ARE WE CONGENIAL COMPETITORS?

(Versions previously published in Borzoi International and in Dogs in Canada)

As people are constantly joining the ranks of participants in shows, matches, trials, and other dog related events, a few comments on improved conduct are offered for consideration.

Everyone is aware of the necessity of basics such as not offering an indignity to a judge...and the desirability of congratulating the winners.  However, it also cost nothing to say something pleasant in the ring as to people's Borzoi's merits, and to save comments on its faults for private conversation, or when asked for advice.  It does nothing for an exhibitor to tell others as they wait to go in the ring that the judge hates their dog's type, or you, personally, don't like their dog.  After all, it is the judge's opinion people paid to hear, not yours.  You may want to sink into the ground when the judge puts that dog up for BOB!  You have not only offended a fellow exhibitor, but have made yourself appear both rude and lacking in knowledge to those who have overheard you.  If the judge was listening, he may well decide to teach you a lesson!

Here in Ontario we often meet Americans visiting Canada for the first time.  Do we always step forward and inquire about their trip, ask about their Borzoi's pedigree, and generally make them feel welcome?  They might even need a tip on staying for the event of Best Puppy if it is their first time to take that award...or lose points.  I have had outstanding hospitality in the States, particularly at the Georgia coursing events, where I was made most welcome and even given a special prize for coming the farthest to the event.

Look ahead to solve your problems.  You may be far from home, and may need one dog held while you show another, and might potentially need an extra handler.  Arrive early, and canvass available people for what you need, with payment offered if necessary.   Don't wait to be flustered and in trouble at the last minute.  You may, for example, not anticipate winning BOB with two breeds in Hound Group...but if you do, don't wait until the last second for a handler for Group.  Be sure you offer to help when necessary and possible...what goes around comes around, if not at that show, at some future point.  Have extra armbands, elastics, show leads, bait, and a hearty thank you for help, win or lose.

I have enjoyed many shows where exhibitors have sat together and enjoyed lunch or after show events.  If you can, don't leave some novice sitting isolated, but introduce them around and make them feel welcome.  Be part of the Borzoi community...everyone was a beginner at some point.

How would your dog rate you as an owner?  Is he or she in the hot sun, or languishing in a pen decorated with an 'accident'?  Don't be off socializing, while the poor animal for whom you came to the show is uncomfortable.  Often you can bring along a companion who can spell you off with the odd bit of dog walking to give you time to freshen up, chat with your friends, or talk to potential clients.  Prospective buyers will certainly not think highly of breeders whose dogs are mistreated at a show.   To do well in the show, their basic physical and psychological needs must come first.

Boos and hisses to those tedious bores who talk of nothing but their "Star of the Day".  Aside from the fact others might like a word in edgewise on their entries, it is not impressive to have 20 plus dogs back at the kennel and only one worthy of discussion.  Isn't your faithful retired foundation bitch, obedience star, coursing champ or just plain friend worthy of mention?  It should not be off with the old, on with the new, and no appreciation for your oldsters.

And then the dog show groupie..."I'm off to show under Judge So-and-So for the sixth time this year...he/she just loves my dog".  Hopefully a Borzoi can exhibit their winning ways under more than one judge.  People are most respected who show under a number of judges, and are prepared to go toe to toe in various areas and against various competitors.  Dick Meen wrote once..."You can't win if you're not there" and wins are often surprising.  The most enjoyable ones come when you least expect it, and are there just to enjoy the show.  Don't slink around to small shows, and try to avoid competition.  Cheap wins aren't worth having.

Don't let a big win go to your head, but don't drag your Borzoi home in disgust when they are defeated by some International Champion, up to Canada to add another title to AmEngBerm...etc. When you win, thank those who helped you, and remember to send an extra photo to the breeder.  When you lose, there is a special place in hell for people who slap their dog, throw the ribbons to the ground, toss the poor animal in a crate without a walk...you get the picture.  Win or lose, your dog should get that pat on the back, tidbit, and special treat.  He or she will enjoy shows all the more, and show at their personal best.   I will always remember taking Rokaro's Denka to the prestigious Detroit KC benched show, where the Borzoi entry was the MWB Specialty.  I had very modest goals, and was looking forward to visiting friends and enjoying myself.   Denka was eyeing some cheese coated French fries, and I said in jest, win, and you get a big bowl all for yourself.  She went WB over about 65 class females, and could be seen tucking into her promised treat with great gusto.  If she had lost, she would have got some anyway.

For breeders, be realistic about your puppies.  Don't encourage or even force buyers to drag dogs to shows that are not worthy of it.  Look over your contracts, and make what adjustments are appropriate.  For buyers, if your dog is not a conformation star, remember they are  for life, not just for ribbons.  Look at all the other enjoyable things they can do.  Try agility, coursing, obedience, carting, CGC or TT, or just a walk in the woods.  Shows are not life.

Events should be enjoyable, educational, a change to meet new friends and socialize with the old.  We should be saving mean criticism, sarcastic remarks, and ringside insults for...there is no suitable place.  If dog shows bring out the worst in you, pick a new hobby.

Being kind, helpful and pleasant at shows and other events will not only make you better liked, lowers your own stress level, and makes it a better time for you and your dog, but will encourage others to participate in events happily and effectively.   What would the show and coursing scene be like if the old timers drive every novice away with rude treatment?  Show entries are definitely down, and will get lower if novices find every attempt to participate a nightmare.  You won't get many points if you are the only entry there!  There will always be novice Borzoi coming up in the classes, and older ones retiring while still in their prime, or going round in Veterans to the applause of those who remember their Glory Days.  Assess when yours is ready to win...or ready to retire on its laurels.

This article is dedicated to all the exhibitors I have met in the US and Canada who are good sports, good friends, and good buddies to their Borzoi.  Happy Ribbon Hunting and may being there be half the fun, win or lose.

Rokaro Home Page | Index of Articles