Applicants also must have 15 years of experience with dogs and be 18 years old. Nicholas explains that as time went on, clubs had meetings and symposiums about dog breeds, so today there is a greater degree of training. But, she adds, I m not sure it s really improved the judging. She also feels the competitions have become more commercial. Years ago it was all in good spirits.
People didn t get angry.
Nicholas admits she misses judging, but is grateful for the change. Judging is quite a big deal. It s hard work and long days. You start at 8 a.m. and judge eight or nine hours over a day, she says. Judging is not just picking out the cutest or best-behaved dog.