Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show

[Not Afraid]

The Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show is my other favorite (and obscure) sporting event I watch. (The other 2 are Tour de France and, to a lesser degree, Figure Skating.)

I hardly ever miss it and have been watching for YEARS! Remember Lacy? Or Robert? Of the Papillion whose name I can't remember but who fit in the Winners Cup?

Anwyays, I had to catch Day One this morning because I forgot I have East Coast Feed and missed all but the Non-Sporting Group. Tonight, I'm going to miss part of the show because Buster needs to go to the Vet (possible urinary tract infection). I'll miss Sporting (which I love) but I'll be home for Working and Hound, I hope.

But, today, I saw the Terriers. I LOOOOOOOVVVVVEEEEE the Terrier Group. I used to have a Westie (right GD?) and I love these intelligent little dogs. There are about 6 breeds that I would love to own (and I'm sure the cats would kill me if I did it). The Little Guy who won the group is a favorite breed.

So.....watch? Love? What's your favorite breeds?

[Eliza Hodgkins 1812]

I love dog shows. I'm very fond of smooth fox terriers and the last dog show I watched a fox terrier kicked ASS. Ate Best in Show right up.

In terms of owenrship, I'm a sucker for mixed breeds. They tend to have less complications. But for pure breeds, I love Retrievers, Setters, Siberian Huskies, Beagles, French Bulldogs, to name a few.

[Ghoulish Delight]

Gotta love the Norwich Terrior (especially after Best in Show, eh?)

I watch occasionally, but eventually 1) the complete freakishness of most of the breed standards ends up weirding me out and 2) the judges invariably have a preference for the freakish breeds, so the breeds I like to watch are hardly ever shown.

[Eliza Hodgkins 1812]

Freakish, huh? I've noticed too much poodle love.

I really don't care for poodles.

[Ghoulish Delight]

I don't mind poodles...if they aren't clipped in that idiotic french cut, which of course they all are. Then you've got your variety of asian breeds, with the faces that look like they've spent their lives running into a wall. There's the Neapolitan Mastiff, that's black, with huge frightening jowels, it's lips drooping so you see it's blood red gums, its eyes bloodshot like some sort of demon's. Bull Terriers with their "egg shaped" muzzles that for some reason bug me. Shih Tzu's which aren't too bad, but are always displayed with that stupid hair tie that gives them the '80s top-of-the head pony tail. Cocker Spaniels who have their backs shaved, but everything below knee height ridiculously long. Okay, I could go on like this for a while. So many breeds, and grooming standards, just look so bleeding ridiculous to me that I can't watch it for very long.

[Eliza Hodgkins 1812]

Shih Tzu's which aren't too bad, but are always displayed with that stupid hair tie that gives them the '80s top-of-the head pony tail.

I've never seen a Shih Tzu age well. Poor Shih Tzu.

Mastiff's are imposing. England's original guard dogs should be, I guess. Their mouths disturb me, but their HUGE paws are pretty nifty.

[Ghoulish Delight]

Mastiff's are interesting. But the Neopolitan Mastiff specifically is quite a beast to look at.

[wendybeth]

I'm partial to Terriers as well. I'd love a Cairn or Norwich. Our smallish dog is part Yorkie, and very cute- looks like a beige miniature Benji dog. I also love Aussie sheps, which our larger model dog is partly comprised of. (The other part is Akita).

[Ghoulish Delight]

Back when I was taking classes to get my insurance license, one of our instructors got a 3 month old Yorkie puppy from her husband as a gift. They have a 60 pound English bulldog at home, and while the bulldog is not aggressive, it could have killed that little thing if it tried to rest it's head on it. So she brought her into class with her. Cutest thing I've ever seen in my life. Nearly killed me every day. Good thing the material was mindless, 'cause I didn't pay one bit of attention when she was there.

[wendybeth]

They know they're cute, as well. Can't get mad at her, because she peers up at you between those long bangs and wags her tail so hard you'd swear her butt will fall off.

[UvaGirl]

I love Schnauzers, particularly the miniature ones. it's partly the name. Schnauzer. I love it. They're so serious looking, with their little beards. I also love Scottish Terriers, and Soft Coated Wheaton Terriers. Beagles are pretty cool, too.

