Annual 2024/2025

WE AREBest in Show

As the editor of Best in Show Magazine, it’s my privilege to reflect on the journey of 2024 and look ahead to all that 2025 has in store.

Like everything in life, this past year had its share of highs and lows. But, as we all know, it’s our health that truly matters. As long as we’re healthy, we have every reason to be grateful and optimistic.

The world continues to turn, and the most important lesson we’ve learned is that no matter the setback, it’s not about falling, but about rising again, stronger than before.

2024 saw a multitude of shows across the globe.Whether we won or lost, it was all part of the journey—a learning experience for every handler, breeder, judge, and dog lover involved. And through it all, we were reminded that the key is to keep pushing forward, constantly striving to be the best version of ourselves.

One of the highlights of the year was our very first Best in Show Magazine Gala, which took place in December in Orlando. And what a win it was! The event was a tremendous success, bringing together so many wonderful people from the dog world, and it truly marked a milestone in our journey. We’re thrilled to share all the details and highlights from the Gala in this edition, so be sure to check out the coverage!

I’m also excited to share that Best in Show Magazine is officially becoming a monthly publication starting in 2025. Our first edition, which will coincide with Westminster, will be a historic moment for us. Not only will we be covering one of the most

prestigious events in the dog world, but we will also be publishing our very first World Annual in February 2025. This special edition will be a groundbreaking project, uniting the dog communities of the USA, Canada, and Europe like never before. For the first time, a magazine will be available across all three continents, bringing together handlers, breeders, judges, and dog lovers from every corner of the world. It’s a thrilling opportunity to build stronger connections and celebrate the global passion we share for these amazing animals.

In this upcoming February edition, you’ll find a wealth of new articles, captivating stories, insightful reports, and, of course, all the exciting details from our first Gala event. You’ll also enjoy beautiful, eye-catching ads crafted by our talented BIS Magazine team. We are more excited than ever to showcase content that speaks to the heart of the dog world.

As we prepare for the cold New York winter, remember to stay warm if you’re attending Westminster, and don’t forget to take some time to relax and recharge. There’s always something special about taking a moment for yourself, especially amidst the hustle of such an exciting year.

Here’s to 2025 and all the amazing experiences yet to come!

Thank you for your continued support and for being a part of this incredible journey.

JOVANA DANILOVIC RANGEL Editor in Chief

LEE GROGAN Associate Editor

DORDE DANILOVIC & BELTRÁN H. ALONSO Social Media

Design

BEST IN SHOW CREATIVE

2024/2025: A European Perspective

• Crufts 2025

• Interview with judge: JUSSI LIIMAtAINEN

• Travel Tips: BRNO, CZ

• DOG SHOW CALENDAR 2025

• English Springers by B. Pegan

• 2024 in Europe

REPORT

by

R. Clark

• Westminster 2024

• Interview with handler: EMILY BURDON

• Interview with junior handler: LILA HOLBERG

• AKC National Championship by Royal Canin 2024

• Santa Barbara 2024

• Montgomery 2024

• Interview with judge Lydia Hutchinson

• Interview with handler: HEIDI GEVRAIS

• Interview with judge: YVONNE SAVARD

• Interview with junior handler: ABBEY MAHN

Best in Show Winners in 2024 sent by owners, breeders and handlers

2024 in the CANADA

I want to take a moment to express my deepest gratitude to each and every one of you for coming and supporting our very first Gala. The experience was nothing short of incredible, and it was truly moving to see so many familiar and new faces, all sharing in this dream that has become a reality. When I was 20 and published the first issue of Best in Show Magazine, I could have never imagined that, at 33, I’d be standing here, not only with a magazine spanning Europe, the USA, and Canada, but also hosting a Gala dinner in Orlando. It was just a dream back then—but dreams do come true.

I am so proud of my team, whose dedication and hard work made this event possible. From the fantastic band to the stunning lighting and delicious food, every detail exceeded my expectations. A special thank you to Joleigh Nolen for her amazing support with the Martial Robin exhibition, and to Leslie Hutto for her breathtaking sculpture exhibition. You all made this event unforgettable, and I couldn’t have done it without you.

Here’s to the future and all the dreams yet to come!

BEST IN SHOW MAGAZINE Gala

A night to remember

On the evening of December 13, 2024, the inaugural Best in Show Magazine Gala made its dazzling debut, bringing together the brightest stars of the dog breeding world for an unforgettable night of celebration. The prestigious event, held on a Friday night, was attended by 200 distinguished guests, including top dog breeders, handlers, junior handlers, and esteemed judges from around the globe.

The Gala unfolded in a stunning setting, complete with a delectable dinner, live music, and a lively DJ performance that kept the energy high throughout the night. Guests mingled, networked, and enjoyed the company of like-minded individuals while taking in the beautiful atmosphere that had been carefully curated for the evening.

A special highlight of the evening was the unveiling of The World Annual, an exciting upcoming project that promises to bring even greater prestige to the world of purebred dogs. During the program, our partners from Doggit – Carley and Cameron Simpson – and partners from Signature Pet Transport – Christian Diaz – gave speeches about their products and plans, providing valuable insights for the dog community. The program gave guests a glimpse into

the future of the dog industry, leaving them eagerly anticipating what’s to come.

The evening was expertly hosted by Marcelo Veras, a professional dog handler, and Janna Bonassi, Mrs. Florida. Their professionalism, grace, and incredible voices set the tone for the night, making the event feel both elegant and celebratory. Their chemistry as hosts brought an added level of class and charm, ensuring that all guests felt welcome and valued.

Official photographers Kaitlyn and Kelsey Price did an exceptional job capturing the magic of the evening, expertly documenting the event and preserving memories for all who attended. Their photographs will serve as lasting reminders of this historic first Gala.

As guests arrived, they were greeted with a glass of champagne and treated to a visual feast, with Martial Robin, a renowned French artist, displaying his stunning paintings at the entrance. The artwork added a touch of sophistication and served as a beautiful backdrop for the start of the evening’s festivities.

Inside, the venue was elegantly set with 20 large round tables, each designed to host 10 guests. At the center of each table stood a magnificent bronze sculpture by the talented Leslie Hutto, creating an atmosphere of artistic elegance and conversation. These sculptures served as both a stunning focal point and a testament to the incredible talent in the world of canine artistry.

In addition to the breathtaking artwork on display, a silent auction was held to benefit Take the Lead, a nonprofit organization dedicated to assisting those in the dog community facing health crises. The auction featured five exclusive sculptures, paintings, and even a photoshoot, with all proceeds going to support this meaningful cause.

Our goal is to make this dinner a tradition for ending the year in style, celebrating the past year while bringing together the best of both the West and East, as well as people from all corners of the globe. This year, we were thrilled to welcome numerous guests from Europe, further strengthening the international ties within the dog community.

The Best in Show Magazine Gala was not just a celebration of the dog world but also an evening that showcased the artistry, generosity, and camaraderie that define the industry. The event set a high bar for future galas and left attendees eagerly anticipating the next opportunity to come together and celebrate the world of purebred dogs.

Alicia Jones & Alexis Jones

Dear Jovana,

We want to extend our gratitude for hosting such a beautiful and successful gala. The Take The Lead auction was a wonderful opportunity to support a cause so special to our sport. Your attention to every detail didn’t go unnoticed and the Leslie Hutto sculptures on every table truly elevated the ambiance. Thank you again for including us in a special evening with so many friends from around the World.

Jamie Souza Bartlett

Thank you, Best In Show Magazine, for putting on a thoughtful and fun-filled event that was as classy as your publication! Having opportunities to celebrate with friends from all over the country are so few and far between. We appreciate all your effort to make it happen!

GALA impressions

Antonio Vidmar

BIS gala dinner was truly beautiful and professionally put together celebrating its first year, all this is just proof how remarkable and successful Jovana is in every field of her work, thank you for invitation, we had amazing time.

Katelyn Ford

The Best in Show Gala was a beautiful event. The food was good, the company was great, the music was fun and the attire was stunning. We had an amazing time! We won’t forget that night for a long time! Use what you want.

Cameron & Carley Simpson

The fabulous Best In Show Gala was a much-needed break from the daily grind, offering a night to celebrate a year of accomplishments, cherished friendships, and the industry’s shared successes. DOGGIT was honored to be part of this incredible event, reflecting on the meaningful beginnings of our foundation and the bright future ahead for responsible dog ownership. It was an evening of inspiration and gratefulness!

Mark & Susie Mitchell

ItwasapleasuretoattendtheFirstBestInShowMagazineGala.Thevenue was transformed into a stunning space with creative decorations. Thank you for putting on a spectacular production. The energy was high and the party flowed smoothly. We and everyone really enjoyed the music. Loved the Photo Booth backdrop and the surprise guest appearance was a nice highlight.

GALA impressions

BEST IN SHOW EUROPE

CRU FTS 20 25

GUNDOG

Winner

2nd Place

Sh Ch Wilchrimane Frankly Darlin

Breed: Pointer

Owner: Miss,Siddle, Siddle & Medeiros

Sh Ch Zheridons Blanche

Breed: Spaniel (Cocker)

Owner: Mr D C & Mr M D Todd & Rahman

3rd Place

Ch Lab Spb Gazprom Ew23/24

Breed: Retriever (Labrador)

Owner: Mr S Nugteren

4th Place

Sh Ch Vanitonia Soloist

Breed: Spaniel (Clumber)

Owner:Mr L A S Cox

HOUND

Winner

Breed: Whippet

Owner: Mrs A Corradini

Owner:

2nd Place

Am Gch Zaida Bint Muti von Haussman

Breed: Afghan Hound

Mr R & Mr S & Mr J & Dr A Podesta & Pfeil & Donahue & Sobrado

3rd Place

Ch Caredig Mafioso

Breed: Irish Wolfhound

Owner: Mrs D E Tebbutt

4th Place

Ch Bazinga Make Love Not War

Breed: Pharaoh Hound

Mr S T & Mrs L & Mr R Hansen & Stark & Stark

Int/multi Ch Una Donna Che Conta Euw23

PASTORAL

Winner

2nd Place

Ch Corimist Destiny by Design

Breed: Bearded Collie

Owner: Miss N & Ms J Whelan & Young

Shepherds of Paradise Tsss Milk Shake Please!

Breed: Australian Shepherd

Owner: Miss P Laroche

3rd Place

Sh Ch Fayken I Am Love JW

Breed: Border Collie

Owner: Mr R K & Miss J Green & Ratcliffe

4th Place

Ch Vi’skaly’s Klas Pontus Arnoldson

Breed: Pyrenean Mountain Dog

Owner: Mrs I Mattisson-Sandstrom

TERRIER

Winner

2nd Place

3rd Place

Totgree’s Hannabell

Breed: Jack Russell Terrier

Owner: Mr S. Sgura

4th Place

Breed: Border Terrier

Owner: Mr R & Miss L Goddard

Cze Ch Edbrios Tequila

Breed: Kerry Blue Terrier

Ms J & Mr P A Poulova & O´brien

Ch Perrisblu The Phantom

Breed: Welsh Terrier

Owner: Ms C Cole

Awbrooksky Never Back Down Ww23

TOY

Winner

2nd Place

Breed: Papillon

Owner: Mrs I & Mr G Robb

3rd Place

Ch Cinecitta Oliver Stone

Breed: Maltese

Owner: Mr F Prosperi

Ch Lireva’s Wildest Dreams

Breed: Pomeranian

Owner: Mrs A M Cawthera-Purdy

4th Place Definitely Maybe Drop It Like It’s Hot

Breed: Chihuahua

Owner: Mr J, Miss M & Miss H Borges, Jolidon & Luy

Ch Gleniren Miracle Starmaker

UTILITY

Winner

2nd Place

Ch Xisang´s Roxana

Breed: Lhasa Apso

Owner: Mrs R.f. & Ms N.f Søgaard

Aidante Georgia On My Mind Jew23 Ww23/24

Breed: Miniature Schnauzer

Owner: Mr A.Lucin & J. Gonzalez Mendicote

3rd Place

Ch Gallantib’s Oslo Ir Jch Cw 23/24

Breed: Tibetan Spaniel

Owner: Mrs S O’brien

4th Place

Ch Vormund Xmas Bonus

Breed: Japanese Shiba Inu

Owner: Miss M Dunhill-Hall

WORKING

Winner

2nd Place

3rd Place

Dzhozias Viking

Breed: Tibetan Mastiff

Owner: Mr V Molnar

4th Place

Ch Sandbears Masterpiece

Breed: Newfoundland

Owner: Ms S Blake

Ch Contract with The Devil Sielos

Misterija Euw

Breed: Alaskan Malamute

Owner: Miss G. Tamasauskaite

Ch Fantasa Lucky Seven

Breed: Rottweiler

Owner: Miss M Dunhill-Hall

showBEST IN

Una Donna Che Conta

showR. BEST IN

Jussi Liimatainen

Jussi

You come from a family with a sled dog background. How did that influence your early years in the dog world, and what led you to transition from sled dogs to show dogs?

It was my grandparents and uncle who had Samoyeds and Huskies. They were used both for sled work and competitions, but they were also show dogs. Especially Huskies, which won a lot in their breed and even won groups. My uncle was also a dog show judge, and I visited my first dog shows with him. I was very proud to hold the leash and brush for him.

Your first dog was an English Cocker Spaniel, and you later expanded your interest to Welsh Springer Spaniels and American Cocker Spaniels. Can you share what drew you to these specific breeds?

The English Cocker Spaniel was a rather random choice. My mother didn’t like dogs too much and was actually scared of them. I had to fight quite a bit before my parents agreed to let me have my own dog. A Husky or anything that size was out of the question, and finally, the Cocker was

small enough and was supposed to have a sweet temperament (which she didn’t have in reality). I got her in 1985. I entered her into some shows and started helping her breeder with their other dogs.

In our neighborhood, there was a Welsh Springer owner who had just had her first litter. We traveled to shows quite often together, and I also showed her dogs. Nowadays, she is quite famous for her Welshes. At that time, I was already showing a lot of other Spaniels and Toy dogs, which was in the late ‘80s.

My story with American Cockers started at Bellagio, a famous show at the time in Italy, where I was showing other breeds. Rainer Vuorinen was judging American Cockers, and I was sitting ringside watching. Some exhibitors from Switzerland came over to speak with me and invited me to their party because they thought I was Rainer’s son. They were showing AM & CIB CH, WW89 J-Don’s Dalan British Sterling, and I fell in love with him. I brought him to Finland later and had some great success with him. Abitlater,theysentmeAM&CANCHGina’s Catch the Moon, who was a great show dog. Together, we won the breed and the group at basically every show he entered. Later, he also won Reserve BIS at the European Winner Show, probably in 1993.

You’ve shown and groomed more than 200 dogs to their championships. What stands out as one of your most memorable achievements during those early years?

One memorable win was at the Dortmund European Show in 1992. I was told it wasn’t worth entering Poms in German shows under German judges, but I wanted to try, and it went well. My Poms won both titles. My “Hamlet” also won the Group and finished as Reserve BIS. Later, my other Poms won their Groups at European Winner Shows in 1991 and 2007, and those shows I’ll never forget.

One unexpected win was at the Lisbon European Show in 1994. My Swiss friends entered both Afghan Hounds and American Cockers, and they were judged at the same time. No one had time for the Afghans, and they gave me an intermediate male and asked me to show him. I had no time to practice and didn’t even have a brush with me, but it went great, and I won the breed with him. I also showed him in the Group, where the late FCI President Rafael de Santiago was judging and gave him the Group. I wasn’t prepared to show anything in the main ring that day and was wearing only shorts. It was burning hot, and the breed rings were outside, but the finals were inside in a hall, and I felt underdressed in my shorts and T-shirt. The BIS didn’t end that well. I lost good contact with the dog, and when an Afghan gets an idea, there isn’t much you can do. Carla Molinari was the BIS judge and was unable to touch the dog.

You’ve judged dog shows on almost every continent. How does dog showing differ from one region to another, and what has been your most rewarding judging experience abroad?

Every continent and country is special in its own way. The Nordic countries are, of course, my “pool,” where my experience and knowledge have been developed. An invitation to the UK is always a great honor, as it is the origin of dog shows and dog breeding. What I especially like is that one breed can be enough to make a full day of judging. Australia and South Africa have a similar atmosphere to the UK, just with a bit smaller shows. What I like about North America is the level of

professionalism. All dogs are clean and well-groomed, always shown to perfection with the correct speed. At the same time, judging there is quite regulated, and I sometimes miss the opportunity to communicate with exhibitors. South American and Asian shows adopt a lot of good things from the States.

What is most rewarding for me is judging great quality dogs, no matter which country. Other attractions are secondary, but sometimes it’s great to have some extra time to visit new countries and places where you probably would never go without our lovely dog world. Some of the most exotic and memorable countries have been Mongolia and Vietnam.

Being the Chairman of the Finnish Toy Dog Club and a member of the Board of the Finnish Kennel Club, how do these roles influence your perspective on dog breeding and showing in Finland?

Being the Chairman of a large breed club means that I can maintain close contact with breeders and hear their perspectives on their breeds. I believe that is one aspect that improves my knowledge as a judge. I also hear how they speak about other judges and their knowledge.

The Finnish Kennel Club is a big organization with many members and a wide range of activities. Topics at Board meetings are not always easy and pleasant; a big part of it involves solving problems and managing the more negative side of our sport. Being a Board member doesn’t give me much for judging but provides a broader perspective on our sport in general.

What 3 dogs from the past do you wish you could have judged or owned from anywhere in the world?

That is a difficult question, but my first choice would be from my own breed, the Pomeranian. Great Elms Prince Charming II is the only Pom to win BIS at Westminster, chosen by the iconic Michelle Billings in 1988. She gave my Hamlet a BIS at a major show in Finland in 1991, and that is one of my proudest moments.

My second choice is a bit closer to me: a Standard Poodle,ManeetasDelZarzosoFuegoFatuo.Hecompeted alongside my Hamlet for Dog of the Year in Finland, and he also won Champion of Champions ahead of Hamlet. Later, Gordon became the No. 1 dog all breeds in the USA. He was very familiar to me, but obviously, I never judged him.

English Cockers are so close to my heart, so the third one would be a Cocker. I’ve always admired Lochranza dogs and could choose many of those. It could be a black male, Lochranza Strollaway, a Reserve BIS at Crufts

in 1969. I’ve only seen photos of him, but he looks absolutely smashing.

The purpose of dog showing was (and should still be) to evaluate and “show off” breeding stock. Do you think for some breeders/owners it is becoming more about ribbons and rankings?

Yes, this has changed a lot. When I started, very few dogs won champion titles, and judges used the full scale of grading. For many dogs, “very good” was a good achievement. Now, it feels like every single dog has to get their Champion title, no matter how they look. And unfortunately, they will, sooner or later. And what do these kinds of champion dogs mean in pedigrees? Maybe not that much. I think we have too many champion and winner titles available. I’m maybe a bit old-fashioned that way.

On the other hand, I have a 9-year-old Pom male at home. I have only shown him in junior class, so he is

not a Champion. But he has been used widely by many breeders and is a great producer. I know I could have finished him easily, but I just lacked motivation. And titles don’t affect his breeding skills.

You’ve judged Best in Show in several countries, including North and South America, Asia, South Africa, and Australia. What differences do you notice in the judging styles or the dog show culture in these diverse locations?

In Europe, all judges mostly stay for the main ring to watch the finals. That is a great opportunity to speak with colleagues about different breeds and why they put a certain dog first. Often, there are great conversations about why one judge prefers one dog over another, and these conversations can improve us all as judges. Many countries outside of Europe don’t allow other judges to follow your main ring judging, and I find it a pity. I’ve spent half of my life studying different breeds and still use all opportunities to become better. And I think if you have studied your breeds well, other judges’ choices won’t affect your judging. At least, I’m proud to do my own lineups.

Every country has bigger and smaller shows; some are very prestigious, and others are modest. But judging BIS is basically the same: focus on the dogs and try to do your best lineup. One thing that differs is the fact that breed standards differ outside of the FCI. We judge by the standard of the country, and in North America, my group winner might be a dog that could not win under me in Europe.

You’ve been assigned to judge at the prestigious Westminster Dog Show in New York this year. How do you feel about this opportunity, and what are you most excited about when it comes to attending the event, especially considering that not many judges from Europe have received this honor?

I feel so honored by this great invitation! This show has such a long history and tradition, and it’s also great to be back at the legendary Madison Square Garden. My heart skipped a beat when this letter arrived. Yes, by traditional mail—I don’t think many shows send their invitations by mail anymore. The whole process has been so professionally managed that my expectations are sky-high. I can’t name one thing that excites me the most; it’s the whole event I’m really looking forward to. Also, the selection of breeds they’ve given me to judge is fantastic.

What do you like to do most to relax and unwind?

The dog world fills my days quite well, but I do a lot of gardening in the summer. I also take care of my health at the gym, three times a week if possible. Traveling does make it a challenge.

What dish do you most enjoy preparing at home, and which one never fails to excite you when you order it at a restaurant?

At a restaurant, seafood is mostly my first choice, but I’m also a big fan of duck. At home, pasta is probably my most common dish. In the summer, it’s grilled meat with salad; we have a great barbecue on our terrace.

Being a member of The Royal Kennel Club is a prestigious honor. How has being part of such an esteemed organization influenced your career and approach to judging?

Having a good connection to the British dog world is very exciting. The roots of so many breeds come from the UK, and they still have a great number of dogs and bloodlines. British shows have perhaps kept their original purpose better than in many other countries. The Kennel Gazette is probably the magazine I read most. Being an FCI judge, it’s rewarding to have good contact with other prestigious organizations, not only the RKC but also the AKC. Challenges are more or less the same for everyone, but solutions can be different. We can all learn from each other.

TRAVEL tips

BRNO, CZECH REPUBLIC

by Alexa Matelova

COURTYARD BY MARRIOTT.

This 4 star hotel offers you a pleasant stay in luxurious rooms for very affordable prices. Polite staff are ready to help you 24/7. The fitness center is open the whole day, the hotel is situated about 1.5 km from the city center and is surrounded by greenery. The hotel restaurant Yard Lounge & Dining serves international cuisine alongside local specialties. The restaurant is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. A big benefit for dog show exhibitors is the price for a dog/night.. It’s only 200 CZK per night!

OREA RESORT SANTON.

Situated in the recreational area of Brno Dam, 10 kilometers from the city center, the Orea Resort Santon offers rooms with a balcony overlooking the lake or the courtyard. It Includes a wellness center with a relaxation pool, a steam room, a Finnish sauna and aroma saunas. Price for a dog per night is 400 CZK.

BARCELÓ. Located in the heart of the city on Silingrovo Square in a prestigious historical building. Guests can enjoy free access to a sauna, relax zone and a modern fitness center. The unique bedrooms provide a peaceful night’s rest. The á la carte Palazzo Restaurant serves a combination of Mediterranean and Czech cuisine. You can definitely enjoy an unforgettable stay in this 5 star hotel! Price for a dog per night is 35 euros.

BEST WESTERN PREMIER HOTEL.

The Best Western Premier Hotel is centrally situated right bellow Špilberk Castle in the city center. The two restaurants serve international as well as CzechMoravian cuisine. It also offers fitness center and garage. Price for a dog per night is 600 CZK.

HOTEL VISTA.

The non-smoking hotel Vista in Brno-Medlánky is a 10-minute ride from the city center. It offers modern rooms, free secured parking and Asian-style wellness sauna. It’s only 15 minutes away from the Brno BVV fairgrounds.

RESTAURANTS.

CHEAP EATS

GO BRNO.

Do you like Vietnamese classics such as Pho? Or perhaps a colorful bowl full of rice noodles with roasted beef Bun Bo Nam Bo? Experience Vietnamese culture with our favorite recipe’s.Thisrestaurantisalsoagreatchoiceforvegetarians and vegans, and is situated on Freedom Square.

BISTRO BASTARDO.

FirstMexicanbistroinBrnowhereyoucantryauthentic tacos, quesadillas or burritos made by a chef who was born in Mexico-City! Bistro Bastardo is also situated on Freedom Square.

