Greatest American Dog Show

Hi everyone…  I am launching this blog in anticipation of CBS’ Greatest American Dog, which premieres on Thursday, July 10 at 8pm (est/pst).  Finally a reality show that celebrates the amazing bond possible between human and animal!  Can’t wait to see the endearing antics and high drama that is bound to ensue.

The purpose of this blog is two-fold, for now at least.

PURPOSE 1: I will follow the show, keep folks updated on the latest developments, and reflect upon issues that the show brings to mind.  I invite you all to join in.  One rule - keep it respectful.  Consideration for your fellow blogger should be a given.  You know what I mean.

PURPOSE 2: Any show that makes claim to the title of Greatest American Dog begs to be challenged on the the following grounds… Who are these people to make such a broad proclamation when they have never met my dog?  While I am sure the show’s contestants are noteworthy to the extent that they were selected to appear on TV - whether cute, obedient, talented, entertaining, or all of the above - we all think that our own dog is actually the best.  I know I do!  So while Greatest American Dog begins to ponder the question, “what makes a dog great?”, this blog is meant to showcase the yet undiscovered talents we already know and love in our own homes.  In the process, we’ll further define the meaning of the title.  Who knows?  The producers of the show may even scout this site for Season 2!  Celebrity persuits aside, please take this opportunity to tell me and the world about your own Best Buddy.

Just a brief disclaimer before I start off with my first post… I am not officially associated with the show Greatest American Dog in any way (except that I plan to watch/write about the show, and the blog name/url is similar to the name of the show, though NOT the same).  I am just an individual who loves my dog, and I love meeting new people and their dogs.  Now let’s get started!

Here is my nomination for Greatest American Dog…

Meet Andy (otherwise lovingly known as Hound, Hound Dog, My Baby and Sharky McQueen), pictured above in his own tent with the American flag as a back drop (suggestive props, eh?).  He’s great because, if I had to pick just one reason, he gives the best “welcome home” ever.  OK, that ability might not be unique to Andy, but it certainly makes me feel special when I come home from a business trip or even just a quick visit to the grocery store.  As VISA says - priceless.

Andy is the most friendly, gregarious, and recognizable dog in town.  We live in a city neighborhood with shops, cafes, parks, even a dog beach, and we meet a lot of fellow dog companions when we are out and about.  Everyone knows Andy.  He’s got a distinctive face (his snout does not exactly line up, so one of his bottom canine teeth sticks outside his mouth - hence the name Sharky), yet this dog goes on greeting people and other dogs as if he’s running for President (or positioning himself for running mate).  Hey, Barack…

As a mutt with a mix of herding and terrier behaviors, at just 1-1/2 years old, Andy already displays natural leadership skills (he’s some kind of healer apparently) yet doesn’t mind getting his paws dirty (loves to dig!).  Resume and references available upon request (just kidding, kind of).

He also can be amazingly patient, like he has been for the past few hours while I’ve been ramping up this blog.  As if waiting by the door is not an obvious enough signal, the puppy-dog eyes are starting to take effect.  We’ll be heading out shortly, so that’s it for the first post.  I’ll be back on tomorrow to add some thoughts before the show.  In the meantime, I am looking forward to meeting some fellow dog lovers.