Why should I consider a "show" dog

AKC or UKC Conformation is not the only reason to consider getting a show dog

"Take them around the ring and set up beside the numbers please... Can I see the bite?... Down and Back...And on around the ring please."

Why does my breeder show their dogs and why should I care?

When a hobby breeder has a litter, they are very likely breeding for themselves, as well as their potential pet families. Most hobby breeders take their dogs to American Kennel Club (AKC) or United Kennel Club (UKC) conformation shows where there dogs are judges against the breed standard by a certified judge. The judge's job is to find the dog within that breed that most exemplifies the breed standard. This means that the dogs we are breeding maintain the breed's form and function, have correct body style and are structurally as physically sound as possible.

Going back to a litter bred by a hobby breeder, that breeder is trying to breed a dog that will fit this breed standard and carry forward healthy correct genotype (genetics) and phenotype (outward appearance) characteristics. Not every dog bred in a well-bred litter is going to be show quality; some puppies are born with slight imperfections that would disqualify them in the show ring, but every puppy is deserving of a loving home where they can grow and thrive.

Breeders who show their dogs are actively seeking to verify that they are maintaining the integrity of their breed and upholding their breed standard. This is why having a breeder who shows their dogs is so important.

That's great, but I don't need a show dog

You are right! You do not need a show dog, but breeders who are actively seeking to maintain the breed's integrity are much more likely to be performing health testing, performing in sports and instinct tests, and living closely with their dogs. Why not consider getting a dog from a breeder who is seeking to maintain and improve the breed you are interested in? Why not consider the possibility of showing your puppy? You just might find a new passion, a new hobby, and something really fun to do with your dog. If nothing else, you would have a dog with the correct temperament, correct coat, and correct structure. Would it be so terrible to have a dog that meets the breed standards of thebreed they are supposed to be?