Greatest American Dog Show

I am SHOCKED !!!
I believe whoever thought up the last challenges for 08-27-08 show must have been very CRAZY!!!!
In my openion Star and Andrew are the Smartist dogs for NOT leeping off the ramp.. I Believe the Judges are Fools!!!! I am very Disapointed… Also Look at Galaxy all HURT NOW… How does that make you feel that you have hurt a sweet loyal animal…. I am so Shocked in your decisions….

I am appalled at the lack of good judgement considering the unsafe challenges of this weeks’ show. Previously the judges have preached safety and humane treatment of the dog contestants. Are they just trying to boost the ratings to get more sensationalism aired?
Obviously Galaxy was injured as a result of this unsafe challenge and the judges express their wishes that she will be ok. Are you kidding me? Didn’t they consider that the challenge was too extreme?
Just last week Bill was criticized for pushing Star too hard, and then this week the judges waffled and implied that he was too easy on Star. I applaud Star for having better sense than the judges this week.
Up until now this was my favorite show, however after this last episode I am very displeased with the lack of standards and good judgement. Shame on the judges for being hypocritical.

Heretofore I have thoroughly enjoyed Greatest American Dog but after last night, I will not be able to watch it any more.

To have these poor animals have to stand there before a large elephant and not expected to move, that is totally riduculous.

Also, that poor dog that is suffering from a pulled hamstring in his right paw or side because of having to jump from a high platform, what do you expect?

I am an animal lover and these kinds of exercises are un-
acceptable.

They lost me as a viewer. Bill thought of his dog and was
kicked off for it! Star alerted Bill when his wife was in a diabetic coma-Star is a HERO and deserved to win. I firmly believe that the judges already have thier minds made up that JD and Galaxy won!

Sorry to see Bill & Star go home this week. What were those judges thinking! With that, why watch the remaining season. You know the judges already made their minds up on who they want to win. Bill, I think you and your dog were the best. I admire you and your dog. Great job!

First off, African elephants are extremely dangerous and unpredictable animals, a few years back one stampeded at a circus and several people were injured and I believe there was even a fatality! The elephant was put down. The fact that the producers of this show would make these poor dogs face down an obvious potential threat for entertainment purposes just boggles my mind! I think the contestants are naively led into believing that they wouldn’t be tasked into doing anything that could potentially hurt their dogs but now that Galaxy is in obvious physical stress maybe they will take pause before attempting any more tricks that defy logic or common sense. The judges of this show pretend to be so called animal experts….FOR SHAME ON ALL OF THEM!!! I also think it is ludacris to expect an animal to leap off what appeared to be a 30′ tower with no working knowledge of trapeze apparatus, that just goes against instinct….what’s next? Standing still in front of a steaming locamotive?

Until now I have enjoyed the show but last night asking those dogs to leap off a platform and then to sit with an elephant approaching them was cruel and now one of the dogs is injuried and I’m hoping it isn’t a serious injury. I would have refused to do both of those with my dog.

Bill was doing what was best for Star and he actually should have won this contest hands down.

Bill and Star were the perfect “All American” pair and should have won this competition. The show got it all wrong with those ridiculous (and dangerous) stunts last night. Last week, the judges criticized Bill for pushing Star too hard. This week they criticized him for not pushing her hard enough. Bill and Star got a bum deal. Shame on those froo froo judges.

I can’t believe the judges - do they know anything at all about dogs. Last week they praised the “herding” dog who did his job and herded but they commented that the boxer just jumped becasue he was a boxer - what about the smart dogs who didn’t jump since they implied that boxers are too stupid not to jump.

the fact that Star was one week critized and when Bill listened to the judges and not pushed Star he was expelled. What a bunch of non-professionals. They need to watch this show week to week and see what they are telling people one week to the next.

I can’t believe Galaxy got injured - didn’t they realize it was from this stupid stunt. I hope the ASPCA investigates this and that Galaxy is ok. Star should be asked to come back and this show should revert to things that dogs CAN and SHOULD DO!!!!

I liked this show until the last week and especially last night. And the elephant don’t even let me go there. The fact that both dogs stayed for any period was truly amazing. I would have left right there and not put my dog(s) in any of these situations. The owners must have been devistated.

I have to agree with everyone I wouldn’t have gone across that ramp or jumped so why would you expect a dog would and what did it prove?? I was very disapointed in last nights show Bill and Star have been great and Bill should feel lucky to be gone from that type of competion he’s protecting his dog as far as I see it I was in tears watching those dogs stand there not knowing what to do I don’t care if they were straped or not the dogs didn’t know that. I have a Bassett Hound that is 8 years old and his muscles and joints are sore with regular excersie poor Galaxy is 9 years old and walked away with a pulled muscle you could see when he was flying through the air his legs were stiffened out like he was scared to death!! he probably strained something then come on guys really what was the purpose of last nights show??

I definitely will not be watching this show again. This was the MOST IRRESPONSIBLE thing I have ever watched - putting dog in danger. I cannot believe that anyone was allowed to do this. Anything could have happened with that elephant - what if one of the dogs tried to attack it and it panicked!!?? And to make a dog jump off a platform - that was the most irresponsible stunt and now a dog is hurt. What if one of those dogs are on a balcony or any high place (cliff) in the future and decide it’s okay to leap off?? No harness and zip line this time -

The two dogs that lost were the only ones who had any sense - this had nothing to do with courage - just blind obedience and stupidity. And I applaud the maltese’ owner - she didn’t push her dog. Smart lady!! Frankly, I wouldn’t have put my dog through that danger. All the contestants should have refused - What would the show have done? Cancel the whole thing - probably a good idea!!!!!

I used to like the lady who trains dogs - she has a show on the BBC - I won’t watch her anymore either. She obviously doesn’t really care for animals - just ratings!

I too feel that the judges overstepped good judgement in the feats they expected these dogs to perform. Shame on them! Wild animals are unpredictable and the judges should not have expected any animal to go against their own natural instinct for survival. I absolutely would not have let my dog attempt to jump from an unsafe height and I commend Bill for not forcing Star to jump. I won’t be watching any more episodes but I hope the remaining contestants stand united against any future unsafe conditions their dogs might be subjected to.

