Can not believe how woeful the BBC's coverage of Cruft's was last night. However did any one see the clip about the lady and her Mal's?. Was very surprised to see them running thro some beautiful woods and counryside totally off lead.  Although they looked truly stunning and it is a sight to behold I thought that this was a definite 'No-No'  Maybe it was just for the filming
However they (the BBC) did seem to be really pushing this breed and  I think that it is irresponsible to do so for a breed that is obviosly not suitable for Joe Public. I would have loved one three years ago when I was researching a suitable dog but it quickly became clear that this was not a novice's choice. I'm sure that many watching last night will just see a beautifl dog and rush out...
That's the downside of their First CC

i know of a mal that does free running off a lead he also does agility with it
i do know the majority of mals could not be let off the lead have a friend that has 3 and she would never let them off
carol

Mine are fine off lead also but many are not .... haven't seen the programme yet but I know the lady featured wanted to make sure the bad sides of the breed and the responsibilties etc were put across as well as what a nice dog they are to own ...