Restarting Beginner Puppy
In the ’70s and ’80s we had B matches — BIG matches — with often 200 to 300 entries. New puppy owners were usually encouraged to participate or were even accompanied by their breeders. The events were usually controlled chaos — ribbons, raffles, picnics and camaraderie were all part of the fun. Whole families came. Breed-club members often came in groups.
In those days, B matches were a requirement for clubs to hold point shows, when there were fewer shows and more available, reasonable venues. Isn’t this the place where most of us old-timers got “hooked” with a little orange ribbon?
These were fun and relaxed days for new owners, opportunities for long-time fanciers to train puppies and low-stress learning experiences for aspiring judges. The day was low key, without the time pressure or intimidation from the formality of real shows. Also, at the time, puppies under six months old were forbidden on show sites.
As the number of shows increased, open weekends decreased. As local, appropriate, reasonably priced match sites became more scarce and AKC no longer required B matches from clubs, this wonderful aspect of AKC shows, sadly, faded away …
A few years ago, as entries decreased, AKC introduced the “Beginner Puppy” competition, hoping to bring in new puppy buyers to our sport. A great idea that went sideways and got lost …
It has now replaced (somewhat) the old matches. Yes, there are often a few exhibitors new to dog shows, but entries are primarily seasoned exhibitors looking to introduce new puppies to the ring. Good, yes, but missing the mark on concept.
In many foreign countries, a “baby puppy” class is also offered, BUT with the regular breed judging. Baby Puppy winners are just not eligible for championship points.
AKC needs to emulate this procedure for many reasons. Although it’s fun to judge, usually one judge does ALL the puppies. How many of us are trained in the varied unique qualities and exam procedures of unfamiliar breeds? Could we answer specific breed questions of a breed that we’re not approved to judge?
If judged with their regular breed classes, the new folks will have their new puppy evaluated by someone who knows that breed, and have the opportunity to meet examples of THEIR breed in many stages of maturity, as well as dedicated fanciers and the breeders! They can learn specific breed characteristics, grooming skills and training tips. Maybe their first puppy isn’t exactly show quality, but if an old-timer takes them under their wing, a winning puppy and dedicated exhibitor could be part of their future. Most of us had at least one serious mentor who taught us the “game,” introduced us to other show people, and made us feel welcome and more comfortable.
Hopefully, these novices will also be encouraged to join a local breed club and be inspired to be an active member of the sport. Face it — most clubs are aging and desperately need new, younger workers.
Judging beginner puppies with their own breed would also make scheduling smoother by not taking one judge and ring away from the regular program.
New owners, especially those with young families, are more likely to get involved if they don’t have to wait around for hours in an overwhelming show environment, possibly trying to corral small children, to see their actual breed judging. The breed exhibitors might not even be on site yet if Beginner Puppy is early in the day and regular judging isn’t until after lunch.
Scheduling babies with their own breed would also be more convenient for us “old hand” exhibitors and even the pros with their own dogs.
Agree? Disagree? AKC, are you listening?