Is this really what our state government has come to? Official dogs?

You’d think today’s legislators would get that frivolous “official” state designations are not the best use of their time — especially considering criticism leveled regarding lawmakers when the Whoopie Pie was designated the official state treat a few years ago.

But, no, this week they were weighing an important decision about whether or not the Labrador retriever should be designate the official state dog. Let that sink in: Official. State. Dog. Huh?

In a Bangor Daily News report, Sen. David Dutremble, D-Biddeford, even acknowledged the official treat kerfuffle: “I will not lie. At first I was like, ‘Oh no, the Whoopie Pie all over again,’” he was quoted as saying, referencing a 2011 bill that drew some scorn for lawmakers’ attention to naming an official state treat. “One may ask, why the Labrador retriever? I answer, why not?”

The bigger question, however, is why?

It’s not to say that the breed is not worthy. There were a whole host of people on hand to advocate and lobby for the legislature to make the designation official. It’s clear from those who spoke that Labrador retrievers have a great many admirable qualities, and Dumtremble likened ones such as hard work, versatility and a friendly demeanor as characteristics typical of Mainers.

Of course, the state’s penchant for official designations was brought up as a reason to name an official dog. Stacy Gile noted Maine has an official animal, bird, fish, beverage, dessert and cat. There’s also the aforementioned official state treat. Now, most states have an official bird and motto, as well as a few others unique to the geographic location. That’s why it makes sense for there to be an official beverage — Moxie is from Lisbon, after all — and it’s hard to get more Maine than the Maine coon cat.

Gile also pointed out that there are 11 other states in the U.S. that have official dogs. In addition, according to her research, Labrador retrievers are the registered breed by a more than one-to-vie ration in a number of Maine towns and cities.

Another factor in favor of the designation is that no one was there, according to the report, to speak out against it.

But whether or not there was active opposition to the designation doesn’t mean the legislature should make it official.

With measures like this coming up for consideration so soon in the term, it doesn’t exactly inspire confidence issues of importance will be dealt with in a timely fashion.

At least Gov. Paul LePage is trying to tackle legitimate things as he begins his second term. Hopefully, our legislators will start following his lead and do the same.