[Not Afraid]

Well, I have seen it all and Best In Show has been pronounced. But, I won't spoil it for you with delayed feed. I do know that it was one of the best groups of dogs I have seen in a while.

[Not Afraid]

I don't mind poodles...if they aren't clipped in that idiotic french cut, which of course they all are. Then you've got your variety of asian breeds, with the faces that look like they've spent their lives running into a wall. There's the Neapolitan Mastiff, that's black, with huge frightening jowels, it's lips drooping so you see it's blood red gums, its eyes bloodshot like some sort of demon's. Bull Terriers with their "egg shaped" muzzles that for some reason bug me. Shih Tzu's which aren't too bad, but are always displayed with that stupid hair tie that gives them the '80s top-of-the head pony tail. Cocker Spaniels who have their backs shaved, but everything below knee height ridiculously long. Okay, I could go on like this for a while. So many breeds, and grooming standards, just look so bleeding ridiculous to me that I can't watch it for very long.


OK, smartie pants. Most breeds are clipped in certain ways to perform their working task in the best way possible. The Poodle Cut keeps key parts of the hunting dog warm while remaining aerodynamic and free from getting caught in brambles.

The Neopolitan Mastif was first SHOWN at Westminster THIS YEAR. It's never ever been shown at this level before.

The Toy dogs don't appeal to me, but I like working dogs like Terriers, hounds or Herders and not Lap Dogs. I have cats for that. Dogs are supposed to have a purpose other than being charming and beautiful.

[Claire]

Today (from my nail lady of all people!) we were offered a shih tzu mini tea cup puppy possibility.....depending on the gender of the witty bitty litter, we might have a teeny weeny little pure breed!! We are sooo excited. And if not from this litter, then the next for sure!!!

[Gemini Cricket]

Corgis!

Pembroke Welsh Corgis rule.

Just ask the queen.

:)

[MerryPrankster]

I'm watching now. Although, I already know who wins Best in Show. What a gorgeous group of dogs.

I love Mary the Weimaraner...such a beautiful animal. :)

Edited to add: I wuvs the beagles. *smooch* The hound group is so smoochable.
Sorry, I can't help myself. :blush:

[Not Afraid]

Some breeds I liked this year:

Puli
Briard
Corgi (both)
Petits Bassets Griffons Vendeen
Fox Terrier
Cariin Terrier
West Highland White Terrier
Norfold Terrier
Norwich Terrier
Lakeland Terrier
Jack RUssell Terrier
Scottish Terrier
Welsh Terrier
Schnauzer

[Not Afraid]

So, it is final now on the WC, right?

I have my stand-in Norfolk Terrier on my lap (Jack) and have to agree with the judge that the German Shorthared Pointer rocked. But, the Norfolk was a very close second.

The bedroom slipper, Jeffrey, scared the hell out of Chris. Is that really an animal or is it a tribble?

Border Collies, while VERY High Maintenance, are fun to watch, and were my third choice.

I need a bigger house.

[MerryPrankster]

Carlee the German Short Haired Pointer, Best in Show, was magnificent. What a performer, just perfect!

I really loved Coco the Norfolk terrier too. She is so adorable with great stage presence. I'm going to doggy-sit my neighbor's dog this weekend, Jasmine. She looks a lot like Coco. Very smart with great personality, I love spoiling her.

Knotty the bloodhound was also a favorite of mine. I liked Merlin the border collie too, although I have known a couple of psycho border collies. I don't know, their owners are a bit psycho so that might have something to do with it. Fame, the Great Pyrenees was also beautiful.

Jeffrey is scary and funny. He looked like he was going to topple over. My husband and I were laughing every time he was walked around. I'm not into lap dogs, either. They're not my cup up tea. But, wow! What a beautiful showing of all the dogs!

Here are a few links that I found informative:

http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2005/more/02/15/bc.dogshow.ap/index.html

http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2005/more/02/14/bc.dogshow.ap/index.html

http://www.westminsterkennelclub.org/

[tracilicious]

Darn my network TV!!! I love the dog show. Europe is much smarter than we are regarding dog shows and won't allow cropped dogs to be shown. Maybe someday we will reach that level of civility with our dogs. I love to see all the dogs, but especially the giant breeds. We haven't had a dane win in a long time.

