After 125 years, the American Kennel Club has changed its rules – mutts will be allowed to compete, wet nose to wet nose with the purebreds. While the doggie beauty contests will still remain off limits, non-pedigree pooches will be able to enter the skill-based events. Allow me to make a prediction. Once mutts get a paw in the door they’ll slowly takeover the K9 world -- everyone knows inbreeding produces inferior intelligence and physical deformities, just look at Prince Charles.

I’m thrilled to bits with the AKC's decision and I hope in some small way this promotes the adoption of dogs instead of everyone wanting to buy purebred pups. When a shelter dog takes top honors at Westminster, I’m going to cry myself through a Chihuahua sized box of Kleenex. I’m a sucker for a rags to riches story (I barely made it through the trailer for the Blind Side). From now on, show dogs won’t only be rewarded for their external beauty, but for their skills, determination and intelligence. Hey Miss America pageant, I hope you’re taking notes.

Snotty breeders who are growling about this decision need a quick jerk from a choke chain. If they really love dogs, they should love all dogs regardless of their bloodline. Mixed breed owners have known for a long time obedience, ability and loyalty from a pooch has nothing to do with its papers. I’m grateful for mutts because they are an awful lot like me – strange looking, but lovable.

That’s why I’m grateful for mutts.