POE POE.

Want Italian and American cuisine in one place?! This very cheap menu offers pizzas, Italian tomato soup, lasagna, hotdogs, fries, waffles, pancakes and smoothies! All made from the highest quality ingredients.

MID-RANGE

PEGAS.

If you want to enjoy the traditional Czech cuisine, you must visit restaurant Pegas. Their menu is full of yummy Czech food for affordable prices, and as a bonus they have their own brewery so you can enjoy delicious Czech beer!

This is definitely a great place to enjoy steaks. Taste the best beef from Czech and foreign breeds, chosen specialties of American and South American cuisine and exclusive rums from all over the world. You can also order takeaway on their website monte-bu.cz

Affordable Japanese restaurant that uses only fresh ingredients and high-quality material to ensure your experience there is memorable, delectable and enjoyable. Their specialty is sake salad, made with raw salmon, cucumber, wasabikko and Japanese mayonnaise.

MONTE BU RESTAURANT.

MORI RESTAURANT.

FINE DINING

VITTARIO.

A modern dog-friendly restaurant with cozy terrace. Their food (Mediterranean cuisine) is all from fresh ingredients and very innovative! If you want to try their degustation menu, you have several to choose from. Prices are reasonable for such great quality food.

This unique restaurant offers you an unforgettable culinary experience. They have a huge selection of steaks, burgers and fish, or you can enjoy a taste of everything and try their 7-coursemenupairedwithwinefromtheMoravianregion.

ATELIER BISTRO & BAR.

An informal and friendly bistro and bar combined into one fun venue. They offer a frequently changing menu and provide tasty food from simple ingredients. The bar has a great selection of spirits, but can also prepare unforgettable cocktails especially for you.

THINGS TO DO

Need some time to relax after an exhausting show? Visit Maximus resort and their Infinit Maximus Wellness and Spa Center! Featuring a range of aquatic and wellness options including the Infinit thermal pools and ‘Sauna World’. Offering massages, swimming pool, hot tub, steam bath, Kneipp bath and an outdoor cooling pool all under one roof. (some available at a surcharge).

Visit this modernist landmark! It’s an outstanding example of international architectural style that flourished in 1920’s Europe. It’s designed by the architect Ludwig Mies van der Rohe and is the only example of modern architecture in the Czech Republic inscribed in the list of UNESCO World Cultural Heritage sites. It’s open daily, except Monday from 10.00 to 18.00. To visit the interiors, it’s necessary to purchase a ticket in advance.

Near the Brno trade fair complex, playful explorers of all ages will find almost 200 interactive exhibits over an area of nearly 6200 square meters. It will provide a better understanding of the world around us! It’s open every day.

PAVILLON STEAK HOUSE.

VILLA TUGENDHAT.

VIDA! SCIENCE CENTER.

SIGHTSEEING

Fun things to do in Brno include wandering around the many delightful public spaces, in particular the historic Zelný trh square,located in the oldest part of the city. Popular for its markets, cafes, restaurants, and boutique shops and galleries. Other notable public spaces that are pleasant to visit while away include the city’s largest park, Lužánky. The university’s arboretum and the area around the Brno Reservoir, which includes fun things to do such as swimming or skating is also a must see. Finally, historians will want to visit the grounds of the nearby Peace Memorial, located on the site of the Battle of Austerlitz, where a decisive confrontation between Napoleon and a combined Russian and Austrian army took place. Perched atop Petrov Hill in the very heart of Brno, the Cathedral of St. Peter and Paul is hard to miss. Considered

MORAVIAN KARST & CAVES.

Famous for its cool air and stunning caverns, the Moravian Karst and Caves (Moravský kras) are a must-visit when in Brno. Located 25 kilometers northeast of Brno, the Karst area covers some 100 square kilometers and containsmorethan1,000.

known caves and gorges. Five of which are open to the public for self-guided tours (trails are clearly marked, indicating their level of difficulty).Forthetrulyadventurous,anumber ofless-traveledcaverns can be visited with a qualified spelunker as a guide.

to be one of the most important Czech cultural monuments, this imposing Catholic cathedral remains one of the city’s most important attractions due to its splendid architecture. Highlights include the exquisite Baroque interior, as well as the 84-meter-tall twin towers that were added at the start of the 20th century (the main part of the building dates from the mid-1700s).

Dating from the 13th century, Špilberk Castle (hrad Špilberk) was built on a commanding hill by Czech King Pøemysl Otakar II. It has served many roles over the years, including those of royal castle, fortress, and prison. Today, the castle is home to the Brno City Museum, established in 1904 and home to many excellent permanent (and frequent temporary) exhibitions. Permanent exhibits focus on the architectural history of the castle and its role as a prison, as well as the history of Brno.

DOG SHOW CALENDAR2025

ALBANIA

Durres, 26 Mar

Shkoder, 8 May

Kavajes, 1 Sep

ARMENIA

Yerevan, 29 Apr

Yerevan, 30 Apr

Yerevan, 21 Jun

Yerevan, 22 Jun

Yerevan, 23 Jun

Yerevan, 14 Oct

Yerevan, 15 Oct

AUSTRIA

Premstätten (Graz), 29 Mar

Premstätten (Graz), 30 Mar

Klagenfurt, 26 Jul

Klagenfurt, 27 Jul

Salzburg, 23 Aug

Salzburg, 24 Aug

Wels, 5 Dec

Wels, 6 Dec

Wels, 7 Dec

AZERBAIJAN

Baku, 21 Mar

Baku, 22 Mar

Baku, 23 Mar

Baku, 29 May

Baku, 30 May

Baku, 31 May

Baku, 1 Jun

Baku, 27 Sep

Baku, 28 Sep

Baku, 14 Nov

Baku, 15 Nov

Baku, 16 Nov

BELARUS

Minsk, 1 Mar

Minsk, 2 Mar

Minsk, 7 Jun

Minsk, 8 Jun

Minsk, 6 Sep

Minsk, 7 Sep

Minsk, 29 Nov

Minsk, 30 Nov

BELGIUM

Genk, 11-12 Jan

Mouscron, 1-2 Feb

Weelde, 22-23 Mar

Antwerpen, 5-6 Apr

Gent, 10 May

Gent, 11 May

Genk, 28-29 Jun

Marche-en-Famenne, 19 Jul

Marche-en-Famenne, 20 Jul

Mechelen, 23-24 Aug

Mons, 4-5 Oct

Leuven, 25-26 Oct

Kortrijk, 15-16 Nov

Bruxelles, 12 Dec

Bruxelles, 13 Dec

Bruxelles, 14 Dec

BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA

Novi Grad, 16 Feb

Sarajevo, 22 Feb

Sarajevo, 23 Feb

Banja Luka, 22 Mar

Banja Luka, 23 Mar

Neum, 18 Mar

Neum, 19 Mar

Bijeljina, 6 Apr

Gradacac, 26 Apr

Gradacac, 27 Apr

Medjugorje, 6 May

Medjugorje, 7 May

Vitez, 24 May

Vitez, 25 May

Prijedor, 1 Jun

Kupres, 13 Jun

Kupres, 14 Jun

Doboj, 6 Jul

Mostar, 7 Jul

CROATIA

Mostar, 8 Jul

Sarajevo, 12 Jul

Sarajevo, 13 Jul

Siroki, Brijeg, 29 Jul

Siroki, Brijeg, 30 Jul

Velika Kladusa, 16 Aug

Velika Kladusa, 17 Aug

Posusje, 30 Aug

Posusje, 31 Aug

Samac, 6 Sep

Samac, 7 Sep

Domaljevac, 10 Sep

Domaljevac, 11 Sep

Gradacac, 10 Oct

Gradacac, 11 Oct

Sarajevo, 6 Dec

Sarajevo, 7 Dec

Mostar, 13 Dec

Mostar, 14 Dec

BULGARIA

Rousse, 9 May

Rousse, 10 May

Rousse, 11 May

Varna, 13 Jun

Varna, 14 Jun

Varna, 15 Jun

Dobritsh, 20 Sep

Dobritsh, 21 Sep

Sofia, 22 Nov

Sofia, 23 Nov

CROATIA

Dubrovnik, 28 Apr

Dubrovnik, 29 Apr

Zadar, 1 May

Zadar, 2 May

Zadar, 3 May

Zadar, 4 May

Varaždin, 17 May

Varaždin, 18 May

Umag, 7 Jun

Umag, 8 Jun

Split, 24 Jul

Split, 25 Jul

Split, 26 Jul

Split, 27 Jul

Osijek, 13 Sep

Osijek, 14 Sep

Karlovac, 27 Sep

Karlovac, 28 Sep

Zagreb, 29 Nov

Zagreb, 30 Nov

CYPRUS

Lefkara, 28 Mar

Lefkara, 29 Mar

Lefkara, 30 Mar

Lefkara, 17 Oct

Lefkara, 18 Oct

Lefkara, 19 Oct

CZECH REPUBLIC

Brno, 15 Feb

Brno, 16 Feb

Brno (FCI Europe Section Show), 10-11-12-13 Apr

Ceske Budejovice, 26-27 Apr

Litomerice, 24-25 May

Brno, 21-22 Jun

Mlada Boleslav, 23-24 Aug

Olomouc, 13-14 Sep

Klatovy, 20-21 Sep

Ceske Budejovice, 4-5 Oct

Praha, 12 Dec

Praha, 13 Dec

Praha, 14 Dec

DENMARK

Fredericia, 8-9 Feb

Roskilde, 10 May

Roskilde, 11 May

Vejen, 20 Jun

Vejen, 22 Jun

Bornholm, 15 Aug

Bornholm, 16 Aug

Roskilde, 20 Sep

Roskilde, 21 Sep

Herning, 7 Nov

Herning, 9 Nov

ESTONIA

Tallinn, 8 Feb

Tallinn, 15-16 Mar

Narva, 22 Mar

Narva, 23 Mar

Tallinn, 31 May-1 Jun

Pärnu, 12 Jul

Pärnu, 13 Jul

Imavere, 2 Aug

Imavere, 3 Aug

Tallinn, 22 Aug

Tallinn, 23 Aug

Tallinn, 24 Aug

Tallinn, 13 Sep

Tallinn, 14 Sep

Tallinn, 17 Oct

Tallinn, 18 Oct

Tallinn, 19 Oct

Tartu, 1 Nov

Tartu, 2 Nov

FINLAND

Kajaani, 11-12 Jan

Lahti, 29-30 Mar

Vaasa, 26-27 Apr

Tampere, 4 May

Helsinki, 17-18 May

Rovaniemi, 14-15 Jun

Virolahti, 14-15 Jun

Jyväskylä, 21-22 Jun

Turku, 28-29 Jun

Oulu, 5 Jul

Pori, 26-27 Jul

Kalajoki, 26-27 Jul

Kuopio, 2-3 Aug

Helsinki

(FCI World Dog Show),

8-9-10 Aug

Joensuu, 16 Aug

Riihimäki, 30 Aug

Eckerö, 27-28 Sep

Seinäjoki, 25-26 Oct

Helsinki, 7 Dec

FRANCE

Paris, 12 Jan

Perpignan, 19 Jan

Bourges, 8-9 Feb

Chalons En Champagne, 23 Feb

Montlucon, 16 Mar

Angers, 23 Mar

Lyon, 30 Mar

Limoges, 6 Apr

Martigues, 20 Apr

Amiens, 26-27 Apr

Valence, 4 May

Saint-Brieuc, 11 May

Dijon, 7 Jun

Dijon, 8 Jun

Perigueux, 15 Jun

Maubeuge, 12-13 Jul

Bordeaux, 20 Jul

Balma, 6-7 Sep

Saint Joseph, 14 Sep

Châteauroux, 20-21 Sep

Beziers, 12 Oct

Athens, 11 Oct

Athens, 12 Oct

Oldenburg, 2 Aug

Ludwigshafen, 16 Aug

Ludwigshafen, 17 Aug

Leipzig, 6 Sep

Poitiers, 18-19 Oct

Metz, 9 Nov

Tarbes, 16 Nov

Rouen, 7 Dec

Nantes, 14 Dec

GEORGIA

Tbilisi, 26 Apr

Tbilisi, 27 Apr

Batumi, 26 Jun

Batumi, 27 Jun

Batumi, 28 Jun

Telavi, 11 Oct

Telavi, 12 Oct

GERMANY

Kassel, 11 Jan

Kassel, 12 Jan

Offenburg, 15 Mar

Offenburg, 16 Mar

Lingen, 26-27 Apr

Kreuth, 17 May

Kreuth, 18 May

DortmundEuropasieger, 23-24-25May

Dortmund Frühjahrssieger 23-24-25 May

Neumünster, 31 May-1 Jun

Hallbergmoos, 12-13 Jul

Gelsenkirchen, 25 Jul

Gelsenkirchen, 26 Jul

Gelsenkirchen, 27 Jul

Oldenburg, 1&3 Aug

Leipzig, 7 Sep

Rostock, 4 Oct

Rostock, 5 Oct

Dortmund-Bundessieger, 7-8-9 Nov

Dortmund-Herbstsieger, 7-8-9 Nov

Karlsruhe, 29 Nov

Karlsruhe, 30 Nov

GREECE

Chios, 5 Apr

Chios, 6 Apr

Athens, 19 Jun

Athens, 20 Jun

Athens, 21 Jun

Athens, 22 Jun

Katerini, 5 Jul

Katerini, 6 Jul

Kalamata, 6 Sep

Kalamata, 7 Sep

Korinthos, 20 Sep

Korinthos, 21 Sep

Athens, 9 Oct

Athens, 10 Oct

HUNGARY

Budapest, 6 Feb

Budapest, 7 Feb

Budapest, 8 Feb

Budapest, 9 Feb

Békéscsaba, 14 Mar

Békéscsaba, 15 Mar

Békéscsaba, 16 Mar

Komárom, 5 Apr

Komárom, 6 Apr

Komárom, 7 Apr

Komárom, 8 Apr

Miskolc, 25 Apr

Miskolc, 26 Apr

Miskolc, 27 Apr

Herend, 2 May

Herend, 3 May

Herend, 4 May

Derecske, 24 May

Derecske, 25 May

Pápa, 6 Jun

Pápa, 7 Jun

Pápa, 8 Jun

Pécs, 27 Jun

Pécs, 28 Jun

Pécs, 29 Jun

Sárvár, 17 Jul

Sárvár, 18 Jul

Sárvár, 19 Jul

Sárvár, 20 Jul

Kecskemét, 19 Sep

Kecskemét, 20 Sep

Kecskemét, 21 Sep

Komárom, 3 Oct

Komárom, 4 Oct

Komárom, 5 Oct

Hódmezovásárhely, 17 Oct

Hódmezovásárhely, 18 Oct

ICELAND

Reykjavik, 1-2 Mar

Reykjavik, 17 Aug

Reykjavik, 4-5 Oct

IRELAND

Dublin, 15 Mar

Dublin, 19 Apr

Clonmel, 4 May

Newtownards, 14 Jun

Cork, 27 Jul

Newtownards, 6 Sep

Dublin, 4 Oct

ISRAEL

Holon, 14-15 Feb

Arad, 26 Apr

Haifa, 31 Oct-1 Nov

ITALY

Carrara, 5 Jan

Cernobbio, 12 Jan

Bari, 19 Jan

Cesena, 24 Jan

Cesena, 26 Jan

Casale Monferrato, 1 Feb

Casale Monferrato, 2 Feb

Bastia Umbra, 8 Feb

Bastia Umbra, 9 Feb

Bologna, 14 Feb

Bologna, 15 Feb

Bologna, 16 Feb

Cagliari, 22 Feb

Cagliari, 23 Feb

Gonzaga, 28 Feb

Gonzaga, 1 Mar

Gonzaga, 2 Mar

Riva del Garda, 8 Mar

Riva del Garda, 9 Mar

Ferrara, 16 Mar

Catanzaro, 23 Mar

Firenze, 30 Mar

Montichiari, 5 Apr

Montichiari, 6 Apr

Ravenna, 19 Apr

Cerea, 20 Apr

Cerea, 21 Apr

Marsala, 26 Apr

Brindisi, 27 Apr

Olbia, 1 May

Ercolano, 4 May

Rende, 10 May

Rende, 11 May

Palermo, 17 May

Livorno, 18 May

Arezzo, 23 May

Arezzo, 24 May

Arezzo, 25 May

Reggio di Calabria, 25 Oct

Messina, 26 Oct

Busto Arsizio, 31 Oct

Busto Arsizio, 1 Nov

Busto Arsizio, 2 Nov

Foggia, 8 Nov

Viterbo, 1 Jun

Pordenone 2 Jun

Carrara, 7 Jun

Carrara, 8 Jun

Narni, 14 Jun

Narni, 15 Jun

Modica, 21 Jun

Rieti, 22 Jun

Prato, 28 Jun

San Massimo, 29 Jun

Torino, 5 Jul

Torino, 6 Jul

Trivignano Udinese, 12 Jul

Avellino, 13 Jul

L’Aquila, 20 Jul

Bra, 27 Jul

Gradisca d’Isonzo, 13 Aug

Gradisca d’Isonzo, 14 Aug

Mondovi, 29 Aug

Mondovi, 30 Aug

Mondovi, 31 Aug

Fano, 5 Sep

Fano, 6 Sep

Fano, 7 Sep

Atina, 13 Sep

Atina, 14 Sep

Grosseto, 20 Sep

Genova, 21 Sep

Montesilvano, 26 Sep

Montesilvano, 27 Sep

Montesilvano, 28 Sep

Treviso, 11 Oct

Caserta, 12 Oct

Bergamo, 18 Oct

Alghero, 19 Oct

Roma, 9 Nov

Gravina in Puglia, 16 Nov

Roma, 22 Nov

Roma, 23 Nov

Catania, 30 Nov

KAZAKHSTAN

Astana, 3 May

Astana, 4 May

Semei, 22 Jun

Rudny, 12 Jul

Temirtau, 17 Aug

Almaty, 13 Sep

Almaty, 14 Sep

Astana, 20 Sep

Astana, 21 Sep

KIRGHIZISTAN

Bischkek, 25 Apr

Bischkek, 26 Apr

Bischkek, 27 Apr

Bischkek, 26 Sep

Bischkek, 27 Sep

Bischkek, 28 Sep

KOSOVO

Prizren, 12 Mar

Prizren, 13 Mar

Peja, 12 May

Peja, 13 May

Peja, 4 Aug

Peja, 5 Aug

Gjilan, 1 Sep

Gjilan, 2 Sep

Prishtina, 8 Oct

Prishtina, 9 Oct

Prishtina, 9 Dec

Prishtina, 10 Dec

LATVIA

Riga, 1 Mar

Riga, 2 Mar

Riga, 14 Jun

Riga, 15 Jun

Liepaja, 16-17 Aug

Riga, 15-16 Nov

LEBANON

Beirut, 26 Apr

Beirut, 27 Apr

Beirut, 11 Oct

Beirut, 12 Oct

LITHUANIA

Kaunas, 24 Jan

Kaunas, 25 Jan

Kaunas, 26 Jan

Vilnius, 7 Mar

Vilnius, 8 Mar

Vilnius, 9 Mar

Palanga, 23 May

Palanga, 24 May

Palanga, 25 May

Moletai, 4 Jul

Moletai, 5 Jul

Moletai, 6 Jul

Druskininkai, 1 Aug

Druskininkai, 2 Aug

Druskininkai, 3 Aug

Palanga, 19 Sep

Palanga, 20 Sep

Palanga, 21 Sep

Vilnius, 19 Dec

Vilnius, 20 Dec

Vilnius, 21 Dec

LUXEMBOURG

Luxembourg, 30 Aug

Luxembourg, 31 Aug

MALTA

Hamrun, 7 Jun

Hamrun, 8 Jun

Pembroke, 8 Nov

Pembroke, 9 Nov

MOLDAVIA (REPUBLIC OF)

