[HairOfTheDog]

For that matter, why have conformation competitions for lap dogs? Why bother to evaluate their structure at all, I mean, what difference does it really make if a Pekinese even has legs, let alone good legs? Why not just judge the hair and be done with it? :~)

[AnAmericanMother]

Well, if you don't have conformation, how are you going to tell a Pekinese from some other little yappy dog with hair?

< . . . ducking . . . > . . . but I really have no use for little yappy dogs that don't DO anything. Thank goodness the fashion for carrying them around in those elaborate shoulder bags seems to have passed.

[the OlLine Rebel]

I know this is late, but.....EXCELLENT point. All they need do is be small and "look pretty", literally - if you think that's pretty.

So, let's remove all "lap dogs" from competition and recognition, since they have no performance requirement - including how their bodies are shaped. The only thing is a height/weight requirement.


Problem with AKC is EVERYONE emphasizes the conformation, and does nothing else. And conformation can be abused to fit the ridiculous notions of the petty power elite (as it has been in GS), even with a reasonable standard.

[brytlea]

Oh the trouble you would start on a pekinese list!
Of course, the bottom line is, yes, why have it, but also, why care if other people do enjoy competing in that venue?
susie