[Baileykat]

I can't believe we missed the whole thing...my mind is kinda shot this week!
I still can't remember what I was supposed to remember for Thursday...drat!


But I did see the clips..what a winner! I love when any dog wins besides poodles! As does Kat!

We're in the dog shopping stages right now...actually trying to decide the perfect breed for us...we really really realllllllllyyyyyyy want a French Bulldog! Ahh..I just love them! But get queasy at the thought of spending over $1000 - $2000 on a dog!

[Not Afraid]

There are so many factors to consider when looking at breeds.
Drool
Children
Other Pets
Grooming
Excitability
Exercise
Climate
Activity level
Health Problems of the breed
Training requiired

Etc.

Purena used to have a nice little test for potential owners, but I am not sure if it is still avaialble. Plus, I remember it gave me answers I was appaled by - I don't want a Peak. ;)

This book is mentioned a lot. (http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/isbn%3D0793820871/petguardiaangels/104-9620204-9286314)

[Ghoulish Delight]

I'm always a proponent of going through rescue organizations.

[mousepod]

I'm always a proponent of going through rescue organizations.

I'd give ya mojo if I could.

4 out of our last 6 pets were rescue animals.

[Not Afraid]

The problem with rescue organizations is that you miss puppy stage for the most part. Now, this isn't a bad thing for some. Puppy stage is difficult. But, I know bringing adult cats into a household can be MUCH more difficult than kittens. Lyra was a good example of this.

Certain dogs have stronger rescue organizations than others. Greyhounds have a great rescue organizations and they are great adult dogs. It is harder to get certain breeds thru rescue without there being residual bahavioral problems. My Springer Spaniel was a rescue and never quite got over some of the childhood issues.

MousePod, what breed are you puppies?

[mousepod]

Our current two dogs (the chihuahuas) were both bought from reputable breeders. Rescued chihuahuas are really tough and rarely get along with other pets - to assuage our guilt, we donate to Chihuahua Rescue.
Our two dogs that we had before we moved west were both mixed breed (probably a little shepherd in the first and mostly lab in the second) that were rescues.
The two cats that Heather brought into the mix (we're talkin' a decade+ ago) were both kitten rescues. Sweetpea died about two years ago (less than a month after our diabetic Lab-mix Horatio). Violet, the Maine Coon, still perseveres with only a couple of teeth left in his mouth...

[Not Afraid]

I couldn't tell size from the pics but I thought they were chihuahuas. Cute babies! And, I can't believe you have a boy Maine Coone named VIOLET. LOL.

All 5 of my cats are rescued in one form or another - either from rescue organizations or just off the street.

[Sheila]

All three of my dogs (two current and one past) came from the local Animal Shelter. The youngest age of any of the available dogs is about 10 months (from what I've seen during my adoption trips). One was a border collie mix, the two current are a pit mix and a german shepherd mix. My pit mix is the sweetest thing ever and everyone who meets her falls in love with her, usually gushing baby talk to her. What a dollbaby. :)

The good thing is that you can still get them young enough for them to blend into the household.

The bad thing is that you've pretty much totally missed the window to really socialize them with other dogs and people (you've gotta get them and train them when they're 3-6 months old tops). All three dogs had/have issues with bonding with other dogs and/or people. They're getting training to correct it, but it is an issue.

I love the fact that I've rescued my puppies from a horrible fate and I know they are so grateful to be a part of my family. I wouldn't trade my babies for anything. But dogs that have been abandoned and unsocialized as pups can have problems. Of course, some breeds are naturally friendly so this caveat doesn't apply.

[Ghoulish Delight]

That's what I love about more organized rescue organizations, even non-breed specific ones, as opposed to shelters. A good one spends more time evaluating each animal, identifies socialization issues, and either corrects it or works to place the animal with someone who can deal with it.

[alphabassettgrrl]

I so didn't realize it was dog show time... Ok, got it set to record on the replay.

Being parents of two basset hounds, we are naturally partial to them. All hounds, really, but bassets in particular. I also like English Springer Spaniels, having had two when I was a kid. I learned they are not all that smart, but fun, energetic and loyal, which compensates.

