Tag Archives: dog shows

Andy Rooney on Westminster

Last night on 60 Minutes Andy Rooney wrapped up the show like he always does with his thoughts on something. This time it happened to be about the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show. Like Aimee’s mom (and who knows how many other thousands of people), Mr. Rooney also attended Westminster. According to him, it’s one of his few yearly rituals. (Along with going to the Super Bowl and doctor visits.) I always get a kick out of his musings. I don’t always agree with his opinions. Sometimes I’m downright offended while other times I’m embarrassed for him. But last night … Continue reading →

The Pets Blog Week in Review for February 11-17

Are you wondering what Aimee and I wrote about last week because other matters kept you away from the Pets Blog? If so, you came to the right place. Here’s what we covered on: Monday, February 11 The problem with show dog science is that it’s created a lot of genetic defects which leads to both physical and mental disorders for purebred pets. What’s a girl and her two dogs to do when they finally get a nice day to go outside? Head to dog park of course. But Aimee and her crew came home with souvenirs: mud socks! Tuesday, … Continue reading →

The Problem with Show Dog Science

I’ve long known certain dogs were specifically bred with others to get desired traits, but I hadn’t realized how far back it had all started. Which is pretty remarkable considering science hasn’t always been as advanced as it is now. A few months back I caught part of an episode called “Science of a Dog” on the National Geographic Channel which addressed the topic in depth. It was about how certain breeds have come to be, why, and where they go from here. Because for some breeds their health-future isn’t too bright. That was a really sad part of the … Continue reading →

Crufts: England’s Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show

The later part of the 1800s sure saw a rise of interest in dogs. It seems that showing off a dog’s talent and/or beauty became quite fashionable, and as a result so did dog shows. The precedent of which continues today. There’s always been a variety of shows, but some are more prestigious than others. In the United States, it’s the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show. In England, it’s Crufts. Beginning today through March 11, the “World’s Greatest Dog Show” as it’s billed, gets underway. Here’s a little history on how it all came to be, and what it’s since … Continue reading →

Best in Show: A History of the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show

It’s covered live on TV, has special reporters, style, excitement, and stars, but it’s not the Grammy Awards, the Golden Globes, or the Oscars…it’s the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show! The Westminster Kennel Club’s 131th Annual Dog Show wrapped up yesterday. “Ch. Felicity’s Diamond Jim,” a.k.a. “James,” an English Springer Spaniel sprung away with the coveted Best in Show trophy. But what is the Westminster Kennel Club and why is their show such a big deal? Let’s find out… How It All Started The Westminster Kennel Club first started out sans the “kennel.” In fact, it started out primarily as … Continue reading →

Westminster Dog Show Results

I have what my friends call “Olympic Obsessive Disorder” – but I managed to tear myself away from the Olympics long enough to keep an eye on the Westminster Kennel Club’s 130th Annual Dog Show. If you missed it, check your local listings for USA Network; they will be running the highlights again over the next few days. Monday night, four dogs were sent to the finals: 1. Working Group – Rottweiler 2. Terrier Group – Colored Bull Terrier 3. Toy Group – Pug 4. Non-Sporting Group – Dalmatian Tuesday night, three more dogs went to the Best in Show … Continue reading →

Westminster Dog Show Fun!

The 130th Annual Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show starts TONIGHT on USA Network – if you can tear yourself away from the Olympics! It’s soooo tempting to hop on a train after work and sneak into Madison Square Garden to watch some of the show in person. Even if you’re not planning to tune in for the opening night (or any of the show on Monday and Tuesday), there is a lot of great, fun content on the Westminster Dog Show website at USA Network. Want to show off your own canine star? They don’t have to be purebred to … Continue reading →