Competition And Caring

I do not consider myself an expert in the activities in which I participate with my Berners but I have had two BMDCA Versatility Dogs and am training their son in hopes that he will follow in their footsteps. I do feel obliged to discuss a subject about which many beginners and novice dog owners, including myself several years ago, find themselves conflicted.

As a novice draft dog handler, I looked towards draft judges, stewards, trainers, and other well known people in the breed to advise me. Sometimes, I was talked into things, such as completing a draft test, when my own gut told me that it was not in the best interests of my dog or my relationship with him.

I let the fear of a "bad mark on my permanent record", the accusation of being a bad sport, exposing myself as a wimp when it comes to protecting the welfare of my dog, or just wanting to avoid conflict influence my decision and I had my dog continue. I should have just said no and withdrawn.

I have now learned that no one knows my dog as I do and I, solely, am responsible for his well being. If continuing in an activity is not in our best interests, I will not. I have been in draft tests where it has been too hot, the freight haul too difficult, my dog has turned me off, or simply the fact that absolutely no good would come from asking him to hold a stay in the sun or going on a freight haul.

I do think that one needs to consider the benefits of continuing when thinking about withdrawing. They may include getting more test experience, exposure to new people, terrain, other dogs and teams, or ending the test on a positive note, but foremost in my mind is whether it is in our best interests and improves my relationship with my dog. If the experience will improve our chances of a successful test the next time, I would continue. If it results in me or my dog being unhappy, giving him the opportunity of getting away with unwanted behavior, disturbing other teams, the possible beginning of bad habits, or getting hurt, I would not continue.

I have documented my thoughts on this subject to hopefully reach those people who, like myself, have been conflicted on what is the right thing to do in a competitive environment. I believe this subject can be carried right across the board of all the wonderful things we do with our dogs. I have discussed this subject with draft friends and judges and some agree with me while others do not. I invite people to express their opinions with their own rationale as well.

PLEASE, just remember that you should not allow someone else to influence your own judgment when it might adversely affect your dog's health, wellbeing, or your working relationship with him.

Respectfully submitted with permission to cross post.