.
13
I've had really good luck with hunting breeds whose pedigrees are solid champs at field trials as well as shows. They've been really healthy, smart and great to live with. They live/sleep with us and do farm chores all day with us both and travel wherever a car goes. No shows or trials as that is not our thing yet we are thankful responsible breeders do these tests.
6
I'm rooting for the Rottweilers ! Go Rotties !
1
'Best in Show' perpetuates the absurdity of competition in which a winner is predicated on a looser, be that man or beast. How many people would refuse to eat a hamburger rated 'second best' by a judge somewhere in the world. And what a perversion of human nature to seek personal worth through the eyes of another, AKA "please love me".
A couple of weeks ago at the hospital where I work, I had a developmentally delayed adult patient who had been in the hospital for several weeks and was eager to get back home and see her dog.
"What kind of dog do you have?" I asked.
Her reply was IMHO the best possible answer: "He's a pet."
"What kind of dog do you have?" I asked.
Her reply was IMHO the best possible answer: "He's a pet."
28
I adore my pug. But I also realize that the inbred traits that make the dog desirable aren't healthy. It sometimes has trouble breathing, and it overheats easily. Thankfully, it doesn't have hip problems, but many pugs do.
Much as I love her, my next dog will be a mutt.
Much as I love her, my next dog will be a mutt.
5
The BIS for the Westminster has been picked for weeks. The judges all know which dogs (read: handlers) have been winning all year in all-breed and specialty shows. Everybody in the dog showing business knows who the top dogs (handlers) are. Meens has already made his pick.
1
Based on the perennial preferential breeds, which have a high probability of being chosen as Best-In Show (ie, poodles), these national dog shows are a farce, not worth any attention. This isn't any dog show of the egalitarian sort at all. Its a showcased confirmation of the "chosen" few breeds -- as any member of the remaining 100+ breeds have zero chance of winning although statistically speaking, more of the "unchosens" should win.
1
i have a champion setter on my bed right now. She's gorgeous, passionate, sweet and once ran a hundred miles over six hours in scotland and found more than a hundred birds.
her pix is to the left of my name and yes, she has stopped traffic, from Hamburg to Inverness, New York to Anchorage. Paris and Flynt.
& we occasionally watch westminster because we always like to look at other dogs, so long as they haven't been bred to attack other dogs or people. We will not associate with those or give them the time of day.
but in these shows, the human element always repels us, because more often than not, those weirdo judges don't know fabulous dogs from freaks. It's almost a sick cult.
they ignore purpose, utility and poetry in motion -- they never judge how a dog lives or moves in the natural world.
yup, we go to far better dog shows
at our off leash areas, in the tulies and coulees, on montana prairies, prospecting for grouse in the sand counties, racing through a New England fall
where dogs and nature meet
her pix is to the left of my name and yes, she has stopped traffic, from Hamburg to Inverness, New York to Anchorage. Paris and Flynt.
& we occasionally watch westminster because we always like to look at other dogs, so long as they haven't been bred to attack other dogs or people. We will not associate with those or give them the time of day.
but in these shows, the human element always repels us, because more often than not, those weirdo judges don't know fabulous dogs from freaks. It's almost a sick cult.
they ignore purpose, utility and poetry in motion -- they never judge how a dog lives or moves in the natural world.
yup, we go to far better dog shows
at our off leash areas, in the tulies and coulees, on montana prairies, prospecting for grouse in the sand counties, racing through a New England fall
where dogs and nature meet
15
Hate to break it to you but those "freaks" you see on TV don't ignore purpose. They know what kind of dogs they have and that's why their dogs also compete in agility, herding, obedience, lure coursing trials, etc. So please, before you write something that can negatively influence the thinking of other people who love dogs, at least know a bit more about them. You'd be really surprised what kind of people they are.
1
I want to see an australian shepherd win.
1
If you love the breed, you should be hoping it doesn't win. A win often stimulates a burst of overbreeding to meet new demand to the detriment of the dogs. A sheltie has never won, either, and I'm glad.
4
Not to mention, most people choose a certain dog breed for the wrong reasons. Never get a dog just because you like the way it looks. Do a ton of research and find which dog breed is suitable for the type of lifestyle you live.
7
@sharpshin,
I also hope a sheltie never wins! Let's keep it our secret. :o)
I also hope a sheltie never wins! Let's keep it our secret. :o)
One notices the judge is ignoring leash laws, or is he in a dedicated dog park he area? Does the judge pick up his dog's poop, or is someone else responsible for that?
