On judging ethics, hospitality, and remembering the human side of dog shows.
Every so often, a photograph appears on social media showing a group of Stafford enthusiasts enjoying dinner after a specialty. Perhaps a visiting judge is among them, sharing stories and enjoying the company. Inevitably, someone comments about “fraternizing with the judge,” usually accompanied by a laughing emoji or two.
I suspect most of these remarks are intended as harmless teasing, but they raise an interesting question: Have we become so concerned about appearances that we’ve forgotten how to extend ordinary hospitality?
Judging ethics matter enormously. Exhibitors should never attempt to influence a judge’s decisions, and judges have a responsibility to avoid circumstances that could compromise, or reasonably appear to compromise, their impartiality. AKC guidance addresses these concerns while also recognizing that judges may attend appropriate club dinners and social functions where exhibitors are present.
There is a meaningful difference between socializing responsibly and attempting to influence a judging assignment. Understanding that distinction is important for everyone involved.
The Art of Being a Good Host
This brings me to something I believe deserves more attention: the judge’s liaison.
At a specialty, particularly one welcoming a judge from another country, the liaison plays an important role in making the visit enjoyable and comfortable. Certainly, someone needs to coordinate transportation, accommodations, schedules, and the practical details of the assignment. But good hospitality involves more than getting a guest from the airport to the showgrounds.
A visiting judge may have traveled thousands of miles to share an opinion we specifically invited them to give. Helping that person feel welcome seems a natural expression of appreciation.
Perhaps there’s an opportunity to visit a local attraction, enjoy dinner, or spend time discussing dogs, history, travel, and the countless other subjects that bring people together. Even making sure someone has had breakfast or knows where to find a good cup of coffee can make a difference.
Of course, appropriate boundaries remain essential. A liaison who is not exhibiting under the judge is generally in a better position to provide that hospitality without creating awkwardness or concerns about impartiality. A thoughtful liaison can also help the judge navigate the weekend’s schedule and avoid situations that might conflict with judging guidance.
None of this requires campaigning dogs, discussing upcoming entries, or creating special access for exhibitors. It simply requires consideration for a guest.
The Person Behind the Judge’s Book
I have always regarded judging as a serious responsibility. When I enter the ring, my obligation is to evaluate the dogs presented to me, apply the Breed Standard, and make decisions based on their merits. That responsibility includes respecting the ethical boundaries surrounding the assignment.
But judging is also one part of my involvement in a breed I have loved for decades.
I still enjoy discussing pedigrees, historical dogs, breeding decisions, and the amusing things that happen when people devote so much of their lives to Staffords. I enjoy seeing old friends, meeting new people, and sharing the camaraderie that makes a specialty weekend memorable.
Having a judging license doesn’t change those interests. I also have a driver’s license, but nobody introduces me at dinner as a motorist.
Perhaps that’s why the occasional joking accusation of fraternization gives me pause. Even when no offense is intended, it can suggest that an ordinary conversation is evidence of something improper. There are certainly situations where concerns about impartiality are justified, and those deserve to be addressed seriously. But a photograph of people enjoying a meal doesn’t, by itself, establish wrongdoing.
I would hate to see the fear of speculation discourage the friendships and hospitality that have always been among the pleasures of our breed community.
More Than a Weekend of Ribbons
Specialties offer something increasingly valuable: the opportunity to gather with people who share a genuine interest in the Staffordshire Bull Terrier. We come to evaluate dogs, certainly, but also to learn, exchange ideas, renew friendships, and welcome visitors who share our enthusiasm.
Protecting the integrity of judging and being gracious hosts are not competing responsibilities. With thoughtful boundaries and a little common sense, we can accomplish both.
And perhaps the next time we see a photograph of a visiting judge enjoying dinner with fellow Stafford enthusiasts, we might simply appreciate that someone made our guest feel welcome.
After all, that’s part of what makes a specialty worth attending.
Always toward the light.
