Poetry Explorer- Classic Contemporary Poetry, DOGS IN SHOW, by WILLIAM A. PHELON


Poetry Explorer

Classic and Contemporary Poetry

DOGS IN SHOW, by                    
First Line: They stand in vocal ranks upon their benches
Last Line: Where are the dogs of yesteryear?
Subject(s): Animals; Dog Shows


THEY stand in vocal ranks upon their benches,
Big dogs and small dogs, dogs of many a kind,
Speaking their welcome to the passing thousands,
Barking with one concerted, vastly noisy mind.
Airedale and collie, Boston bull, police dog,
Setter and pointer—yes, we find them here—
But where's the mastiff and the black Newfoundland?
Where are the dogs of yesteryear?

Spaniel and pug—aye, they are still among us,
Toy dogs are numerous; the black-mouthed chow
Calls from a nearby bench, and many others,
Bulldogs and terriers, stand before us now.
We see a regiment of splendid creatures—
Winners of cups and ribbons—all are here—
But where's the giant Dane? Or the old sheep dog?
Where are the dogs of yesteryear?

Styles change in dogs much as they do in clothing.
The canine monarch of a dozen years ago
Finds only room to-day with those who always loved him—
No place upon the benches of the modern show!
Magnificent, no doubt, the present winners,
The splendid emperors of dogdom here—
But where's the bloodhound and the spotted coach dog?
Where are the dogs of yesteryear?





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