It's NOT all about winning - really, it's not! Yes it's great to have the winning dog and the ego strokes that go with being the owner or breeder of a winning dog is pretty nice too, I have to admit.

But the real fun of dog shows is spending time with people who share your love of animals and particularly your love of your specific breed.

Friendships that center mainly around our mutual love of bichons are developed over years of 'setting up' at dog shows and grooming together.

It is true that poor sportsmanship and/or 'politics' enters the picture on occasion, and this can mar the fun of the show atmosphere. It takes a strong person with a tough skin to be able to survive the competitive (some would say "cut-throat") environment that exists within the Show Community. Rumors and back-stabbing are just as prevalent among dog fanciers as within any other organization. So you need a certain amount of courage to confront your critics and continue to persevere with exhibiting your dogs. The Professional Handler often does have an 'edge' - after all, this is his job and he/she should be good at it. The best dog does not always win - and if you are not able to cope with that reality then perhaps dog show competition is not for you.

Final word: Hold your head up high and smile with pride while you present your dog to the best of your ability. Be gracious when you win and when you lose. And enjoy the sport and the good times and good friends, and do your best to ignore the rest. Life's too short to let negativity steal your joy.

Labels: all-breed dog shows, competition, Conformation, dog fancy