Chisinau, 7 Feb

Chisinau, 8 Feb

Chisinau, 9 Feb

Chisinau, 9 May

Chisinau, 10 May

Chisinau, 11 May

Chisinau, 5 Sep

Chisinau, 6 Sep

Chisinau, 7 Sep

Chisinau, 28 Nov

Chisinau, 29 Nov

Chisinau, 30 Nov

MONACO

Monaco, 10-11 May

MONTENEGRO

Kotor, 16 Mar

Kotor, 17 Mar

Bar, 10 May

Bar, 11 May

Pljevlja, 2 Jun

Pljevlja, 3 Jun

Nikšic, 16 Jun

Nikšic, 17 Jun

Danilovgrad, 5 Jul

Danilovgrad, 6 Jul

Cetinje, 31 Jul

Cetinje, 1 Aug

Golubovci, 2 Sep

Pljevlja, 22 Sep

Pljevlja, 23 Sep

Podgorica, 25 Oct

Podgorica, 26 Oct

Ulcinj, 4 Dec

Ulcinj, 5 Dec

NORTH MACEDONIA

Skopje, 31 Jan

Skopje, 1 Feb

Skopje, 2 Feb

Skopje, 3 Feb

Prilep, 14 Mar

Prilep, 15 Mar

Skopje, 2 May

Skopje, 3 May

Skopje, 4 May

Gevgelija, 17 May

Gevgelija, 18 May

Mavrovo, 2 Aug

Mavrovo, 3 Aug

Ohrid, 4 Sep

Ohrid, 5 Sep

Ohrid, 6 Sep

Ohrid, 7 Sep

Ohrid, 8 Sep

Kumanovo, 20 Sep

Sveti Nikole, 21 Sep

Skopje, 11 Oct

Skopje, 12 Oct

Skopje, 5 Dec

Skopje, 6 Dec

Skopje, 7 Dec

Skopje, 8 Dec

NORWAY

Sandefjord, 8-9 Feb

Kristiansand, 26-27 Apr

Trondheim, 24 May

Sandefjord, 5 Jul

Sandefjord, 6 Jul

Fauske, 2 Aug

Tromsø, 16 Aug

Orre, 6-7 Sep

POLAND

Gdynia, 4 Jan

Gdynia, 5 Jan

Katowice, 8-9 Feb

Bydgoszcz, 15-16 Feb

Warszawa, 29-30 Mar

Opole, 26-27 Apr

Lódz, 3-4 May

Zielona Góra, 10-11 May

Legnica, 17-18 May

Rzeszów, 24-25 May

Radom, 31 May-1 Jun

Bytom, 14-15 Jun

Szczecin, 28-29 Jun

Kraków, 28-29 Jun

Bielsko-Biala, 5-6 Jul

Olsztyn, 5-6 Jul

Gorzów Wlkp., 12-13 Jul

Czestochowa, 19 Jul

Czestochowa, 20 Jul

PORTUGAL

Arruda Dos Vinhos, 11-12 Jan

Lisboa, 2 Feb

Ponte De Lima (Alto Minho), 27 Apr

Elvas, 10 May

Lagos (Algarve), 31 May

Lamego, 22 Jun

Aveiro (Norte), 5 Jul

Aveiro (Norte), 6 Jul

Sintra, 27 Jul

Fundão, 24 Aug

Aveiro, 21 Sep

Santarem (CPC), 25 Oct

Santarem (CPC), 26 Oct

Braga, 16 Nov

Santarem (Avisan), 30 Nov

ROMANIA

Sopot, 2 Aug

Sopot, 3 Aug

Piotrków Trybunalski, 16-17 Aug

Bialystok, 23-24 Aug

Rybnik, 30-31 Aug

Zakopane, 6-7 Sep

Koszalin, 6 Sep

Koszalin, 7 Sep

Przemysl, 13-14 Sep

Wroclaw, 27 Sep

Wroclaw, 28 Sep

Poznan, 8 Nov

Poznan, 9 Nov

Kielce, 6 Dec

Kielce, 7 Dec

Lublin, 13-14 Dec

Timisoara, 18 Jan

Timisoara, 19 Jan

Bistrita, 15 Mar

Bistrita, 16 Mar

Deva, 23 Mar

Agnita (Sibiu County), 28 Mar

Agnita (Sibiu County), 29 Mar

Agnita (Sibiu County), 30 Mar

Bucov (Prahova County), 5 Apr

Bucov (Prahova County), 6 Apr

Timisoara, 26 Apr

Timisoara, 27 Apr

Satu Mare, 3 May

Satu Mare, 4 May

Belciugatele (Calarasi County), 10 May

Belciugatele (Calarasi County), 11 May

Suceava, 10 May

Suceava, 11 May

Braila, 17 May

Braila, 18 May

Cluj Napoca, 17 May

Cluj Napoca, 18 May

Bucharest, 7 Jun

Bucharest, 8 Jun

Sibiu, 21 Jun

Sibiu, 22 Jun

Bradu (Arges County), 27 Jun

Bradu (Arges County), 28 Jun

Arad, 4 Jul

Arad, 5 Jul

Arad, 6 Jul

Bodoc (Covasna County), 16 Aug

Bodoc (Covasna County), 17 Aug

Alba Iulia, 30 Aug

Alba Iulia, 31 Aug

Buzau, 6 Sep

Buzau, 7 Sep

Targu Mures, 12 Sep

Targu Mures, 13 Sep

Targu Mures, 14 Sep

Craiova, 27 Sep

Craiova, 28 Sep

Slatina, 3 Oct

Slatina, 4 Oct

Slatina, 5 Oct

Viisoara, 11 Oct

Viisoara, 12 Oct

Vanatori (Vrancea County), 18 Oct

Vanatori (Vrancea County), 19 Oct

Oradea, 24 Oct

Oradea, 25 Oct

Oradea, 26 Oct

SAN MARINO

San Marino, 8 Mar

San Marino, 9 Mar

San Marino, 31 May

San Marino, 1 Jun

San Marino, 20 Sep

San Marino, 21 Sep

San Marino, 1 Nov

San Marino, 2 Nov

San Marino, 13 Dec

San Marino, 14 Dec

SERBIA

Beograd, 9 Mar

Bogatic, 29 Mar

Vrsac, 30 Mar

Jagodina, 5 Apr

Zajecar, 6 Apr

Kraljevo, 19 Apr

Kragujevac, 20 Apr

Natalinci, 27 Apr

Loznica, 26 Apr

Vranje, 1 May

Stara Pazova, 2 May

Smederevska Palanka, 4 May

Niš, 10 May

Ruma, 11 May

Srbobran, 17 May

Ada, 18 May

Batocina, 25 May

Becej, 1 Jun

Šabac, 8 Jun

Giessen, 14-15 Jun

Subotica, 15 Jun

Raca, 12 Jul

Irig, 20 Jul

Sokobanja, 26 Jul

Smederevo, 16 Aug

Lapovo, 24 Aug

Kac, 6 Sep

Obrenovac, 7 Sep

Leskovac, 14 Sep

Gornji Milanovac, 20 Sep

Gornji Milanovac, 21 Sep

Novi Sad, 28 Sep

Cuprija, 4 Oct

Krusevac, 5 Oct

Turija, 11 Oct

Backa Topola, 12 Oct

SLOVAKIA

Nitra, 24 Jan

Nitra, 25 Jan

Nitra, 26 Jan

Bratislava, 1 Mar

Bratislava, 2 Mar

Lucenec, 17 May

Lucenec, 18 May

Nitra, 13 Jun

Nitra, 14 Jun

Nitra, 15 Jun

Velká Ida, 4 Jul

Velká Ida, 5 Jul

Velká Ida, 6 Jul

Bratislava, 15 Aug

Bratislava, 16 Aug

Bratislava, 17 Aug

Bratislava, 24 Oct

Bratislava, 25 Oct

Bratislava, 26 Oct

Nitra, 4 Dec

Nitra, 5 Dec

Nitra, 6 Dec

Nitra, 7 Dec

SLOVENIA

Celje, 18 Jan

Celje, 19 Jan

Opatje Selo, 21 Mar

Opatje Selo, 22 Mar

Opatje Selo, 23 Mar

Vrbljene, 5 Apr

Vrbljene, 6 Apr

Maribor, 19 Apr

Maribor, 20 Apr

Rogla 31 May

Rogla 1 Jun

Postojna, 21 Jun

Postojna, 22 Jun

Koper, 31 Jul

Koper, 1 Aug

Koper, 2 Aug

Koper, 3 Aug

Polhov Gradec, 23 Aug

Polhov Gradec, 24 Aug

Šempeter pri Gorici, 3 Oct

Šempeter pri Gorici, 4 Oct

Šempeter pri Gorici, 5 Oct

SPAIN

Lugo, 19 Jan

Granada, 16 Feb

Valladolid, 23 Feb

Sevilla, 2 Mar

Tarragona, 15-16 Mar

Las Palmas, 23 Mar

Talavera de la Reina (Toledo), 23 Mar

Gijon, 30 Mar

Valencia, 6 Apr

Irun, 27 Apr

Martorell (Barcelona), 4 May

Badajoz, 11 May

Tenerife, 11 May

Silleda (Pontevedra), 1 Jun

Castellon, 8 Jun

Medina de Pomar (Burgos), 15 Jun

Zaragoza, 22 Jun

Somo (Cantabria), 29 Jun

Bilbao, 7 Sep

Leon, 28 Sep

Palma, 5 Oct

Merida (Badajoz), 20 Oct

Valls (Tarragona), 25-26 Oct

Jerez de la Frontera (Cadiz), 2 Nov

Torre Pacheco (Murcia), 9 Nov

Torremolinos (Malaga), 16 Nov

Alicante, 7 Dec

Valencia, 14 Dec

SWEDEN

Göteborg, 4&6 Jan

Boden, 24-25 May

Gimo, 24-25 May

Hässleholm Viking Dog

Show 1, 29&31 May

Hässleholm Viking Dog

Show 2, 30 May&1 Jun

Leksand, 14-15 Jun

Tvååker, 11 Jul

Västerås, 19-20 Jul

Ransäter, 26-27 Jul

Visby, 31 Aug

Växjö, 31 Oct-1-2 Nov

Älvsjö, 13-14 Dec

SWITZERLAND

Aarau, 28 Jun

Aarau, 29 Jun

Luzern, 30 Aug

Luzern, 31 Aug

Genf, 3 Oct

Genf, 4 Oct

Genf, 5 Oct

Genf, 14 Nov

Genf, 15 Nov

Genf, 16 Nov

THE NETHERLANDS

Groningen, 1 Mar

Groningen, 2 Mar

Hazerswoude-dorp, 15-16 Mar

Wilhelminadorp, 19-20 Apr

Gorinchem, 8-9 Jun

Maastricht, 27 Sep

Maastricht, 28 Sep

Hazerswoude Dorp, 1-2 Nov

Leeuwarden, 28 Nov

Leeuwarden, 29 Nov

Leeuwarden, 30 Nov

Gorichem, 20-21 Dec

TURKEY

Antalya, 9 May

Antalya, 10 May

Antalya, 11 May

Istanbul, 18 Jul

Istanbul, 18 Jul

Istanbul, 20 Jul

Istanbul, 24 Oct

Istanbul, 25 Oct

Istanbul, 26 Oct

UKRAINE

Kyiv, 3 May

Kyiv, 4 May

Kyiv, 13 Dec

Kyiv, 14 Dec

UZBEKISTAN

Tashkent, 19 Apr

Tashkent, 20 Apr

Tashkent, 3 Oct

Tashkent, 4 Oct

Tashkent, 5 Oct

A Comparative Look at English Springer Spaniels: USA vs.

rest of the world

by Boris Pegan

When initially asked to write this article, I planned to draw from my chapter “Judging English Springer Spaniel” in my book, The English Springer Spaniel Global Review Vol. 2. However, I soon realized that the complexities surrounding this topic required a more nuanced discussion. This article aims to explore the current state of the English Springer Spaniel breed and the notable differences between the American and rest of the world styles.

Many breeds, including Dobermans, Boxers, Golden Retrievers, Irish Setters, and English Setters, exhibit similar structural differences within their breeds. However, these variations rarely spark the same level of discussion or controversy as they do among English Springer Spaniels.

B: Whelped in 1988, this remarkable dog is among Europe’s most successful winners and prolific producers of all time. Clearly the English Springer

Having been involved with Springers since 1986, I showedmyfirstSpringerin1997.Myfoundationalbitch, bred in Denmark with North American heritage mixed with Scandinavian influences, marked the beginning of my nearly 40-year journey with the breed. Over the decades, I’ve witnessed the evolution of the breed and the growing divergence among Springer styles globally. I have judged Springers in Europe (Scandinavia, Croatia, England), South Africa, Australia and New Zealand.

Silhouette A: This exceptional dog is a top winner in the USA and holds the record as one of the most accomplished dogs born in the country. Whelped in 2008. Clearly the English Springer Spaniel.

Silhouette

Spaniel.

A Historical Perspective

TheVisionariesBehindtheModernNorthAmericanSpringers

ThemodernlookoftheNorthAmericanSpringerSpanielscan be traced back to the efforts of two legendary breeders who significantly shaped the breed. Unfortunately, in the years following their contributions, many breeders have deviated fromthisvision,prioritizingexaggeratedfeaturesandgeneric show traits.

Julia Gasow: The legend behind the Salilyn English Springer Spaniels

Mrs. Julia Gasow, a mink breeder, first stepped into the dog show arena in 1936 at a Michigan English Springer Specialty in Detroit. It was there she encountered the British import CH Rufton Recorder and fell in love with him. Although she couldn’t buy CH Rufton Recorder, her pursuit led her to acquire her foundation bitch, Hilbank Hopeful, affectionately known as “Gypsy,” from Billy Lang. Gypsy, sired by British import CH Rufton Rogerson—a double grandson of CH Rufton Recorder—became the cornerstone of Gasow’s breeding program.

Mrs .Gasow’s approach involved tightly linebreeding on the CH Rufton Recorder pedigree, under the mentorship of Mr. FredJacksonoftheFrejexkennel.ShebredGypsytoCHFrejex Top Hole Of Blinghty, whose sire was the influential American CH Green Valley Punch, also a grandson of Recorder. Through thesemeticulousbreedingchoices,GasowandJacksoncrafted a distinct vision for the Springer Spaniel, characterized by a cleaner, more refined appearance devoid of the ticking seen in other lines.

CH Rufton Recorder was imported to the USA at the age of seven. He was a cornerstone of Springer Spaniel pedigrees worldwide. His influence as a significant producer spanned both the UK and the USA, ensuring his presence in almost every modern pedigree. Recorder’s lineage reflects the early development of the breed, with his heritage tracing back to a mix of Cocker Spaniels and Field Spaniels (none of which were heavily ticked). His grandfather, CH Rivington Sam, had Cocker Spaniels on his dam’s side, while Recorder’s grandmother descended from Field Spaniels. Thus, Recorder himself came from just four generations of purebred English Springer Spaniel breeding, showcasing the formative years of the breed.

CH RUFTON RECORDER, whelped 1921

CH KING PETER OF SALILYN, whelped 1949. BOB Westminster 1955

One of the four iconic “Kings” at Salilyn, Ch. King Peter of Salilyn epitomizes the modern American Springer Spaniel style. His pedigree is tightly linebred on both CH Rufton Recorder and CH Rivington Sam through three distinguished lines: Sandblown Acre, Frejax, and Green Valley. During that era, establishing a distinct type involved close linebreeding, resulting in dogs with high coefficients of inbreeding (COI). This practice contributed to the recognizable traits seen in the famous Springer Spaniels of the USA and UK from the 1950s to the 1990s. The ticking disappeared during the process and selection of less spotted dogs.

Fred Hunt: Mentor & Partner in Crafting a Vision

Mr. Fred Hunt mentored and worked alongside Julia Gasow to realize their vision for the Springer Spaniel. Their collaboration and dedication ensured the development of a breed standard that emphasized elegance and functionality, maintaining the essence of CH Rufton Recorder, a dog renowned for his clean lines and unticked coat.

CH FREEJEX ROYAL SALUTE, whelped 1948

BOB Westminster K.C. 1948

Fred Hunt was a first breeder to use adolescent puppy CH Sir Lancelot of Salilyn to produce legendary “Royal Salute”. He was descendant of CH Rodrique of Sandblown Acre

A Lasting Legacy

The work of Mrs. Julia Gasow and Mr. Fred Hunt established a legacy that defined the modern North American Springer Spaniel. Their focus on quality breeding practices and a clear vision for the breed’s future set a standard that, despite subsequent deviations, remains a benchmark for excellence. For an in-depth look at CH Rufton Recorder and his influence, refer to The English Springer Spaniel Global Review, Vol. 1.

In the realm of modern American Springer Spaniels, one dog stands out as “The Father of Them All.” By this time, the breed’s style and look had become homogenous, with a consistent genotype achieved through tightly linebred pedigrees. This foundation set the stage for CH Salilyn’s Aristocrat to embody and perpetuate “the look.” Whelped in 1964, CH Salilyn’s Aristocrat achieved notable acclaim, winning Best of Breed at Westminster in 1967. He went on to set an unprecedented record as the top-producing sire of all time in the world, fathering 188 American champions and countless champions worldwide, even before the advent of

SH CH HAWKHILL CONNAUGHT, whelped in July 1969 was as legendary in the UK at the same time as Aristocrat was in the USA. He is all time Top producing sire in the UK. To most UK breeders “Conn” is still an example of ideal English Springer Spaniel. He was one of the most influential sires for the breed globally.

frozen semen technology revolutionized breeding practices. Aristocrat’s legacy continues to define the breed, cementing his place as a pivotal figure in the history of the American Springer Spaniel.

The Evolution of the Breed

Two decades ago, dissecting the differences between American and European Springers would have been a simpler task. The breed exhibited more consistency on both sides of the Atlantic. Today, however, the disparities have intensified, reflecting the influence of popular kennels and stud dogs, resulting in distinct styles that vary widely even within the same continent. In the 1990s, the differences between English Springer Spaniels in the United States and the United Kingdom were quite pronounced.

American Springers often exhibited straighter fronts and over-angulated rears with long second thighs, resulting in sloping toplines and totally different outlines. This exaggerated conformationwassometimesfurtherdramatized by the use of excessive grooming techniques and over stretching in the ring at stance. These dogs also frequently had flat croups, erect tails, and heads with lighter nose pigmentation, particularly in liver-colored specimens. Additionally, the influence of popular kennels and sires led to many dogs having overly round eyes and downfaced muzzles.

In contrast, UK Springers were generally more moderate, with level toplines and balanced proportions. However, they were not without theirfaults;manyhadtoosteepofadropincroups andwerehighonthehocksoftenduetotooshort second thigh. The differences extended beyond conformation to presentation and markings. UK dogs often had heavier ticking, while American Springers were typically pure liver and white or black and white. In the realm of English Springer Spaniels, structural flaws such as flat versus overly steep croups, and excessively long versus too short second thighs, can significantly impact the overall appearance and functionality of a dog. This raises an important question: Are these differences indicative of distinct types within the breed, or are they simply examples of poor construction?

This was one of the most winning Springers in the USA in the 90s. This is BIS BISS CH DALIN’S SILVERHILL STRAIGHT UP. This look and way of presentation was so 90s in the USA

This was one of the most winning Springers in the UK in the 90s This is SH CH ELIMVEK EARTHBOUND, Crufts BOB winner 1998

In contrast, UK Springers were generally more moderate, with level toplines and balanced proportions. However, they were not without their faults; many had too steep of a drop in croups and were high on the hocks often due to too short second thigh. The differences extended beyond conformation to presentation and markings. UK dogs often had heavier ticking, while American Springers were typically pure liver and white or black and white. In the realm of English Springer Spaniels, structural flaws such as flat versus overly steep croups, and excessively long versus too short second thighs, can significantly impact the overall appearance and functionality of a dog. This raises an important question: Are these differences indicative of distinct types within the breed, or are they simply examples of poor construction?

THE STRUCTURAL OR TYPE FLAWS?

When comparing two poorly constructed dogs with these flaws, it is crucial to differentiate between type differences and construction issues. Type differences pertain to variations within the breed standard, such as coat color and markings, which can vary between regions without affecting thedog’sstructuralintegrity.Incontrast,constructionissues are deviations from the breed standard that compromise the dog’s form and function.

Dogswithflatorsteepcroupsandincorrectthighlengthsare examplesofconstructionissuesratherthantypedifferences. These flaws hinder the dog’s ability to perform its intended function as a working dog, regardless of regional preferences or stylistic variations. However, dogs with markedly different outlines due to numerous structural variations may

indeed exhibit a distinct type difference.

Interestingly, the most correct dogs, free from significant construction flaws, tend to be quite similar across regions when viewed beyond coat and markings. These dogs embodied the breed standard, demonstrating balanced proportions, sound movement, and the characteristic Springer expression.

Despite their structural correctness, these exemplary dogs did not and do not always win in the show ring, where trends and fads can sometimes overshadow true quality. However, they represent the ideal towards which breeders on all sides of the globe should strive.

Based on my extensive experience as a breeder, groomer, and judge in the breed, I have observed distinct differences

#3 All time Top black & white ESS in the UK Sh CH Cleavehill Corn Dolly

in temperaments and characters between English Springer Spaniels of American and European heritage. In my experience,dogsfromtheUSAtendtobemorelaid-backand less hyperactive compared to their European counterparts. This temperament difference can affect the ownership experience, as European heritage dogs can sometimes be more challenging to manage and exercise effectively.

American Springers: Exaggeration and Its Impact

During the 90s, American Springers’ straighter fronts and exaggerated rear angulation created an imbalance that was visually unappealing and functionally problematic. The sloping toplines, combined with flat croups and erected tails, deviated significantly from the breed standard. Furthermore, lighter nose pigmentation in liver-colored dogs and the prevalence of round eyes and downfaced expressions detracted from the classic Springer look. These traits were perpetuated by the popularity of certain kennels

and sires, leading to a homogenized and exaggerated style. Since the turn of the century, American Springer Spaniels have seen a marked reduction in the previously mentioned exaggerations. Their presentation has become more moderate, and the trend of over-stretching has significantly declined,leadingtoamorenaturalandbalancedappearance.

UK Springers: Moderation with Unique Flaws

UK Springers, while more moderate in their conformation, faced their own set of challenges. The common issue of steep croups, down tail wagers and high hocks affected their movement and overall balance. Despite these faults, UK Springers generally maintained level toplines and a more traditional appearance and more typical heads and better front assemblies. Their markings, characterized by heavier ticking, set them apart from their American counterparts, adding to the visual diversity within the breed.

21st century the American Springer Spaniel: Squared and Low-Legged

In the United States, the dominance of certain kennels and stud dogs has led to a specific “look.” American Springers often feature squared bodies, low legs, round (instead of oval bones) and round eyes. This style, driven by influential breeders and their followers, has become prominent, although it may not represent the broader spectrum of the breed in America. In recent years, many North American English Springer Spaniels seem to lack the essential proportions of depth of body relative toleglength,oftenappearingtoosquareorlowlegged.Whilethe breed is supposed to have a short back, it should not look square but rather slightly longer in body than in height at the withers.

Notably, there has been a reduction in the prevalence of sloping toplines compared to 20 years ago. However, issues such as flat croups, gay tails, or tails carried too high due to poor handling practices remain common. Another point of concern is the differenceinfeetstructure,withmanyAmericanlinesexhibiting rounder bones instead of the ideal oval shape. To me many of the winning dogs in the USA often look like generic Spaniel and lack raciness described in the original British standard defining the breed type: “GENERAL APPEARANCE: Symmetrically built, compact, strong, merry, active. Highest on leg and raciest in build of all British land Spaniels.”

Additionally, the head type in American Springers tends to be more refined, often featuring flatter skulls compared to their counterparts.

It’s important to note that the observations discussed are generalizations and do not apply to all English Springer Spaniels in the USA. There are many exceptional Springers in North

America that embody the breed standard beautifully. These outstanding dogs sometimes win top honors, but at other times, they get overshadowed by the politics of professional handling over judges adhering strictly to the breed standard.

In recent years, we’ve witnessed remarkable achievements, such as a stunning black Springer breaking the Specialty Best in Show (BIS) record of all time. Additionally, two exquisite half-sisters have won top awards (one still winning many Specialties BIS from veteran class), showcasing breed type and standards so well that they would be competitive anywhere in

Silhouette C: Among the most accomplished English Springer Spaniel (ESS) bitches in the USA in the 21st century, she presents a silhouette that significantly deviates from the AKC or FCI breed standards. Her proportions of height to body length, leg to body depth, and overall structure are atypical. She features a flat croup and a terrier tail. In my opinion, her silhouette and overall type do not align with either the AKC or FCI standards, resembling a generic spaniel-like dog lacking true breed type. Her head is untypical for the breed.

the world. Among these success stories is also American-bred Springer that has placed highly in group under the discerning eye of legendary British judge Mr. Frank Kane in California.

These instances highlight the potential and quality of North American Springers, affirming that true excellence continues to shine through, despite the challenges. When the legendary British gundog specialist and all-rounder, Mr. Frank Kane, places a North American Springer Spaniel in

a highly competitive Gundog group in California, it speaks volumes about the dog’s quality. Mr. Kane’s discerning eye and vast experience mean that he wouldn’t bestow such an honor unless he believed the dog’s type was truly exceptional, especially given the many other worthy contenders. This endorsement underscores the exceptional quality of some North American Springers, affirming their place on the global stage.

21st century the American Springer Spaniel: Squared and Low-Legged

Relocating to Europe in March 2024, I had high expectations for the breed. However, attending events like Crufts in the UK and the World Dog Show in Croatia revealed similar issues. Many European Springers, influenced by popular kennels and stud dogs, exhibited a tubular shape with no spring of rib. Additionally, the lack of consistent silhouettes and proportions was evident, mirroring the diversity seen in the United States.

I’ve noticed a significant inconsistency among Springer Spaniels in Europe. I was surprised by the wide variation in appearance, with some dogs being dramatically short-legged and poorly proportioned, while others were tubular and long-bodied without spring of rib. The common notion that they all look “European” because of similar flecking and color markings is misleading.

Currently, we see more exaggerations are creeping into in the breed in Europe than ever before. Some top winners and Best in Show champions exhibit traits so extreme that if painted black or viewed in silhouette, they would be unrecognizable as Springer Spaniels. My greatest concern at recent major shows has been the lack of spring of rib and the unsound movement of many dogs, which display a more rolling gait and motion than we saw during the rock and roll era of the 1970s.

Silhouette D: A major winner in the UK over the last 20 years, this bitch, shown in painted black, displays a silhouette and topline that are far removed from the true breed type. Her overall outline does not align with the traditional standards of either the UK or the FCI breed standard. The head is disproportionately shaped, with incorrect head planes. The bitch has bulky withers due to an upright shoulder blade, a deep in topline, a roach over the loin, and a steep drop in the croup. Additionally, the rear assembly is poor, and the hocks are abnormally high. This silhouette bears no resemblance to the UK breed standard.

The English Springer Spaniel breed standard has never suggested that a rolling gait is typical. A dog that lacks stability in its movement is unsound—it’s as simple as that. Maintaining soundness and adherence to the breed standard is crucial for preserving the integrity and functionality of the breed.

A Global Phenomenon

Globally, the variety of styles within the breed are most striking. The influence of prominent breeders and their sires has led to a fragmentation, where general rules no longer apply even within the same continent. Whether in Europe or the USA, the Springer Spaniel community faces the challenge of maintaining breed standards amidst these evolving styles.

CONCLUSION

The English Springer Spaniel breed today is marked by significant diversity, driven by the influence of leading kennels and stud dogs. While this variation adds to the richness of the breed, it also presents challenges for breeders and judges striving to uphold consistent standards. As the breed continues to evolve, it is crucial for the global Springer community to collaborate and navigate these changes, ensuring the preservation of the breed’s unique characteristics and overall excellence.

By studying photos in this article, you will notice variety of different shapes, proportions and outlines (types) both in the UK and the USA.

