Issue: 28/10/2011

Choosing a show puppy

Some people go to a breeder, choose a puppy, decide to show and do very well - but this is the exception rather than the rule.  Most people who have begun to show soon realise that although their dog is a good example of its breed and is lovable and appealing, they need something extra if they are going to win consistently and, in the future, breed the best. 
Incidentally if breeding is your objective then you should choose a bitch. It may be a truism but it is nonetheless the case that kennel is founded on its bitches. 
It is tempting just to go to the exhibitor/breeder that appears to be most successful in the breed and this may often be the right decision but they should be subject to just as realistic assessment for wins may be the result of reputation rather than quality
There are seven important elements in selecting a puppy.  Other than the first all should be studied and understood before you begin to search for and select a breeder.
Good fortune is the first and possibly the most vital element. In some ways this is out of your hands but by carefully controlling all the other elements you can ensure that the role played by luck in your selection is at least reduced to the minimum.

Factual information

Factual information is essential. Most of what you need is easily available from books, articles, newsletters, pedigrees, photographs, show catalogues, the stud book, genetic information and other breed records. Hearsay information is also easily available but it is important to realise that most unsupported advice is unreliable. Unfortunately, it is often the case that hearsay is the most likely factor in your choice. Part of the reason for this is laziness, for it is easier to listen to advice than to settle down and do the hard work yourself.  Always remember that because ascertaining all the facts is hard work the person giving you advice probably did not do it either and is likely to be guessing!  Even where advice is given in good faith - and this is not always the case - degrees of distortion can creep in as a result of personal prejudice, misunderstanding or not taking all the factors into account. 

Evaluation

Evaluation is the next requirement. Once all the facts have been assembled you have to decide on their implications, assess their relative importance and make decisions based your personal preferences and direct observations.
'Preference' and 'Observation' are the next requirements.  They are very personal judgments and require a high degree of the two final elements, 'Expertise' and 'Experience' if they are to be relied upon.  However, you must develop them and rely upon them for being prepared to take responsibility for your decisions sharpens your perceptions and ensures a proper degree of caution.
Expertise and Experience only come with time.  Too many people believe that they are entitled to get it right first time for upset and even bitter when this turns out not to be the case. However, you can be lucky and you can study.  Success by accident is a very long shot. Good luck

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