Confused by Crufts

I am always left a bit confused by Crufts.  Following all the furore in recent years over pedigree dog breeding, and the boycotting of Crufts by sponsors and the BBC, I feel like I shouldn't watch.  However I also feel for all the reputable breeders, who are having their sport ruined by a small minority.


However I have been cheering this year as the Kennel club has introduced vet checks for the best of breed winners at all Kennel Club licensed General and Group Championship Dog Shows from Crufts 2012 onwards, in 15 designated high profile breeds. This measure was introduced to ensure that Best of Breed awards are not given to any dogs that show visible 
signs of problems due to conditions that affect their health or welfare. 


So far this competition several best of breed winners have not passed their vet checks, and are therefore not eligible to compete in best of show. This all sounds good, and hopefully this will restore the reputation of the show side of Crufts. 

On a positive note, I am delighted that some black Labs have done really well in competitive obedience.


 My absolute favourite performance of Crufts.  I am trying to convince my dutiful husband to be that a costume like this will improve my dogs training!