I tend to like big dogs over little dogs, but the Corgies are just too cute. I like working dogs over "decorative" dogs- the herding dogs, the hunting dogs and all. I really like the looks of the Egyptian hound, but I know he'd be wrong for my household. I'll leave him to those who can exercise him properly, and admire him from afar.

Both our dogs are rescues, and two of the three cats were strays. I will babble endlessly about animal rescue if I am not careful. I just think it's such a wonderful way to handle animals. Basset Rescue has a ranch, with lots of space for them, and they do give a thumbnail of each dog's personality, which is helpful. Yes, you miss puppy-stage but for us that's really a benefit. Less chewing and all. And with basset hounds, we really don't have much of a problem with socialization. And adopting a rescue dog is significantly cheaper than getting one from a breeder.

I think, too, if my husband wasn't so attached to his hounds that I'd go for a mixed-breed dog. Our pure-breed dog is the one with all the health problems; our junk-yard dog is healthy as anything. Mixed-breed dogs tend to be a little stronger as far as their genetics go, though a well-bred purebred should be stable. I guess I haven't seen enough of "good" breeders and heard too many horror stories; the thought of getting a dog from a breeder really gives me the heebie-jeebies. Personal issues- I do know that many people have had good experiences with bred dogs and professional breeders.

[Baileykat]

I'm in favor of rescue...there are sooo many animals that need love....but I'm agreeing with NA...you miss the puppy stage!

And when you have kids, sometimes that's what they enjoy the most...

Of course, missing the whole puppy potty training, nighttime crying, biting wouldn't be so bad! I swear...it's just like having an infant!

At the Ren Fest, Kat fell in love with the Greyhounds...she carried around the pamplet on how to adopt one for a week! If they weren't so big, I'd seriously consider it! I'd rather have a smaller dog!

They did tell us Greyhounds work well with cats...which we have! And are actually very docile animals who act alot like cats!

We did rescue our cat! He was full grown when we got him...2 or 3 years old...He's been the BEST animal I've ever ever had! We all adore him...even my husband who is not a cat person!

[Gemini Cricket]

Both Corgis were robbed, I tell you.
Robbed.

How can you not vote for those short little legs and huge enormous heads?

[alphabassettgrrl]

At the Ren Fest, Kat fell in love with the Greyhounds...she carried around the pamplet on how to adopt one for a week! If they weren't so big, I'd seriously consider it! I'd rather have a smaller dog!
How about an Italian greyhound? They're smaller. :)

[Baileykat]

How about an Italian greyhound? They're smaller. :)

Really? I'll have to check into those!

[Gemini Cricket]

I thought the Shetland Sheepdog was really cute. It looked like a mini-Collie.
:)

[alphabassettgrrl]

Really? I'll have to check into those!
Yep- about what? Two feet tall? They're cute. :)

[hersheythecat]

Darn my network TV!!! I love the dog show. Europe is much smarter than we are regarding dog shows and won't allow cropped dogs to be shown. Maybe someday we will reach that level of civility with our dogs. I love to see all the dogs, but especially the giant breeds. We haven't had a dane win in a long time.

Traci, I was just thinking that myself. I watch the shows long enough to see the danes and then turn the channel. There is nothing better than a dane in your lap with their head on your shoulder! If it wasn't for my nasty work monitoring my internet, I could show you a picture of the dane I had. He was such a big baby!

[alphabassettgrrl]

Great Danes are amazing dogs. I saw a Dane crossed with Basset- looked like a basset-shaped giant cow. Tall, skinny, long body, white with black spots. Named Clarabelle.

The lady we got our first basset from had two Great Danes. Actually, the Danes are partly why we got her- Margie the basset hound. She had issues- the Danes wouldn't acknowledge Marge as Queen of the universe and the basset was fighting with the Danes. The Danes could also drink out of the kitchen sink without their feet leaving the floor. Quite entertaining!

[Gemini Cricket]

German Short Haired Pointer: Cute factor = 2
Welsh Corgi Pembroke: Cute factor = 10

[tracilicious]

You're biased, GC! ;)

Rescues are great, and you actually can get puppies from one. You might have a wait for one though. I don't think there is anything wrong with buying from a breeder, provided it is a good breeder. You really have to do your research to find out what makes a reputable breeder and be willing to spend the big bucks that it requires. Good breeders keep good breeds strong, but their puppies should always come with a no-breeding contract.

