It was a BLAST! We got to see a bunch of the breed rings (bearded collies, collies, goldens, Finnish Lundhunds, Akitas, viszlas). They were a lot of fun. Then we went to the benched area. That's where the dogs are supposed to be "on display" when they're not being shown. Because of the renovation at the Garden the benched area was small, crowded and totally chaotic. But we were still able to see, and pet a lot of dogs.

In the morning, while they were still showing, the breeders were too stressed to chat, but in the afternoon, after the breed rings but before the evening show, they were very friendly. We spent a lot of time chatting with folks. I made a total fool of myself talking with a Beauceron breeder. I've been sort of researching the breed for a while. So I was SO excited to see one in person that I was like a little kid.

We looked at everything, from the toys to the immense mastiffs. There was a Dogue de Bordeaux that had a head the size of a basketball, no exageration.

We had general admission seating, so we were up in the nosebleed section. But, for a change, we'd remembered our binoculars, so it was still fine. It's amazing how much more you see in person.

The GSD who won was nice, but he didn't move all that well. We were completely floored that he won over the Belgian Turvuren. The Doberman that won the sporting group was spectacular. We'd seen her close up earlier. She should have gone Best in Show. I guess it's good that I'm not a judge...

I would go again. But I would wait until the renovations are done. A bunch of the breeders mentioned to us just how chaotic and discombobulated the benching was this year. Usually it's much more organized. We did have a hard time finding some dogs.

This is getting long, so I'll stop here. If anyone wants more details I'd be happy to run on...