In separate conversations with me years ago both Percy Roberts and Annie Clark opined to me that they had difficulties in adjudicating the breeds of German origin. My question for you this week is whether or not you have difficulty in adjudicating upon any breed of dog regardless of the country of origin. Fred C. Bassett I don’f find it difficult to judge any breed overall. The thing I find most difficult is judging a very average entry of a breed where there are multiple styles or looks in the breed. It’s just not possible to be consistent in such a case.
that were developed for similar reasons but in different parts of the world. It may not be coincidence that the four Working Breeds I judge are also from German background, but definitely, the Toy breeds are more culturally diverse. I think it comes down to appreciating the character of the breeds I choose to judge, then working from there to understand each breed standard and to apply it in the ring.
Question Of The Week
Sari Brewster Tietjen The real problem is in understanding what the breed standard is trying to relate particularly in some of the newer breeds as translation from a foreign language into an English format can sometimes leave one wondering just what is meant! With the breeds that have been AKC recognized for a long time, we have years of experience and exchanges of thoughts and questions with longtime judges and breeders to draw upon in understanding standards of breeds originating from other countries.
KEKE KAHN It is an honor and a privilege to judge dogs plus a lifetime of wonderful memories. However, since AKC added many many breeds I do not feel warm and fuzzy about judging them all. In the established breeds I feel quite comfortable most of the time. The problem with the new breeds is that there is no indepth knowledge to be had in our country and the dogs are not usually very good. I am a student and have spent ions of years learning but , in my opinion, no one on earth can “KNOW IT ALL” so to speak!!!! Wyoma Clouss Interesting question! I have to say I’ve never thought of it that way. Coming from Miniature Schnauzers - excellent companions, excellent ratters - as the German member of our Terrier Group along with British, Australian, and American breeds, I think more about the intent and function of the breeds 22 Dog News
DAVID KIRKLAND Such a refreshing statement of By Matthew H. Stander honesty from two of our judging icons! I think it is unrealistic to believe we judge every breed at the same level of expertise. At times, certain breeds can present a challenge. When confronted with a class of mediocrity, we can struggle. In the face of that challenge, it is important what we choose to do. Conversations about breed priorities with experienced members of the judging community and well-respected breeders are necessary to combat any shortcomings. We all must continue to be students; there is always more to learn. Eric Ringle I am not sure what Mr. Roberts and Mrs. Clark could have meant, especially considering the Germanic background of the Poodle. Generally speaking, I think that most multi-breed judges find some breeds more difficult to learn than others. Some breeds one might feel proficient in and comfortable with from the very first assignment, others may take more time. Though we go in having studied a great deal, sometimes we need to have a few experiences with differing entries in order to set our parameters and become more accurate in weighing faults and virtues properly and to the standard in a particular breed. Continued on page 112