As usual Bosun, a well written and considered post....quality mate.
I myself am not a fan of "Clubs", whatever good intentions folk may have it allmost always ends up with 6 blokes at the top in it for themselves and what they can have out of it.
The rest of the members just provide the funding.
My own opinion is, stuff the clubs.......do your own thing and keep to a small group of trusted pals......between you all, there should be a good dog or two no matter what the breed.