This is a message to all breeders and those of us who show dogs: This article is not intended to call anyone out, but rather to encourage some introspection about how we behave in this sport of purebred dogs (myself included).
The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) has watched the incidence of obesity in dogs increase dramatically over the past twenty years. In a survey conducted by the American Academy of Veterinary Nutrition (AAVN), veterinarians reported that about forty percent of the dogs coming into their clinic or animal hospital were obese. Canine obesity is best defined as an accumulation of excess body fat to the extent that a dog’s body weight exceeds his ideal weight by at least 20 percent or where the dog’s extra weight has caused the development of health problems.
Dogs with titles in multiple disciplines are becoming more and more common as breeders realize that many puppy buyers these days are looking for dogs that can do more than trot around a show ring and smile at judges.
One hundred years ago Des Moines, Iowa went to the dogs. Champion dogs, that is. This coming September 6 and 7, will be our 100th year and 97th Show, which will be held at the Iowa State Fair Varied Industries Building.
For a time, Marc and I lived close to Dartmoor, a wild upland expanse of open moorland and deep river valleys. A truly gorgeous, unspoiled part of Southwest England.
Click here to read the complete article 210 – August, 2025 Curated By Elaine Lessig Click here to read the complete article 210 – August, 2025
You know that old saying about fooling some of the people all of the time? It’s true, and the latest news on the ASPCA unequivocally confirms that bit of social insight.
Good morning and welcome to my seminar titled, “So Much to Learn.” Nice to see all you young sporting breed dogs here along with a few Miniature and Standard Poodles and some Airedales as this seminar is really for you. It’s designed to give you some idea of what’s in store for you if your bosses decide to do field work with you–and they should.
Even though this game is way too addicted to numbers and stats, we have never been able to crack the code of breed popularity.
The American Kennel Club has provided young people with their own unique competition and the AKC has designed the sport of Junior Showmanship such that it promotes the values of sportsmanship, respect for one’s opponents, judges, and the sport. It is hoped that young people find the sport fun and a positive outlet for their competitive spirit and use the sport to foster the development of friendships and build social bonds.
