WHATEVER difference of opinion may exist as to the utility of dog shows in improving the breeds of this animal, there can be no doubt of their popularity, or that they have become permanent institutions. Large sums of money are annually, spent in rearing and feeding dogs with the express purpose of exhibiting them; and it may, therefore, be admitted without argument that it is desirable to conduct these shows in the way most likely to give satisfaction to their supporters.

From their institution at Newcastle in 1858 there has been a growing feeling of dissatisfaction with the awards of the judges. Animals which have been successful under one set of judges in obtaining a first prize, have been altogether overlooked by another, not even obtaining a commendation, though in equally good condition at both places, and often with the same or nearly the same competitors. That these have been exceptional cases is true enough, but nothing has been more common than that the position of first and second prizeholders should be reversed within the same month - remarkable examples of which might be adduced, but the instances are so well known that it is needless to specify them. I have repeatedly drawn attention to these facts, and attempted to demonstrate that for the cause of this fickleness we must look to the absence of any recognised standard by which to measure the particular breed which is being judged. Among cattle and sheep-breeders it is generally admitted that certain leading qualities shall be considered all-important, such as the propensity to carry flesh of good quality on the parts most valuable to the butcher, early maturity, and, in the sheep, quantity and quality of wool.

But in horses and dogs, and more especially in the varieties of the latter, there is not the same unanimity, even in leading principles; and in matters of detail, as may naturally be supposed, the difference of opinion is very great.

At the present time (1877) Dog Shows have reached such a pitch of general interest, that the question of judging demands a very careful consideration, and very recently in the Field I inserted the following article with that view: -