© Boris Pegan, The English Springer Spaniel Global Review

AM GCHP/CAN CH. CERISE BLINDSIDE, whelped 2011SH CH & IR CH MEADOWDALE CHAOS JW ShCM, whelped 2011

AUSTRALIA IN 2024

The Australian population is 26.64 million, with a land size comparable to the continental USA or Europe. Although a long way from Europe and the USA, Australia is very international in its outlook, with top dogs able to hold their own in world-class competition. The vast distances between our state capitals don’t seemtodeterdie-hardexhibitorsfromtravelingtoshowtheirdogs.

Nearly all the dogs exhibited here are owner-breeder handled, and many of those exhibitors are well-respected, international judges.

The year started with Cam Cavallo winning Best In Show at Canberra Royal with his homebred English Springer Spaniel, ‘Reuben’ – Supreme Ch Sandicam This Is Me. Reuben is the fifth generation of Sandicam breeding and is linebred to ‘Noah’, Supreme Ch UK Sh Ch Ir Ch Sandicam The Look of Love. Noah was the first Australianbred English Springer Spaniel to become a British Show Champion and won a General Championship Best In Show in

the UK, as well as Best in Groups in Britain, Ireland, Sweden, the Netherlands, and Australia. Like taking coal to Newcastle, Cam followed up with a Noah son, Supreme Ch UK Sh Ch Sandicam Royal Escort, becoming only the second Australian-bred Springer to attain a British title. Both dogs returned to Australia, and Noah subsequently won All Breeds Best in Show awards, always owner-breeder handled by Cam. Cam was mentored by Stephanie and David Rickard of the worldfamous Wongan kennels, and I’ll come back to that later in this report.

Sydney Royal is the second-largest show held in Australia, and Reuben the Springer continued his winning ways at prestigious events, winning Best In Group under Mr. Laurent Pichard from Switzerland, a Spaniel specialist.

Best In Show at Sydney Royal was judged by Mr. Pichard and went to the Canadian-imported Old English Sheepdog, Supreme Ch Bagatelle’s Moonlight Garden (Imp Can). ‘Jasmine’ is owned in Tasmania by OES breeders Daniel and Maree Aitchison. Proving that lightning does strike twice, the Aitchisons won Best In Show at the 2013 Sydney Royal under another Swiss judge, Barbara Müller, with another imported OES, Supreme Ch To-Jo’s If I Could Beam Back Time (Imp USA) – ‘Cher’. These two bitches have amassed around a hundred All Breeds BIS awards between them, including BIS at both Tasmania’s Royal shows, Launceston and Hobart, under Mr. Simon Sim from the Philippines and Mr. Daniel Ceres Rubio from Brazil, respectively.

The third-largest show in Australia is Adelaide Royal, where the judge was Mr. Roberto ValezPico from Puerto Rico. He chose the Afghan Hound, Kerry, Kerin & Rachel Hutchings’ Afghan Hound Sup CIB A2O Ch Suliman Da Finnci Code (AI). This dog is the only Afghan to have ever won the Australian Afghan Hound National twice. He has the style of the highest order on the move and the absolute look of The King of Dogs on the stack. ‘Leo’ is the product of over 40 years of Suliman breeding and 6 generations of Suliman down from their foundation litter bitch, Suliman Black Beauty, mated to one of the late Mr. David Roche’s Fermoy dogs. Always owner-breeder handled and prepared by Rachel and Kerin, who are a class act.

Sydney Royal - Entry 2214 Judge- Mr Laurent Pichard (Switzerland) BIS Maree & Daniel Aitchison’s Old English Sheepdog Sup Ch Bagatelle’s Moonlight Garden (Imp Can)

The fourth-largest show in Australia is Brisbane Royal, affectionately known as “The Ekka.” The judge for this show was Dr. Zlatko Jojkic from Serbia, and he chose the young Fox Terrier (Wire), Ch Beagelee The Iron Throne –‘Stark’, owned and bred by Leanne and Christophe Duval, who are no strangers to winning at the highest level with their Beagle, Supreme Ch Beagelee Archangel (AI), who won Best In Show at Sydney Royal in 2012. Stark won Best In Show from the Puppy Class at Dogs NSW Spring Fair in 2023 and has won 13 All Breeds BIS awards to date in a very limited campaign. Stark went on to repeat his 2023 BIS at The Spring Fair in 2024, winning BIS under Mr. Leif Herman Wilbert from Norway. Stark is fifth generation Beagelee breeding and was handled to the Group win at Brisbane by Leanne, and then for Best In Show by Christophe, who also prepares their Wire’s jackets for the show ring to the highest order.

Adelaide Royal - Entry 1685 Judge- Mr Roberto Valez-Pico (Puerto Rico) BIS Kerry, Kerin & Rachel Hutchings’ Afghan Hound Sup CIB A2O Ch Suliman Da Finnci Code (AI)

Brisbane Royal - Entry 1610 Judge- Dr Zlatko Jojkic (Serbia) BIS Leanne & Christophe Duval’s Fox Terrier (Wire) Ch Beagelee The Iron Throne (AI)

Australia’s most prestigious dog show and largest show is Melbourne Royal. The judge for Best In Show was Mrs. Sylvie Desserne from France. The day was tinged with sadness, as Mr. David Rickard of Wongan English Springer Spaniel fame passed away on the morning of Group and Best In Show judging. It felt very fitting that spaniel specialist judge, Mr. Zeferino Silva from Portugal, awarded Cam Cavallo’s English Springer Spaniel, Reuben, Best In Group, and then he was awarded the highest honor in the country by winning Best In Show under Mrs. Desserne. I’m sure Mr. Rickard was watching down on this show that day and would have been proud of Cam’s success. The last ESS to win

BIS at Melbourne Royal had been Ch NZ Ch Wongan Chiffon in 1988 under German Judge, Mr. Uwe Fischer.

There are two Point Score systems in Australia, and both are elective, so not all dogs are included. The Top Dog Point Score results in the winners of each state coming together to compete for the overall winner under a panel of judges.

The 2023 Australian Top Dog winner was the amazing show dog, a German Shorthaired Pointer representing South Australia, the USA import, Heiderst Kennels, Sally Rattle, Todd Sproule, and Michelle Reichmuth’s Supreme Am Ch CIB A2O GCh Vjk-Myst Journey

Melbourne Royal - Entry 2349 Judge- Mrs Sylvie Desserne (France) BIS Cam Cavallo’s English Springer Spaniel Sup Ch Sandicam This Is Me

Downunder (Imp USA), handled by Liat O’Malley. This dog gave me goosebumps watching him at Sydney Royal in 2023 when he was awarded Reserve Best in Show. ‘Tripp’ was bred by Yvonne HaslerDeterding and Valerie Nunes-Atkins and is sired by Westminster Best In Show winner, “CJ”, Am GCh VjkMyst Garbonitas California Journey. Tripp has won at the very top level for four years, with major awards at nearly all the important shows, including one of Dogs SA’s Winter International under Malaysian all-rounder Mr. Gopi Krishnan. Tripp has currently won 58 Best In Show awards.

The second Point Score is run by Dogzonline and was clearly won by Perth Royal Best In Show winner under Mr. Masahiko Fukamachi from Japan, the Border Collie, owned, bred, and handled by Ashlee & Lynette Houlden & Jarrod Tyler, from 5th generation Pukawidgee breeding. Sup CIB A2O Ch Pukawidgee The Moon In Winter – ‘Lyanna’ won 20 Best In Show awards and 10 Reserve Best In Show awards in 2024, topping both the Top Dog and Dogzonline tally boards, as well as taking out Best In Show at Dogs SA Winter International under Mr. Jorge Nallem from Uruguay. Lyanna also won the 2024 final tally for the overall Top Dog Point Score and will compete at the black-tie event in March for the title against the other state winners.

Second place in both Point Scores in 2024 was the beautiful Australian Shepherd, who was number one All Breeds in 2023, Supreme Ch CIB A2O Ch Ellagant Covert Surveillance – ‘Secret’, bred by Ana and Ben Richardson and owned this year by the Richardsons

and Belinda and Tim Thomas, and handled by Belinda. Secret is the 5th generation of Ellagant breeding and now has approximately 60 Best In Show awards, including Best In Group awards at major Royal shows.

It’s refreshing to note that the top two places are both bitches, and both have whelped litters. It’s all good and well having an amazing show dog, but it’s wonderful that they are breeding on and producing winning quality progeny, and that’s what dog shows should be all about. Both are from the same Group and have battled it out against each other on many occasions.

One of the most consistent winners of 2024 was Supreme Ch Voila Raising The Stakes (AI), the Poodle (Standard), bred by Lance Wright and owned by Lance and James Bennett, who handles him. ‘Anton’ is 7th generation of Lance’s Voila breeding and is lauded for his Poodle-ness and carriage. Anton finished third in the rankings behind the two Working Dog bitches but was always in the winner’s circle. Anton won Best In Show at The Spring Fair under Mr. Michael Forte from Ireland. Anton is linebred to old Marsden breeding, and it was with sadness that the second partner in the Marsden kennel, Mr. John Edwards, passed away in 2024. Marsden was a renowned breeder of Poodles, Cocker Spaniels, and American Cocker Spaniels. Vale, John.

Others we lost in 2024 were Mr. John Rowles (Selwor), Miss Pauline Suhr (Khajah), Mrs. Margaret Muir (Jalalabad), and Mrs. Sandra McMahon (Sheilmont).

CROATIA IN 2024

The Croatian Kennel Club (HKS) serves as the national umbrella organization for dog-related activities in Croatia.Establishedin1891,itarosefromthesocialneed for professional and systematic care of dogs. Today, HKS consists of 125 member organizations, including cynological associations and breed clubs across the country.

HKS is the only organization representing the Republic of Croatia in the International Cynological Federation (FCI) on cynological matters. Operating as a nonprofit and non-governmental organization, its mission is to promote purebred dog breeding, prepare and organize international activities with other cynological federations worldwide, ensure dog health and welfare, and advocate for harmonious relationships between humans and dogs. HKS also seeks to affirm and protect the interests of its members.

The first International Dog Show in Croatia took place in Zagrebin1932,markingamilestoneinthecountry’srich cynological history. One of our proudest achievements was hosting the European Dog Show in 2007.

HKS and its member associations organize over 500 events annually, including more than 50 international events. Croatia’s international dog shows receive approximately 15,000 entries in total each year, with

exhibitors from over 30 countries, underscoring their truly global appeal. In 2024, the event calendar was particularly vibrant, featuring 16 international dog shows, 25 national dog shows, and 49 specialty dog shows.

However,2024wasalandmarkyearforCroatiancynology, as we successfully organized four of the most prestigious cynological events in the world: the FCI IGP World Championship for Utility Dogs, the World Championship for Practical Hunting, the Cup Saint Hubert, and the pinnacleoftheyear,theFCIWorldDogShow.

The FCI World Dog Show, held at the Zagreb Fair from April 25 to 28, 2024, was our largest event to date. The show attracted 14,850 dogs representing over 400 breeds, with the total number of participants across all connected events exceeding 25,000. Participants traveled from 79 countries worldwide, demonstrating the truly global nature of the event. A distinguished panel of 164 international judges officiated, ensuring the highest standards of competition. Hosted by the Croatian Kennel Club, the event featured some of the best dogs in the world, all competing to showcase their beauty. The show highlighted not only the dogs’ elegance but also the friendly spirit and passion of the entire canine world.

Zagreb Spring Show – April 24, 2024

Judge: Jakkel, Tamás (HU)

• Winner: Zaida Bint Muti Von Haussman

• Breed: Afghan Hound

• Owner: Ramón Podestá (Chile)

World Dog Show – April 25–28, 2024

Judge: Lemo, Nikša (HR)

• Winner: Zaida Bint Muti Von Haussman

• Breed: Afghan Hound

• Owner: Ramón Podestá (Chile)

CACIB Umag – June 1, 2024

Judge: Dopplereiter, Maria Luisa (A)

• Winner: Cleindori Aillard Dell’ Antica Torre

• Breed: Dachshund Standard, Smooth-Haired

• Owner: Stefania Lamberti Zanardi (Italy)

CACIB Umag – June 2, 2024

Judge: Marova, Petra (CZ)

• Winner: Daumont Kind-hearted Keira

• Breed: Dalmatian

• Owner: Gabriele Vettori (Italy)

CACIB Varaždin – June 15, 2024

Judge: Dojčinoski, Goran (MK)

• Winner: Tumbling Tumbleweeds Des Terres De Khairyaca

• Breed: Australian Shepherd

• Owners: Gajewski Marlene, Pistone Fabrizio & Smolić Nikola

CACIB Varaždin – June 16, 2024

Judge: Muntean, Petru (RO)

• Winner: Tumbling Tumbleweeds Des Terres De Khairyaca

• Breed: Australian Shepherd

• Owners: Gajewski Marlene, Pistone Fabrizio & Smolić Nikola

CACIB Split – July 25, 2024

Judge: Jovanović, Nemanja (RS)

• Winner: Legacy’s Boom Boom Boom

• Breed: Miniature American Shepherd

• Owner: Kersti Paju (Estonia)

CACIB Split – July 26, 2024

Judge: Smolić, Nikola (HR)

• Winner: Majestic Winner Ronaldo

• Breed: Labrador Retriever

• Owner: Natalia Asadova (Russia)

CACIB Split – July 27, 2024

Judge: Lawless, Paul (IE)

• Winner: Edivette Tamboti Wild Camp

• Breed: Poodle Standard Black

• Owner: Ruth Pena Foj

CACIB Split – July 28, 2024

Judge: Tonkson, Helen (EE)

• Winner: Adventurer’s Dorian Gray by Alex

• Breed: Portuguese Water Dog

• Owners: Tammi Sanna & Jaana Railamaa

CACIB Osijek – September 14, 2024

Judge: Piskay, Vladimir (SK)

• Winner: Medawlark Attitudly

• Breed: Poodle Standard Black

• Owner: János Turzó (Hungary)

CACIB Osijek – September 15, 2024

Judge: Simu, Calin (RO)

• Winner: Picasso Russtyle’s Du Vallon De L’Alba

• Breed: Jack Russell Terrier

• Owner: Roberto Pedrosa (Brazil)

Judge: Kriisk, Kalvo (EST)

• Winner: Paperman Arteon

• Breed: Welsh Terrier

• Owner: Friedrich-Wilhelm Schöneberg

CACIB Karlovac – October 12, 2024

Judge: Šuta, Nedim (BIH)

• Winner: Margot Dalmatinski Vrisak

• Breed: Tornjak

• Owner: Robert Filipović (Croatia)

Karlovac – October 13, 2024

Judge: Skaar, Torbjörn (SE)

• Winner: Andvol Shubert

• Breed: Welsh Corgi Pembroke

• Owner: Olga Shuvalova (Russia)

Judge: Poletaeva, Irina (FIN)

• Winner: Bayclan Macho Miguel V Tani Kazari

• Breed: Affenpinscher

• Owner: Roberto Pedrosa (Brazil)

CACIB

CACIB Zagreb – November 23, 2024

CACIB Zagreb – November 24, 2024

IRELAND IN 2024

“The Luck of the Irish Throughout the 2024 Show Year”

Althoughasmallislandlocatedonthewesternmost edge of Europe, Ireland is blessed with very talented breeders, judges, and exhibitors. Look to any show in mainland Europe—be it World, European Winners, or any big international event—and you are sure to hear the Irish accent. Irish exhibitors are a passionate, hardy bunch, and they are not averse to travel, often returning home with excellent results for their kennels.

In Ireland, we refer to the CAC as the Green Star (our national award). For your dog to become an Irish Champion, they must win a total of seven Green Stars, with at least one Green Star awarded after the dog is 15 months old. A dog that is a champion in another FCI country and a resident in an FCI country only needs to win one Green Star at an International show in Ireland to gain the title of Irish Champion.

Throughout the year, we have many shows in Ireland, across all levels of competition, from Limit shows to Open, National, and International shows. The 2024 show year saw 34 All-Breed shows in total, including 30 National Championship shows (Green Stars/CAC only) and 4 International Championship shows (Green Stars & CACIBs), with multiple Group and Breed specialty shows.

To keep track of the official Irish Kennel Club Top Dog rankings in 2024, we have a leaderboard. The scoring system is used by the Irish Kennel Club to determine their Show Dog Final event qualifiers throughout the year. The top four dogs in each group are invited to compete at a Gala event in February, the Irish Kennel Club’s ‘Dog of the Year’ event, with a surprise judge, not announced until the night of the event.

1

Shetland Sheepdog (bred in Ireland) - CH/GB CH Longrange Cailin DubhBreeder/owner Cathrina Dunne

3

Irish Terrier (bred in Ireland) – CH

Megacant Ceannaire - Breeder/ owner John Canty

4

Dachshund Miniature Long-Haired (bred in the UK) - CH/GB CH Zarcrest

See In Red at Smartdac - Owner Martin McDonnell

Petit Basset Griffon Vendeen (bred in the USA) – AM, UK & Ir CH M & M’s Stellar Mayhem & Madness - Owners Mmes Lizzie Cadmore, Donna Moore, Janice Hayes & Cathy Collins-Neill

8

Sussex Spaniel (bred in the UK) - SH CH Eald Stone Calf With HeaphenOwner Heather Arrell

2

Leonberger (bred in Ireland) - CH

Sulandi Electric Storm - Breeder/ owners Diane & Lauren Whan

5

Pomeranian (bred in Ireland) – CH

Belliver The Lost Boy For Toybox - Breeder/owners James Newman & Sean Carroll

Hungarian Vizsla (bred in the UK) –SH CH Oakswarren Lightnin’ Strikes for Cooley - Owner Sinead Taggart

TOP DOG GROUP 9

Papillon (bred in Spain) – SP & Ir

CH Tres Cherie Hot As Hell - Owners

James Newman & Sean Carroll

TOP DOG GROUP 10

Afghan Hound (bred in the Netherlands) – Multi CH Popovs

Simba of Kilgharra - Owners Eimear, Aisling & Emmett Small

TOP BREEDER IRELAND ‘24

Wealsohaveatopbreederleader-board. Taking the top spot All-Breeds for a second time is the mother & daughter duo of Emer Wright & Mairin Jackson with their Lacsar Japanese Shiba Inu. Emer is a regular face across Irish, UK and mainland Europe show rings. The smallyethighlysuccessfulfamilykennel has imported dogs from around the world to incorporate into their breeding programme, including from the breeds native Japan.

SWITZERLAND IN 2024

In 2024, Switzerland hosted seven international dog shows: two in Aarau, two in Luzern, and three in Geneva.

AARAU 2024

Best In Show of the first international show in Aarau was the Welsh Terrier Cunnings Easy Rider, owned in Italy by Giuseppe Avveduti. The breed was judged by Peixoto Luis (Portugal), the group by Vibeke Rordam (Denmark), and the Best in Show by Katrina Santas (Australia).

For the second day, the Best in Show winner was the Newfoundland from Germany, Zen Zimon Vom Rosendahl. The Newfoundlands were judged by Julio Ronco from Paraguay, who later awarded him the BIS. The group was judged by Katrina Santas (Australia).

LUZERN 2024

The flat-out winner for the weekend in Luzern was the champion male Hannemor’s Good Feeling, who won the Best In Show title at both international shows. He is bred in Norway by Hanne Kongsgård Wiik and owned in Switzerland byYasminaZuberbuehler&MercedesSchneider.

Breed Judge on Saturday: Heiskanen Kati (FI)

Group Judge on Saturday: Maria Gvozdieva (UA)

BIS Judge on Saturday: Lee Ann Bateman (CA)

Breed/Group Judge on Sunday: J. Carlos Pineda (ES)

BIS Judge on Sunday: Dr. Agus Wardhana (ID)

GENEVA 2024

They say that good things come in threes! What a weekend in Geneva for the charismatic Yorkie Hunderwood Twilight, who won all three All-Breeds Best in Show titles and was easily crowned Supreme Best In Show Winner! She is bred and owned in France by Eric Bernard.

Judged by: Vija Klučniecé (LV), Jean Louis Escoffier (FR), Wiliam Rodriguez (CR), Sei-ichiro Ishimaru (JP), Tamás Jakkel (HU), Ronnie Natividad (PH), Rob Douma (NL), Jean-Claude Klein (FR), Fabian Daza (CO).

A New Title in Switzerland!

The title Swiss GRAND Champion is awarded to dogs that have already been certified as “Swiss Show Champion” and/or “Swiss Beauty Champion” and have been awarded three CACs under three different judges at international Swiss CACIB shows from June 1st, 2024, in the Champion class, including at least one CAC/CACIB and BOB or BOS. A reserve CAC cannot be used.

Save the Date for 2025! Aarau: 28 & 29 June | Luzern: 30 & 31 August. Geneva: 14-15-16 November

BULGARY IN 2024

By Rozaliya Lazarova

Corgi Club Bulgaria Freya Triaditsa Club Show

The annual club show of Corgi Club Bulgaria. The show was named Freya Triaditsa. It took place in Sofia on 21st of September.

Corcastle POCAHONTAS N’Joys Renaissance, Best Female, Best Of Opposite

Corcastle JAAK Royale Jubilee, Best Male, Best Of Breed, Best in Show

Major Point Keep Moving, Baby Best in Show 1sf Place

Bulgarian Golden Retriever Club Show

The annual club show of Bulgarian Golden Retriever Club. It took place in Harmanli on 29th of September.

IDS Samara Flag Stara Zagora

International dog show “Samara Flag” organised by the Bulgarian National Federation of Cynology. It was CACIB show with Crufts qualification and took place in Stara Zagora on 23-24th of November.

Little Violet`s Welcome Trinity, Junior Class Winner, Junior Best in Show

Calibri Fly Cosmos, Best in Show 23.11, Supreme Best in Show

Piece of Gold Boney M’s Sunny, Open Class Winner, Best in Show

Absolutely Charming Team Beaming Brio, Supreme Best in Show

Poodle Club Bulgaria Club Show

The very first specialty show of Poodle Club Bulgaria. It took place in Slivnitsa on 30th of November.

Minor Puppy BIS

1. Shine of Summer Kandulki

2. Empress Majesty Dreaming Treasure

3. Noavel Art Le Delicieux Eclair

Junior BIS

1. New Costellation Cleopatra the Egyptian

2. Semerline Super Girl

3. Jasenak Spring Jewel

Puppy BIS

1. X-Treme Murfin from Art of Stars

2. RecLess Rio Chocolates of Abracadabra

3. Aristo Line Joyful Life

Best in Show

1. Murfin I Am Yours

2. Asteri Dream Deyneris

3. Platina Parma Orion

Semi-Private Airline

In-Cabin Transport

For larger or specialty dogs that can’t travel by commercial airline, choose a semi-private air transport. On these flights, your purebred can travel in its own seat or in a large carrier! Available for most domestic U.S. destinations and some international destinations.

Commercial Airline In-Cabin Transport

For smaller dogs, choose commercial air transport. A professional travel guardian will pick up your dog from its departure location, care for it throughout the entire journey, and safely deliver it to you. Both domestic U.S. and international destinations are available!

Private Ground Transport

Dogs of all sizes and species can enjoy ground transportation across the U.S. Great for dogs that need to travel by themselves and owners/handlers who don’t want their animal interacting with others. Can accommodate up to 6 dogs at once from the same breeder, owner, or handler.

BEST IN SHOW USA

RINGSIDE WESTMINSTER KENNEL CLUB DOG SHOW click

PICTURE CREDITS KAITLYN PRICE

The 148th Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show, held from May 18-20, 2024, at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in Flushing Meadows, New York,wasaspectacularcelebrationofcaninebeauty, discipline, and agility. As one of the most prestigious events in the dog show world, it attracted over 3,000 elite canine competitors from across the globe, all vying for top honors in their respective categories. The event not only showcased the dogs’ elegance and training but also highlighted advancements in judging technologies and breeding practices. ‘24

The highlight of the show was the crowning of the Poodle “Surrey Sage” as Best in Show. This beautiful bitch captivated the judges with its impeccable conformation, gracefulmovement,andperfectlygroomedcoat,embodying thebreed’sstandardstoperfection.Thisvictoryunderscored thepoodle’sversatilityandthededicationofitshandlersand breeders,whometiculouslypreparedthedogforthismoment of glory. The Best in Show title is the highest honor, and Stellar’sTriumph’swinwasatestamenttothehighstandards maintained at the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show.

