|
FORMATION OF POSSIBLE GROUP 8
and the inclusion of Pomeranians in this group -
a controversial subject to say the least.
In light of the controversial subject regarding the
development of an eighth group, the Spitz Group, and more
specifically the inclusion (or exclusion) of the Pomeranian
in this Group, this article will shed some light on the
capabilities of this diminutive breed. This page is for
information only, and is just my own opinion.
Early history has one group of dogs being derived mainly
from the northern wolf huskies, Samoyed, chows, Pomeranians,
elkhounds, collies, Alsatians, corgies, schipperkes and
terriers. This particular group of dogs were domesticated
and trained for the work required of them, while
accompanying traders of the Scandinavian countries to the
north of Pomerania and in East Germany where the Pom
originated. The Pom was specifically mentioned as belonging
to this northern group and today remains as a representative
of the northern group sometimes classified as Spitz dogs.
I believe there is an inherent need to work bred in these
little guys and busy dogs are happy dogs. Activities that
keep their minds and bodies in shape are important. In no
way do I mean to say these little dogs are capable of
running the Iditarod, or winning an all-breed endurance
test. Many Poms are active in agility, earning the same
titles that are earned by their larger cousins. Obedience is
popular also. Carting is fun, however, the pulling weight
that is part of competition is too heavy for the little
ones, making carting titles unavailable for the smaller Poms.
Some of them can run like the wind and do well in flyball.
Poms make wonderful therapy dogs, loving the attention
heaped on them by the many residents of nursing homes that
are visited.
Correct conformation is of the utmost importance. Poor
structure or health concerns will naturally prevent the Pom
from performing well, and should not be shown in the
conformation ring either.
Safety has been cited as the main reason for excluding the
Poms from the Spitz Group. Safety is an issue every time an
entry form is completed and you step on the show grounds.
Safety is an issue every time you put a leash on your dog
and step out of your yard to go for a walk. It is every
owner's responsibility to be diligent in watching out for
the safety of their dog whether it be in a show ring, or on
the street. While in the ring, it is the ring stewards'
jobs, as well as the judge to be watchful for potential
trouble, making certain aggressiveness is not tolerated by
any dog be it large or small. Safety is not an issue in my
opinion. Again, this is just my opinion.
With the inclusion of so many more breeds from time to time
in The Canadian Kennel Club, some of the groups are becoming
too large, and by the formation of an 8th group, the Spitz
Group, this will alleviate some of the crowding in the
rings.
I know that our judges are very capable of judging the
various breeds, and being fair to each and every one of
them. There will be no worry that a judge will be unable to
judge such a variety with all dogs being judged against
their own standard.
I realize this little breed is a toy. However, it is a Spitz
by history, by nature, and by appearance. When we allow them
the luxury of appearing in their beautiful double coats,
they would be able to hold their own. A Spitz Group without
the Pom would be an incomplete Spitz Group.
This is my own opinion, and I am very aware that it is in
the minority. I sincerely hope that no one, after reading
this, will think that I would ever jeopardize the safety of
any one of my dogs. Their safety is uppermost in my mind,
having just entered one of my boys in obedience trials. I am
always very watchful of the dogs around us, while in the
ring, in any of the corridors, or in the exercise areas.
Anyone whose mind has not already been made up, I sincerely
hope this article will give you something to think about an
8th group - a Spitz Group - it most definitely will not come
into being overnight.
Roberta Malott
Pondside Toys
|
