Westminster 2014

[OldDog]

Originally Posted by Danzig

many of the dogs actually have roles other than show dog. many of the dogs that would be hunting dogs are bird dogs, etc. there are trials for sporting and working dogs, and some of these dogs do those, agility trials and the like. they aren't all just fancy lap dogs. and all the dogs should have the ability to perform their traditional tasks.

Sadly, that is what is missing from many of the dogs in the conformation ring, in my opinion.

No so with my little friend here, who knows what he is about

(gratuitous photo)

The AKC puts on a great assortment of events, most of which I consider sport, but as for me the conformation ring represents more politics than sport. The pup above has zero chance of attaining BIS at Westminster, even if he conforms 100% to his breed standard. Despite being the most represented breed in AKC registrations, his kind has never won there, and it's a safe bet never will. Why? Because the judging is so subjective.

http://www.forbes.com/sites/janelee/...in-show-video/