Last night I watched this show for the first time & I was shocked. I own two dogs who I love dearly and I would never ask them to jump off a ramp that was maybe 25 feet off the ground; nor would I expect them to sit still as they were being charged by an elephant. This, to me, is animal abuse and the judges are also outrageous. I just don’t understand how anybody who cares about dogs could go along with these stunts. Shame on you!

We had this show season recording on the DVR and after this last episode with Bill & Starr we have deleted it and will no longer be watching. It is such a shame that the producers would come up with stupid stunts that could potentially harm the animals just to get ratings.

I am EXTREMELY disappointed. Bill and Star should have won. Lori and Andrew should have done better since they had the “leg up” with the professional….I think they should have been expected to do better and therefore should have gone home instead of Bill and Star. Why are the so hard on Travis and Presley?????!!!!!!!!! I think the judges should consider the training that some of the dogs had BEFORE they came to the show….Presley had NO training and I think this pair has come a long way. I hope Galaxxy will be okay….poor thing. I love her but can’t stand her owner JD. The whole show last night was INSANE!!!! From the elephant to that rediculous platform….WHAT THE H*#& WERE THEY THINKING DOING THAT TO THESE DOGS???

I agree with the comments from the 8-27-08 show. I have a little 5 pound Chihuahua and there is no way I would have put him down there for that elephant to come at him. He would have had nightmares for weeks. Actually he probably would have never let me put him down. As for Star and Bill going home, I’m going to miss them. The love Bill has for Star really touched me. And when Star looked at Bill you could see the love and devotion they have for each other. You may have been sent home but you are still a shinning “STAR” in my book.

I have enjoyed watching your show up until now.. Being an animal lover I am sorely dissapointed in your choice of judges.

What are they thinking allowing the dogs to be put in harms way. Lets see the little doggie sitting on the judges lap do some of these stunts, she is supposed to be a trainer, well lets see what she lets her doggie do, I doubt she would allow it…

I sincerely hope this show is over soon or cancelled before any other animal gets hurt and it never returns to TV. And I hope that the judges feel shame for participating in this show.

I know myself, my family and friends have removed it from our TV watching…

I have to agree with the last few people’s comments , I think jumping off the landing was foolish and the judges should be ashamed of themselves especially after preaching saftey! Smack you all on the heads! BAD BAD

I, too, am shocked at the level to which the producers of this showed have dropped. More time should be spent on reading BREED STANDARDS and knowing what the dog was bred to do. I’m not surprised the boxer was fearless — the boxer is BRED to be fearless. In my opinion as a Boxer breeder, Travis has done an outstanding job in training Presley and the judges are not doing their job in understanding what a specific breed of dog is bred to accomplish. Why shouldn’t a herding dog bark??? Isn’t that how they herd??? Here we are fighting legal battles all over the country to be able to even have pets and this show is throwing fuel on the fire for PETA.

Today is the first time I’ve ever commented about a TV show.
I have owned and loved dogs for over 55 years. I am so disappointed that a highly respected dog trainer such as Victoria would allow herself to be a party to the challenges in the last episode. The 2 stunts last night test nothing except the loyalty of viewers that expect higher standards be upheld.

SHAME ON YOU, VICTORIA!! Obviously, you sold your morals and your “DO NO HARM” motto out for money and cheap thrill TV. Instead of It’s me or the dog” on your British TV show, why don’t you rename it “It’s me and the MONEY!!” Of course, if viewers are too disgusted to watch these shows, then it is a moot point, isn’t it!!

I know that the main reason for this show is good TV. Although the judges tout themselves to be doggie professionals, I question how they could go along with the courage challenge. The dogs that didn’t jump should get the points, as they are the smartest ones. It is obvious that the contestants are much more concerned about the health and safety of their dogs than the judges or producers. I would bet that Galaxy’s injuries are due in part to the harness that was put on her. You must know that there are some idiots out in TV land who will now challenge their dogs to do something dangerous. I am dissapointed in this show after last night.

Since posting earlier this morning I had every intention of gutting out the rest of the season to see who the winner was going to be but thanks to everyone else’s posts I am convinced the rest of you are absolutely right in not watching any more episodes…the only way to drive the point home is to hit the producers where they live…in the pocketbook….I have half a mind to write the sponsers as well. Thanks to everyone for pointing out what clearly needs to be done.

I am so disappointed! Sweet Galaxcy injured, and my favorite, Star, elimitated for showing better judgement than the show planners. What possible difference did it make which ramp Bill & Star used? I heard nothing in the setup that the user of the blue ramp would be penalized. Good grief, Bill is not a young man; I, at 62, would have taken the easier ramp too (my age, not a guess at Bill’s) No intelligent dog other than a trained military or search and rescue dog would jump off into the unknown. These show planners should be sentenced to service work at the nearest animal shelter for animal abuse!!! And the stunt with the elephant–too studpid and mean!

The challenges for August 27 2008 showed poor judgment on the part of the show’s creators and judges. The dogs (and owners) should never have been put into a position where the dog had to abandon its very survival instincts to prove its “courage”. Kudos to the dogs who are so devoted to their masters that they followed them into intrinsically dangerous situations; however, dogs who used their native intelligence to avoid an obviously dangerous situation should not be penalized. They should be applauded. No dog “failed” those challenges. The show failed the dogs. This was show was fun up to this point, but I will no longer watch as “showmen” put these priceless pups through inane and inhumane exercises.

This program has now ventured into the realm of ridiculous!!
Who in their right mind would put their dog in the situation that was proposed as “ENTERTAINMENT” last night. The creators of this show and the judges should be stung up on a zip line and left there for a week or so to see how they like it. The ramp and the board walk are similar to training on agility equipment, although not 20 FEET in the air but that zip line thing was way over the edge and endangering to dogs. It did nothing to prove courage and as smart as my dog is, he would wonder why I elected to put him in a situation that felt dangerous. Shame on all of you humans! I have trained for obedeince competition and you people have no credibility as trainers or judges for allowing that. Good for Star and Andrew for having the sense not to jump.