Baileykat, I have my ear fairly well to the ground regarding rescue and breeding in AZ. I know some tuscon people. If you need a breeder check or referral, let me know and I can probably find one for any breed. Rescuers usually know the reputable breeders in town.

[Gemini Cricket]

You're biased, GC! ;)
No bias whatsoever....huh?....the Corgi that lives with me?....that's not a Corgi, it's an imp covered in fur....
:D

[tracilicious]

I suppose next you'll be telling us it's a hobbit? ;)

[Gemini Cricket]

I suppose next you'll be telling us it's a hobbit? ;)
Pointy ears, furry feet, short legs, UK origin... nope, don't see a comparison.
:D

[Baileykat]

Thanks Traci!

I'll remember that! Of course we can't make a trip to the mall without going into the pet shops...and seeing the prices they are charging for even the mixed breed dogs! HOLY COW..or HOLY CAT!

It's crazy!

Of course we wouldn't ever buy from a pet store...I hear wayyyy to many horror stories about dogs being poor quality and getting sick after being bought in a pet store...and I wouldn't want any dog that came from a "Puppy Farm" unless it's "Daisy Hill Puppy Farm" and Snoopy's my man!


We're looking at French Bulldogs...but geesh they are pricey!

[Morrigoon]

I got my Barnum from a local breeder when I lived in Texas. Scoured the ads in the paper, spoke to the lady, asking questions about the dogs, the mother, the father, etc. Anyway, she bred Dachshunds, and she bred and showed rabbits. Went to her house and got to see them in situ, as it were, and could tell they'd been socialized with the family and all. Barnum's gorgeous and very healthy. I think the only reason he was so cheap ($225) was because, as the breeder put it, the male they'd used kept "throwing" black tails. That is, the puppies had all come out red, save for the last half of their tails, which were black. I can't complain though, because as he grew, the fur blended in beautifully, and now you'd never know his tail used to look like it'd been dipped in an inkwell.

I *lurve* mastiffs! And Great Pyrenees, OMG!!! They're GORGEOUS! Personality wise ya just can't go wrong w/a lab or golden retriever. Greyhounds are pretty too, and sweet (those Italian greyhounds are nice too, and much smaller). But for me, oh, the Great Pyrenees is total eye candy!

[wendybeth]

Thanks Traci!

I'll remember that! Of course we can't make a trip to the mall without going into the pet shops...and seeing the prices they are charging for even the mixed breed dogs! HOLY COW..or HOLY CAT!

It's crazy!

Of course we wouldn't ever buy from a pet store...I hear wayyyy to many horror stories about dogs being poor quality and getting sick after being bought in a pet store...and I wouldn't want any dog that came from a "Puppy Farm" unless it's "Daisy Hill Puppy Farm" and Snoopy's my man!


We're looking at French Bulldogs...but geesh they are pricey!

We got our dog, Millenium (Mellie) from the pet store. I'd been looking all over town for a smallish dog for Tori, but for some reason I couldn't find any except purebreds that cost $600. On New Years Eve '00, I decided to go against my better sense and stop by a nearby pet store. The only pups they had were a litter of hyperactive miniature Doberman's, and one very miserable looking Aussie shep/Akita mix. She looked like a fuzzy bear cub, and while the other dogs were yapping and crawling all over her, she just sat there looking sooo sad. I fell for it, and brought her home. Now I know that sad look is just an act, but we love her anyway.

Btw- we later found out she had been purchased once and returned, due to severe hip dysplasia. We just give her the glucosamine tablets, and she does fine with it.

[tracilicious]

I embarrass the crap out of Michael with pet stores. I drag him in there with me whenever we go to the mall. Then I look at the puppies and exclaim loudly, "These puppies are SO cute! I would never buy a pet store puppy though. They are so poorly bred!" He's wised up and stays in the front looking at bunnies so that I have to look ridiculous and say that to myself. I do love to see the puppies though.

[Matterhorn Fan]

I prefer mutts to the plastic Barbie-doll dogs on the dog show. But I do enjoy watching dog shows; they just don't show them on any of the stations I get.

I love weiner dogs. Who couldn't love a weiner dog? They're so funny!