Congratulations to the flat coat who won Best in Show at Crufts.  He is a glorious example of his breed and a deserving winner.  After all the criticisms in the past when winners have included dogs who have had operations to enable them to breathe properly, it was a joy to see a dog looking like a normal dog  Let us hope that the Kennel Club is learning from their deservedly bad press - and encouraging responsible breeding, such as the dalmatian/pointer cross which has been deliberately bred to exclude some of the breed's genetic problems. 

History tells us that people like to follow fashion (this is why everyone rushes out to buy a Kate Middleton lookalike dress!); when an Irish setter won Crufts it was suddenly the most popular breed in the country attracting many totally unsiitable owners.  So after yesterday's triumph, I fear for the flat coat.  Please, if you are tempted to buy one, do your homework first.  Visit the Kennel Club website, talk to the breed society and by all means, email or call me.