The Big E – It’s All About Selection

BY ELAINE LESSIG

Okay, ladies, if I refer to “LBDs”, I am sure you know precisely what I mean. For the uninitiated, “LBDs” are little black dresses. Our closets have several at any given time. There is often an occasion that requires us to reach into the closet or to run out to shop for one. There begins the challenge. From the myriad of little black dresses on the racks, online, or those already ensconced in our wardrobe, how do we pick the perfect one to wear to a cocktail party, friend’s wedding, or family occasion? Why, of course, we make a selection. We chose the one we like best. Since there are countless little black dresses, the task is not an easy one.

As a point of reference for all the men out there, I ask you to consider a similar dilemma: the perfect necktie. How often have you gone through the ties on your tie rack to find the very best one to match with the shirt and jacket you want to wear? Try as you might, none seems to be working. Next, you explore your online options or favorite stores. Finally, there it is! You found the right one. Whew!

Dogdom provides us with this exact challenge every step of the way. From the moment we select a breed, find a good breeder, and buy that wonderful puppy, we are bombarded with all kinds of choices. Seemingly endless choices lead to difficult and im- portant decisions. How can we make those hard choices good ones? How do we find the “LBD” that we love AND is right for the occasion? Is that paisley necktie that catches your eye going to look really good in the ring? May I suggest that the best way is knowledgeably, thoughtfully, and passionately? It is by gathering all the information and using it wisely that we succeed.

I clearly remember my initial quest for a Cavalier King Charles bitch to show successfully and be the foundation of my breeding program. I read all the books on the breed that were available. (there was no internet to do online research back then!) I went to shows to see which of the girls from which breeders filled my eyes and made my heart sing. Then I visited with a few breeders who might have a bitch for me. I asked a lot of questions and listened carefully to the answers they provided. After an intense search, I took a leap of faith and made my purchase. It proved to be unfortunate and fortunate. I bought a beautiful puppy that was too young. A bite change precluded her from a show career, but an excellent pedigree, along with the wise selection of the right stud dog, resulted in an outstanding litter. Maybe, it was just be- ginner’s luck. Still, it was those considered selections which began all of what has followed.

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Posted by Alex on Jan 21 2019. Filed under Current Articles, Featured. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0. Both comments and pings are currently closed.