Serge Bilodeau
1. I breed Bouvier des Flandres under the prefix “Boyero Perm. Reg’d,” since 1998, and we live in Quebec, Canada. We have a successful breeding program; around 50 percent of the Bouviers we’ve produced achieved their Canadian Championship and many have also earned an American Championship. For over 26 years, our Boyero Kennel has had success in the show ring, but our first priority is the health of our lines and supporting the purpose of our breed.
2. In my opinion, answering “yes” to the question about the breed’s overall condition runs close to my heart. In Bouviers, I think we can improve in the areas of substance, movement (moderate, balanced front and rear), firm level topline, square, cobby, and correct coat texture. But overall, as in many other breeds, the generic type is more often presented and awarded versus the dog with the overall best breed type.
Unfortunately, we can too often favor the attractiveness of the ribbon or rankings over the functionality of the breed. And exhibitors at times blame the judge for their choice. But we must not forget that it’s the selection of the dogs to show that is the most important factor! I prefer to focus on form follows function in my choices.
Recently, a group of breeders proposed to the national club to do a study to find out where our breed is compared to the Breed Standard by taking anonymous measurements. Unfortunately, many breeders/exhibitors do not see the usefulness of such a study. I am hopeful others will see the value and participate in the future. Afterall, how will we know where we need to improve if we don’t occasionally evaluate our dogs.
3. Today, I think the sport has shifted from the initial goal: to evaluate breeding stock according to its Standard. Some judges have shared with me it’s more of a distribution of ribbons. I ask myself, “How do we focus on the sport’s original purpose? What can exhibitors, judges, and show committees do differently?”
I believe that it would be more beneficial to everyone to have a fewer number of shows, and instead, offer larger events where there could be greater Breed entries. I’d like to see the focus be on the Best of the Breed, and not Best in Show. These days, in Bouviers, when you have more than 10 dogs in our Breed ring it’s practically a Specialty.
4. Unfortunately, my schedule does not allow me to participate in a variety of events. But I’m proud to share that there are many dogs from our kennel that participate in various performance events including Carting, Rally, Obedience, Scent Work, and Herding. We must not forget that the Bouvier is a versatile breed, and we shouldn’t neglect the work our breed was bred to do.
5. Social media makes it possible to break down the barriers of distance between individuals. I enjoy being able to connect with other dog people. There are many education/training-focused groups. One of my favorite groups is Canine Construction and Conformation that is administered by a judge who posts many interesting articles.
When I first started in dog sports, social media didn’t exist. We learned about a dog’s record through our breed newsletters, dog sport magazines, or at shows. Today, we see more of the same dogs being awarded the top-winning… Is that because of the quality of the competition or social media?
It seems that breeders/owners and potential customers no longer see the need to participate or visit a dog sport event. They can all find videos and pictures in the comfort of their home. For me, there is nothing better than spending a day with your dogs and dog friends, having fun and supporting each other.
6. I think the biggest challenge is returning to the sport’s original purpose; dog shows should be for evaluating breeding stock. I recently saw a post on social media that touched on reasons to attend your national specialty. I think the ideas apply easily to all dog shows. A few, for example: Measure the “state of your breed” and “comparing your breeding stock with others.” As I mentioned earlier, only we all can be the change.
7. Overall, I support the American Kennel Club (AKC) creating the National Owner-Handled Series (NOHS). As an owner-handler, I view the competitions as another way to showcase my dog to judges and to the sport. I enjoy watching other breeds that I might get the opportunity to see, and to meet other people.
Another improvement is offering the ability for parent and regional clubs to offer a major for Reserve Winners and majors with a Variety Group placement. Both provide much needed opportunities for a major for lower entry breeds.
