Читать книгу Pit Bulls For Dummies - D. Caroline Coile - Страница 37

Although many of the traits that make a good fighting dog are intangible, some physical traits are associated with fighting skill. Conformation shows provide a venue in which the physical characteristics that have been correlated with fighting ability can be evaluated. The idea is that the dog who is built the best — that is, most conforms to the standard of perfection — should be able to function the best.

Conformation shows provide one means of preserving the breed when the original job of the breed is no longer available. They do have a drawback, however. The truth is, that no matter how good the standard, you can’t absolutely predict function from form. You can’t evaluate the gameness, strength, endurance, or intelligence of a dog from his appearance. Some breeders fear that if Pit Bulls are bred to be show dogs, they will become caricatures of the breed. Others believe that if Pit Bulls are to survive in today’s society, they must give up at least the temperament aspects that made them relentless fighting dogs. Responsible breeders use conformation shows as only one of several means of evaluating their dogs; they also test their dogs in obedience, weight pulling, and other functional competitions, while selecting for a less aggressive nature.

Both the UKC and the ADBA offer conformation competition for APBTs; the AKC offers classes for American Staffordshire Terriers. Because AmStaffs have had a big head start in breeding for conformation, AmStaffs tend to win over APBTs when entered against each other in conformation shows. Remember, your dog needs to be registered with the particular organization that sponsors the shows you wish to enter. See Chapter 4 to check whether your dog is eligible for AKC, UKC, or ADBA registration.

The Pit Bull’s build reflects his athletic heritage (see Figure 2-2). At conformation shows, judges evaluate how well each dog conforms to the physical standard of perfection, both while standing and moving. They provide a means for preserving the breed without resorting to fighting. But you can’t just show up and expect to start lugging home silver trophies, no matter how sterling your Pit Bull is.

FIGURE 2-2: A natural athlete.

Most local kennel clubs offer handling classes, in which you can learn the fundamentals of showing. Many also have occasional match shows — basically practice shows (even the judges are just practicing). Many AKC shows offer introductory classes for puppies between the ages of 4 and 6 months. Informal match shows are sometimes held, but they’re much less common these days than in the past. When available, they’re a great chance to try showing in a stress-free arena. Don’t take a win or loss too seriously, and at any competition, no matter how obviously feebleminded you think the judge is, keep your opinion to yourself!