[Samson]

Great, I appreciate your exception to my statements. I did not say the money was all about breeding (though that is the purpose for showing a dog - to get the best dog possible according to the breed standard, of which we will never get the absolute perfect dog). But there are breeders out there making a lot of money at the same time, and there are other breeders not making much money at all. It all depends on a lot factors. My friends who breed champion dogs get a minimum of $2,000 a dog (well over the $300-$500for an average family companion). With an average litter of six, that adds up pretty quickly, and the expense is 10% - 15% of the cost.

Second, I'm not talking directly about those who put on the show, but the professional handlers (one handler told me they get $300 every time they enter the ring and sometimes make as much as $5000 or more per weekend). This is how they make their living. To be honest, most people cannot or simply will not have a quality breeding program if they continually take a loss. Granted there is a great expense with a quality/responsible breeding program but there is money involved, and people are making money responsibly.

Finally, I did not say that everyone intimidates, etc. in the show ring or at a show, but certainly those folks are out there and the person who wrote initially certainly experienced them if you read closely. I think your sportsmanship is awesome!!!! But that is not everyone. I have heard horror stories of people across the country, and I have heard wonderful stories.