Over the course of the three-day event, dogs competed in various groups, each evaluated for their adherence to breed standards. These standards, set by the American Kennel Club(AKC),encompassacomprehensiverangeofattributes

including physical structure, movement, coat condition, temperament,andoverallpresentation.Judgesmeticulously assessed each dog to ensure it met the high criteria, making the competition both challenging and rewarding.

The atmosphere was electric as spectators and judges alike marveledatthediverseanddistinguishedparticipants.From the friendly and tolerant demeanor of Golden Retrievers to the dignified elegance of Afghan Hounds, the competition was fierce and the performances exceptional. Each dog demonstratedtheuniquequalitiesandcharacteristicsofits breed,makingthejudges’taskacomplexandexactingprocess.

In the Sporting Group, the Cocker Spaniel stood out with its balanced structure and smooth movement, embodying the friendly and tolerant demeanor typical of the breed. The HoundGroupsawanAfghanHoundcaptivatingtheaudience with its exotic appearance and flowing coat. These breeds, known for their distinctive characteristics, performed with poise and grace, earning top marks from the judges.

The Working Group was dominated by the gorgeous Giant Schnauzer, back to back Best in Group for him. With its muscular build and alert expression, this dog showcased the strength and readiness that are hallmarks of the breed. The Terrier Group, known for its spirited and energetic breeds, saw a Bull Terrier impressing the judges with its keen expression and distinctive colour.

In the Toy Group, a Shit Tzu stole the spotlight. Its lively personality and compact size charmed the judges and spectators alike. Meanwhile, the Non-Sporting Group

featured a French Bulldog named Petit Roi, whose balanced physique and endearing demeanor captivated everyone. Each of these group winners exemplified the traits that make their breeds so beloved and respected.

One of the most impressive performances came from the Herding Group, where a German Shepherd demonstrated remarkable beauty. Its confident and graceness on movement were a testament to the breed’s inherent skills and responsiveness. This performance captivated the audience and judges, highlighting the high level of training and dedication involved in preparing for such competitions.

The judging process at the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show is known for its rigor and attention to detail. Judges scrutinize each dog against the breed’s standard, evaluating not only conformation and movement but also the quality of the coat and the dog’s temperament. Presentation is also critical, with dogs groomed and handled to perfection to showcase their best attributes. This meticulous evaluation ensures that only the best representatives of each breed are recognized and honored.

Thisyear’sshowalsoembracedtechnologicaladvancements to enhance the judging process. High-definition cameras and real-time analytics provided judges with detailed insights into each dog’s performance, ensuring precise and fair evaluations. The implementation of RFID chips for tracking and identification further bolstered the accuracy and integrity of the event. These technologies allowed for a more streamlined and transparent judging process, benefiting both participants and spectators.

The 148th Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show was a resounding success, celebrating the highest standards of canineexcellence.Stellar’sTriumph’svictoryasBestinShow epitomizedthededication,expertise,andpassionofbreeders, trainers, and handlers. This achievement highlighted the importance of meticulous breeding practices and the rigorous training required to reach such high standards.

As the event concluded, it left an indelible mark on the world of canine competitions, setting a benchmark for future shows. The Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show continues to be a platform that not only showcases the beautyandcapabilitiesofvariousdogbreedsbutalsofosters advancementsinbreeding,training,andjudgingtechniques.

This year’s show, with its blend of tradition and innovation, underscored the enduring appeal and evolving nature of the canine competitive world. The legacy of excellence at Westminster remains a beacon for dog lovers and breeders worldwide, inspiring continuous improvement and admirationforthenoblecompanionshipofdogs.

HOUND

Group

Judge: Ms. C. Erickson

Afghan Hounds

GCHP CH SUNLIT’S KING OF QUEENS

Breeder: Tara M Richardson & Pam Winkelmeier & Norma Feldman.

Owner: Alicia Morrison Jones & Jamie Souza Bartlett

2

3 4

Whippet

GCHS CH Pinnacle Garden Party

Breeder: Justin Smithey & Cheslie Smithey.

Owner: Nancy Shaw & Justin Smithey & Cheslie Smithey

Otterhound

GCHS CH Dobhran’s Alexa Play Some Music

Breeder: Dr Sonnya Wilkins.

Owner: Sonnya & Jim Wilkins & Andrea Jack Jason McIlwaine

Norwegian Elkhound

GCH CH Vin-Melca’s Nimrod

Breeder: Patricia V Trotter & Charles E Trotter.

Owner: Andy Vance & Mary Ann Lambert & Patricia V Trotter

TOY

Group

Judge: Mr. G. Lajeski

SHIH TZU

GCHP CH HALLMARK JOLEI OUT OF THIS WORLD

Breeder: Luke Ehricht & Diane Ehricht.

Owner: Bonnie J Miller DVM & Luke & Diane Ehricht

2 3 4

Havanese

GCHP CH Wynmark’s Les Bijoux’s Rock’N Rolz At Reverie

Breeder: Michelle Coombs & Fredith Holt.

Owner: Fredith Holt & Michelle Coombs & Bob Hewlett & Carol

Hewlett & Betty White

Maltese

GCH CH Ta-Jon’s Made From Scratch

Breeder: Tammy A Simon & Dr Diana Egnor.

Owner: Tammy A Simon & Dr Diana Egnor

Pugs

GCHG CH Andi In Cahoots

Breeder: Joy Barbieri & Rebecca Movall & Eileen C Barbieri.

Owner: Carolyn Koch & Joy Barbieri & Rebecca Movall

NON SPORTING

Group

Judge: Mr. F. Bassett

POODLES (MINIATURE)

GCHG CH SURREY SAGE

Breeder: Kathleen Wallen & Kaz Hosaka.

Owner: Cathy Gauche

2

Chow Chows

GCHP CH Barbary’s Reigning Royalty CGCA TKN

Breeder: Barbara D Becker.

Owner: Ralph Silva

3

4

Keeshonden

GCHB CH Windrift’s Dirty Hairy

Breeder: Ashley Reed & Joanne Reed.

Owner: Joanne Reed

Bichons Frises

GCH CH Top Speed Neal

Breeder: Cuibin Xie.

Owner: Ellen Charles & Fang Yang & Nancy Brown

HERDING

Group

Judge: Mr. M. Faulkner

GERMAN SHEPHERD DOG

GCHG CH KALEEF’S MERCEDES

Breeder: Sheree Moses & Lauren Figler & M Llewelyn & J Hamilton.

Owner: Cynthian Wilhelmy & Sheree Moses

2

3 4

Old English Sheepdog

GCHG CH Bagatelle Rainbow Moon

Breeder: Joanne Charest.

Owner: Roberta Corbett & Bernard & Joanne Charest

Norwegian Buhund

GCHG CH Cloudpointe Ringside Gossip

Breeder: Amelia McLaughlin.

Owner:Amelia McLaughlin & Garrison Sharp & Laurel Denk & Marc Denk

Bearded Collie

GCHB CH Meadows’ Turn The Paige RN CA

Breeder: Eileen Eaton & Claudia McNulty.

Owner: Julie Kempster & Bea Sawka

SPORTING

Group

Judge: Mr. D. L. Kittredge

SPANIEL (COCKER) BLACK

GCHG CH REJOICES TO THE POINT

Breeder: Joy E Stevens

Owner: Joy E Stevens

2

Pointer (German Shorthaired)

GCHG CH Hhh Autumn Sonnet

Breeder: Cheryl Thrall

Owner: Cheryl Thrall

3

4

Retriever (Chesapeake Bay)

GCHS CH Next Generation’s Accelerate

Breeder: Adam Levy

Owner: Melissa Schumann & Dana Bleifer DVM & Adam Levy

Retriever (Labrador)

GCHB CH Clearcreek Rock Paper Scissors At Gallivant

Breeder: Elizabeth Martin

Owner: Fabian Negron & Patrick Coady

WORKING

Group

Judge: Mrs. R. Gschwender

GIANT SCHNAUZER

GCHS CH HEARTHMORE’S WINTERGREEN MOUNTAIN RI CGC TKN

FITB

Breeder: Cherlann Ambrose.

Owner: Sandra Nordstrom & Katherine Bernardin & Cherlann Ambrose

2

3 4

Siberian Huskie

GCHP CH Highlander’s Snow Pilot

Breeder: Anne Palmer & Brian Palmer

Owner: Anne Palmer & Brian Palmer & Hiroyo Shimizu

Boxer

GCHB CH Tybrushe’s Livin Notoriety

Breeder: Sheila A McAvoy & Darren T Lovely

Owner: Sheila McAvoy & Darren Lovely

Alaskan Malamutes

GCHG CH Vykon’s Saucin’ I Do This Often-A’Mahya ATT

Breeder: Vicky JoneS

Owner: Melissa Sage

Group

Judge: Mrs. P. Keenan

BULL TERRIER (COLORED)

GCHB CH GRABO FRANKIE GOES TO MAGOR

Breeder: Grace S Thomas & Robert K Thomas.

Owner: Sarah Byzewski & Joe Byzewski

TERRIER 1

2

3

Miniature Schnauzer

GCHB CH Zrules Invictus

Breeder: Debra Marie Barnhill & Leslie Mendelsohn.

Owner: James & Debra Barnhill & Leslie Mendelsohn

Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier

GCHS CH Keepsake’s Fashion Icon

Breeder: Shari Robinson & Sydney Robinson & Priscilla Tims

Owner: Shari Robinson & Sydney Robinson

4

Manchester Terrier (Standard)

GCHP CH Cashlane’s Incantation

Breeder:Shelley Cafferty

Owner: Shelley Cafferty

INTERVIEW WITH JUNIOR HANDLER

LILAHolberg

Please tell our readers how you got involved in the world of showing pedigreed dogs?

I have always been someone that loves competition. Always looking for a new challenge. I am a first-generation handler, and I started five years ago. My parents originally rescued a Pointer named Sunny, and a Lab-GWP mix named Angus a few

years before I was born, and they hunted with them. My parents decided to change breeds and got a Wirehaired Pointing Griffon, named Finn, so that they could have a more versatile hunting dog for our colder winters. When I was five, Sunny and Angus passed away from cancer and Finn was so lonely and needed a friend in the household. My parents decided to adopt an older Griffon and met breeders Lisa Boyer Miller and Lisa Durand, who happened to have a great dog available for a re-home. His name was Indy, and we flew him from his previous home, on the East Coast, to Seattle! He had a great attitude, very lovable, and would do anything you asked him to do. We loved him so much that we adopted his littermate Blaze the following year and officially became a Griff family.

I did not know anything about dog shows or have any interest in showing myself until I attended my first show. We went to watch the AWPGA National Specialty in Helena, Montana, when I was eight and both our breeders encouraged my sister Emily to try junior showmanship with Indy. I remember watching Amy Rutherford, with the Griff special she had out at the time, that she piloted to Best of Breed. She won this beautiful ribbon and at once, I knew I wanted to be like Amy. I watched her all week and was in awe at how well she handled the different dogs, small to big, with grace. It inspired me to get involved in the sport. As my sister tried it out, she soon learned it was not for her. With her not showing, I took over showing Indy who absolutely loved the ring. It could not have worked out any better! From then on, I practiced and trained Indy to be my junior’s dog, and soon my first show came around. I loved every second of my first show and

was ready for the next one. The rest is history! What handlers inspire you and who do you work for as an assistant?

Terri Erickson, who I work for, inspires me every day for sure! We spend days, and sometimes even weeks together traveling from one show to another. Something about Terri in particular stands out to me, is how she does her job. She always puts the needs of the dogs first, stays focused on her goals, and is always trying to educate herself further. She always says, “You must learn at least one new thing a day. That is our rule in the setup. If you stop learning, I am not doing my job correctly.” Every person has something new to teach or a different skill set to provide. Terri also has great sportsmanship. She walks out of the ring, win, or lose, with grace and always congratulates the competitors. Something I think everyone should strive to do, no matter your placement.

She is always willing to help others and is all-around an incredibly kind person and a hard worker. Lori WilsonPaust, Tiffany Skinner, Valerie Nunes-Atikson, Amy Rutherford, and Andy Linton are all handlers that inspire me as well. Each one of them are phenomenal at their craft and the knowledge they have is utterly amazing. The presentation of dogs they highlight to the fancy is a masterpiece. I would be so lucky to learn under any single one of them.

On occasion when Lori Wilson-Paust and I are at the same show, I will work for her as well.

What breeds have you shown?

I show Pointers, Whippets, Wirehaired Pointing Griffons, and Borzoi. I work with a lot of hounds and sporting dogs, and some working and herding breeds.

Can you share a memory from your first dog show that

sticks out in your mind?

I would like to think I did well for my first dog showconsidering how intimidating it can be for any newcomer. It was Seattle KC 2017, and I had just turned nine. I was super nervous, did not feel prepared, and felt like everything I had practiced for had left me. There were so many people watching (the show had an entry of over sixty kids) and it felt like all eyes were on my dog and me. My number was being called several times and I was fumbling with my lead and was the last kid in the ring. The judge smiled and asked if this was my first show and of course it was. The entire time I was in the ring, I rushed.

I did not place that day, but I was okay with it, as I had gotten my first day out of the way! I told my mom I was going to be prepared and ready to go in the next day. I received fourth place in a large class the next day and I was ecstatic! Totally hooked!

Would you like to be a breeder one day? What breeds would you like to establish a breeding program with?

I would love to be a breeder in the future. I can see myself breeding Whippets and Pointers.

Do you have a mentor?

Yes! I am so lucky to learn from some of the absolute best in both breeds. In Whippets I get mentored under Lori Wilson, Terri Erickson, and Lori Lawrence. In Pointers, Lydia Frey and Tina McDonnell mentor me. Even though they are located on the East Coast, and my family and I on the West Coast, they are always a text or call away. They were also kind and lent their Pointer Fidele to come live

with us and be my junior’s dog. I am forever grateful for the opportunities Tina and Lydia have provided.

Would you like to be a judge one day? If so, what breeds/ Groups would you like to judge?

I would love to judge juniors after I age out. I would also love to get approved to judge the Hound and Sporting Groups later down the road.

Do you find it difficult to balance schoolwork and dog showing?

I do not find it difficult to balance school and showing because school is the number one priority. Showing comes second. I take my education very seriously as it is the foundation for my future interests, whether it is in dogs or not.

What dog from the past do you wish you could have handled?

I always love hearing stories about legendary dogs from the past. The famous Whippet bred by Lori and Carey Lawerance, Chanel, BIS BISS GCHP Starlines Chanel, JC, handled from 2009-2012 by Lori Wilson is most definitely one I wish I could have handled. Her resume is truly outstanding. She went on to win the group at the prestigious shows AKC/Eukanuba Invitational and Westminster Kennel Club. She also won Best in Show at major venues such as Morris and Essex, Devon Dog Association, and the Palm Springs Kennel Club. She accumulated over three hundred group one wins, 72 BIS, and numerous BIS specialties. She achieved the status of number five all-breeds and number one hound from 2010-

2011. All accomplishments breeders dream of achieving. It would have been an incredible experience to be at the end of her lead.

What dog currently in the ring would you love to handle if given the opportunity?

A dog currently in the ring that I would love to handle if given the opportunity would be the Standard Schnauzer, Bogart, MBIS MBISS GCHG Crivitz Humphrey Bogart Von Diable, handled to perfection by Tiffany Skinner. Although it would be amazing to handle Bogart, more than anything, I just love to watch Tiffany and him in the ring together and I admire how well they work as a team. His condition, grooming, and presentation is flawless. I am fortunate enough to get to see them every weekend he is out showing, as we live in the same area.

Which professional handler would you hire to show your dog?

Hands down, Tiffany Skinner.

When you finish school, what career would you like to pursue? If not, dog related, do you hope to always find time for dog shows in life?

I am not sure right now. I do however think I am in the sport for the long run. I have many goals just waiting to be achieved. I hope to participate in the fancy for many years to come.

What have been some of your most special memories in the ring?

A special memory I can recall is my first time qualifying for Westminster when I was eleven. A goal that I had set for myself when I was ten. All of 2019, I worked hard to fine tune my presentation of dogs and worked on being just as polished as any of the older kids. I watched and asked questions on what I could do to improve. Indy and I received our final seventh best junior win, one weekend before the cutoff date at an all-breed show in Boise, Idaho. Another incredibly special memory is the moment I was chosen as a finalist at Westminster this year with my Pointer.

Do you find the transition from the junior showmanship ring to the breed ring difficult?

I would say they are different. The goals you set for the junior’s

ring differ from those you set in the breed ring.

Do you find the more mature members of the dog show world treat you with respect and offer advice to help you on your dog show journey?

Absolutely. So many have reached out for guidance and tips on how to improve and excel. I love all the support from the fancy.

What in your opinion is the purpose of dog shows?

To evaluate and highlight the conformation of purebred dogs that will later be potentially used in breeding programs.

What breeds (other than your own) would you love to learn how to present to perfection?

I would love to learn how to present a Briard. They are such a stunning breed.

What would be your dream win at a dog show?

A dream win, and a personal goal would be winning Best Junior Handler at the famous Westminster Kennel Club dog show. I had the honor of being sent to the finals this year at Westminster with my Pointer, Fidele, and have been invited again this next year. I’ve consecutively qualified for the Garden four times starting when I was eleven.

Have you any goals inside and outside of the world of dogs?

A goal I have for this year is to finish out the year as number one junior in the country, all-breeds. I have maintained number one the entire year so far and have a strong lead. I am very thankful that I have been able to set and achieve this goal at such an early age. I also just started high school and I am up for the challenge of balancing academics with my favorite sport.

CROWNING the year '24

Kaitlyn Price

- Orlando ‘24

OWNER-HANDLER BEST IN SHOW

RESULTS

1st

2nd

3rd

4th

1st

2nd

3rd

4th

SPORTING GROUP

GCHB CH Tamarack Valley View River Of Dreams · Gordon Setter

Breeders: Brian Hubbard/Matthew McGillivray/JoAnne Van Aller · Owners: Dr Ellen Shanahan & Stacy Threlfall

GCHG CH Tahari N Clearcreek Spirit In The Night · Pointer

Breeders: Linda Cayton/Mr. Frank DePaulo · Owners: Linda Cayton & Jenn Irwin & Frank DePaulo

GCHG CH Next Generation’s Accelerate · Chesapeake Bay Retriever

Breeders: Adam Levy · Owners: Schumann & Bleifer & Scribner &Levy&Gerardi-Miller

GCHG CH Boardwalk Here Comes The Sun FDC BCAT DS DJ CGCA TKA ATT VSWB · Lagotto Romagnolo

Breeders: Mack Amis/Lynn Amis/Kendal L Walters · Owners: Andrew Ross/Amy Killeen

HOUND GROUP

GCHP2 CH Sunlit’s King Of Queens · Afghan Hound

Breeders: Ms. Tara Richardson/Pam Winkelmeier/Norma M Feldman · Owners: Alicia Morrison Jones & Jamie Souza Bartlett

GCHG CH Pinnacle Garden Party · Whippet

Breeders: Justin C Smithey/Cheslie Smithey · Owners: Justin Smithey & Cheslie Smithey & Nancy Shaw

GCHB CH Lex Ayur-Es-Sahel · Azawakh

Breeders: Lilia Berezkina/Nina Berezkina · Owners: Jeff Winton & Lilia Berezkina

GCHS CH Dobhran’s Alexa Play Some Music · Otterhound

Breeders: Dr. Sonnya L Wilkins · Owners: Sonnya James Wilkins Andrea Jack Jason McIlwai

RESULTS

1st

2nd

3rd

4th

1st

2nd

3rd

4th

WORKING GROUP

GCHG CH Hearthmore’s Wintergreen Mountain RI CGC TKN FITB · Giant Schnauzer

Breeders: Ms. Cherlann Ambrose · Owners: Sandra Nordstrom & K Bernardin & C Ambrose · Agent: Katie Bernadine

GCHP CH Eb The Relentless Pursuit Of Perfection · Great Dane

Breeders: Mr. Elyades Betancourt/Rosario Pineiro/Elena L. Bustillo · Owners: Pedro & E Bustillo & Elyades Betancourt & Rosa

GCHG CH Emek Hayarden Cudar · Kuvasz

Breeders: Michael Altit/Monica Altit · Owners: Caroline & Brian & Mary Clegg

GCHS CH Straw Hat Here To Love · Standard Schnauzer

Breeders: Leslie Shriner · Owners: Christopher White and Leslie Shriner

TERRIER GROUP

GCHB CH Studio Be Curious Jp Justice Hero · Welsh Terrier

Breeders: Yuko Iguchi · Owners: Jill See & Yuko Iguchi & Gabriel & Ivonne Rangel

GCHG CH Maystar’s Shonleh Michan Ruddy Duck · Norwich Terrier

Breeders: Dr. Frank James Bossong/Sharon Curry/Sandy Hamilton

Owners: L Marshall & Dr F J Bossong & S Hamilton · Agent: Amy Rutherford

GCHG CH Longvue Dare To Dream · Airedale Terrier

Breeders: Mrs. April Clyde/Mr. Todd Clyde · Owners: April & Todd Clyde · Agent: Ernesto Lara

GCHG CH Keepsake’s Fashion Icon · Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier

Breeders: Shari Robinson/Sydney Robinson/Priscilla Tims · Owners: Shari Robinson Sydney Robinson

RESULTS

TOY GROUP

1st CH Rexroth Kimro Valentina · Miniature Pinscher

Breeders: Mrs. Lesley Rita Walter/Stefan R Walter/Kimberly Calvacca

Owners: Steve Lesley Walters Kimberly Calvacca Robin Green · Agent: Heather Queener

2nd GCHP CH Wynmark’s Les Bijoux’s Rock’N Rolz At Reverie · Havanese

Breeders: Michelle Coombs/Fredith Holt · Owners: F Holt & M Coombs & B&C Hewlett & B White

3rd CH Huntwood’s Roxanne Don’T Put On The Red Light · Brussels Griffon

Breeders: Susan Kipp Depew/Jeff Crouse · Owners: Susan a DePew

4th Sun Poms Love Cory · Pomeranian

Owners: Roderich Anthony Chang

1st

GCHS CH Top Speed Neal · Bichon Frise

Breeders: Cuibin Xie · Owners: Ellen Charles & Fan Yang & Nancy Brown · Agent: Lisa Bettis

2nd GCHG CH Master Rock Calaco (Alonso Tojo) · Xoloitzcuintli

Breeders: Silvia Tojo/Miguel Alonso · Owners: Silvia Tojo & Miguel Alonso

3rd GCHB CH Delamer Summer Sand Elle · chipperke

Breeders: Krista J Nuovo-Roe · Owners: Krista J Nuovo-Roe 4th

GCHG CH Ta Sen Westgate Jingle Juice · Lhasa Apso

Breeders: Susan S Giles/Cindy Sehnert/Ellen Lonigro · Owners: Susan S Giles Cindy Sehnert Muriel Wolverton

RESULTS

st

1

2nd

rd

3

4th

HERDING GROUP

GCHP CH Kaleef’s Mercedes · German Shepherd Dog

Breeders: Sheree Moses Combs/Lauren Arbaugh/Madeline Llewellyn/Jeanne Hamilton

Owner(s): Cynthian Wilhelmy & Sheree Moses · Agent: Kent Boyles

GCHG CH Eclipse Ace In The Hole · Berger Picard

Breeder(s): Donna Beadle/Michael Beadle · Owner(s): Chris Ruppenthal & Grace Thomas & Gay Glazebrook

GCHP CH Alta Oceans Symphony Of The Seas · Miniature American Shepherd

Breeders: Valerie Nilsson · Owners: Valerie Nilsson · Agent: Kara Janiszak

GCH CH Bugaboo’s Give Me Smore’ · Old English Sheepdog

Breeders: Mr. Milan Lint/Heather Johnson/Mr. Douglas W. Johnson/Michaelanne Johnson/Colton W Johnson/Cameron Johnson

Owners: Colton & Heather & Michaelanne & Douglas Johnson · Agent: Colton Johnson

RESERVE Best in show

GCHP2 CH Sunlit’s King Of Queens

Afghan Hound

BEST in show

GCHG CH Hearthmore’s Wintergreen Mountain RI CGC TKN FITB

Giant Schnauzer

RINGSIDE SIMI VALLEY & SANTA BARBARA KENNEL CLUB click

Dog shows

Santa Barbara Kennel Club

HISTORY

Santa Barbara is renowned not only for its stunning backdrop, which provides an extraordinary setting for dog enthusiasts, but also for being home to one of the oldest and most esteemed dog shows.

