Going for the Blue: Inside the World of Show Dogs and Dog Shows [Paperback]

This is definitely a book for novices in the show ring, and as such it is outstanding. Those more experienced with conformation showing can still delight in Roger's antecdotes.

"This book is about dog shows, how they work, [and] what they mean . . . ." The book especially elaborates on "an incredibly complex relationship [between] . . . two different species of mammals [, people and dogs]."

Many people have enjoyed seeing a major dog show on television, such as the large one held each year in New York City. What lies behind the appearances and performances of all those remarkable dogs? This book provides the answers to all of the obvious questions in an entertaining and accessible way.

Mr. Caras is a very knowledgeable person to write this book. He has been a president of the American Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, and has been a television correspondent about animals for more than two decades. The book is enlivened by many excellent stories about dogs, and contains several impressive black and white photographs of champions in a special insert on white glossy stock.

The book begins with a delightful discussion of how dogs probably became domesticated from wolves and how breeds emerged from this one species. His speculations make sense, and will cause your imagination to wander into interesting new thoughts. The benefits of dogs to people and the reverse are highlighted. The sense of touch between dog and human is demonstably helpful and healthful in both directions.

There are about 20 million purebred dogs in the United States. Less than 10 percent of these purebred dogs will ever see a show ring. Most that do appear will not get past one or two outings, done in by their physical flaws, their dislike of showing, or bad handling. Dogs are judged for conformation to standards in areas like size, color, shape, proportions, coat and face features, and walk. Walk is the key test because flaws that can be hidden while standing still are immediately evident in the gait. As a result, only about 21,000 new champions will be made each year in American Kennel Club records. You will learn the details of what is involved.

The costs of showing can be significant. A purebred puppy can cost from $350 to $10,000. The cost of a year-long campaign can exceed $100,000. The more you do yourself, the less it costs. Breeders of show dogs seldom make a profit. People do this because they love dogs, want to improve them, and enjoy the social contact of the shows.

You will learn all about the different breeds, the way that judging occurs, and how to select the right breed for you. You are strongly warned to avoid pet shops and "puppy mills" for obtaining your dog. The process of how to find and care for a dog is also explained.

Dogs compete both on appearance and in obedience trials. Both types of events are described. You are given information about whether or not you are a good candidate to work with a dog in obedience trials. Having done these, I can attest that they are demanding on the owner-trainer, as well as on the family and dog. Mr. Caras also describes how Junior Showmanship contests can help youngsters get involved.

He is very outspoken and direct in the ethics of dog ownership. He feels that "no pet-quality dog (or cat), purebred or random-bred, should ever be allowed to reproduce" in light of the many animals that have to be destroyed now. He is not only against pet shop puppies, he states that "puppy mills are an evil, ugly concept."

If you are thinking about buying a purebred dog and have little experience, this is a very helpful book for you. Your experience should be much improved as a result.

After enjoying this delightful book, I suggest that you think about other areas where symbiotic relationships between humans and nature occur. The bonsai tree is one of my favorites. These tiny trees would not last for centuries without being nurtured by people. The rewards in beauty, peace, and tranquillity are immeasurably important.

What other symbiotic relationships should you take on?

Get in closer touch with nature . . . and with your own humanity!