I agree with all of you, last nights’ episode was awful, how dare you do that to these sweet dogs’, no dog should be subjected to and expected to sit still with a elephant coming towards it, courage????hello, what could you possibly be thinking, I wonder how many of the judges would have sat in that circle with a elephant running towards them.
The other part, I was appalled, for the judges to punish Bill for taking the lower of the ramps was bad enough, last week they tell him he’s pushing Star to far this week the opposite, come on & jumping from that platform, you should have your heads examined, and now Galaxy is hurt.
You preach about safety and humane treatment of dogs, these stunts were the exact opposite, up until last night I really enjoyed this show-
I think you should bring Bill & Star back & do things that are not so outrageous, what dogs are suppose to do not these crazy absurd things, you producers, judges, etc. should be ashamed of yourselves, and JD I sure hope that Galaxy is OK, I would be furious if that was my dog, no money in the world is worth my best friend & companion being injured.

I agree with all the posts. Last night’s show was rediculous. I’m not into circus acts so I may not realize just how dangerous the elephant act was, but in relation the trapeze act….it was over the top.

To ask your dog to jump down to you, in the case of imminent danger, would be one thing. To just leap off a 20-30′ platform, while you stand 50′ away at the end of the zip line, had nothing to do with a dog’s courage.

And again, last week they scold Bill for pushing Star, this week they punish him for not pushing her. What gives? I thought all along that team made the perfect Great American Dog (and owner) and epitomized what so many dog owners look for when they raise a dog, and these trainers thumbed their nose at that.

During the scoring I got the impression the judges weren’t happy with their own findings and were having issues relaying the results, but had let it get too far to stop anything. Too bad the others didn’t follow Bill and Star out in protest.

If Galaxy can’t go next week, maybe they’ll call Bill and Star back, and maybe he’ll tell them what we’re all saying…..”get lost”.

As a fellow boxer owner, I think Bill & Star deserved the grand prize, week after week. As much as I want to see how Travis and Presley rebound, I’ll probably watch something else instead. Or paint the house. Or cut the grass.

I am so disappointed with this show. The judges continuously preach about humane training based on trust. And they have scolded previously about not pushing the dogs too much. What was this show about? These dogs were pushed. They ALL wanted so much to please their owners. Climbing to that height and jumping was just plain stupid and Galaxy was injured as a result. And why was a Vet not called in to check Galaxy out? Then, there is the stunt with the elephant. It is a well known fact that elephants are unpredictable. It is normal for this animal to charge. One bad move on either the dogs or elephant’s part and any of those dogs could have been dead. Where was the Humane Society? Where were the producers? Where were the brains? Bill and Star have such a wonderful trusting bond and it’s a shame to see them go because of impossible demands. And faulting him for allowing her to use the less steep ramp…he was just looking out for his dog, as it should be. In general, the show should have challenges that are safe and accomplishable by dogs of any age and size. It is not a fair competition to expect an older, less agile dog to do the some things as well as younger dogs can. That makes them no less The Greatest American Dog. I plan on contacting the sponsors of this show and letting them know I will no longer be seeing their products during the commercials for this show, as I will not be watching anymore. Shame too because I really liked the show, but I love animals more and the only way to drive a point home sometimes is to hit them in the profit.

i agree 100% will all these protests. Endangering those wonderful dogs — Little Andrew sitting there under the charge or a huge, imposing beast!! High jumps - all of this demonstrates absolutely no concern or compassion for either the wonderful dogs nor their owners. Yes, Andrew and Star were TOO SMART to accomodate demanding judges.

The judges are irresponsible and calous.

Please, you remaining contestant, do not allow anything further to endanger your cherished pets.

JoMcCall

STAR is the smartest dog ever for not jumping!! Any dog that can alert it’s owner about diabetic shock is in tune with what is dangerous. STAR IS the Greatest American Dog,and we hope she gets a big steak dinner when she gets back home!!!!! And as far as we are concerned the Show ended last night.Best wishes to Bill and Star and your family

VOTE: Who should go home the 9th week?
The judges and producers of this show!

As a dog lover, I’ve watched every episode. My two dogs and I have both gone through obedience training, under two completely different training methods. One has gone through agility training, under a third method. Under no circumstances would any of my trainers EVER have allowed what happened last night. I don’t doubt the elephant was well trained and has his/her trainer there. I saw the cushions underneath the equipment in case a person or dog fell. I know the producers took precautions. However, dogs cannot reason. They do not process “well, my feet may be off the ground, but I trust that my person who is 5 yards away would put faith in the producers to not let me get hurt.” Two dogs enjoyed the jump (tails waggins), but the poor boxer was fearful! The producers should be ashamed - that was ANIMAL ABUSE! Secondly, a good, loyal dog would have attacked if an animal was charging. I know that my male dog would have attacked the elephant if the elephant charged me…probably prompting the elephant to kill the dog. Everything about this episode was in poor judgement.

On a different topic, the judges are clearly not voting for the greatest American dog. The show is clearly about ratings and the people. The judges displayed visualy preferrences toward competitors early on…and that is being reflected now. Plus, being an editor for a dog magazine does not make you an expert on dog training anymore than being in the military makes you an expert on national security. The judges are purely entertainers. The show should be about the dogs ability to LEARN, not their ability to paint (and since when are the judges trained experts on art?). Was the paint non-toxic and safe for animals to breathe, injest?

The producers really took the show too far!

I am SHOCKED that Bill & Star are gone I loved them and wanted them to WIN. Bill give that KID a BIG HUG and KISS from me. Well now that they are gone I want Presley and Travis to WIN. I have a Boxer (Doc) that is the most loving care free dog, I just love him.

My 7 year old grandson cried himself to sleep last night after Star and Bill had to go home. They were always his favorite team and he liked the way Bill helped everyone. Why did he have to leave? It broke his little heart. Good luck and God bless you Bill & Star.

I used to look forward to the show each week. I have two dogs of my own and would never consider even trying to get them to do what the show made those poor owners and dogs do last night. It was cruel. No amount of money is worth it.
Bill, Star in my opinion is the Greatest American Dog.

The judges really need to make up their mind!
Last week Bill worked Star too hard this week Bill did not push Star enough and got booted. Was the blue ramp just there for Andrew? I bet if Star used the red ramp Bill will be reprimanded of not watching out for Star and get booted out too.
I am so done with this show and hope this show does not get a second season. The judges are a bunch of idiots and the challenges are dumb. The show has already decided on who they want us finalist and it will be Laurie and JD and win for Laurie. When Laurie put Elvis under the bus she was not talked to, when Laura did the same thing to Bella Star she got reprimanded nd booted out. Laurie had a leg up and yet Andrew refuse to jump so if they are judging on 2 dogs not jumping Laurie should be the one booted.