The inaugural show in Santa Barbara took place in 1919 at the Palm Ring of the Belvedere Hotel (the Potter Hotel was renamed the Belvedere that same year after its sale). This first event attracted 272 entries, with the Best in Show awarded to Mission Silvie, a Cocker Spaniel owned by Mission Kennels.

The following year marked the first show officially sponsored by the Santa Barbara Kennel Club, boasting over 500 entries. An article in “Field and Stream” from November 6, 1920, praised the event:

“The annual show of the Santa Barbara Kennel Club, held in the famous Palm Arena on the beautiful grounds of the Ambassador Hotel, may well go down in history as the most picturesque dog show ever assembled. Picture a perfect lawn encircled by towering palms over 30 feet tall, along with an abundance of semi-tropical plants such as acacia, oleander, heliotrope, and verbena. The dogs were

“Santa

Barbara Kennel Club hosts the most picturesque dog show ever.”

Field and Stream, November 6, 1920

benched on a shaded terrace, and the ring was large enough for a horse show. It far surpassed all expectations.”

Over the years, Santa Barbara has enjoyed several beautiful show venues along the West Coast, ranging from the exclusive Hope Ranch Park to the Santa Barbara Polo Club, and in the 1980s, to Robertson Field at the University of California. Attendees can admire exceptional dogs and, if they look closely enough, spot movie, sports, or television stars—either in or out of the ring.

The driving force behind the Santa Barbara Kennel Club was Sidney Heckert, Jr., who led it to become the largest

dog show in the country. When he decided to retire and step back from the club, the AKC reached out to Tom and Ann Stevenson, who were living in Carmel at the time. They agreed to relocate to Santa Barbara and took over the organization of the dog show.

Today, the Santa Barbara Kennel Club hosts back-toback shows in August at the Earl Warren Showgrounds, conveniently located just off Highway 101. While the shows are smaller, they remain just as thrilling. The venue offers ample space for dogs, motorhomes, and spectators alike.

Santa Barbara Kennel Club Dog Shows: A Weekend of Excellence

Every year, the Santa Barbara Kennel Club dog shows promise an unforgettable experience for exhibitors and spectators alike, and this year’s event, held from August 22 to 25, was no exception. With beautiful weather that typically graces the Santa Barbara weekend, attendees enjoyed picture-perfect conditions—temperatures peaked at a comfortable 75 degrees with low humidity, creating an ideal environment for the dogs and their handlers.

This year, the event showcased impressive participation, starting with nearly 1,000 entries on Thursday, followed by 1,046 entries on Friday. Saturday saw a remarkable 1,228 dogs, solidifying its status as one of the largest dog shows in California. Even Sunday maintained strong participation, contributing to a successful weekend overall. This level of engagement highlights the show’s significance on the

national stage, making it one of the rare events in the USA that consistently features international judges.

The judging panel this year included esteemed figures from around the world, such as Mr. Frank Kane from the UK, Arne Foss from Norway, and Laurent Pichard from Switzerland. Frank Dyson from England also took the reins to judge the Bull Terriers on Sunday, alongside Darle Heck and Carol Graham from Canada. Their expertise brought a diverse perspective to the judging process, enhancing the overall experience for participants.

What makes Santa Barbara particularly special to me—and one of my favorite shows in the USA—is the commitment it shows to the world of purebred dogs. In addition to the four all-breed shows (Simi Valley KC on Thursday and Friday, and Santa Barbara KC on Saturday and Sunday), the event encompasses a variety of activities and showcases that celebrate the beauty and quality of purebred dogs.

Beyond the competition, the weekend serves as a gathering point for dog lovers and breeders, fostering a sense of community. The scenic backdrop of Santa Barbara adds to the allure, allowing attendees to enjoy both the show and the breathtaking surroundings.

In conclusion, the Santa Barbara Kennel Club dog shows continue to shine as a premier event in the dog fancy world. With its blend of exceptional weather, high entry numbers, and an international panel of judges, it’s a celebration of purebred dogs that leaves a lasting impression on all who attend. I look forward to next year’s festivities and the continued support for purebred dog excellence.

ForeignBredCompetition

On Thursday, following the Best in Show competition of the all-breed show, the Foreign Bred Dog Competition took center stage, expertly judged by Darle Heck from Canada and Lynda Clark from the USA. This great event is meant to all dogs bred outside the United . The standout winner of the competition was GCHG Zaida Bint Muti Von Haussman, an exceptional Afghan Hound owned by R. Podesta, S. Pfeil, J. Donahue, and A. Sobrado, and presented by Willy Santiago.

A total of four placements and four Awards of Merit were awarded, with all eight winners receiving cash prizes and stunning ribbons. With an entry fee of just $10, approximately 30 enthusiastic participants eagerly took part.

TheBullyganza: AShowcaseofStrengthandCharm

The Bullyganza is celebration of the bully breeds, drawing enthusiasts and breeders alike to witness the remarkable qualities of these canines. This year’s competition featured a diverse lineup that included American Staffordshire Terriers, Boston Terriers, Bullmastiffs, Bull Terriers (Colored & White), DoguesdeBordeaux,DogoArgentino,Miniature Bull Terriers, Staffordshire Bull Terriers, Bulldogs, and French Bulldogs. Eligibility for the Bullyganza is granted to all Best of Breed, Best of Winners, and Best of Opposite Sex winners at the Santa Barbara Kennel Club shows. Additionally, winners of the Select Dog and Bitch titles from the concurrent specialties of American Staffordshire

Terriers, Bull Terriers, Miniature Bull Terriers, and French Bulldogs are also eligible. These exceptional dogs compete together in a single class.

On Sunday afternoon, just before the Best in Show began, the Bullyganza unfolded under the watchful eye of judge Peggy Beisel-McIlwaine.

The standout of the day was Bull Terrier Ch. Grabo Frankie Goes to Magor, who has already made a name for himself by winning the Terrier Group at Westminster this year, owned and presented by Sarah Byzewski.

TheSighthoundSpectacular: ACelebrationofEleganceandGrace

The Sighthound Spectacular is an exquisite showcase of some of the most elegant and graceful breeds in the canine world. Held annually, this event attracts the finest sighthounds to compete for top honors, drawing in dog lovers and breeders alike. This year’s competition featured a stunning array of breeds, including the Afghan Hound, Azawakh, Basenji, Borzoi, Cirneco dell’Etna, Greyhound, Ibizan Hound, Italian Greyhound, Irish Wolfhound, Peruvian Inca Orchid, Pharaoh Hound, Portuguese Podenga, Portuguese Podenga Pequena, Rhodesian Ridgeback, Scottish Deerhound, Saluki, Sloughi, and Whippet. To compete in the Sighthound Spectacular, dogs must be winners of specific titles. Each participant must have secured a Best of Breed, Best of Winners, or Best of Opposite Sex title at the Santa Barbara Kennel Club shows on Saturday and Sunday. Furthermore,

Select Dog and Select Bitch winners from supported and specialty breeds also qualify for this prestigious event. These outstanding canines come together in a single class, showcasing their beauty and agility in a competitive atmosphere that celebrates the unique qualities of sighthounds.

This year’s Sighthound Spectacular took place in the main arena on Sunday afternoon, preceding the Best in Show all-breed competition. The judge was Gretchen Bernardi, a respected figure in the dog show community known for her keen eye and appreciation of breed standards. The highlight of the day was the announcement of the first-place winner: Ch. Bohem N Lishima’s Alluring, a charming 9-month-old Whippet named Vixen. Owned by Libby de Mille and Bo Bengtson and expertly presented by Paul Lepiane, Vixen captured the hearts of both the judges and the audience with her poise and grace.

A Night to Remember:

The Breeder’s Showcase Competition

Every year, the Breeders’ Showcase competition brings together some of the finest dogs and breeders in the industry. Held under the stars after Saturday’s Best in ShowJudging,thiseventisatruecelebration of exceptional breeding programs. The competition begins at the group level, where participants present two or more dogs (and/or bitches) of the same breed, all of whom share a common breeder. What makes this event truly unique is the spirit of inclusion—anyone can handle the dogs, and entrants don’t have to be registered in the regular classes of the Santa Barbara Kennel Club (SBKC). However, all dogs must belong to an AKC Recognized Breed and follow AKC Sanctioned Show rules.

Monetary prizes are awarded to the common breeder of record, and a separate entry form for this competition is included

in the Premium List or available through Jack Bradshaw Dog Show Superintendents. What makes the Breeders’ Showcase even more special is the club’s “Dinner at the Dog Show,” where attendees are invited to enjoy a meal with a suggested donation of $10— creating a perfect blend of camaraderie, good food, and love for dogs.

The Breeders’ Showcase is not just a competition;it’sanexperience.Takingplace in the main arena on Saturday night, the spectacle is awe-inspiring. The combination of the beautifully lit arena, an array of stunning dogs, and the palpable excitement in the air creates a magical ambiance. It’s a night where owners, breeders, and visitors come together, seated around the rings, enjoying a delightful dinner served by the club. The atmosphere is one of romance and refinement, with fascinators adorning heads, laughter echoing in the background, and an undeniable sense of joy all around.

Each group is judged by a different expert, adding to the variety and excitement of the competition. This year, the Sporting Group was judged by Loran Morgan, the Hound GroupbySusanLaCroix-Hamil,theWorking Group by Linda Clark, the Terrier Group by Peggy Brown, the Toy Group by Patty Proctor, the Non-Sporting Group by Arne Foss, and the Herding Group by Dale Heck.

The competition saw many deserving winners, with ribbons and monetary prizes awarded across the groups. Here’s a quick look at the stand-out champions:

Sporting Group: Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers, GCHB Redmoon’s Sexy Son of a Duck and GCHS Redmoon’s What The Duck, presented by Kendyl Schultze and Jorda Confer.

Hound Group: Whippets, Bohem N Lishima’s Alluring and Virtuoso de Vitruvius, presented by Paul Lepiane and Debra Stafford.

Working Group: Boxers, GCHP2 Irondale’s The Legend Exists and GCH Irondale’s You’re It, presented by Kimberly and Lexi Steele, who not only won the group but also clinched Best in Show.

Terrier Group: Bull Terriers, CH Action Divine Goddess by Old Forge and CH Action Simply Divine from Old Forge, owned by Sarah Bryzewski, Franne Berez, MD, and Dale Scur, DDS, and who went on to win Reserve Best in Show.

Toy Group: Japanese Chins, GCH Kalor Panic at the Disco and

THE CHAMPIONS OF THE NIGHT

Kalor Hot Rod Lincoln, owned by Kathleen Sepulveda and Maria Moody.

Non-SportingGroup:EnglishBulldogs,GCHMBK-A&JSunshine and CH MBK ANJ Sunshine to Infinity and Beyond, owned by Jackie Basagoitia, Kylie Compton, Abraham Silva, Jazmin Romero, and Dulce Castro.

Herding Group: Bearded Collies, CH Scott’s Rebel Without a Cause and GCHS Scott’s Georgia on My Mind, owned by Carol andThomasWathan,andpresentedbyJorgeandSusanOlivera.

From Awards of Merit to Best in Show, each participant walked away with a prize, with cash awards ranging from $50 to $1000.

What an incredible evening it was! From the beautiful dogs to the fantastic atmosphere, the Breeders’ Showcase was truly a night to remember. We can’t wait to see what next year brings.

Until then, we’ll be reflecting on this magical night, filled with love for dogs, great company, and unforgettable memories.

Until Next Year!

SIMI VALLEY KENNEL CLUB

GROUP WINNERS

Thursday, August 22nd

SPORTING GROUP

#1- GCHG Vjk-Myst Heir To The Throne JH FDC CGCA

CGCU TKN BN-V

Breed: Pointer (German Shorthaired)

Handler: Valerie Nunes-Atkinson

Owner: Y Deterding, V Atkinson & S Stutz

Breeder: S Stutz, Y Deterding & V Atkinson

HOUND GROUP

#1-GCHG Zaida Bint Muti Von Haussman

Breed: Afghan Hound

Handler: Willy Santiago

Owner: R Podesta, S Pfeil, J Donahue & A Sobrado

Breeder: R Podesta

WORKING GROUP

#1-GCH Tybrushe Livin On The Edge Of X-Cellence

Breed: Boxer

Handler: Michael Shepherd

Owner: B Tan

Breeder: B Tan

TERRIER GROUP

#1- GCHS Maystar’s Shonleh Michan Ruddy Duck

Breed: Norwich Terrier

Handler: Amy Rutherford

Owner: L Marshall, Dr. FJ Bossong & S Curry

Breeder: Dr. FJ Bossong, S Curry & S Hamilton

TOY GROUP

#1- GCH Kick Em Kenny V. Tani Kazari

Breed: Affenpinscher

Handler: Ethan Coye

Owner: Y Savard, P Kanan & C Huggins

Breeder: M Cooijmans

NON-SPORTING GROUP

#1- GCHG Lakeridge Challenger

Breed: Poodle (Standard)

Handler: Young Choi

Owner: D Ferguson-Jones

Breeder: D Ferguson-Jones

HERDING GROUP

#1- GCHS Scott’s Georgia On My Mind

Breed: Bearded Collie

Handler: Susie Olivera

Owner/Breeder: C & T Wathen & J & S Olivera

BEST IN SHOWR. BEST IN SHOW

JUDGE: Mr. Frank Kane

GCHG Zaida Bint Muti Von Haussman

Breed: Afghan Hound

Handler: Willy Santiago

Owner: R Podesta, S Pfeil, J Donahue & A Sobrado

Breeder: R Podesta

GCH Tybrushe Livin On The Edge Of X-Cellence

Breed: Boxer

Handler: Michael Shepherd

Owner: B Tan

Breeder: B Tan

SIMI VALLEY KENNEL CLUB

GROUP WINNERS

Friday, August 23rd

SPORTING GROUP

#1- GCHG Vjk-Myst Heir To The Throne JH FDC CGCA

CGCU TKN BN-V

Breed: Pointer (German Shorthaired)

Handler: Valerie Nunes-Atkinson

Owner: Y Deterding, V Atkinson & S Stutz

Breeder: S Stutz, Y Deterding & V Atkinson

HOUND GROUP

#1-GCHG Zaida Bint Muti Von Haussman

Breed: Afghan Hound

Handler: Willy Santiago

Owner: R Podesta, S Pfeil, J Donahue & A Sobrado

Breeder: R Podesta

WORKING GROUP

#1-GCH Tybrushe Livin On The Edge Of X-Cellence

Breed: Boxer

Handler: Michael Shepherd

Owner: B Tan

Breeder: B Tan

TERRIER GROUP

#1- CH Grabo Frankie Goes To Mabor

Breed: Bull Terrier (Colored)

Handler: Sarah Byzewski

Owner: S Byzewski

Breeder: G & R Thomas

TOY GROUP

#1- GCHP Wynmark’s Les Bijoux’s RockN Rolz At Reverie

Breed: Havanese

Handler: David Murray

Owner: F Holt, M Coombs, B & C Hewlett & B White

Breeder: M Coombs & F Holt

NON-SPORTING GROUP

#1- GCHG Lakeridge Challenger

Breed: Poodle (Standard)

Handler: Young Choi

Owner: D Ferguson-Jones

Breeder: D Ferguson-Jones

HERDING GROUP

#1- GCHB Northbay Xsell Tryin’ To BSerious

Breed: Australian Shepherd

Handler: Larry Fenner

Owner: L Leach, K Kirtley, H Sells & H Herron

Breeder: H Sells

BEST IN SHOWR. BEST IN SHOW

JUDGE: Mrs. Polly (Mrs. Robert) D Smith

GCHG Zaida Bint Muti Von Haussman

Breed: Afghan Hound

Handler: Willy Santiago

Owner: R Podesta, S Pfeil, J Donahue & A Sobrado

Breeder: R Podesta

GCHP Wynmark’s Les Bijoux’s RockN Rolz At Reverie

Breed: Havanese

Handler: David Murray

Owner: F Holt, M Coombs, B & C Hewlett & B White

Breeder: M Coombs & F Holt

SANTA BARBARA KENNEL CLUB

GROUP WINNERS

Saturday, August 24th

SPORTING GROUP

#1- GCHG Vjk-Myst Heir To The Throne JH FDC CGCA

CGCU TKN BN-V

Breed: Pointer (German Shorthaired)

Handler: Valerie Nunes-Atkinson

Owner: Y Deterding, V Atkinson & S Stutz

Breeder: S Stutz, Y Deterding & V Atkinson

HOUND GROUP

#1-GCHG Zaida Bint Muti Von Haussman

Breed: Afghan Hound

Handler: Willy Santiago

Owner: R Podesta, S Pfeil, J Donahue & A Sobrado

Breeder: R Podesta

WORKING GROUP

#1-GCH Tybrushe Livin On The Edge Of X-Cellence

Breed: Boxer

Handler: Michael Shepherd

Owner: B Tan

Breeder: B Tan

TERRIER GROUP

#1- CH Grabo Frankie Goes To Mabor

Breed: Bull Terrier (Colored)

Handler: Sarah Byzewski

Owner: S Byzewski

Breeder: G & R Thomas

TOY GROUP

#1- GCHP Wynmark’s Les Bijoux’s RockN Rolz At Reverie

Breed: Havanese

Handler: David Murray

Owner: F Holt, M Coombs, B & C Hewlett & B White

Breeder: M Coombs & F Holt

NON-SPORTING GROUP

#1- GCHB Rock’N’Rolla Black Obsidian

Breed: Poodle (Standard)

Handler: Olivia Hodgkinson

Owner: O Fagenboym

Breeder: O Fagenboym

HERDING GROUP

#1- GCHS LoveN’ Stuff One For The Road [Dog]

Breed: Old English Sheepdog

Owner: M & K Marshall

BEST IN SHOWR. BEST IN SHOW

JUDGE: Mr. Arne Foss

GCHB Rock’N’Rolla Black Obsidian

Breed: Poodle (Standard)

Handler: Olivia Hodgkinson

Owner: O Fagenboym

Breeder: O Fagenboym

GCHG Zaida Bint Muti Von Haussman

Breed: Afghan Hound

Handler: Willy Santiago

Owner: R Podesta, S Pfeil, J Donahue & A Sobrado

Breeder: R Podesta

SANTA BARBARA KENNEL CLUB

GROUP WINNERS

Sunday, August 25th

SPORTING GROUP

#1- GCHS Russet Leather Soaring Pegasus Of Tamaron

RN SWN SHDN CGC TKN ATT

Breed: Vizsla

Handler: Susie Olivera

Owner: J McClintock, R Graves, B Wanjon & C Woods

Breeder: C Woods & T & L Westerbeck

HOUND GROUP

#1-GCHG Zaida Bint Muti Von Haussman

Breed: Afghan Hound

Handler: Willy Santiago

Owner: R Podesta, S Pfeil, J Donahue & A Sobrado

Breeder: R Podesta

WORKING GROUP

#1-GCH Tybrushe Livin On The Edge Of X-Cellence

Breed: Boxer

Handler: Michael Shepherd

Owner: B Tan

Breeder: B Tan

TERRIER GROUP

#1- GCH Studio Be Curios JP Justice Hero

Breed: Welsh Terrier

Handler: Gabriel Rangel

Owner: J See, Y Iguchi & G & Y Rangel

Breeder: Y Iguchi

TOY GROUP

#1- GCHP Wynmark’s Les Bijoux’s RockN Rolz At Reverie

Breed: Havanese

Handler: David Murray

Owner: F Holt, M Coombs, B & C Hewlett & B White

Breeder: M Coombs & F Holt

NON-SPORTING GROUP

#1- GCHB Rock’N’Rolla Black Obsidian

Breed: Poodle (Standard)

Handler: Olivia Hodgkinson

Owner: O Fagenboym

Breeder: O Fagenboym

HERDING GROUP

#1- : GCHS Scott’s Georgia On My Mind

Breed: Bearded Collie

Handler: Susie Olivera

Owner: C & T Wathen & J & S Olivera

Breeder: C & T Wathen & J & S Olivera

BEST IN SHOWR. BEST IN SHOW

JUDGE: Mr. Laurent Pichard

GCHB Rock’N’Rolla Black Obsidian

Breed: Poodle (Standard)

Handler: Olivia Hodgkinson

Owner: O Fagenboym

Breeder: O Fagenboym

GCHG Zaida Bint Muti Von Haussman

Breed: Afghan Hound

Handler: Willy Santiago

Owner: R Podesta, S Pfeil, J Donahue & A Sobrado

Breeder: R Podesta

click

RINGSIDE MONTGOMERY KENNEL CLUB DOG SHOW

PICTURE CREDITS

RHONDA CASSIDY ‘24

GCHS CH SHERWOOD CK DEXTER

Owner: Lisa Bryan & Scott Bryan. Breeder: Lisa Bryan & Jennifer Wornall & Christian Rangel.

EC REPEAT OFFENDER

Owner: Martin Goldstein & Julia Rudzik & Ellen Bannin. Breeder: Kimberly Rudzik & Ellen Bannin.

BORDER TERRIER AUSTRALIAN TERRIER

BULL TERRIER (WHITE)

GCHS CH GALACTIC BITTERSWEET LEGACY AT IRUKANDJI CGCA TKN FDC BCAT RI

Owner: Anna Cremeans & Beth Evans & Jackson Leonard.

HAVEN

GCHS FIRST CLASS DELTA OF THE RAPTOR SQUAD Owner: Jacquelyn Fogel & Andrea Rich. Breeder: Jacquelyn Fogel.

GCH CH FRAJA

GCHB CH ROCKY TOP’S DREAM CHASER Owner: Lori Kibler & Rebecca & William Poole. Breeder: Lori Kibler & Rebecca P Poole & William F Poole.

CH CAS’ OUTLAW JESSE JAMES Owner: Susan Swords & Christin Cease. Breeder: Susan Swords & Christin Cease.

GCHG CH ROSCHEL FOXRUN THISTLE DO

Owner: Emily Burdon & Jose Miguel Sanchez & Cynthia Lubinsky. Breeder: Jen Holder & Rosemary Shoreman & Micheal Shoreman.

GCHB CH KILLARA FLYING DIRT DEVIL CA BCAT Owner: Anne P., Fiona C. & Moira McGroarty & G Brown. Breeder: Anne P., Fiona C. & Moira McGroarty.

Breeder: Cathy Egnot & Beth A Evans.

CAIRN TERRIER

CH HJOHOO’S YES HJO CAN

Owner: Elisabeth Theodorsson. Breeder: Elisabeth Theodorsson.

CESKY TERRIER

DANDIE DINMONT TERRIER

FOX TERRIER (SMOOTH)

FOX TERRIER (WIRE)

GLEN OF IMAAL TERRIER

IRISH TERRIER

KERRY

BLUE TERRIER

GCHS CH RANDOM RUMBLEBEE Owner: Fan Yu. Breeder: Bill McFadden.

CH EVERLAND CASTLE

Owner: Michael Radzinski. Breeder: Jennifer Hecker & Megan Vandenberg.

GCHS CH ROCKLEDGE KNOCK ON WOOD AT THORNTON’S

Owner: L M Honey & C R Comstock & S Mansfield & E Toshio Fugiwara. Breeder: Eduardo Toshio Fugiwara & Sean Mansfield & Linda M Honey.

GCHG CH BLUEFIRE DRIVE BY

Owner: Michael & Susan Cuda & Holly Million & Tim S Smith. Breeder: Tim Smith & Holly Million & Monica Kipp & Pamela S Bale.

