Yup, that time of year again. The biggest dog shows of the year in the area came to the State Fairgrounds this weekend and of course, I went. It didn't go smoothly - usually I park at the light rail and walk in the back, and I've never been asked for an admission fee. But I knew I was going to have a lot of bones and such forth this time as I was buying for my friends' Dobie Dexter as well as my own pups, so I thought maybe I could park closer if I went in the main lot. WRONG. Turns out they don't charge admission because they charge for parking, and spectators...park in another zip code. First thing in the morning, that wasn't a problem. After the show, when I'm lugging four bags of doggie goodies? Way too far. I am in pain. The feet from walking and the arms from hauling. Sheesh. Back to the light rail for me. But Dexter should be well-stocked, my mutts are well-stocked, I met lots of lovey-doveys and except for the walk back, it was a good day.
Anyway, we're not here for my griping. No, we're here and waiting patiently.
a casual Bernese Mountain Dog
an American Staffordshire terrier in his first show
a Xolocuintli, a new, hairless breed just recognized by the AKC
Tyler the collie should have been named 'Two-Face'
a relaxed Rottweiler
a Portugese Water Dog, not unlike First Dog Bo
I'm told this is a toy Poodle
a Parson terrier, they're rare now
a very chatty Malemute
this is a very tiny Japanese Chin
When I say tiny, these are both 2 year old females. Slight size difference.
This Irish Setter was also showing for the first time
A Golden Retriever checks himself out
a curious French Bulldog
this is the number one Chesapeake Bay Retriever in North America
and this is the top-ranked Anatolian Shepherd
a Cairn terrier
Last but not least, a Basset Hound in full mournful look