The Art of Handling – with George Alston

There have been numerous articles written on the handling of show dogs, and a good many books as well.

There have been numerous articles written on the handling of show dogs, and a good many books as well.

One of the thorniest questions asked when looking for the next How do we meet the supply and demand for purebred dogs by family companion is, where should I get my dog?

Some breeds are known to be notoriously challenging, no place for the weak or clueless. At the top of that heap there are a few where only ironclad experts and demented thrill-seekers dare venture. Then there’s the Doberman ring.

Some time ago, while we were sitting around telling lies and talking smart, a long-time hunting partner of mine posed an interesting question.

It takes a village to put on a dog show. Many people must be involved in planning, organizing and working at any show, but few jobs are as underappreciated as that of the ring steward.

When I started in showing dogs, it was considered impor- tant to have your hair secured so that it did not get in your face when you were moving or stacking the dog.

The role of money in this game is undeniable. Equally true is the somewhat underrated fact that it only gets you so far. That perpetually underestimated piece of the equation is the only way to explain the endless track- record of spectacular derailments proving its limitations. People never seem to stop trying.

The Bernese Mountain Dog is one of four Swiss Mountain Dogs or Sennenhunds, also including the Greater Swiss Mountain Dog, the Entlebucher Mountain Dog, and the Appenzeller Sennenhund.

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