by Judi Hartell, P.H.A.

In today's computerized world, have our natural Terriers become robots? Have we bred the correct temperament out of our Terriers, or have we over trained them to become liver seeking statues waiting quietly and patiently for that little bit of reward? The sparkle and excitement present in the Terrier Group of years past is largely missing from today's competition. Some of the great Terriers of the past are remembered as super showmen, exhibiting the correct Terrier attitude toward other dogs as described in their Standards. How many of our top Terriers of today show the same steady gleam of intelligence as they size up the competition, ready to play or defend, as the situation dictates? If they meet up with a badger in the field, should they defend themselves? Absolutely! Sparring has taken on a common misinterpretation of the judge asking dogs to show aggression, while in fact, there is no Terrier Standard that this author is aware of that calls for aggressive behavior in its Standard. In order to broaden perception and to understand the rationale and technique of this historical procedure, we will change the term from Sparring to "Meet and Greet".

The Meet and Greet should be an integral part of judging the correct Terrier temperament, as well as proper expression, ear placement, arch of neck, length of back, tail set, and topline. Most Terriers were developed as pack dogs, bred to control vermin and rodents. Within the pack, one dog would rise to the ranks of dominant dog by its ability to meet each challenge presented He would bow down to no foe and pursue his quarry with relentless determination. The intelligence of the Terrier is evident as he assesses the challenge before him. He stands with an alert attitude, staring nose to nose, and eye to eye, ready to play or defend. Thus the term "sparring" came into our dog world vocabulary, as a one word definition of true Terrier temperament. Some Terrier standards include as part of temperament a hard-bitten or intent, piercing expression, which can only be properly judged when a dog is sparred. An intent, piercing expression goes hand in hand with intelligence, not aggression.

The rapid growth of dog shows has brought waves of new exhibitors and judges, with increasing interest in our Terrier breeds. Unfortunately the novice exhibitor and newly licensed Terrier judge often misinterpret the term sparring. In the breed and group ring today, we find Terriers are often not brought out to the center of the ring for a Meet and Greet or handle the procedure improperly. It is the responsibility of the experienced exhibitor and Terrier judge to instruct the novice in the proper manner in which to present the Terrier when invited to the center of the ring.

In the ring, a Terrier should be allowed to show on its own, expressing interest in the dogs and activities around him. Exhibitors should allow enough room between themselves so that their dogs can Meet and Greet without getting too close or causing a fight. It should be understood that the Meet and Greet does not license viciousness or an uncontrolled dog. While the dog should be ready to accept all challenges, he should be under control at all times. "Control" is demonstrated by all four feet on the ground. The dog should not leap and snarl. Not more than three or four dogs should be invited to the center of the ring at one time. By limiting the number of dogs sparred, the exhibitor is better able to control his charge, and the judge may better evaluate the dogs.

Handling a Terrier properly is an art to be developed through the experience of living with, conditioning and showing these breeds. From birth a Terrier puppy begins the process of temperament development. Observe the aggressive puppy that pushes others in the litter away from the breast he chooses to nurse. As the puppies grow older, the more dominant in temperament will instigate wrestling matches among themselves and compete more strongly for food and attention. This type of competition is healthy and should be encouraged. Any displays of viciousness, of course, should be discouraged.

For an older dog that seems to lack spirit, there are several training methods which have been proven successful. In a kennel situation, walk the dog up and down the aisle on a lead and let him look at the dogs that are in runs. By nature, the dogs in runs will challenge the newcomer. Allow the dog to face his challenger, and praise him for his interest. Always be sure he keeps four feet on the ground and avoid direct contact with the other dogs. Should a kennel not be available, you may follow the above guideline using a dog in an exercise pen. Walk the new dog around the pen in the manner described.

Many times an experienced dog can be used to encourage the youngster. Put a lead on each dog. Have someone walk the experienced dog up to face the beginner. You may need to turn the youngster around several times to let him know he should look his competition in the eye. Again, be sure both dogs stand with all four feet on the ground and avoid direct contact. The procedure should then be reversed, allowing the beginner to walk up to the experienced dog.

We are the caretakers of our Terriers and are responsible for their temperaments. As breeders, we must select temperamentally sound stock and provide an environment which will develop correct Terrier temperament. As exhibitors, we must allow our Terriers to maintain their individuality, showing gameness and interest in their surroundings. Ultimately, we must see that the Terrier is properly presented. A controlled Meet and Greet should be part of the judging procedure to accomplish this goal.