W.C. Fields said it best: "Anyone who hates dogs and kids can't be all bad."
W.C. Fields said it best: "Anyone who hates dogs and kids can't be all bad."
The whole article highlights what pretentiousness is involved.
1
Well he is one of the most knowledgable person on the subject of breed standards on the planet. It's pretentiousness because it's rare. Kind of like a Master Sommelier
7
I can hear it now. Timmies in hand (an iconic Canadian cup of coffee for those unitiated), the Canadian judge begins his announcement of his decision with, "I'm so sorry, but..."
3
My "best in show" is sitting beside me as I write this. I enjoy watching the Dog Show, but I don't see the point. What is the "win" here? Is it the breeders' choice of breeding partners? I'm of the opinion that maintaining a pure breeding line may not be the most healthy choice for any species.
It's fun to watch...but I don't get it.
It's fun to watch...but I don't get it.
1
Dogs are not show items. Horrible. Like to reverse this and put some of the 'owners' in a show. Disgusting. Bad people doing this.
1
As much as you think otherwise, some of those "owners" are the best dog owners in the world. They probably rescue more dogs than you or any person you know. On average, the the ones I know have about 5 dogs and it's close to 50/50 bred or rescued. And they most certainly don't do this for the money unlike puppymill breeders.
9
Field tests for breeds that are working dogs make sense to me. Why not see if a dog has the best nose for a scent, the best at finding a duck in the water, etc.? Just looking good and a pedigree misses the point.
3
Not to pick on you but there is a whole lot of ignorance on display in these comments. There are performance events like field trials available to many breeds. Hunting dogs and herding dogs have been selectively bred to enhance their abilities to flush game, trail rabbits, herd sheep, etc. Physical traits play a role in a dog's ability to do a job. That's why hounds and herding dogs have long muzzles. That's why dogs bred to go to ground after vermin have shorter legs. That's why sight hounds are built for speed. A pedigree tells a better the story of the dogs behind their dog ... including the working ability and temperament! Don't knock what you do not understand!!!
6
Woof! My u-man just stepped away from his computer, and now I've got an opportunity to set something straight.
A Labrador retriever has never been voted best in show at Westminster - no, not even once! There has to be something rotten in Westminster, if my breed, the breed that, year after year, is number one in AKC registrations, never gets the nod.
Sure, I've heard the official story line, "breeds are judged against their own breed standard", but that approach would be best used for judging pigs, because it is pure hogwash.
Every Labrador, yellow, black or chocolate, should just dash off, get on the subway, and go down to Madison Square Garden. When you get there, set up a giant picket line, and say to all the show Labs, "If they won't let you win, don't go in".
Gotta, go - have to get the drool off the keyboard before Peter gets back.
Yours in biscuits,
Penny
A Labrador retriever has never been voted best in show at Westminster - no, not even once! There has to be something rotten in Westminster, if my breed, the breed that, year after year, is number one in AKC registrations, never gets the nod.
Sure, I've heard the official story line, "breeds are judged against their own breed standard", but that approach would be best used for judging pigs, because it is pure hogwash.
Every Labrador, yellow, black or chocolate, should just dash off, get on the subway, and go down to Madison Square Garden. When you get there, set up a giant picket line, and say to all the show Labs, "If they won't let you win, don't go in".
Gotta, go - have to get the drool off the keyboard before Peter gets back.
Yours in biscuits,
Penny
23
Amazing . . . even a drooling dog has the sense (dog sense?) to see through the shallow facade of Westminster logic.
Penny summed it up nicely with "... that approach would be best used for judging pigs, because it is pure hogwash."
Penny summed it up nicely with "... that approach would be best used for judging pigs, because it is pure hogwash."
Nature abhors inbreeding. This show promotes it, for the profit of the inbreeders. Greed prevails over dogs' health. Shameful.
Watch the superb BBC documentary "Pedigree Dogs Exposed." Learn the truth about these types of dog shows. It's on Vimeo here:
https://vimeo.com/17558275
Watch the superb BBC documentary "Pedigree Dogs Exposed." Learn the truth about these types of dog shows. It's on Vimeo here:
https://vimeo.com/17558275
9
Scott, it was hard to watch those dogs seize, cry in pain, try to breath, and wobble on their legs.
The reactions of the breeders was contemptible. Thanks for the link.
The reactions of the breeders was contemptible. Thanks for the link.
