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FIRST AND LASTING IMPRESSIONS

© Marilyn Koyanagi

You pass a store window featuring the latest fashions. The display is covered with dust and the wrinkled garments hang shapelessly on outdated mannequins. A short distance away, another store displays identical merchandise. Attractive accessories complement outfits that are crisply pressed and perfectly fitted to the stylish mannequins. Which store gives the impression of quality?

You receive two job applications. One is handwritten with a lengthy description of the applicant's impressive skills. The ink is smeared and there are several spelling errors. The second applicant does not have extensive experience but her letter is neatly typed and well-worded with no errors. Which applicant has credibility?

What does all of this have to do with showing dogs? Everything!

Nothing leaves an impression more than a visual image and, in both of the above scenarios, IMAGE is the key factor. How you perceive the stores and applicants is determined by the image that each projects. Remember the old adage 'a picture is worth a thousand words'? This photo of the beautiful '98 DPCA National Specialty Winner speaks volumes. When showing a dog, you have 2 1/2 minutes to present your picture. Every detail must lend credibility to the overall image of quality.

CH. Foxfire's Devil's N Demons WAC
Foxfire Dobermans of Michelle Santana
Sunny Valley, Oregon
msfoxfire@echoweb.net

Envision yourself a judge. You have 5 dogs to evaluate. The first one will not walk. Explaining that this is his first time, the exhibitor alternates between bribing him to take a step and dragging him around the ring. As you try to examine him, he pulls away and constantly sits down.

The second dog drags the exhibitor around the ring. He seldom has two feet on the ground at any given time. When you attempt to examine him, he climbs all over you, trying to lick your face.

The third dog walks on a lead but has little energy and is timid upon examination. His coat is matted and his nails are long. You are not sure if the odor is coming from him or whether there has been a toxic spill in the neighborhood.

Dog four is adequately trained, moves with average enthusiasm and stands for examination. He has a weeping hot spot on his hip where he has chewed the hair. His poorly groomed coat is dull and he is overweight.

The fifth dog, although lacking in reach and drive, moves out in front of the handler without pulling on the lead. He is animated and free baits beautifully. His well conditioned coat is groomed to perfection and he is a pleasure to examine. Which dog attracts your attention? Which one has credibility as a show dog?

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