I am so happy to see that sooo many people responded to this weeks episode. I think the judges should be dismissed!! I’m not even a dog owner. What was asked of these dogs, this week, made me cringe to watch!! I think the show should be cancelled, right now. Each person left, plus Bill & Star, should receive $10,000, for being exposed to this terrible challenge. Hopefully, Galaxie will recover, completely. Nothing was mentioned, that it was this challenge that caused Galaxie’s injury, but we all know that it did. Hopefully, you will accept this responsibility and acknowledge your failure. I will only be watching further episodes, to hear your comments on this. This show should be CANCELLED!!!

I am in full agreement with these posts…I CANNOT BELIEVE THAT THESE WONDERFUL DOGS WERE PUT THROUGH THESE RIDICULOUS STUNTS!!! Have you not heard that even the best trained elephants can go on a rampage? And to make these poor animals “jump” 32 feet? They had no way of knowing that they were harnessed. I will no longer watch your show. This was ANIMAL CRUELTY!!!

I thought this weeks stunts were cruel. What are these people going to do next? I don’t want my tiny yorkie to try and jump off the bed (in a leap of faith) because she may break a leg. Who would ever want to “train” their dog to jump off a 30′ platform just because someone told them too. And the elephant stunt was equally as bothersome. You can’t trust an elephant. Maybe some of those dogs are questioning thier owners today. It was awful for anyone who loves dogs to watch. Those 3 judges should be let go. I hope the dog with the injury recovers but the owners should have said no to putting their pets through this. Are we going to see them set on fire next week to see if they can drop and roll?? Not me–I can’t this watch anymore. I hope other viewers follow.

I cant belive those judges! Making Bill and star go home was the worst disision ever!!! SHAME SHAME SHAME ON THEM!!!

I THINK YOURE THE BEST BILL AND STAR!!!

OMG!!You people are freakin crazy. As far as I am concerned
if Bill & Star don’t come back, you might as well take this show off now. Judge Victoria Stilwell was my idol until now!!! Are you just going along with the producers for money? I thought you made enough money to not put a price on innocent dogs life? I hope and pray next weeks episode has not a single viewer. Foolish, Stupid, Crazy and etc. need i say more.

I have watched this show from the beginning, after last night I will no longer watch. I have an 8 pound Bichon, there would have been NO way I would have allowed her to be harnessed and made to jump to me. To think that these “so-called” judges dared say that Star and Andrew did not trust enough in their owners was the most insane thing I have ever heard. Poor Star is an older dog, and they scolded Bill last week for pushing too hard…and little Andrew, are they kidding!! a maltese..jumping? they tell you not to let them just off the sofa!!! that little guy showed so much courage in front of that elephant.
The worst was poor Galaxy, that poor dog was injured because of that stupid stunt, dogs should not be harnessed for any reason, unless it is the only way to get them out of a burning building. How could anyone on that show sleep at night. I thought when I first started watching, oh how cute, now total disgust! These judges should be ashamed of themselves and do the right thing and leave the show. Also they should fire their managers.

I agree with all of the above comments. Bill and Star should be brought back and last week’s show should be erased, if anyone can erase the monstrosity of it all. I had tears rolling when Bill and Star were kicked off. Bill and Star were the best by far! They should be glad they are no longer a part of the show.

It seems that everyone is in unison about last night’s show. No one enjoyed these outragious challenges. I am devistated that Bill and Star are gone. PLEASE bring them back. I own a schnauzer who is almost 17 years old. I lost my other one about 3 years ago. I had made up my mind that I would not get anymore dogs because of the intense love and responsibility that comes along with them, and the hurt that comes with loosing them. But, after watching this show, I have already started looking at possibly a Brittany later on as a result of meeting Star. I just totally thought that the obvious love between Bill and Star is what constitutes a great dog. A dog that would jump into mid air has nothing to do with the greatest dog. It is about loyalty and love. Please bring Bill and Star back, and I for one will again be a fan of this show.

What started out as fun summer entertainment has become the summer’s greatest dissapointment. Bill was a class act and I am very sad to see him go. Who is the idiot who comes up with these challenges, and why do the judges go along with it???? Of course I am making an assumption that the judges don’t create the challanges, and they may in fact be the idiots. But if they are not, why do they stand by and let the real idiots ruin the show???? Why were these dogs put in a dangerous situation that could have resulted in injury more serious than Galaxy suffered???? This show is one more example of a bad reality show who’s only purpose is to make money for the network. I’m done watching.

I too am appalled with the judges, producers, and directors for allowing to happen, Was ASPCA on site if they were they also should be fired for allwoing these potentally dangerous contests to occur. I will not watch this show anymore.

I am so sad to see Bill and Star go, there are the best and the only reason I watched the show, they are the perfect match. I wont be watching any longer now that they are gone. Bill & Star, you Rock

The judges must be out of their minds. First of all to send home Bill & Star, what are they thinking? Bill was putting his animal first. Last week they said he pushed her too hard, this week not hard enough…what’s up with that? Star was one of the 2 best trained dogs on that show. And Bill showed nothing but the utmost care and concern for her well being. And these judges…am I to believe that they have the best interest of the dogs at heart? Star and Galaxy are older dogs. Now the “Star” of their show is gone and Galaxy is injured, for what? If these dogs were going to be stunt dogs then they should have started that kind of training when they were pups rather than wait and give them a few hours and absolutely no lessons but rather just “tips” from so-called experts. And they keep Leroy on, all that dog doew is bark. Why is she not chastized for his lack of training, but rather rewarded because she stresses him out and she has no idea really of what she’s doing. Bill is the one who pointed out to her why Leroy barks. Just goes to show that nice guys finish last. I am owned by 2 beautiful dogs and when they first started the marketing for this show, I had considered if they do it again of possibly entering with one of mine, but after last night with the blantant disregard for the dogs’ safety, NO WAY!!! I would not push my dogs to ever do anything to jeopardize their well-being, and that is exactly what last night was. Now Galaxy may have to leave the show because of the so-called experts who wanted a media exhibition and ratings. It’s ridiculous.

