The Dog Show World - cont.

I never thought it was going to be an easy endeavor, but it sounded very rewarding.  I knew nothing about showing dogs.  It did seem like this was the next logical step after having Saint Bernards for over twenty years. The first mistake I made was letting the breeder select the show puppy for me.  I figured since this individual was a veteran breeder and handler they would make a better choice than I could.  

That is not necessarily the case, some puppies just do not develop into show quality.  The veteran breeder/handler just moves on to another dog with this sort of situation.  But what do you do, if you're new to this world?  Maybe you are able financially to purchase another show dog, provided you have the space to have an additional dog.  Then you can try again, what are the odds that this dog won't work out in the dog show world either?  They are higher than you think; especially when you continue to use the same breeder.

I would advise from the very start to trust your own instincts regarding picking a show dog.  Then no matter how the future unfolds, you won't be blaming someone else if things don't work out.  Input from other individuals is very beneficial and should definitely be considered in making your choice; but let it be your choice.

(more later)