GCHP CH ABBERANN SWEET HOME CHICAGO TKN

Owner: Alexander Rogers & Emily Bennett & Theresa Nesbitt MD. Breeder: Theresa Nesbitt MD & Lory Reinisch & Otto Reinisch.

GCH CH DECORUM ON REPLAY Owners & Breeders: Lindsay N Siflinger & Andrea Curran & Jennifer Hoffmann.

GCHS CH KILGAWNY TAKE MY MAN

Owner: John Garahan & Kathleen A Garahan. Breeder: John Garahan & Harold Quigg.

LAKELAND TERRIER

Owner:

MANCHESTER TERRIER (STANDARD)

MINIATURE BULL TERRIER

Owner:

MINIATURE SCHNAUZER

NORFOLK TERRIER

NORWICH TERRIER

PARSON RUSSELL TERRIER

RAT TERRIER

GCHB CH TOLYN’S HAN SOLO

Leonardo Garcini. Breeder: Lynn A McCain.

GCHB AVALON’S GRAND VOYAGE BN RI TKN CGC

Owner: Lori Pelletier & Susan Newell DVM. Breeder: Lori Pelletier.

GCH ANCHOR UP GEDUNK

Elizebeth Spain. Breeder: Elizebeth Spain.

CH FOXBEND HOW SWEET IT IS Owner: David Crawford & Susan Crawford. Breeder: David & Susan Crawford.

CH DUGUALLA SPIRIT’S PENNE FOR YOUR THOUGHTS

Owner: Michelle Barlak & Jessica Lyn Stover. Breeder: Jessica Lyn Stover & Carmen E Williard & Bonnie Paul.

GCHS CH HAYSTACK SIERRA ROYAL HENLEY’S GOT THE STROKES

Owner: Ellen Lucas. Breeder: Dina Moore-Tzouris & Mollie R Davis.

GCHS CH ZRULES INVICTUS

Owner: James & Debra Barnhill & Leslie Mendelsohn. Breeder: Debra Marie Barnhill & Leslie Mendelsohn.

GCHG CH MERAKI INTRIGUED BY THE BEES

Owner: Stacy Zimmerman & River Ridge KNL & Jennifer Chappell & Lenore Hedemark. Breeder: Jennifer Chappell & Stacy Zimmerman & Stacy McWilliams.

RUSSELL TERRIER

GCHG CH MONAMOUR BEYOND AND ABOVE

Owner: P Howard & J Paolo Malvar & J Ferrera & Alan Hargrave & V Swarowski DVM. Breeder: Kai Miichi.

SCOTTISH TERRIER

GCHS CH INVERCREST DARK INTRIGUE VIA MACBLAIN

Owner: Daphne Eggert. Breeder: Dr Carol Blain & Lori Tuttle.

SEALYHAM TERRIER

GCHB CH GOODSPICE EFBE DOES MY SPARKLE BURN YOUR EYES

Owner: Tara Bowker & Margery L Good & Emily Bennett & Lucy Spiegel. Breeder: Margery L Good & France Bergeron & Tara Bowker.

SKYE TERRIER

GCHS GLEANNTAN’S

SURE SHOT GREYJOY

Owner: Antoinelle Vulpis & Frank Vulpis. Breeder: Allen Smith & Gleanntan Kennels.

SOFT COATED WHEATEN TERRIERS

DOUBLOON’S DOUBLE DARE

Owner: Elena Landa. Breeder: Elena Landa.

STAFFORDSHIRE BULL TERRIERS

GCHG CH WAVEMAKER NONESUCH TT DN CGCA CGCU TKN VHMA VSWB FITG

Owner: J & L Caswell. Breeder: J & L Caswell.

WELSH

TERRIERS

GCH CH STUDIO BE CURIOUS JP JUSTICE HERO

Owner: Jill See & Yuko Iguchi & Gabriel & Ivonne Rangel. Breeder: Yuko Iguchi.

WEST HIGHLAND WHITE TERRIER

GCHG CH ELVADOR STARLIGHT GOBLET OF FIRE

Owner: Dr Roxanna Twedt. Breeder: Roxanna Twedt & Patricia Gama.

BESTIN SHOW

SKYE TERRIER

GCHS GLEANNTAN’S

SURE SHOT GREYJOY

Owner: Antoinelle Vulpis & Frank Vulpis. Breeder: Allen Smith & Gleanntan Kennels.

L YDIA

LIVING LEYEND

LYDIA Hutchinson

Lydia Hutchinson’s lifelong journey with Cairn Terriers is a rich tapestry woven from decades of passion, dedication, and an unyielding commitment to the sport of purebred dogs. Her story began before she even took her first breath, as her parents welcomed their first Cairn Terrier into their lives just two months prior to her birth. This early introduction to the breed would set the stage for a lifelong devotion to Cairns and a remarkable career in the world of dog shows.

At the age of nine, Lydia’s life took a pivotal turn when she attended her first dog show. The experience was transformative, immersing her in the excitement and elegance of the ring. From that moment, she was hooked. The allure of the dog show world and the challenge of breeding and handling dogs became her lifelong passion. Over the years, Lydia and her parents nurtured their breeding program, giving rise to the renowned Wolfpit Cairns. Through their dedication and expertise, the Wolfpit line owned or bred an impressive 300 champions, with the majority of these champions being homebred and owner handled.

Lydia’s approach to breeding Cairn Terriers has been deeply influencedbytheprinciplesshelearnedfromearlymentors.She has employed line breeding strategies to enhance her program, always striving to improve her Cairns while maintaining the integrity of her established bloodlines. Her commitment to quality has led her to import 4 bitches from Europe to outcross with her stud dogs. Despite the technological advances, Lydia remains a staunch advocate of hand-writing pedigrees. This seemingly old-fashioned method, she believes, helps her keep the lineage firmly in her mind.

Lydia’s contributions to the world of dog shows extend beyond her breeding successes. Her judging career began in 1964, when she was seven months pregnant with her second child. Over the decades, she has become a respected judge, known for her thorough understanding of various breeds including terriers, toys, herding dogs, poodles, and schnauzers. Lydia’s philosophy of judging involves affinity with each breed she evaluates. Her approach in over 60 years of judging is rooted in a continuing desire to learn and grow, finding every dog show an opportunity to gain new insights and deepen her knowledge.

In addition to her judging and breeding accomplishments, Lydia’s influence is felt through her extensive involvement with breed clubs and organizations. She has served as an officer and board member of the Cairn Terrier Club of America, contributing her expertise to the advancement of the breed. Lydia was instrumental in founding both the Potomac Cairn Club and the Dog Judges group in Northern California, further demonstrating her dedication to the sport and her commitment to supporting fellow enthusiasts. Her educational efforts are also noteworthy; she has presented numerous seminars on Cairns, terriers, and Poodles, sharing her knowledge with judges, breeders, and newcomers to the sport. Her dedication to the health of Cairn Terriers is evident in her role with the Foundation of CTCA, where she works tirelessly to ensure the well-being of the breed she holds dear.

Throughout her distinguished career, Lydia Hutchinson has remained a beacon of dedication and passion in the dog show world. Her tireless efforts to advance the breed and her unwavering commitment to the sport have left an indelible mark on the community. Lydia’s enthusiasm for her work, coupled with a deep love for Cairn Terriers and Poodles, continues to inspire those around her. As she looks forward to each new challenge with the same vigor and optimism that has defined her career, Lydia’s legacy as a breeder, judge, and advocate for the Cairn Terrier breed stands as a testament to her lifelong devotion and extraordinary contributions to the world of purebred dogs. One of Lydia’s most recent notable accomplishments is winning AKC’s Terrier Breeder of the year in 2019 and being nominated as Owner/Handler of the year by Dog News in 2023.

What is the highlight of your breeding career?

There have been so many highlights that I can’t point to just one. The first thought that comes to mind is winning back-to-back Best in Shows (a first for a Cairn) with my homebred Ch. Caledonian Berry of Wolfpit. He went on to become a Top Producer with 36 Champion offspring and is behind nearly all the current Wolfpit dogs, as well as those of other breeders. It was wonderful that my GCHG Caledonian Tea Time of Wolfpit was the #1 Cairn in 2015, and that his great-grandson, Ch. Caledonian Birthday Bash of Wolfpit (Best of Breed at two specialties from the classes two months ago), is on track to uphold the Wolfpit tradition.

What judging assignments are most memorable for you?

Memorable judging assignments include the CTCA four times, the 100th anniversary show of the CTC in Scotland, the Poodle Club of America four times, the Terrier Group at Westminster, the Terrier Group at Morris & Essex, and the World Dog Show in Helsinki. Coming up on October 6, 2024—Best in Show at Montgomery County!

What three dogs from the past, not bred or owned by you, of any breed, do you remember as icons?

The Miniature Poodle “Sage,” which I consider the best Poodle I ever judged; the Siberian Husky “Sierra Cinnar”; and the Kerry Blue Terrier “Mick.”

Who are some judges that have significantly influenced your decision to judge and your approach to judging? What qualities do you admire most in their judging style?

Melbourne Downing, under whom I apprenticed in 1963; Edd Bivin started judging in 1961; and Annie Clark, became judge after I did. I admired the way they used their hands on each dog; it was a true lesson for those of us with discerning eyes.

BEST IN SHOW CANADA

INTERVIEW WITH PROFESSIONAL HANDLER

HEIDI Gervais

Please share with our readers how you got involved in the world of Pedigree Dogs.

As a child, my parents decided Irish Setters were the best family dog. My mom started breeding and showing in 1976, so I was very lucky to grow up with purebred dogs. I am continuing with our Kulana line of Irish Setters 50 years later.

What handlers inspired you in the beginning, and who did you apprentice under?

When I was in high school, I apprenticed with Taffe McFadden (Walker at that time) and then went to Connecticut and apprenticed for Elliot and the late Linda More. There were many handlers who inspired me in Canada and the US.

As an assistant, I spent hours standing ringside watching (before cell phones) the best handlers show some of the best dogs.

As a handler, are you more excited to win at an all-breed show or a breed specialty show?

I think the most important wins always depend on the competition, whether it’s at a Specialty or an All-breed show.

The purpose of dog showing is to compare breeders’ future breeding stock against one another’s. Do you feel your clients have this at the forefront of their minds when they place a dog with you to show? Equally, do you believe that this is the mantra of those who show dogs in general?

I am a Professional Handler, but I am a breeder first, having bred top-winning Irish Setters, Scottish Deerhounds, Smooth Fox Terriers, Berger Picards, and Irish Water Spaniels. When showing for breeders, I use my knowledge and discuss with my client whether the dog I am showing is worthy of being used in a breeding program. When showing for individuals who just want their dog shown, I try to mentor them and ask them, “Why do you want to show your dog?” We all know it is an expense hiring a handler, so I don’t just do it to pay the bills. I will NOT show for anyone who does not have good breeding ethics and only breeds for the money.

Is there a particular breed or group of dogs you prefer to handle? Please give reasons for this choice.

I love all dogs, and of course, my three breeds are at the top of the list – Irish Setters, Scottish Deerhounds, and Berger Picards. That’s why I breed and show them! I would love to show more smaller breeds, having won BIS on Papillons, Pugs, and SFT, but for now, I’m happy with the large breeds.

Do you work with assistants, and if so, what do you hope to impart to them during their time with you?

When I have assistants working with me, the most

important thing is kindness to dogs. The dog is always right, and if they do something wrong, it is your fault for bad management.

What dog throughout history do you wish you had the opportunity to handle?

In Canada, 1999 Top Dog All Breed Sunny the Pointer, CH Tahari Serious Alibi, and in the US, it would have to be the German Shepherd Hatter – CH Covy Tucker Hill Manhattan. I was lucky to see him in person when I was working as an assistant, and he was one of the coolest dogs!

Do you have time to breed your own dogs? If yes, what breeds do you raise, and if no, is this something you wish you had more time for in the future?

As I’ve said above, I’m a breeder first. I always take time to continue breeding (which includes whelping and raising the puppies, not just putting my name on them!). I feel it’s important to continue the lines, especially in rare breeds. I am very fortunate to have great mentors in my breeds – Lynne Bruce (Hollyrood Scottish Deerhounds) and Donna and Mike Beadle (Eclipse Berger Picards). They provided me with a great starting point to continue breeding outstanding examples of the breeds.

How do you feel regarding the number of shows held weekly around the country and their entries?

The CKC is allowing too many shows, and entries are dwindling because the everyday exhibitor only has so much money to put into entries and expenses. We need to have a task force which will include knowledgeable people in our sport (not just hired CKC Ontario employees). This task force will have a map of Canada showing where all the shows are located AND what the event dates are. It might also be an idea to include the AKC shows just across the border

because we not only need to consider where shows are within Canada, but we also need to look at US shows to see where the conflicts are. We used to have lots of American exhibitors attend our shows, but with more showsintheUS,itisalsoaffectingus.Oncethetaskforce can see where the clubs/shows are located, they can see where the exhibitors will be coming from. The saying “build it and they will come” does not apply anymore because people are just not owning the number of dogs they used to. I also believe clubs should only hold one set of shows per year, with priority given to the not-forprofit clubs. We need to get rid of the theme and limited group shows. My theory is if you don’t finish your dog in one weekend, support the next club.

What are some of your favorite shows to show at in Canada and around the world?

I belong to three All-Breed clubs – Tyee KC, Pacific KC, and VI Winter Classic (Tyee KC + Nanaimo KC). Our shows are my favorites because we have great club members who go above and beyond to make our events more than just another dog show. We also always try to hire a diverse and talented judging panel. Westminster KC and Palm Springs are my favorite destination dog shows.

Can you please share some of your most memorable wins?

Having shown dogs for 50 years, this is a tough question! Probably my first BIS in the US on Bloodhound CH Ninevah Moses of the Rectory and my first BIS in Canada on Dalmatian CH Camosun’s Bryony. Recent wins would

include Group 2nd at Westminster KC with Scottish Deerhound CH Hollyrood Cosmopollyton and, in 2024, campaigning Irish Setter CH Kulana Prime Time to #1 Sporting Dog and #6 All Breed – my first time being in the Top 10 with my own homebred Irish Setter.

Would you like to become a judge in the future? If so, what breeds/groups would you like to concentrate on?

I love showing and breeding dogs, but I don’t think I’ll judge because I would only want to judge good dogs!

You have the power to change dog showing for the better in your eyes. What would you change?

I would like it to be a rule that to either become a Professional Handler or to compete in Junior Handling, you have to belong to an All-Breed club and commit to helping that club put on events. I rolled out mats and taught handling classes for probably 20 years as a volunteer. It is now time for the up-and-coming to do the same.

What is your favorite way to unwind on days off? Do you have hobbies outside of the dog world?

We are very lucky to own a property that I love, and it makes me happy just to be at home with the dogs or boating around Vancouver Island.

What is your favourite holiday destination? Cobble Hill on Vancouver Island!

YVONNE Savard

How did your journey with dogs begin? What inspired you to start breeding and showing dogs, and eventually become a judge? We’d love to hear about the experiences and motivations that shaped your path in the world of dogs.

My parents were animal lovers, and we always had dogs of various breeds and crosses, but it was when we got a purebred German Shepherd, and my girlfriend got a Great Dane, that things changed. We discovered a sanctioned match at our local mall and took both dogs there. Unfortunately, my German Shepherd was a little too protective of me and challenged the judge, which, of course, got him excused.

I was very much into horses—Barrel and Dressage—when I met our new neighbors, Dr. Erik and Carolyn Houttuin. They bought the boarding kennel down the street; they had a shepherd cross named Freya at the time. Erik always wanted Bouviers, as he had seen many of them in Holland and Indonesia, where he grew up. They took me under their wing, knowing my love for dogs and horses. I knew nothing about Bouviers; I

INTERVIEW WITH BREEDER JUDGE

had never heard of them before. Together, we learned and ventured into the wonderful world of Bouviers. We met with many long-time breeders, including Paul and Pauline DeRyke (De Bolshoy), David Westra (Hollandia), Andy Prinsen (Working and guard dogs mostly), and many more Bouvier breeders. Flanders Field Kennels LTD was born. I did the showing and training of the Bouviers. My first true venture into a show ring was with a black Bouvier in juniors. My first show was the Sportsman Dog Show in Toronto, Ontario; this was a 7-day benched show. I showed as a Junior and in the regular class with a big black Bouvier named Shane, which was in 1969. Our first breeding Bouvier bitch was Ch. Fina de Bolshoy, a very old-style harsh, short-coated bitch we acquired from Paul DeRyke. I fell in love with the breed because you really need to understand them to love them. Every day was a new learning experience. The Houttuins also ended up getting into horses, so I had the best of both worlds—dogs and horses. I showed many Bouviers to Canadian Championships. I won my first Group in 1973 when it was still the Working Group with Am

Can Ch. Goof of Flanders Field. I showed many of the Flanders Field Bouviers from 1969 to 1975, and my first American Specialty was in 1975, where I won Best of Winners with Am. Can. Ch. Bronville’s Darren. During this time, Erik sent me out to a Bouvier Specialty in British Columbia with Am. Can. Ch. Hollandia’s First Choice, where we won the specialty. I fell in love with British Columbia and eventually moved from Ontario, via Cuernavaca, Mexico, Newport Beach, California, and eventually landed in Vancouver, BC, in 1976. Once settled in BC, Erik sent me Bouviers to show. I also owned and showed Dobermans, Irish Setters, German Shepherds, and had Pekes. In the West, I worked in a kennel that bred Dobermans and helped professional handler Jim Campbell. I learned about different breeds through him and others. I took a break from shows and focused on my education, but because of a phone call I received in early 1980 from a well-known handler of Bouviers from back east, Garry MacDonald, telling me he had an outstanding Bouvier puppy for me, I started back seriously in the breed. He didn’t lie; I showed Bandit here in the West to the chagrin of others, especially because I was an unknown factor in Bouviers in the West. I was a new grad with little money, so I built a partnership with his breeder, William Miller, and my friend Doris Elbe. Bandit was 4 years old when he went back to Garry to be campaigned, and he finished the year as Top Dog All Breeds in 1984. The following year, owners traveled with the top dogs from all the groups to various exhibitions on behalf of the Top Dog sponsors. It was very interesting and a wonderful learning experience; I met so many wonderful dog people. In 1986, I had my first ownerhandled BIS with Bandit, where the late Walter Pinsker sent us to the BIS line—a very special memory. I began breed-

ing under the prefix “Barbu,” and over the years also under “JBB” and “BarJen.” In 1995, I was asked to judge sweeps at the American National. I loved it. In 1996, I started on the path to becoming a judge. I set a goal to attain my allbreed judging credentials to give back to the sport as well as continue with purebred dogs once I retired from my everyday profession. Dogs are my passion. I achieved my goal in 2017, and I am retiring from regular work on August 30, 2024, to focus more on my judging career. I no longer own Bouviers, as my aging body cannot handle the grooming or showing of them, so I downsized to my current breed, Affenpinschers. This breed is a Bouvier at a reduced size. My current dog, whom I purchased as a pup in 2019 just before COVID hit, is from V. Tani Kazari Kennels in the Netherlands. He has been my rock, made me laugh every day, and has proven himself to be quite a show dog. He earned his American and Canadian titles, then went off to Europe, where he earned multiple BISs and was awarded BIS #3 at the World Dog Show in Geneva ’23. I also have a little girl Affen, who I like to call my very, very, very expensive pet, but I love her dearly.

Could you tell us more about your breeding program? What would you consider the highlights of your breeding career so far?

Over the years, I have had the fortune of learning and working with many wonderful breeders. Some had different visions and goals for their Bouviers; however, listening to and understandingtheirpointsofviewtaughtmethateveryone has something to share, and we all have the same passion: we love our Bouviers. In the early years, Paul and Pauline DeRyke (Bolshoy), Pat Miller (Blandford), Claire McLean

(Dewall), David Westra (Hollandia), Andy Prinsen (Frisia Kennels), Dr. Pedersen (Bibarcy), Jorge and Shirley Landa (Delanda), and Christine Paquette (Quiche) all gave me food for thought. The sharing of Bouvier stories and breeding information continues to be a learning experience. I have been fortunate to work with several good breeders over the years, my Bouvier family, including Ray Waterman (Jenarae), Doug and Michaelann Johnson (Rocheuse), Mark & Patte Klecan (Bedrock), Pat Kaartinen (Amadee), William Miller (Glennmiller), Serge Bilodeau (Boyero), and Janice and Sandra Brind (Brocade). It takes a village!

In terms of breeding planning, I am a firm believer that it is the bitches that count the most; you must start with strong bitches. I look at their health profiles and those of their ancestors as well, then make informed decisions. I study the

pedigrees and the percentage of inbreeding in the lines. I look beyond this breeding to ensure I leave options for the next generations. They must complement each other in type and, of course, have a sound, strong temperament. I do not want to double up on a negative, so I am very critical of the bitch I use to breed and consider, “What would I change?” And if using XX Sire, what may I gain and what may I lose? Fronts are very important to me, so I try not to compromise on this. Breeding is give and take; we can only hope for that puppy that can give us all or at least some of it. I’m sure many breeders have planned that perfect match only to be disappointed because they did not turn out as imagined. I can do all the planning I want, but genetics rules. The result I strive for is a happy, healthy puppy that conforms as closely as possible to the ideal expressed in the Bouvier des Flandres breed standard.

Highlights of my breeding career include winning BIS at

Palm Springs twice: 2016 with CAN GCHG AM GCHS Ch. Brocade Lil Deuce Coupe BarJen, and 2019 with GCHG Ch. JBB’s Turn the Tables. Littermates who are both BIS winners include USA BIS AM. CAN. CH Barbu’s Top of the Heap and BIS BISS AM. CAN. CH Barbu’s Simulation One - ROM. Littermates also won the Bred by Exhibitor class at the American National in Boston in 1988: AM. CAN CH. Barbu’s Diamond in the Rough and his brother AM. CAN. CH Barbu’s Decisionmaker of Amadee. AM. GCH. CAN. CH. Barbu Jenarae Ruffian won Best of Breed at Westminster in 2013. I have also won BW at the American National multiple times. Being recognized as a breeder of merit with the AKC and honored on the ABdFC Top 20 Outstanding Breeder Honor Roll has been a significant achievement.

Which dog do you consider the most successful in your career, and what makes them stand out to you?

CAN GCHG AM GCHS Ch. Brocade Lil Deuce Coupe—In the U.S., he was Number 1 Breed and All Breed in 2015. He was a fawn; in the 40 years of breeding Bouviers, I had never produced a fawn before and always said my girls were fawn killers. Cooper was one of my last co-breedings. He was a singleton and fawn, not an easy color to win with, as under FCI rules it is a disqualification, which is unfortunate. BIS BISS AM. CAN. CH Barbu’s Simulation One—she was not a big girl but she was mighty. I thank her co-owner, Patte Klecan, for keeping her promise and showing her; she achieved remarkable success in her show career. It started at the American Specialty in 2003, where she was RWB from the 9-12 puppy class under Michelle Billings, handled by Patte. She went on to win BIS, BISS, and Award of Merit at Westminster, and was a great producer.

Having competed in and won awards at the Bouvier National multiple times, what changes have you observed in the breed over the years across the continent?

Over the years, I have seen some changes. The Bouvier in the conformation ring has become more glamorous. The heads have changed from longer muzzles to shorter ones. The coats have shifted from a shorter, coarse outer coat with less undercoat to the now dense, profuse body coat and leg furnishings. The structure of the front and rear assemblies has also changed somewhat. Size has fluctuated—first too big, then heading toward too small. In terms of temperament, we used to have dogs that were tough as nails, but we also had ones that required more attention; it all depended on their background and upbringing. Today, I see Bouviers that are softer in temperament—not timid, but more needy, with some exhibiting a “Golden Retriever” jovial nature, living together in a pack environment. This works well for modern families, but it is not a true Bouvier character. However, it does make keeping more than two Bouviers together easier.