This weeks show was very upseting to me I love my dogs and I would have told you all to go to well you no on the jumping part and when the one dog got hurt Joe and I were really upset that you could almost come across as the owner did some thing to have hurt this dog. Joe my husband said he bets that you dismiss them because he wont be well enough to go on. If this happens If I was him I would sue because I DO NOT THINK YOU SHOULD HAVE DONE THIS STUNT> WHY DON’T YOU USE YOUR OWN DOGS TO DO THIS STUNT. YOU BRING THEM THERE .. I AM DISAPOINTED IN ALL OF YOU FOR THIS WEEK. TO STAR WE WILL MISS YOU GREAT JOB ON SAYING NOOOOOOO JULIE KENNEY

I agree with the comments regarding the challenges and the expulsion of Bill and Star. However, I still love the concept of the show and I won’t allow one poorly conceived episode to compel me to stop watching. I think the show would have been much better if, instead of expelling one owner/dog each week, they had all been allowed to stay for the duration of the show with the ultimate winner being the team with the most accumulated wins. Even though a few of the owners were annoying, they were more tolerable than most reality show contestants and ALL the dogs were wonderful. I also have an observation about the use the of the elephant that everyone has overlooked. I strongly object to the use of elephants in any type of entertainment venue. The methods used to train them are cruel and should be banned. As animal lovers we should be concerned about the welfare of all species.

I have to agree with everyone here. The stunts on this weeks show were ridiclous. I am really sorry to see Bill and Starr have to leave. And why are they always picking on Presley. He finished the stunt as he was supposed to but didn’t get any credit for it. A little bias going on here?? It seems they have already made up their minds who will win this competition. I am truly disappointed at the turn of events in this program. It was the one reality show I enjoyed and they have to go and ruin it. Go Presley!!!!

I have watched this show with excitement since the first week. Last night, I turned off the TV with disgust. These 3 judges are supposed to be dog lovers and trainers? How could they then place these animals in dangerous situations?
Those dog owners last night that approached this stunt with apprehension should be applauded for thinking of their pet first. Bill and Star - you were both terrific! I thank you for loyalty, respect and love you showed for each other. You demonstrated what the bond between a man/woman and a dog is all about. Judges, you should be ashamed!

We’ve watched the show from the beginning with mum. She made no secret that she loved Bill and Star, and we didn’t know about Star saving his mum. That only makes the sweet little orange dog just that much more special. Watching that elephant come thundering towards the dogs was really scary, and we barked when it began screaming at them. Next, we really didn’t understand all the harness and ramp and leaping off into the air. All we know, is that as we’re getting older, whenever we have to jump down off the bed or sofa, mum gives us a helping hand so we don’t hurt ourselves. She would never put us in danger. We don’t understand why the show and the judges thought any of this was a good idea. All we do know is mum is now afraid to watch anymore, and we think they’re all stupid for sending Bill and Star home.

I need a web address for downloading,thanks!

Travis & Presley
For the age of your boxer I have to say he is a very smart puppy and,you are doing great and I think you should win.

JD & Galaxy
I am so sorry your dog got hurt I hope he gets better .

Bill & Star
SHOULD STILL BE THERE

Theresa & Leroy
Your both doing great and I think you and you your dog belong there don’t worie about the barking he is saying he loves

Lori & Andrew

Im sorry to say but I think you should have been gone along time ago and why Bill and Star left before you is just dumb… your dog is cute thow

Bill and Star are true american’s and should have stayed. All the players are american dog lovers TOO. I don’t think the dogs should have been made to jump. Lets bring back Bill and Star & JD & Galaxy Next season. Give them another chance.
Bill good luck with your wife and family. You had my vote

Big Matt

Well, well, well.

Who do we have left? 2 girls, 2 guys. Geez, didn’t see this coming, did we?

Look, this show is all staged. The final two left will be Lori w/ Andrew, and J.D with Galaxy. One guy, One girl. One boy dog, One girl dog. One big dog, One small dog.

So who will go home next week?

Travis and Presley get sent home next week, Theresa and Leroy the next.

Sucks because I was rooting for Theresa and Leroy and Bill and Star from the start of the show.

Democracy can only be a relative! Relative terms of the ratings!
Of the three judges can not decide everything!
I will always support you! —Bill & Star
I am very disappointed with the show, will not be watching!

Here is one more thing I want to say to all of you who did this last elephant stunt if you all just said and said no we will not do this challenge, AND Thought what if the rope broke and my dog fell.
ANd you all said this is not worth losing are love one for the money, do you really think they would have said then your all gone. I am sorry but the owners could have said no . I am so made at the judges for letting this happen. Put that small white mutt that you bring to the judging on the rope you loser. But no you wouldn’t because your A Judge and none of you would put your dog ,love one. throw that .. I didn’t really care who won but thought as a dog lover you all would think more of those you love then the money..

All I can say is they LOST me as a viewer-I can finbally watch my other requler shows now-THIS ONE IS OVER FOR ME!!!!!

I am sooooo sorry to see Bill & Star go. I think the judges were unfair. One week Bill gets chastised for pushing Star, the next week he is expelled for not pushing her harder to make her jump. The challenges this week were ridiculous. These are not things to show that your dog is the greatest. (In fact, Star is already a Star and didn’t need to win this to prove it. She saved Bill’s wife so that makes her the greatest.) I hope they reconsider the ’stunts’ they make these dogs do in the future because the ones this week were extreme, and taught the dogs things that could be very dangerous. Will they know that jumping off something very high will be ok now when they do not have a zip line attached??????

Your show was very enjoyable until the last episode! The stunts were cruel and inhumane! Smart were the dogs that DIDN”T JUMP! And as for the elephant—how would you feel it that creature were coming toward YOU!!!!!

This was INHUMANE treatment of dogs. I will NEVER watch this ridiculous show again or buy any of the magazines the judges represent. They should be charged with CRUELTY!!!

Bill and Star were my FAVORITES, they should definatly think of putting them back on and Sending Laurie and Andrew home. There the worst team out of all of them… including the ones already elimitated.Also, what is with the dangerous stunts? I mean to say that what if the elephant really did charge and killed a dog and what about that zipline, all it is teaching the dogs is that if they jump off something high it will be ok and if they do it again it will be without a zipline! They should reconsider those so called”stunts” there meant for humans not dogs! Besides ziplines don’t prove there the greatest american dog, saving someone wife does.(Thank you Star for saving your owners wife and NOT jumping the zipline.

