Just wondering if anyone watched the dog show? I don't agree with the premise of these shows but do enjoy seeing the dogs. And, as usual, left shaking my head at the winner.
How about you @the OlLine Rebel?
I’m flattered that you tagged me for this, though I’m humbled as to why.
Anyway, I only saw a tiny bit as I was too busy. The start when they showed Herding and I got to see German Shepherd right away and he won. Also loved seeing the Collies with a blue merle rough and the smooth standard sable.
First off let’s all remember this is a sham.
There is no and never was a “National Dog Show”. This show is actually the Philly KC which held a show a month ago or so. It is not live at all. Hence the really short cuts even at the Group level.
As a person who once delved heavily into dogs this all was a shock to me. We dug a bit and discovered the truth.
The closest we ever came to a “National Dog Show” was the AKC Centennial show which was also hosted by Philly. Luckily, the great GS Manhattan won that and I was so happy.
Otherwise Westminster is the closest to a National, because it has pretty stringent requirements and everyone tries to get in from all over the country, and not just part of a “circuit”.
So what you’re watching is an opportunity by the network to fill time on TG with already edited film. It means no more for that dog than any given all-breed show. He is not a special “champion” for winning it.
Sorry, that gets me on my soapbox!
As far as who wins….it’s based on what the judge thinks of how the dog “conforms” to the “conformation” standard for its breed. I suspect though, that popular breeds get bias only because the judge doesn’t get to exam and study rarer breeds too much.
