Papa Woof Roth: Co-Producer of International Puppy Contest

I’m an old dog that can still learn new tricks! I’m actually celebrating my 30th anniversary in the Puppy Community this year. I’m Christopher “Papa Woof” Roth. I live in Saint Louis, MO USA with my puppy/husband Boo. We have 4 bio dog kids and currently a Mother in Law living with us. I’m currently the Owner/Producer of the Midwest Puppy Contest, Co-Owner/Co-Producer of International Puppy Contest, Head Handler for CLAW in Cleveland Ohio and love to cook, watch movies, go to amusement parks, ride my motorcycles and just enjoy life to it’s fullest!

When did you first discover pup play or realize you were interested?
I was being mentored by an Old Guard Sir in 1984 to be a Sir myself, He noticed my puppy (at that time Human Dog) side and showed me a big part of my life that was missing. He taught me about puppy and how to be a good Sir and Alpha

How would you describe pup play headspace based on your experiences?
Having the opportunity to escape all the sucky things that come with being an adult even if for a little while. Pouncing, play or being cuddled and petted.

What does being a pup mean to you?
Being friendly, faithful and loyal. Never losing your playful side and being a good Alpha and show others the fun that puppy can be in a safe and sane manner

What are some ways you know of that someone can connect with their inner pup energy on their own?
Meditation, getting out and away from the city into the woods and connecting with nature. Music is also a very big thing with me and can def help me connect.

Does gear help your immersion into headspace?
I love my gear but I don’t have to have it. I do find myself less critical my myself when I’m in my hood and can let go and be silly. Normally I’m very self conscious of my appearance and rather hard on myself.

Describe an instance where your pup personality came out at an unexpected moment?
When I get very frustrated at work I growl a lot. My coworkers just laugh and go with it. They expect that out of me now.

Do you identify with a particular breed of bio dog? If so, describe how you relate to that breed?
Black Wolf, def have an untameable side and don’t back down easily when challenged. Very loyal and caring of those I trust.

What are your pup community goals?
To be the pup that I would have wanted to meet when I first got into the community. Help others discover puppy and have their own “A HA!” moment when they realize it’s something that has been missing in their lives and that they are not the only one that feels this way. We had nothing here in Saint Louis and I made things happen and still try and do that whenever and where ever I can. I actually developed one of the first Puppy 101 classes years go.

What do you see as some of the strengths of the pup community? Weaknesses or obstacles?
Strengths – our diversity, adaptability, excitement to share and explore with others, openness and willing to except most others into the community.
Weaknesses – Too many force a cookie cutter mold on what it means to be a puppy. It’s the whole “You are only a puppy if you do it exactly like me” mentality and if you see puppy in a different way you are a wannabe or poser. Also those that see the community as a mark to be exploited and used. Not all puppies are submissive and if you mess with the wrong one, you will get bitten!

Within the pup world, how do you view the significance or meaning of a collar?
To me a collar is the icing on the cake. You don’t have to have it, but when it’s earned, it’s amazing. My pup and I actually wear each others collars and our wedding rings are on our locks.
I was taught the Old Guard Collar meanings and still believe in that today – here are the definitions
There are various types of collars, and not all are used in every relationship – it really is the personal choice of the Dominant.

The different types of collars are as follows:

[box] Collar of Protection.

A collar of protection is denoted by the initials of the protecting Dominant and a small P to signify that protection.
It means that the submissive is under the protection of that particular Dominant, often due to a failed or abusive relationship, or the fact that he/she maybe being stalked or harassed.
Wearing a protection collar gives the submissive time to heal if needed, and the security of knowing he/she is safe when out and about, as he/she is under protection. He/she is literally unapproachable without the knowledge of the protecting Dominant.
Usually, it is a Dominant of high standing in the community that is approached for, or offers protection. There is no time limit on a collar of protection, it is there for as long as it is needed.

Collar of Consideration

A collar of consideration is often the very first step in a potential new relationship between a Dominant and submissive.
This collar is usually worn for an agreed period of time, and at the end of that time, it can be renegotiated, or the relationship can go to the next step, or both parties can decide to go separate ways.
A collar of consideration is not offered or accepted lightly, it denotes more than just a casual interest and both parties should understand the underlying meaning behind this commitment.
It is an indication to other Dominants that this submissive is basically off limits whilst in the “consideration” period, and it signifies the beginning of a potentially committed relationship.
It is not, however, a lifelong commitment, and there should never be any blame attached to either party, if at some stage one or other decides to withdraw from the situation.

Training collar.