Last night’s show showing the challenge with the elephant and having the dogs leap off a paltform was not only dangerous to the dogs but was cruel behavior on the part of CBS and most assuredly of the judges. Last week Victoria preached on how Bill pushed Star to hard on the Maze. But on this weeks show basically berated Bill and Star for not completing a perilous stunt. Stunt dogs that do this go through rigours and constant training and not just a few hours and then told to jump. One of the above comments stated about how dangerous African Elephnats can be. Not only were people hurt in several rampages by an elephnat (trained ones at that), but trainers were killed. What safety measures were in place to protect these pets? I believe that this so called method of entertainment should be investigated by the ASPCA as a clear case of cruelity to animals, especially with the injury sustained by Galaxy which is clearly related to her leap off the platform

I would like to know what reply (if any) we can expect from the judges, producers, sponsers, etc. Are they blind to all of these posts? I want to watch enough of the show next week to be sure Galaxy is OK, then I am shutting it off. I have a little 12 pound poodle and I get nervous when she jumps off of the bed. I would never want to teach her it’s ok to jump because she “might have a harness on.” What happens if any of these dogs jumps off something high in the future, thinking they will be safe? And just another thought….Bill and Star are already winners. They don’t need an “official announcement.” God Bless them.

I love this show!!! I thought THIS show was a little extreme. The elephant was the only thing I didn’t really like because, an elephant is an animal several things could have gone wrong and a dog could have been injured or even killed. What if the elephant decided to attack the dog? What if the dog attacked the elephant? Thank goodness nothing happened!

I Think the show this week was terrible. First Bill and Star I will miss you so much, you brought such love and caring to that show. Bill you love star so much it shows and she loves you back just as much. I was very sad when you were voted off. I was wishing you to be in the top two, if not the top dog. Second CBS and the producers along with the judges made an incredible error with this weeks show. I cant believe you would put dogs in the danger you did with those stunts. I believe in loving my dogs not making them so scared they don’t know what to do and jumping off of a 30 ft drop off is abuse so is walking up such a steep ramp. Thirdly you judges are supposed to be professionals in the dog field, I am questioning your abilities. Last week you told Bill he pushed his dog to far and yet this week you eliminated him because he was thinking of only his dog. I love dogs, like the show however the injustice don’t to these animals and their owners last week was appalling. You should never have made these dogs perform any of the “stunts” on the show. Lastly Bill and Star warmed my heart he showed a TV audience what it meant to be kind, caring and a good person this type of behavior needs to be on TV more often and he should never have been voted off. Galaxy I hope you are OK, Galaxy was hurt because of the director and judges for last weeks show.

1

GO TRAVIS AND PRESLEY - YOU BOTH ROCK

I thought the last show was a travesty! I would never in a million years subject my coton de tulear to an elephant or make her jump(despite the harness) from that height. I believe the producers and the judges need their heads examined. All of their talk about placing dogs in stress during past shows only demonstrates that they are all full of bologna. I used to look forward to the show but now I think animal rights advocates should file charges!!

I could not believe Bill and Star got sent home. He was the only one who helped the others. I am the 7 yr old grandson that could not sleep the other night. They were my favorite team because they were kind. That should count for more than jumping off a platform. The only good thing about this is that now Bill gets to see his wife, who he missed so much. I still think they are the best and I think they should be voted back on the show. God Bless you Bill & Star (and BIll’s wife)

I have watched this show from the beginning and have had doubts about the sanity of the “challenges” and judges at the get-go. What in the world does “sit and stay” have to do with courage. Sorry, but if a large elephant is coming towards my dog, I expect that dog to get out of the way. Blind obediance has nothing to do with courage. As for Bill and Star - they are the definition of a gentlemen and a lady even when they were voted off, Bill only had good things to say. I am sorry, but JD does not belong in there. His comments are selfish. But I do hope Galaxy is okay after this last stupid challenge. I can’t say I won’t watch the show, but maybe only the last 5 minutes to see who is elimated. Maybe the judges need to spend more time with dogs not ratings people.

Bill I was shocked to see what the judges did Star is a very fine dog the looks she gave you when things didn’t go well showed hom much that dog loved you.Star went out with style ith that final bow. best of luck and Star we love you.
Joe

I could not believe the challanges that this show came up with for these poor animals.I thought that the so called judges were dog experts,but after seeing last weeks show,I see how far from the truth this is.Because of poorly thought out “stunts” these dogs were to perform poor Galaxy was injured.On the prior show Bill was admonished by a judge that he pushed Star to far and last week they were expelled because he did not push her hard enough,I found the leap of faith a big “croc.”I have raised dogs of all breeds for 35 years and at no time asked that they sit in front of a 9000 pound charging elephant.Maybe the judges should do some of these so called “chalanges” and see how well they perform.This is animal cruelity…

You should have one the compotision. You and star rule star is sooo cute :).

The smartest dogs, and people, are the ones who can think independently and not just follow the leader. Dogs trained to assist the handicapped would not leap off a platform because someone called them. They can think for themselves and assess dangerous situations. This is why the dogs who did not leap should have been given the best of the show. Star is the real winner.

The last weeks episode when they had the elephant andrew did’nt move because he’s not smart enough to understand that he could be in danger, and what’s with his name, it sucks! OK well the only reason presley was still there is because he was listening to travis, but you could tell that he wanted to run. I think that both of the challenges that week were bad. The one with the elephant was the worst because the smart dogs got up because they don’t want to get crushed. Think of it this way, if there was an elephant charging at you, you would run. That’s what I though of that week. I don”t care if Star is gone she RULES!!!

I am quite concerned with the Elephant issue. It just enforced to these animals that danger is okay. The other dogs acted appropriately when the elephant started invading their space.

I understand the other challenge as it was a “stunt” challenge. However, I don’t think that these folks signed up for their beloved dogs to be stunt dogs.

I am also appalled at the judge that is complaining about the barking of Leroy the border collie. Evidently she is so focused on “small” dogs that she does not have a clue that border collies are talkers…..especially when they are having fun. I should know I have 2..one is not a talker the other has sooooo much to say!!!!

I do question the capacity of the judges as you can see their biases and frankly let us judge the winner….Bill and Star would be back!!!!

