A few standout breeds perpetually grab the limelight, then there are the outliers, renegades, and newcomers. But most fall into the category of reliable, steady contenders. Every once in awhile they launch a mainstream star, but overall they basically keep the faith without making waves.
The Bouvier is a farm dog used for herding and guarding livestock, pulling carts, and acting as a family companion.
There was a procedure offered way back in the ‘50s and ‘60s that allowed experienced breeders and handlers to adjudicate at specialties. It seems now that concept has made a re-emergence.
Improving breeding stock was the innate reason for the creation of canine conformation shows as well as shows of numerous other domesticated animals. Improving anything must have a goal, and for breeders that goal is clearly to come as close as possible to the “ideal” dog as described in the standard, a dog that is outstandingly prepared for the job for which this breed was created, be that to flush or retrieve birds, pull carts, guard an estate, go to ground after vermin, run beside a horse-drawn carriage, or sit in the sleeve of a Chinese Emperor.
Today, everything seems to be “iconic” and the word is so overused that it should probably be retired. However, there is no better word to describe the Morris & Essex Kennel Club Dog Show. It’s a gift to the dog fancy from the dog fancy—a day when we remember what a dog show can be in its purest form.
Whether we like it or not, communication today happens mainly on the internet. This is also true regarding the source of information. It’s impossible to imagine everyday life without social networks or thematic websites. Likewise, you cannot avoid using the internet if you want to communicate about your kennel in the virtual space.
There is a much greater number of breeds to choose from
when seeking your canine hunting partner than there was 20 years ago…
For over a century experts have declared the wolfdog dead and buried. But never say never.
With all deference to Dr. Doolittle*, if we could talk to the animals at the center of a conflict they would give us some remarkably creative solutions. Dr. Doolittle sings, ‘If I could talk to the animals…what a lovely place the world would be.”
On a Friday night, about nine days after the start of a dog show weekend, one of my dogs refused her dinner. For many of us with major league chow hounds, this is a huge red flag. Others, used to more discriminating eaters, probably would not even bat an eyelash.
