Dog Shows - Why Do We Have Them?

In a perfect world the following would be an accurate description of the world of Dog Showing:

Dog Showing involves people who dedicate themselves to the complex task of trying to breed a dog which comes as close as possible to the ideal specimen of their breed. By breeding to this ideal they then can prove their success by winning through to Best in Show with their 'as close as possible to perfect' dog thereby providing proof that their bloodlines have produced the very best dogs possible.

Most people would agree that the above statement is true in principle.

Breeders do try to produce the 'ideal' dog but each breeder has their own interpretation of what is ideal, every judge has their own opinion on what is 'ideal'. And to add to it all, producing that 'ideal' can be a very hard thing to do.

What You Can Achieve By Showing Your Dog

If you are new to Dog Showing then we can assume that you didn't breed your dog. So why should you show your dog? Everyone has at least some preconceived idea about Dog Showing, even if they have never actually attended a Show.

Some common ideas are:

People show their dogs to make money:

Prizes are awarded at a Dog Show but are not usually cash. The value of prizes is usually small, and could never cover the full cost of Showing on a regular basis

People show their dogs for the prestige involved:

This statement comes closer to the true reason for most people to continue showing their dogs on a regular basis. Here again 'prestige' can mean different things to different people.

You may manage to win 1st in your class, or gain your first Challenge Certificate, Class in Group, or just win against the dog that beat you last time.

Being able to tell friends that you own a 'Show Dog' and have a few ribbons to hang on your wall can add to the enjoyment of Showing your dog.

Most people would tell you that they Show their dogs because they like Showing. In other words it is the process of getting out and about and meeting up with friends that keeps them coming back for more. Actually winning at a Show becomes a bonus on top of having a day out with your dog and enjoying yourself.

Dog Showing As A Hobby

Showing your dog can be an immensely satisfying hobby, and it should be remembered that as with all hobbies it is not suited to everyone. Some people find collecting stamps absorbing, others have a need to jump out of aeroplanes with parachutes attached to their backs. Everyone has their own idea of what is a fun way to spend their spare time.

Showing your dog can also become a great way to spend your spare time getting out and about, travelling and meeting lots of new people who have the same interests as yourself. As with any hobby the amount of time and effort you put into Showing can be tailored to suit your lifestyle.

Showing is of course only one of the many organised activities catering for dogs and their owners. Refer to the chapter 'Other Activities for Your Dog' for further information on what is available for your breed. Some people show their dog until it gains it's Australian Championship and then move on to Obedience work, Agility etc.. It is possible to combine Showing with other activities if you have the time and inclination.

Your involvement with Showing your dog can range from going to one or two local shows per year to travelling all over the country and / or overseas attending hundreds of shows per year. Most people however find their own pace that suits their own needs.

If you do become bitten by the Show Bug you may ask yourself what you are doing standing in the middle of a muddy field, in the pouring rain whilst freezing to death, then spend summer sweltering in 40 degree heat whilst trying to combat sunburn. You would be surprised at how many people do so and keep coming back for more. This goes to show how much some people enjoy their hobby of Dog Showing.