1
As an ardent dog lover; I will have nothing to do with dog shows; the main perpetrator of over-breeding, to the point that dogs can hardly walk, are euthanized at early ages, can no longer give birth naturally....The list goes on and on. It is inhumane, and I can hardly wait until we become more the like the EU in respect to our treatment of dogs! Adopt, don't over-breed!
9
Nope, dog shows have nothing to do with "over breeding". The dogs that end up in shelters come from pet stores and backyard breeders not the responsible breeders that participate in all forms of dog sport. People looking for a good pet have a responsibility to screen breeders but often take the easy way out rather than doing their home work. If someone is willing to sell you an 8 week old puppy, asks no questions about you and your history of dog ownership, does not call your veterinarian and ask questions about your prior pets, is unwilling to take back a dog at any point during their life ... walk away fast!
7
@txyankee,
Actually, dog shows have much to do with in-breeding and worsening or perpetuating health problems in dogs. The standards used for conformation are written by the breed clubs, who deny the damage they've done to their own lines by breeding for exaggerated characteristics or a certain look. It's about greed and fame.
Some of these crazies have poisoned competing dogs to get a leg up (sorry).
Actually, dog shows have much to do with in-breeding and worsening or perpetuating health problems in dogs. The standards used for conformation are written by the breed clubs, who deny the damage they've done to their own lines by breeding for exaggerated characteristics or a certain look. It's about greed and fame.
Some of these crazies have poisoned competing dogs to get a leg up (sorry).
First my 3-year-old Irish Terrier Suzie had to suffer all those cute puppies on TV's "Puppy Bowl" and then watch as the "best of breed" paraded around. Wasn't long before she just sunk into siesta under the border sun. But she did get up for dinner.
2
In the entire history of the AKC, rough collies have won Best in Show only once. It is evident that the judging is biased toward popular breeds like terriers who have won many more times. Not even Lassie had a chance!
2
Even though I am a constant adopter of second-hand dogs and foundlings, and much of what passes for "conformation" in the more designed breeds disgusts me (I see deformity), I look forward to this show just to see the handful of dogs who really shine. More often than not I can predict who will win each group: when you are around dogs all the time, you know a well-made dog when you see it. Some dogs have a special sparkle when they show. I love seeing that. But I do have a love/hate relationship with the so-called Dog Fancy. I want to cry when I see German Shepherd Dogs who walk on their hocks, Dobermans and Danes with their horribly cropped ears, the seemingly microcephalic American Cocker Spaniels. We do some horrible things to dogs. But then I see a healthy, natural, well-bred dog and I think there may be some hope for the "sport."
I used to know many people and dogs in the show and agility worlds, and they were all terrible gossips (well, maybe not the dogs, but you never know). I heard stories about cheating on conformation, including surgeries (scars, if found, were explained as having resulted from injuries) and color enhancement of fur. A breeder of Aussie Shepherds who was big in agility had dogs that looked suspiciously like Border Collies (a common accusation...you have to know AKC agility to know why it matters). As goofy, trivial and arcane as it seems, dog show competition is deadly serious. It's funny to those not involved, but too often it is sad for the dogs.
I used to know many people and dogs in the show and agility worlds, and they were all terrible gossips (well, maybe not the dogs, but you never know). I heard stories about cheating on conformation, including surgeries (scars, if found, were explained as having resulted from injuries) and color enhancement of fur. A breeder of Aussie Shepherds who was big in agility had dogs that looked suspiciously like Border Collies (a common accusation...you have to know AKC agility to know why it matters). As goofy, trivial and arcane as it seems, dog show competition is deadly serious. It's funny to those not involved, but too often it is sad for the dogs.
5
The movie Best in Show forever set my prejudices about the dog show culture. When is America, the so-called melting pot, going to have a mutt show or a This is Your Life for rescue dogs? Now that would be fun to watch and follow.
5
They do have that. It's called the Puppy Bowl. But going more into your idea, how do you judge "Best Mutt?" You surely can't go on just looks cause there could be other things wrong with the dog or have different traits? Hey, I'm all for that but how do you judge a winner?
2
I once accompanied a friend to a “pug club” at the park -- a bunch of pug owners such as a my friend, along with an AKC rep. The rep cheerfully talked about pug traits, particularly the problems they have with their eyes, which may require daily medicine or treatment.
What is the point of breeding a feature that becomes a chronic problem for the dog? The dog show world is strange, insular, and belongs to an era when we were less evolved toward animals.
