[Barefoot]

Originally Posted by redwitch

Where, pray tell, has anyone here been accused of being racist for not liking a particular breed? I used to judge dogs in confirmation, mainly sight hounds, but occasionally fill in for other judges. I had a cocker bite me. I had several chihuahuas snap at me. I had a mastiff slobber all over me. I had a Rottweiler poop on my foot. I had a poodle on my clothes. I had an American Staffordshire Terrier try to lick me to death. Happiest dang dog I ever met in the ring.

I made it a rule that the handler had to hold the dog's mouth for certain breeds, including Rotties, pit bulls, chihuahuas, mastiffs, cockers and certain dogs just because. It wasn't prejudice. It was common sense.

Showing a healthy respect for a dog you don't know is wise. Being afraid simply because of the breed of the dog is, in my opinion, sad. Dogs are as loving as they are bred and raised to be.

A true concern is any dog that is genetically inclined to be protective of its pack. They will attack if they think their family is in danger. Another concern are hunting dogs, especially coursers. They will bolt and chase a running child, small dog, rabbit, etc. These two types of dogs need to be carefully trained and handled.

You are a breath of fresh air with your common-sense posts.