Every kid who has experienced the run-up to Christmas knows what “reindeer games” are, but those who don’t mind placing a little bit of money on the line (or online at sports betting sites) know about another kind of contest altogether, that being “canine games”. Before the PETA types get to painting their signs, “canine games” does not refer to Michael Vick’s dogfighting ring, nor even to Greyhound racing – it’s not about the Puppy Bowl, either – but rather to dog shows and competitions.

“Gimme 20 Biscuits on the Rhodesian Ridgeback”

As hilariously depicted in the movie, Best in Show, canine competition is fierce, frought with worry and flush with cash. Not only is there a lot at stake for the dogs, owners, trainers and handlers, there’s also quite a bit of Vegas-style action going on behind the scenes. Handicappers like those reviews at 5dimes.com actually have a treasure trove of data and information upon which to base their odds-making tendencies, as much or more than that involved in horse racing or billiards.

But That’s Subjective…

By now it is obvious that human nature is behind our desire to put a wager on just about any two things moving in a straight line. Since canine games are decided by judges and not by touchdowns, home runs, free throws or slap shots, the betting public gets an extra shot of adrenaline – nobody really knows until the ribbons are handed out, especially since so much of judging canine games is based on subjective opinion.

As one develops the keen sense of an aficionado, one will stand a better chance of winning their bets at the canine games bmaker. However the dogs (and their people) might feel about that, it cannot be understated how many people have taken an interest in the world of canine competition, whether they stand to make a few bucks on what happens in the arena or otherwise. It’s a dog’s world – and there’s nothing wrong with that!