What is the point of breeding a feature that becomes a chronic problem for the dog? The dog show world is strange, insular, and belongs to an era when we were less evolved toward animals.
5
A few years ago I accompanied a friend to a dog show in the Chicago area. I saw the 'behind the scenes' activities. Dogs cramped in crates, stacked two to three crates tall. Dogs' legs and paws being dusted with some mysterious white powder; dogs with medium and long hair being rolled up in curlers or tied up, or repeatedly brushed and sprayed with some sort of hair spray. When the dogs weren't being shown, they were either stuffed in their crates or subjected to more grooming. It seemed never ending.
I asked a friend, who is active in a kennel club that was a sponsor for this event. She told me that through the years, there have been many instances of the owners of competition dogs being caught doing the following prohibited acts: having black eye liner tattooed around their dogs' eyes; dyeing their dog's hair/fur; plastic surgery on their dogs to make the dog's appearance conform more with the breed standard. These are just the prohibited acts.
The acts that are perfectly legal (allowed) include breeding practices that endanger the overall health of the litter, all in the name of physical appearance.
When I sat in the audience to watch the competitions, I overheard someone ask the owner of a Scottish terrier if she had resorted to plucking gray hairs 'yet' - she replied she had not yet needed to do so. I look at our little mutt who we adopted from the pound and think how lucky he is to not be a show dog.
I asked a friend, who is active in a kennel club that was a sponsor for this event. She told me that through the years, there have been many instances of the owners of competition dogs being caught doing the following prohibited acts: having black eye liner tattooed around their dogs' eyes; dyeing their dog's hair/fur; plastic surgery on their dogs to make the dog's appearance conform more with the breed standard. These are just the prohibited acts.
The acts that are perfectly legal (allowed) include breeding practices that endanger the overall health of the litter, all in the name of physical appearance.
When I sat in the audience to watch the competitions, I overheard someone ask the owner of a Scottish terrier if she had resorted to plucking gray hairs 'yet' - she replied she had not yet needed to do so. I look at our little mutt who we adopted from the pound and think how lucky he is to not be a show dog.
7
Please select the long-haired dachshund!
1
Great title!
dogs are polluted by their proximity to humans
this is th most extreme form of that pollution
this is th most extreme form of that pollution
3
I believe the AKC is a corrupt, money-making organization preying upon the health and well-being of all dogs in the US. It is the AKC that is behind all the puppy-milling and wrong-minded breeding - the unending breeding - that contributes to untold suffering of millions of canines who will never see the show ring much less a warm bed and companionship and love.
Do the readers here understand what the life of a show dog is really about? It usually has nothing to do with a dog's heart. It's all about ego of the breeder/owner, the conformation, and the willingness to do anything for the handler or a treat. And it's usually a handler because the actual owners pay for the relationships with the judges.
So forget the health of the dog, forget the dog can't even remember what it was supposedly bred to do. It actually has nothing to do with the dog. It's all about the ...
Do the readers here understand what the life of a show dog is really about? It usually has nothing to do with a dog's heart. It's all about ego of the breeder/owner, the conformation, and the willingness to do anything for the handler or a treat. And it's usually a handler because the actual owners pay for the relationships with the judges.
So forget the health of the dog, forget the dog can't even remember what it was supposedly bred to do. It actually has nothing to do with the dog. It's all about the ...
7
I sure hope he doesn't mix up the winner and the first runner-up!
3
I remember going to the Westminster show when I was about 13 years old. It was an amazing experience going behind the scenes at getting to see so many dogs close up. At that time the entire event was held at Madison Square Garden.
I had a Cairn Terrier at the time and of course I was rooting for the Cairn Terrier to win the show. For some reason, the Cairn Terrier has never won best in show. I now have a shipoo and since they are a mixed breed they can't compete. Even though my dog is half poodle and half shitzu I still root for the Cairn Terrier.
Go Toto!!
I had a Cairn Terrier at the time and of course I was rooting for the Cairn Terrier to win the show. For some reason, the Cairn Terrier has never won best in show. I now have a shipoo and since they are a mixed breed they can't compete. Even though my dog is half poodle and half shitzu I still root for the Cairn Terrier.
Go Toto!!
1
As a lifelong owner of bird hunting dogs (over 50 years), the first thing I look for when selecting a pup on an official pedigree is AKC show champion and run as far away as possible. All too often the breeder is breeding for show conformation, not the ability of the dog to do its job in the field. Second is the health of the animal. OFA is good first step but we need more research as well as stricter breeding standards to reduce the spread of genetically linked diseases and the AKC is behind the times. We have bred a particularly special dog a very few times and only after an exhaustive testing and review of the pedigree but for the vast majority, do not. Our most recent addition was a Llwellyn setter, whose past breeders have apparently been smart enough to never register them with the AKC.
