BOOK IV. 

 JUDGING AT DOG SHOWS AND FIELD TRIALS, 



CHAPTER I. 

 JUDGING AT SHOWS. 



HATEVEE difference of opinion may exist as to the utility of dog 

 shows in improving the breeds of this animal, there can be no 

 doubt of their popularity, or that they have become permanent 

 institutions. Large sums of money are annually spent in rearing 

 and feeding dogs with the express purpose of exhibiting them; and 

 it may, therefore, be admitted without argument that it is desirable to conduct 

 these shows in the way most likely to give satisfaction to their supporters. 



From their institution at Newcastle in 1858 there has been a growing feeling 

 of dissatisfaction with the awards of the judges. Animals which have been 

 successful under one set of judges in obtaining a first prize, have been altogether 

 overlooked by another, not even obtaining a commendation, though in equally 

 good condition at both places, and often with the same or nearly the same 

 competitors. That these have been exceptional cases is true enough, but nothing 

 has been more common than that the position of first and second prizeholders 

 should be reversed within the same month remarkable examples of which might 

 be adduced, but the instances are so well known that it is needless to specify 

 them. I have repeatedly drawn attention to these facts, and attempted to 

 demonstrate that for the cause of this fickleness we must look to the absence 

 of any recognised standard by which to measure the particular breed which is 

 being judged. Among cattle and sheep-breeders it is generally admitted that 

 certain leading qualities shall be considered all-important, such as the propensity 

 to carry flesh of good quality on the parts most valuable to the butcher, early 

 maturity, and, in the sheep, quantity and quality of wool. But in horses and 

 dogs, and more especially in the varieties of the latter, there is not the same 

 unanimity, even in leading principles; and in matters of detail, as may naturally 

 be supposed, the difference of opinion is very great. 



At the present time (1877) Dog Shows have reached such a pitch of general 

 interest, that the question of judging demands a very careful consideration, and 

 very recently in the Field I inserted the following article with that view: 



H 



