A Note From Westminster KC Regarding Top 5 Invitees

CLARIFICATION OF THE 2022 QUALIFYING PERIOD & INVITEES

CLARIFICATION OF THE 2022 QUALIFYING PERIOD & INVITEES

Cars and motorcycles ranging from the classics to just plain funky are hidden in some of dogdom’s secret garages. This week we have a “Special” ride sent to us by Claire Wisch-Abraham.

he Tibetan Terrier is an ancient breed from Tibet, but it is not a terrier by function or temperament. The breed has been long associated with Buddhist monasteries where they functioned as watch dogs as well as serving other functions. In Tibet, it is called Tsang Apso, “apso” meaning “dog” and from the Tsang province. It has also been called Dokhi Apso, “dokhi” meaning outside. It had been considered a sacred or holy dog that could bring good luck to his owner.

In a recent discussion with my mentor, he stated, “…the disparity in type sometimes seen in a large entry is due not so much, I think, to what is being produced by breeders as it is to what is being selected to be shown by exhibitors.” At first read, his assertion may seem contradictory since the selection of a dog to show is contingent upon the production of a litter from which to choose. Therefore, I feel a clarification of the observation is in order.
As of late, there seems to be a barrage of Breed Standard revisions. Many of these changes are for clarification purposes, but these revisions may also include new disqualifications. Changing a breed standard should not be taken lightly and does come with consequences.

Over and over, the dog fancy mourns the loss of individuals who devoted their lives to the study, preservation, and improvement of purebred dogs. When Connie Gerstner Miller passed away on July 30, she had established a distinctive line of Golden Retrievers as well as a plan for the continuation of her breeding program. A line can be continued; too often, the knowledge gained during years as a breeder, handler, and judge isn’t passed to another generation. For Connie, mentoring others as she did throughout her career was her way to pass on all that she had learned.

This 1969 Chevy Camaro convertible with the original burgundy red paint, belongs to Carol Curlee.

The dog biz has changed a lot, but I won’t preach to the choir. Among other things, the idea of exploring multiple breeds instantly undermines credibility. Yes, there are valid reasons for that. In reality, mastering a breed requires many years of hard work and dedication. And “student research” garners no respect in this sport. The thing is that so many breeds are desperately lacking knowledgeable supporters these days. That fact is arguably becoming a bigger threat to their genetic integrity.

These three terms are essential and paramount to understanding and judging every breed and facilitate a deeper understanding of the breed standard.