20
Better than the primaries.
54
At least the dogs don't talk.
1
Yes, the contestants are finer and show such noble mien.
4
Much more fun
1
Until dog shows start judging dogs on their health and not just their physical appearance, the entire dog show world is perpetrating violence against the species they claim to love. German Shepherds that can barely walk, King Charles Cavaliers with fatal heart disease, bulldogs that can't give birth naturally, the list goes on and on.
95
Not to mention the thousands of 'non purebred', 'non AKC' magnificent canines suffering in and euthanized by shelters.
1
Delighted to see that out of their three photographs for the article they have a pug to represent the finest of dog qualities. My pug, Uma Thurman, has kept me alive through years of Lyme Disease. Long live the Pug!
28
I only wish they had a clip of her performance....
I'm also thrilled to see that pic; my black pugs, Punch and Judy, were fabulous companions for 14+ years.
1
It would be great if dog shows begin judging dogs on how solid their health is, rather than their beauty or "conformity" to the standard--which is often an unhealthy aim. Some 53-73% of golden retrievers have hip dysplasia--something that can easily be breed out, if people care about health when matching & mating dogs... it is as easy as an x-ray and a commitment not to breed if dysplasia is present. This is just one breed with one debilitating and painful genetically passed condition - there are many. Wouldn't it be nice if all who claim to "love dogs" would actually love them in action and not just in words, and therefore boycott dog shows until they are being judged in a way that helps dogs live better, healthier, more pain free lives.
88
It is not "as easy as an X-ray" to breed out dysplasia. It is not a genetic abnormality that can be isolated by DNA testing and canceled out through careful crossings. It is a degenerative condition resulting from poor hip conformation. The biggest problem in pedigreed dogs is that the pedigree-registration clubs allow breeders to breed their dogs too young. An OFA (veterinary orthopedic evaluation) cannot be done before a dog is 12 months. Some exceptionally ethical breeders wait until the dog is fully mature and developed (two years for most breeds). But even then, early signs of hip dysplasia rarely appear before age three, and the OFA just measures probability. But if the AKC and other clubs refused to register pups from too-young parents, it would go a long way to improving purebred health (for all of the canine health issues that take a long time to develop, such as the cranial deformities King Charles Spaniels suffer).
Hip dysplasia is widespread among dog breeds, medium to large. Some of this is due to bad genetics and inbreeding, but I think part of the blame can be placed on our tendency to breed to far outside the natural canine form. Wolves, jackals and coyotes have balanced forms and fluid-moving hips. We breed dogs too large, too heavy, too deep chested, too tall, too short (dwarfed), too fast-growing. Skeletal problems are a given when you ignore the mechanics of an animal's frame.
Hip dysplasia is widespread among dog breeds, medium to large. Some of this is due to bad genetics and inbreeding, but I think part of the blame can be placed on our tendency to breed to far outside the natural canine form. Wolves, jackals and coyotes have balanced forms and fluid-moving hips. We breed dogs too large, too heavy, too deep chested, too tall, too short (dwarfed), too fast-growing. Skeletal problems are a given when you ignore the mechanics of an animal's frame.
13
This jerk should be prosecuted! That he is celebrated for "judging" inbred deformities instilled in animals, is just a shame.
20
I'll always have a soft spot in my heart for the Westminster Kennel Club. My dad bought two high quality Irish Setters in England after the war, and brought them over. After about 10 years of careful breeding of the settlers, my mom and dad took one of their female setters to Westminster and "Flicka" won Best of Breed. My dad was a tool designer and my mom was a housewife. Their female dog beat a male Irish Setter owned by a very wealthy woman. Westminster is the great equalizer among dog owners, because its a truly great dog in each breed who wins Best of Breed. While wealth can buy you an expensive show dog and a good trainer, there's an element of fate and chance in what a litter of puppies brings.
I never got into dog shows and I have just one dog, a Newfoundland. He's fantastically beautiful, has a show dog trot and a show dog personality, because he comes from a long line of champions. However his feet are crooked, so I won't show him or breed him. That's what responsible dog owners do.
I never got into dog shows and I have just one dog, a Newfoundland. He's fantastically beautiful, has a show dog trot and a show dog personality, because he comes from a long line of champions. However his feet are crooked, so I won't show him or breed him. That's what responsible dog owners do.