A training collar is the second step, and will be offered by the Dominant, usually after a consideration collar has been in place for a certain period and the next level is agreed upon.
Usually, there will have been many discussions about likes, dislikes, needs and desires, and discoveries about personalities and characteristics, with the underlying factor that there is real potential for this relationship to go deeper, and more committed than before.
A training collar is almost equivalent to an engagement ring, and usually involves the same emotions, feelings and responsibilities.
It signifies to other Dominants and submissives that this relationship is now on a more serious level, and has the potential to be a long term commitment.
The Dominant may now move into other areas of training and discipline and can often demand higher standards from the submissive than before.
The submissive, on accepting a training collar, should have a good understanding of what is required of her – and should be very much aware that her behaviour is a reflection of the training he/she is receiving from the Dominant whose collar he/she wears.
The collar is also a symbol of the devotion and commitment the submissive has for the Dominant.
At this stage, there can often be conflicts in the minds of both Dominant and submissive. The Dominant now has the added responsibility of this particular submissive, and it may well curtail His exploration of other submissives, unless of course it is agreed beforehand that there will be others involved.
The submissive can struggle to reconcile her mind to her submission, and her commitment to one person. He/she is no longer available for other potential Dominants, and this can lead to feelings of less personal freedom in her life than before.
Subconscious testing of the relationship’s strength is often an underlying current, as both parties want to see how strong the commitment is. Insecurities and doubts are brought to attention, and often raise their ugly heads when there is no need. These elements must be faced and conquered if the relationship is to move to the next and final step.
Honesty and trust are paramount in any relationship, but more so at this stage as this is the final building block for the ultimate final step.

A training collar can also be used in another way. A Dominant can give a training collar to a particular submissive, in order to train and mentor her in correct behaviour and protocols whilst he/she is searching for her ideal Dominant with whom he/she will then pursue a serious lifelong D/s relationship.
The mentoring Dominant will help in the search, and will give advice and training whilst doing so. This submissive is treated as if owned by the Mentoring Dominant, until such times as he/she is released to another.
Again, as with protection collars, it is usually a Dominant of high standing and respect that becomes a Mentor.

Formal collar.

This collar which is often known as the slave collar, is the ultimate goal and final step in a D/s relationship.
A formal collar is a recognition of the bond and attachment between the Dominant and submissive and bears the same level of commitment and deep feelings as a wedding ring. It shows devotion, mutual respect, and expresses the fact that the Dominant and submissive have the same ideals and desires to share their lives.
In giving this collar, the Dominant shows His commitment to care for the submissive, and be responsible for her. Acceptance of this collar by the submissive, is an offering of her complete submission to the Dominant, he/she gives the whole girl to him, heart, mind body and soul, and trusts Him to with her life.
It signifies trust, respect and commitment, elements that are crucial to a successful D/s relationship.
A formal collar is often given at a ceremony in front of friends and other D/s community members. It is a deeply emotional and heartfelt time for both parties, and it is an honour to be invited to such a ceremony.[/box]

What are your thoughts on pup names?
A name is something that should be fitting and can either be decided by yourself or giving by your Dominant. I really don’t think one should have to give up their name it there is a separation with their Dom unless it’s their choice. I was actually given my name Papa Wolf years ago by a kitten who is a good friend. I have always been a father/protector/Alpha figure and have been there for someone when they didn’t have anyone they could look up to.

We hear many pups in the community calling for increased education. What are some of the topics you would like to see more education on?
Safety, responsibility when out at public events, community involvement, and there really needs to be world history of puppy developed so we don’t lose touch with our beginnings.

How does your pup persona balance with your “everyday” life?
I’m me all rolled up into one. I always have my collar on, always have something puppy related around (have a dog bowl filled with candy on my desk at the office) just depends on where I am at and who I’m with if more of my puppy side comes out.

In terms of gender identification, sexual orientation, age, or any other “descriptor,” the pup and handler community is often touted as being very inclusive. What are your views of ideas regarding this?
Puppy started very gay male just like the pony.kitten communities were primarily female. I think there should be an inclusiveness but I also think that there should be some respected boundaries if let’s say females wanted a time to themselves or same for males. I don’t think anyone should force their way into a situation or playspace if it’s going to make everyone else uncomfortable. There should be mine, yours and ours time and those boundaries respected. If events want to have an all male time, there should be an equal female time and also an equal non-gender specific time.

Where do you see the pup and handler community in relation to the broader leather/kink/fetish community?
We are trying to make/earn our place. We have had more than a few set backs with not only those on the outside not thinking we deserve to be included but also our own community not respecting a communal kink space. Just as happened in the boy community we have also had those that didn’t feel they needed to use common considerations and respect of others at events which almost really set us back and had us banned from some of the major events. This year we have really been working to show we can earn our place and this year’s CLAW was a prime example of showing the positive side of puppy!!!

I hope this helps!