Tips for Watching A Dog Show
February 8, 2009 by Paris and John
Filed under Tips
As the eyes of dog lovers turn to this week’s Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show, we’d like to pass along some tips for watching a dog show, whether on TV or in person, as a way to help you make a decision about adding a dog to your family.
Whether you’re interested in a pure or mixed breed dog, shows can be a great way to see many types, shapes and sizes of dogs in a short time–without all the emotions that are attached to visiting dogs at a shelter or breeder.
When you’re watching the dog show, look at each of the different dog breeds and ask yourself these questions:
- do I especially like this class of dog–herding, sporting, toy, etc.?
- is this type of dog a good size for my home and my lifestyle?
- how much time is spent grooming this type of dog? (You’ll have to ignore the poodle cuts and super-perfect show hairdos on Yorkshire Terriers and some other long-haired breeds.)
- would I enjoy grooming my dog? or would I prefer a dog with short, short hair that will require no cutting and minimal maintenance?
- do I want a dog like this that I can pet without bending over?
- am I worried about having a dog such as this that’s too heavy for me to pick up in case of an emergency?
- do I want a dog like this that I can pick up easily? one I can carry around with me?
- is a dog like this too small? Would I trip over him? Would he be in danger from children in the household?
As you watch the show, write down some of your favorite breeds and what you especially liked about them. You’ll have a good point from which to start your research to learn more about to special aspects of each breed. (And don’t forget: about 25 percent of all shelter dogs are purebred dogs! Search a site like Petfinder.com if you’re in search of a purebred dog or a mixed breed dog with some of the characteristics of that particular breed.)
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