I Hate Poodles!

Tim and I have been watching the Westminster Kennel Club’s Dog Show over the past few days.  Our house has been filled with lots of oohs, aahs, and aren’t you a cute little dog (said in a baby voice).  Every year I wonder how the judges select just one in each of the seven groups of breeds, and am perplexed as to what criteria the judges use to select a winner.  I know that each breed has certain standards to which they are held but I still cannot imagine how the judges pick one out of a seemingly perfect group.

As much as I like the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show, it has developed in me a strong dislike for poodles.  First, poodles are the national dogs of France, and I have an unfounded and irrational hatred of all things French.  As if that is not enough, pure-bred poodles in dog shows are groomed in such a way that they appear repulsive.  Lastly, if I am recalling correctly, both this year and last year, two poodles (a miniature and a standard) have won their respective groups and been two of the only seven dogs to make it to the Best in Show competition.  I don’t want to see two of basically the same dogs make it to the finals.  Let’s have some diversity!

As much as I hate poodles, I have fallen in love with the schipperke.  I’ve never actually seen one in person, but they looked so cute on TV.

The history of the Schipperke dates back from Belgium in the 1600s, where he was known as an active, agile watchdog and hunter of vermin. A highly adaptable breed, the Schipperke was at home on the canal barges, herding livestock, hunting game, or simply guarding his domain. Although small and compact, he is not short on intelligence, courage or devotion. A true companion dog, the Schipperke is devoted to the family, particularly the children.