30
The same thing happens every year. I award the top prize to this best-in-the-world-good-girl-here, and they go on with the show anyway. I mean, what's the purpose?
26
Only 14 "likes" so far? If the world knew Kota, there would be thousands of them.
3
Ban the dog show! It is terrible to breed dogs for for traits humans find appealing while also causing extreme deformities, brain/nerve damage, and stress on the dogs. If you want to play with genetics, get pea plants like Gregor Mendel.
50
Forgive my attitude but,Dr Meen and his ilk are representative of everything that is wrong with our relationship with animals. These shows have nothing to do with which dogs are actually the best of their breed. There are no tests of the dog's actual ability to perform the tasks they are ostensibly bred to perform. It is nothing more than a beauty contest. Only when we assign these grotesque spectacles to the dustbin of history can we truly begin to overcome the attitudes that these shows perpetuate. Dogs are so much more than playthings that should be judged on their appearance.
57
[[He will decide which of the animals is the purest of the purebreds.]]
Yes. Let's honor some dog that can barely walk or breathe or is prone to hip disease.
Good use of time and effort.
Yes. Let's honor some dog that can barely walk or breathe or is prone to hip disease.
Good use of time and effort.
38
A nice way to describe the quality of the canines at this show:
There are no dogs at Westminster.
There are no dogs at Westminster.
15
How can one dog be "better" than another? And why would anyone care?
22
Because it really is much better than the primaries. (Thanks Mark L. Reiner, MD)
1
His last quote endears him to all dog lovers and pet owners.
12
I don't know how on earth any judge can just put aside all the ads in the trade magazines. These dogs are promoted with more vigor than a new brand of automobile!
Then there are the professional handlers. In the US, every hair-enhancing product known to mankind will be employed, unlike at Crufts where samples of hair are collected and sent to a lab to check for enhancement products. The dogs there look VERY different than here - poodles with floppy topknots etc!
I am NOT against purebred dogs - I have owned various breeds my entire life and have owned Cavalier King Charles Spaniels now for 32 years. But I am opposed to the "hairdresser's art" being used on the dogs, often to attempt to hide various faults.
And then there is the total lack of regard for the health of many of these dogs/breeds. One year while watching Westminster, I had my laptop in front of me and when the Working Group and Sporting Groups were shown, I looked up each entry on the OFA web site. Probably only 10-15% were listed and these are dogs who are supposed to be doing things that require strong structure.
If the AKC were truly working for the welfare of ALL dogs, they would require health clearances on the conditions that affect all breeds and also specific breeds, in order for the dogs to shown. We should only breed from the very best. Good structure, temperament and health are vital for a dog to have. The AKC only pays lip service to anything other than looks.
Then there are the professional handlers. In the US, every hair-enhancing product known to mankind will be employed, unlike at Crufts where samples of hair are collected and sent to a lab to check for enhancement products. The dogs there look VERY different than here - poodles with floppy topknots etc!
I am NOT against purebred dogs - I have owned various breeds my entire life and have owned Cavalier King Charles Spaniels now for 32 years. But I am opposed to the "hairdresser's art" being used on the dogs, often to attempt to hide various faults.
And then there is the total lack of regard for the health of many of these dogs/breeds. One year while watching Westminster, I had my laptop in front of me and when the Working Group and Sporting Groups were shown, I looked up each entry on the OFA web site. Probably only 10-15% were listed and these are dogs who are supposed to be doing things that require strong structure.
If the AKC were truly working for the welfare of ALL dogs, they would require health clearances on the conditions that affect all breeds and also specific breeds, in order for the dogs to shown. We should only breed from the very best. Good structure, temperament and health are vital for a dog to have. The AKC only pays lip service to anything other than looks.
36
OFA testing has not worked . It has not resulted in the elimination of hip dysplasia from breeding stock. The PENN HIP test is better but AKC keeps insisting on OFA even though it is a very old test that has not worked, dogs are tested too young and then allowed to breed. Of course its all about money.
The breeders do not want to submit their valuable stud dogs to another test that may toss them out as breeding stock.
The breeders do not want to submit their valuable stud dogs to another test that may toss them out as breeding stock.
2
A single judge is not the way to go. Why because humans are bias and frequently make mistakes .
4
Later, after the couple had a child, they had to get rid of this prized white boxer because he was getting too "excitable" around the baby.
Just my $.02 ---