I think the judges showed age discremantion. Bill and Star were by far the best. How many dogs have to get hurt to win a show? I am glad that Bill did not push Star. I can no longer watch this show because of this.

WILL NO LONGER VIEW SHOW NOR WILL NEVER VIEW IN FUTURE
BILL AND STAR ARE THE GREATEST AMERICAN WINNERS! WHY VOTE OFF THE TRUE HEARTS? THEY SHOWED LOVE FOR GOD, EACH OTHER, OTHERS…WHY WOULD NOT THAT REPRESENT AMERICA? BAD MOVE JUDGES REMEMBER ITS AMERICAN DOG…BILL AND STAR GOD BLESS FOR SHOWING US WHAT AMERICA VALUES SHOULD AND STILL ARE!
LOYALTY AND LOVE FOR EACH OTHER AND FAMILY!

i cried when bill and star went home. i copuld not elieve.
course the judges didnt want any of them to gohome on this one.this weeks contest was unfair. cuz some dogs courage may not b that great. some may b really good, like andrew and the charging elephant. who cares at how much courage ur dog has? this weeks just wasnt fair.
poor galaxy.
go travis and presely and jd and galaxy!!!!

RE:This weeks show. Shame - shame on the judges and the producers for being both hypocritical and inhumane! I am totally disgusted! That was the last time that show will be seen in my house. I wonder if the sponsors have seen that week’s show. I certainly wouldn’t want my product associated with an animal being injured in the name on entertainment. Any challenge that could injure an animal in any way has gone way too far. The stongest dog was injured, doesn’t that tell you producers something? I wonder if those dogs, after being taught to jump from great heights will understand that the harness will not be there to protect them when they are on the edge of that second floor deck and the owner walks below them. That has to be the worst reality show ever. At least in the Survivor or Amazing Race series the contestants know they are risking injury. Try explaining that to a dog… How much should the owners be blamed for putting their animals through that kind of torture? I hope winning the prize is worth what they have done to their best friends.

I just saw a preview for next week’s show and saw that because of Galaxy’s injury she has to be carried.Now exactly how does that fit into a show that’s supposed to be about the growth of training for dog and human?The shows producers and so called judges and the show itself should be investigated by P.E.T.A. I hope that all of the fans of the show will stand up with the rest of us and boycott the rest of the season and the sponsers that indorse this show.

why didn’t the judges take into consideration that andrew had “a leg up” and received special training the day before competition and star had no special training but had the same performance as andrew?! in my opinion, if both dogs performed similarly, they should have recognized andrew needed to be held to higher standards since he received special training. i am terribly disappointed in the judges decision to vote bill and star off. bill and star, you were judged unfairly.

I loved these two. I’m really sorry to see this sweet pair go!

We have been watching “The Greatest American Dog” show every Wednesday and have been enjoying it up until the show of “courage.” We have been bothered by this show since it aired and finally decided to get online to see if there was a format for our comments. After reading all of the above comments, we feel justified in our disgust with last Wednesday’s “show” for it was a cruel, thoughtless, and dangerous exhibition of careless and pointless commercialism that put all the dogs at risk. . .shame on all those connected with this segment!
There is no doubt that Galaxy was injured because she was trying to obey JD. The show is totally responsible for her pain and injury. We do not believe any dog “enjoyed” this challenge. . .wagging tails in a lowered position do not indicate “fun.” It was fortunate that Presley was not also injured with the twisting he was doing in his harness.
We personally know of a dog that was standing at the top of a thirty foot cliff when his owner called him to “come” presuming his dog would take the path down. Instead his dog jumped and broke his legs. . .blind obedience does not necessarily mean “courage!”
The producers showed a total disregard for the safety of the dogs who have been trying to be faithful and obedient to please the owners they love even at the expense of their own lives. The sadistic mind that thought up these “stunts” should be fired! Devoted dogs will obey the ones they love and trust because they believe in their owners’ decisions. Thank goodness, sometimes their instincts know the difference between true courage and foolhardy stupidity! Thank goodness, Bill and Star had brains enough to realize the difference between bravery in real life versus foolish dangerous trickery!
The real stars of this show are Bill and his aptly named “orange dog” Star! Saving Bill’s wife’s life is true courage! Throughout this show, they have both been a class act. Bill has always accepted compliments and criticisms with grace and courtesy. He has never whined, complained, or betrayed someone else to further himself and Star as some of the other competitors have done. He always treats Star with care, concern, and love. His obvious love for his wife, his family, and Star have been some of the most touching moments of this entire show. Even when they were unfairly chosen to leave, their departure was done with dignity and class with Star’s bowing to all. Now that was a touching ending that really brought tears to our eyes!

I hope the people that are in charge of the GAD show are reading this blog. They need to know how many dog lovers were horrified at the danger of the stunts and the inconsistency in judging perceived by the viewing audience. As many have pointed out, on rare occasions, elephants are dangerous.
As I was watching, I thought about how quick a dog can be, especially when it feels threatened. What if one of the dogs had charged the elephant, thinking is was a threat to their owner? Even a well-behaved dog could have charged under that pressure. I believe 2 of the dogs did look as though they were thinking about it, but broke off when their owners called.
The leap off the platform was unfair to the dogs as well. Star didn’t leap because her intelligence told her it wssn’t a good idea. I want my dog to be intelligent. I, too, was angry when Bill was criticized for taking the easier ramp when last week he was critized for being too hard on his dog! The judging has to make sense or the show is a wash.
I’ve watched Victoria chew people up for stressing their dogs. How many of them do you think stressed when that 9000 lb. elephant trumpeted and shook its head? Do you think Star stressed when the man she loves more than anything called her and she looked down and realized it was 20 ft to the ground and didn’t know how to get to him? I might’ve cut her a bit of slack thinking she’s not in charge of the show and then she’s theone that critized Bill for considering his dog’s needs on the ramp. She’s lost her credibility with me.
We can huff and puff here, but if we really want to make a difference–write the sponsors. Tell them you will not watch a show that puts dogs in danger. That’s what makes the shows directors and producers listen–when they get calls from their sponsors with viewer concerns.
I hope Galaxy is OK, but if she can’t compete anymore, then that will bring Bill and Star back. They should have never left to begin with.

It was FAKE!!
Star DID fly in that compitition.

Check this out:
http://pic.yupoo.com/groovedogg/00068620cbaa/z7img2um.jpg

That was in episode #1 on 3′56″.

FAKE!FAKE!FAKE!FAKE!FAKE!FAKE!FAKE!FAKE!FAKE!FAKE!

How dare these judges continually misjudge each week. One can plaining see that these judges only like the ‘little’ dogs. Presley, week after week, performs better than all the others. I do not think the judges are considering the fact that Presley is 18 months old in comparsion to the others who are 6,7,8, and 9 years old. Look at this weeks, he ran the course, including the JUMP, faster then all the others and yet the judges gave him no credit!!! For a PUP, Presley out performs the others.

Get with it judges, and start judging fairly!

I used to enjoy this show until last week. I still get mad when I think about how your show put those beautiful dogs in danger and caused them unnessary fear. I was especially disgusted with your panel of judges who present themself as so self rightous and yet are so wishy washy with their opinions depending on what the show is asking of the dogs. No regard has every been given to the age or size of the dogs when your stunts have been devised.

You have lost me as fan and I used to promote your show

Well, it is easy to see who the smart one was!!! My baby would step in front of a moving train to protect his pack, but, I will not let it step in front of a raging elephant, human, etc. just to prove how brave or obediant he might be!!! I have diabetes and to have a dog that knows you better than you know yourself is worth any preemo position or high paying contract!!! “Get over yourselves” judges. You never confuse them, mixed signals get you know where. Just to show you how forgiving I might be after you sent Bill and Star home, if my Zeus was near and you were in trouble, would I walk by and keep him from getting hurt or would I let him rescue you? You will have to ask Zeus!!
What a bunch of losers you are. Bill and Star have what it takes to keep them together..unspoken love and loyalty…something I think that the so called “experts” lack!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

This is all so unreal!! To ask an aminal to do theses kind of things is STUPID!!!
As a dog owner of two never would I ask a loving kind aminal of mine to do either stunt.Like all of the above blog”I would like for the judges to make their animals do these stunts. They seem to have them on the show with them
See how long their animal would sit and have a charging elephant coming after them. I realize the judges don’t devise the stunts, But to claim to be an advocate of humane treatment to animals and to sit and watch this happen is more than I can understand.
As all can see Bill and Star were the Stars Regardless of what the so called judges think.
SHAME ON ALL OF YOU !!

I love the show and I will continue watching until the end Bill and Star had a great relationship but they were not the best JD and Galaxy are the best overall the dog is awesome not he owner but the dog I love Presley I own a white boxer and they are great dogs I hope they win but I stil say Galaxy is the best and should be the greatest american dog she is smartI will continue to watch and hope the show continues next year I love dogs have 5 of them and do not think the show was cruel I do agree they have already picked a winner and they do not like Travis and presley that is obvious

I am through with this show! Big mistake sending Bill and Star home!

I think a lot of people are flying off the handle about this competition speaking from emotion and not from judgement. In any show you have your favorites and you want them to win. Bill and Star were a lot of peoples favorites as they were the sweet, kind, and gentle pair and thats what we want in life to win. The challenge was in no way inhumane as these are stunts done by many animals daily. Will you never watch anther movie with an animal doing a stunt in it, becuase they do the very stuff you saw today. All teh Disney movies you love, the animals do similiar stunts to make those movies, so think twice before you judge this show. I too have been guilty of being disgusted with the show as the the unfair judging, but htat is because I want Presely to win as I am a boxer owner, but hte fact is the judges have to rule for that week and that week alone.

Let me ask you this, if you are in love with Bill and Star and against cruelty so much, then you are being hipocritical as Bill was pushing Star to do the stunt, was excited to see Star possibly do it, and would you be praising him had Star actually jumped? Bill could have refused the challenge all together and just went home by his own choice, but he chose to do the stunt, they all did, so maybe blame should rest with the owners.

The show is for entertainment. It would suck and be pointless if we wathched judging on standard stuff like simple tricks or obstacle courses, their are already competitions for that, this had to test dogs on unique skills that set them apart from the rest of the dofs in the US as “Greatest American Dog”

INHUMANE, PATHETIC, SHAMELESS GRAB FOR RATINGS. You have lost yet another viewer. Tonight at 8:00 pm I’ll be watching something else. Those poor dogs. Shame on CBS for allowing last week’s treatment. Sad.

I am very mad at the judges for there stupidity at the “Courage test” It was defiently not about courage! I am 13 and meet Bill and Star at at a dog show he told me the end was good. I cried when he got voted off. The only real smart dogs were Andrew and Star. Who expects there dog to jump off a thirty foot platform and its dangerous. I am very disapointed and hope that Bill somhow comes back.

A reality show that FINALLY caught my heart. I cry every time lately when a dog is eliminated. One HAS to be and I cannot say I have disagreed, mostly because they are all tough choices now that we are down to the best.
Loved the relationship with Bill and Star, but Star needed a break. Yes, I cried, but knew she needed to be home and comfy, she had enough.

Sadly, another episode regarding “Judging” lack of knowledge especially as it regards canine “loyalty.” None of the judges have evidently experience canine loyalty in the greater outdoors, wartime, or in times of human loss and stress. The “tests” need to be further demonstrated by those that have actually worked with “all breeds” during times of real demonstrated loyalty. Shame on the Judges!

Clothes on a dog aren’t a natural thing? I would rather have Sugar wear clothes & shoes before I would want her to jump from; with harness from a high platform. Place fear in her heart…………..
Judges are stupid. Star & Bill were the perfect Man & Best friend pair. Again STUPID judges!

I love watching the show, but I get really pissed off everytime I hear anything come out of any of the 3 judges mouths. I have never seen such snotty people. Wendy is just a plain bitch. I would never buy anything that these idiots wrote. If this show continues next season, I hope that they get smart and get some new judges. No really, where did they get these 3 assholes. I really feel sorry for Wendys dog. The crap that it has to go through with her. I really feel for the people that are on the show and I can see it in their eyes that they want to cuss out everyone of those so-called judges. R.J. Cutler, you really need to give the jobs to caring and compassionate people. The assholes that you have hired, are the worst excuse for, well, anything! I am an animal lover, and I would never do anything to hurt my babies. But I don’t trust these three jerkoffs!!!