Changes have also occurred with the addition of health testing prior to breeding. This is necessary, but results should be used wisely, as all dogs have genetic faults, and overreaction can narrow the gene pool too much. When you change structure, you need to compensate for these changes elsewhere. Shorter muzzles, from 50/50 to 1/3 to 2/3, have created bite issues that we still see to some degree today. A profuse coat looks beautiful but can also create a grooming nightmare for pet owners. The change in outer appearance has made the breed more competitive at the group level. The structure of fronts and rears

has created a more “generic” looking Bouvier, with some loss of breed origin to achieve a more common outline that judges are comfortable with. The change in head carriage, due to shorter upper arms or lack of good return of upper arm and/or a more angulated rear assembly, drives a front that compensates by lifting the head well back and up to maintain balance and allow forward motion. Excessive speed provides a look of ground-covering action when, in fact, the dog is working very hard and not moving efficiently. Are these changes good? In my humble opinion, not necessarily. We are losing breed-specific type; Bouviers do not move like German Shepherds or Standard Poodles. It is (or was) a working breed meant to work long days with an owner pulling a cart at a reasonable speed (not racing) or you would have spilled milk. They worked with cattle—cutting and dodging, moving the herd with body blocks, heads almost level with the top line, short bursts of speed, and of reasonable size and blocky solid build so the cow felt it was hit by a formidable source. They are family protectors, bold and of stable character. That said, this does not mean they

need to be ugly with no breed type to work. However, we spend too much time grooming and forget about the basic structure required for this breed’s origin and demands. When you see the Bouviers today, can you imagine them doing a full day’s work in the field with cattle, pulling a cart, or standing their ground with that “prudently bold” look stating, “OK…come on, make my day”? Some absolutely… others, not so much!

Having judged across the continent, what are your favorite shows to attend as a judge and which ones do you enjoy most as an exhibitor?

Judging a specialty is always an honor, and I have judged various breed specialties. Judging the American National Bouvier Specialty in 2007 was amazing. Believe it or not, judging German Shepherd specialties is always fun. The Rose City Classic was tiring but great, as the classes have good numbers and many choices of quality dogs. As an exhibitor, Nationals were a must-attend; it’s where you can visualize breeding prospects. Palm Springs is a great show and enjoyable, although costly, as are most these days. I enjoy all the shows I judge; if I didn’t, why would I do it?

What do you wish every judge knew about the Bouviers before assessing them in the ring?

Bouviers are not just a silhouette breed, nor are they strictly a head breed. Judges should focus more on structure as it relates to the original purpose of the Bouvier breed. Overall silhouette is important to determine general breed type, but being a coated breed, do not focus on silhouette alone. Get your hands under the coat to feel and understand what is there.

As a herding dog, the Bouvier is a movement breed. They must cover ground easily with conservative energy and no wasted motion. I notice that too many dogs are steep in the upper arm and lacking the desired “slightly greater than a 90-degree angle of the shoulder,” and are still being awarded.

Bouviers should have endurance, not excessive speed. There is no need to race a Bouvier in the ring; they should cover ground at an easy pace.

Judges can only judge what is presented to them. Unfortunately, more and more Bouviers are becoming generic in breed type, thereby losing some of the important qualities of the breed.

Remember, Bouviers are a square breed and should move with purpose, have good reach and drive, with moderate front and rear angulation, good return of the upper arm, and no front lift or rear kick.

What do you feel are some of the biggest differences in breeds shown outside of North America? This can be general or breed-specific.

The first significant change has been the cropping and docking ban, which is now in effect pretty much everywhere except the USA. I am comfortable with it now, as the set of ears and tail are the primary concern, not their length. North America is often criticized for over-grooming; however, having attended a few World Dog Shows, I was shocked to see that the majority of Bouviers were clipped into a silhouette with no coarse coat to be found. This underscores the importance of a good hands-on exam-

ination. Many breeds were excessively groomed; I watched a Newfoundland being completely hand-scissored.

Other breeds are not as extensively groomed as in North America; the Shih Tzu, for example, comes to mind. Many European countries have very strict health rules and regulations regarding what can be used for collars and grooming equipment—no sprays, only water is allowed, and no grooming nooses on tables. This was quite odd. Some methods of showing dogs are less controlled regarding double or quadruple handling, and the use of toys and balls, as well as calling dogs’ names. The Rottweiler ring was an eye-opener. Boxers and Dobermans in Europe are heavier and not as elegant as those in the U.S.

What three dogs from the past do you wish you could have judged or owned?

There are many great dogs:

Affenpinscher: GCH Banana Joe V. Tani Kazari… the reason I have Affenpinschers.

German Shepherd: Ch. Altana’s Mystique

Irish Water Spaniel: Ch. Oak Tree’s Irishtocrat

The purpose of dog showing was (and should still be) to evaluate and “show off” breeding stock. Do you think for some breeders/owners it is becoming more about ribbons and rankings?

Yes, it has created bullies, entitlement, and shifted the importance from a dog’s quality and its contribution to the betterment of the breed to how many points, ribbons, or where it ranks in the standings. In recent years, the

number of dogs in the ring has decreased significantly. The lack of finances to support this sport is generally the biggest factor. To be at the top of the rankings requires travel, advertising, and substantial funding to support the race to be number one in your breed. Unfortunately, this leaves many good dogs in the backyard because most owners and breeders cannot afford the time away themselves or do not have the means to hire a professional handler. Gone are the days of attending a dog show to showcase what a kennel has bred. Specialties are best for this, so many breeders attend only their breed specialties and forgo the weekly dog shows. In Europe, it is about the prestige of the show. I was impressed to learn that in some shows, they offer a Supreme BIS title, and out of courtesy, if a handler’s dog wins BIS on the first day, that dog is not shown the rest of the weekend, so each day a different dog wins BIS. On the last day, all the BIS dogs from all-breed, specialty, or limited entry shows compete against each other for the Supreme BIS title. I thought it was very civil; it would never happen here.

In your observation, are there specific regions in the world where working dogs exhibit exceptional quality and strength?

Yes, certain regions around the world are known for producing working dogs with exceptional quality, strength, and specialized skills. These regions often have a long history and tradition of breeding dogs for specific tasks, leading to the development of highly capable working dog breeds. Some of these regions include:

Germany: Breeds: German Shepherd, Rottweiler, Doberman Pinscher. Germany is renowned for its working dogs, particularly in roles like police work, search and rescue, and protection. The German Shepherd is famous worldwide for its intelligence, strength, and versatility.

Belgium: Breeds: Belgian Malinois, Belgian Tervuren. The Belgian Malinois is highly regarded in military and police work for its agility, speed, and intelligence. This breed is often chosen for elite units due to its exception-

al performance in demanding tasks.

In the show ring, various countries have their own “type.” What you see in Europe may not necessarily win in the USA. For example, Boxers, Dobermans, and, to some degree, Rottweilers are bigger and more muscular in Europe compared to the USA and would not win here, just as the stylish Doberman or Boxer might not do well over there. Shelties are very different, and Europe does not favor the American style, to the point that they want to split the breed into American Shetland Sheepdog and Shetland Sheepdog. FCI countries focus more on the original working ability of these breeds, while Canada and the USA have developed “show dogs.”

Who are some judges that have significantly influenced your decision to judge and your approach to judging? What qualities do you admire most in their judging style?

Several judges have influenced my decision to judge. My veterinary background helped me understand structure, which I believe is fundamental for any judge. It benefited both my breeding program and my judging. I took my time adding various breeds, attended many AKC seminars and institutions, went to breed-specific shows like Montgomery, attended many breed national specialties, and received mentorship from parent club breed experts. Judges such as Virginia Lyne are extremely knowledgeable, and I always enjoyed her seminars about judging. I admired the decisiveness of Anne Rogers Clark, who made quick decisions after examination; listening to her was very rewarding. Miss Dorothy M. MacDonald was a walking encyclopedia. Leslie Rogers, Skip Stan-

bridge, and many additional judges who are no longer with us also had a significant impact. There were judges whose style made me say, “If I ever judge like that, kick me hard!” I love judging; most of the time, exhibitors are wonderful, and I love dogs! I enjoy looking for the next star. If you don’t enjoy it, don’t do it! I am always learning; if I learn one new thing every day, it’s a great day. I enjoy attending shows and sitting ringside all day, watching. You can never know it all!

What do you like to do most to relax and unwind?

Good question. Between work and judging, I am not home much. So, when I do have a weekend to myself, my garden is my solitude (flowers). My dad was a horticulturist, so I inherited this interest from him. He grew the most beautiful orchids in Ontario, which flourished everywhere—inside, outside, hanging from trees. Orchids and I do not get along; every one he gave me I killed. Other plants and flowers are no problem. My favorite was his black tulips (I am of Dutch descent). Oh, and of course, enjoying a nice wine on the patio, looking at my garden with my dog(s) by my side.

What is your favorite meal to make and which one are you always excited to order in a restaurant?

I’m not much of a cook or baker; I cook mainly out of necessity. I’m a meat and veggies person, so I often prepare salads, lots of chicken, and with the discovery of the air fryer, I mostly stick to dishes that can be made in it. I’m not a fan of fast food. When it comes to a good meal, I enjoy Alaska Halibut with any veggies (no rice or potatoes), Prime Rib, certain seafoods like Atlantic Lobster

and Alaska King Crab—always paired with a good wine. I must admit, I’m a bit of a wine snob!

Is there a particular place in the world you dream of visiting, or a specific show you aspire to judge?

There are many places I’d love to visit now that I’m retiring and can make them happen. I’ve told my boss that I’m too busy to work, so goodbye! I can now accept invitations to judge in interesting places that I previously couldn’t due to limited holidays. I’d love to visit Japan and South Africa, among many other locations. Judging at the Dutch Bouvier Club Specialty and Affenpinschers in Great Britain (because they have so many) would be fantastic. Of course, judging something at Westminster is always a wish. I also want to do a cruise in the Mediterranean.

Lastly, amidst your judging experiences, have there been any humorous or lighthearted moments that stand out and you’d be willing to share?

One memorable moment was when I was judging in Ireland and was assigned to Yorkshire Terriers (FCI Group 3 Terriers). All the exhibitors came in with these decorated red velvet boxes, which they placed down and then stacked their dogs on top of them. My ring steward was having a good laugh as he noticed my confused expression. He explained that this was a tradition I wasn’t aware of. At the end of the class, when I needed to choose a reserve winner, I asked the exhibitors not to bring in their boxes. You should have seen their faces; it was quite a sight! It was a good laugh, and I’m proud to say that my Group 9 winner went on to win Best in Show.

INTERVIEW WITH JUNIOR HANDLER

ABBEY Mahn

Please tell our readers how you got involved in the world of dogs and dog showing.

As a third-generation “dog person,” I was born into the world of dogs and dog showing. I attended my first dog show at just 5 days old and my first National Specialty at 5 weeks old. I was “hooked” on dogs from the very beginning and began practicing with my stuffed animals as soon as I could walk.

Who were your mentors from the beginning of your dog journey? Do you currently have the same or any additional mentors?

My grandma (Wendy Schira) and my late papa (Doug Windsor) have shared with me their wisdom, guidance, and support. They have taught me valuable lessons, instilled important values, and offered encouragement during challenging times. Their unconditional love and perspective have helped shape me into the person I am today.

What breed/breeds have you been involved in handling?

Primarily, I have been involved with showing my family’s Flat-Coated Retrievers, Golden Retrievers, and Schipperkes. Through my experiences with junior handling and assisting professional handlers, I have been fortunate to have had the opportunity to show breeds from all 7 groups, ranging from Chihuahuas to Irish Wolfhounds.

Do you currently breed, and is this something you see yourself doing in the future?

Although I am not currently a breeder, I have a strong desire to do so in the future. I feel that being a responsible breeder of purebred dogs helps preserve breed standards, improve health, promote responsible ownership, and prevent unethical breeding practices.

What, in your words, is the purpose of dog shows?

A dog show is a competitive event where purebred dogs are judged based on how well they conform to their

breed standards, assessing physical traits, movement, and temperament.

Do you find it difficult to balance personal, school, and dog show life? How do you make time to fit everything in?

Balancing personal life, school, and dog shows can be challenging, but good time management and prioritization help make it work. Planning ahead, setting schedules, and staying organized ensure that school responsibilities are met while still making time for dog training, competitions, and personal activities. It’s all about finding a routine that works and staying committed to your goals.

What profession would you like to have as an adult?

As I finish my final semester of grade 12, I am making my final decision on which university to attend, where I will study kinesiology. Although I am unsure of a specific profession at this time, kinesiology offers opportunities in sports performance, rehabilitation, fitness training, and injury prevention.

Do you prefer handling table dogs or larger dogs?

I don’t really have a preference between handling table dogs or larger dogs because I enjoy working with all breeds and appreciate the unique challenges each size presents. Table dogs require precision and control on the table, while larger dogs demand strong handling and movement skills in the ring.

Is there a certain coat you prefer to prepare for the ring?

I’m comfortable working with double-coated breeds and grooming Retrievers and Schipperkes, but I look forward to challenging myself with other coat types as well. I am eager to learn more about breeds that require scissoring, as I want

to expand my skills and master the techniques involved in grooming more complex coats.

What professional handlers or owner-handlers inspire you?

Many different professional dog show handlers and ownerhandlers inspire me because each brings unique skills, techniques, and experiences to the sport. Some may excel in handling specific breeds, while others showcase exceptional ring presence, sportsmanship, or dedication to their dogs. Watching and learning from various professionals has allowed me to develop a well-rounded perspective, refine my own handling style, and stay motivated to improve.

I have had the pleasure of working closely with Amanda McAllister, who is not only a professional handler but also a breeder and owner-handler. Her skill, dedication, and connection with dogs inspire me. I admire her work ethic, sportsmanship, and passion, which motivate me to improve my handling and pursue my goals in the dog show world.

If you could be an assistant for any handler, both past or present, who would it be and what would you hope you could learn from them?

If I could be an assistant for any handler, it would be Ernesto Lara. He has been a dog handler and involved with dogs for more than 30 years, specializing in Airedale Terriers. Ernesto worked for Mr. Peter Green for 12 years, where he learned his vast knowledge of many breeds. After that, he exhibited as a professional handler and has won many BIS titles with numerous breeds. He has a wealth of knowledge in handling, grooming, animal husbandry, and kennel management. I feel he has enormous talent and experience, and he would be an

ideal mentor.

What have been some of your greatest achievements in the breed ring?

My greatest achievement in the breed ring is winning two Reserve Best in Shows in the same weekend with my Flat-Coated Retriever, Desi, a dog I’ve raised, trained, and worked with since the whelping box. This accomplishment is particularly meaningful because it reflects the years of dedication, training, and the bond we’ve built together, showcasing the hard work we’ve put in to achieve such a prestigious result.

What is your favourite show of the year to attend, and why?

My favourite show of the year to attend is the Elora Gorge Kennel Club. I take pride in organizing everything related to Junior Handling at this show, ensuring a great experience for the competitors. One of my favourite traditions is making the ribbons for the Junior Handling Invitational each year with my grandma, which adds a personal and meaningful touch to the event.

Is there anything you wish judges understood more when it comes to judging Junior Showmanship?

I wish judges understood that not every Junior Handler needs to take in their own dog or a push-button dog, and that Junior Showmanship should focus on the connection between the handler and the dog. I also believe there should be a more cohesive standard of judging and a qualification process for judges.ImadeitagoaltowinaBestOverallwithabreedfrom every group, and recently achieved this with the Otterhound from the Hound Group, highlighting the importance of the

handler-dog bond.

Do you have any pastimes outside of the world of dogs?

Outside of dog shows, I really enjoy playing hockey, a sport I’ve been involved with for six years. Hockey allows me to stay active, develop teamwork skills, and enjoy the thrill of competition, all of which complement my dedication to dog shows.

What are your own personal future goals in the world of dogs?

Myfuturegoalsindogshowsincludedevelopingasuccessful breeding program focused on health, temperament, and breed standards, while continuing to show and challenge myself in the ring. I aim to further hone my skills, build strong relationships with my dogs, and contribute to the growth and improvement of the breeds I work with.

Stryker - Irish setter Best in Show at Kennel Klub of Yorkville IL, April 7th 2024

MBIS GCHB TaraDells Edge of Your Seat Rough Collie Best In Show in May, 2024 Fairbanks, Alaska

GChS Lambluv’s Dancin’ To Oh What A Knightland FDC • Old English Sheepdog Valencia Valley KC of New Mexico, Inc. October 13, 2024

NEW DEVIL E-MAIL FROM CHINA Miniature Schnauzer Best in Show at HORTOBÁGY-MÁTA, HUNGARY 17.08.2024

Gch Toykeeper’s One More Chance Miniature Pincher Best in Show at Hangtown Kennel Club of Placerville 05/26/2024

BIS RJBIS MCH MJCH WKCBOB’24 Kaylen’s Sommer No Ordinary Bromance • Chinese Crested BIS at International Dog Show Treviso 14.09.2024

LET ME LOVE YOU • Whippet Best in Show at NITRA IDS SLOVAKIA 16.02.2024

Multi ch Jean Dark Zillionare Chinese Crested Kristiansand International Dogshow Norway April of 2024

Ukch akcch sloch Brighttouch drift the line through Dialynne WW23 EW24 • Australian Shepherd Best in Show at Crufts 2024 and Euro Dog Show 2024

WW’24 EUW’24 CH Butterly Hunter Casper

Hungarian Viszla BIS Wels Int. Show Austria 2024.12.07.

Chisme Do Jardim Imbui

Brazilian terrier Supreme Best in Show at Vilnius Lithuania 2024-12-22

WATCH

Canada August 17, 2024

NSS MBIS MRBIS CAN GCHG AM GCHB LEGACYK FREIHEIT PIANO MAN • GSP

Newfoundland Kennel Clun April 7th 2024

BIS GCHG Empee’s Black Panther Affenpinscher Best in Show Best Moines K.C. 2024

CRODALMATIN COMING COMET

Dalmatian Best in Show at Styrian Winner Show 03.03.2024 in Premstatten, Austria

Xceptional Star del Casa di Coniglio Cardigan Welsh Corgie Best in Show puppy at 50th dogshow Mouscron, Belgium

November 17, 2024

BIS RBIS BISS GCh BOYERO YOU BETTER

OUT • Bouvier Best in Show at New Brunswick Kennel Club

BIS RBIS BISS DUN ROMAN’S QUITE THE RIDE V CAPS • Great Dane Gavilan Kennel Club October 6, 2024

BIS GCHG CH Nautica Wildhart I Have A Dream • Italian Greyhound Best in Show at the Greater Ocala Dog Club.

Ch. Hollyfrost Friday Night Lights at Solivia • Pointer Best in Show at the Tulip Cup in the Netherlands. November 30th 2024

MBIS, MNBISS, MBISS GCHS. Flintcrest Five Star General RN FDC DJ CGC TNK Irish Water Spaniel May 27, 2024 Laramie Kennel Club

BIS BISS GCH ICH CLOS ERASMUS DON’T BELIEVE ME JUST WATCH • English Setter WORLD DOG SPECIALTY SHOW, Zagreb Croatia 27.04.2024.

Bon Bini Vienna True Love of Goldens Golden

SBIS Veteran at IDS

St. HONORE SKIP TO MY LOU TANI KAZARI • Affenpinscher Best in Show at Dog Festival in Riyadh Saudi Arabia 04.12.2024

Caci’s

Of

Best in Show at Västerås Sweden 28 April 2024

BIS MRBIS MBISS GCHG CH Flessner’s Element Of Fun FDC CGCA CGCU TKI ATT Bloodhound BIS 7/6/24 Lost Coast KC

RAPUNZEL Winning Smile • Chinese

Supreme Best In Show at the Slovakian Specialty Show Bratislava on June 2, 2024

Multi

MBIS BISS GCHG CH Royalsilk’s You Oughta Know • Japanese Chin San Luis Obispo Kennel Club March 31st 2024

Fifty Shades

Music Flat Coated Retriever

retriever

in Prilep, North Macedonia. 17th of March 2024

JCh.

Crested Puppy

CH Nightfire’s Just Very Unique Papillon

Gloucester County Kennel Club October 19, 2024

GRCHP Chyscotts the Greatest Showman Scottish Terrier ARAPHOE KC September 2024

Von Huberhorn Standard Wirehaired Dachshund

BIS International Dog Show Istanbul 25.10.2024

ASCACH ATCH JCH TDCH Snowridge goldcrest candy bear of thunder hill. Australian Shepherd Junior Best in Show in Salzburg. Austria 10.08.2024.

BIS MJBIS MCH Topgunners Essence of victory • Weimaraner Skopje winter winner 4 February 2024

WW23 MBIS MBISS MJBIS MCH Zorrazo iconic I am • Spanish water dog 1 September 2024

Ohrid Macedonia

Viktor

MBIS, RBIS GChB. Ina’s Fashion Graceful Greyhound Best In Shows from Nova Scotia Canada 12.10.2024

C.I.B. FI CH LV CH HeJW-21 EEW-22 HeW22 FI W-23 FI W-24 Aziz Yamama • Saluki Best In Show at Hamina Finland 18.5.2024

Supreme Ch Bagatelle Moonlight Garden Old English Sheepdog BIS Sydney Royal Easter Show April 2024

Elegante-Hailey

White Swiss Shepherd Supreme Best in Show Veteran Split 4 Summer Night Show (25-08.07.2024)

Multiple BIS GCHS CH YAYA OF SMILING FARM • Pug Best in Show at Columbia K.C. 2024

BIS BISS MultiCh Stardust de L’arche des Loups Anges • Bullmastiff BIS at Alicante Mandatory Point 8th of December

DENEB KEITOS JAGUAR Black Russian Terrier Best in Show at International dog show Geneve 15.11.2024.

INCANTO DEL MONDO TODES Chinese Crested Supreme Best in Show. MidSummer Nights Dream Shows 12-14.07.24

Big Booms Showman Pabbie Clumber Spaniel BIS Minor Puppy European Dog Show 2024 In Celje

Expensive Stone First Kiss English Setter Skopje Winner 06.12.2024

BIS BISS MultiCh Big Booms Captain Duke Clumber Spaniel BIS at Elvas International Dog Show 4th of May

MBIS Ch. Arnhill Hammer Weimaraner Best in Show at Petcover Dogfest 2024 Hobart, Australia

C.I.B./Sup Ch Karlyermai Gotta Bea Rokstar • Silkie Terrier Best in Show at W.A. Toy Dog Specialist Club 4.10.2024

GCHS CH Rey’s Livenza • Borzoi BIS at the Western Washington Hound Association Show, August 3,2024.

GCHS Lillie

International

Am GCHB Can GCH Red Branch d’Artagnan of the Ring • Irish Terrier Best Veteran in Show Kelowna, BC Canada.

MBIS MBISS GCHS Can GCHex RedMoon’s Sexy Son of a Duck WC RN Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Superstition Kennel Club March 3 2024

Multi BIS, Multi Ch. VINTAGE WINDS EWOK • French Bulldog Siberian Husky Kennel Club 09/02/2024. Dominican Republic

MCMAGIC’S THE PRINCE OF WALES WITH PEBBLES ´ RUN • Samoyed Best in Show at

Show in Bratislava, Slovakia 12.01.2024.

BIS JUANJOSE2

Hill’s Do You Believe In Magic Siberian Husky Idaho City Capital Kennel Club Oct 12 2024

BIS KRISTA

American & Australian Champion KNOCKOUT BUBBLEGUM • Chihuahua BEST IN SHOW at Dogs SA Winter International May 30th, 2024

GISELE Manada de Grande • Sheltie Best in Show Minor Puppy International Dog Show in Poznań Poland 10.11.2024

Ch. Cedarhill The Wish Border Terrier Best Junior in Show Europasieger 2024 (26-05-2024)

Gch Protocol’s The Midas Touch JW (imp USA) • Doberman Bridgewater and District Canine Society 24/03/24

Multiple 2024 BIS GCHS CH Heritage Southern Gothic FDC • French Bulldog Glen Rose TX, (Nolan River KC) January 7, 2024

Ramíz di Qualitano • Doberman Suprem Minor Puppy BEST IN SHOW BKS Dog Shows Gradacac, Bosnia and Herzegovina

MBIS MRBIS MSBIS GCHP2 Sunlit’s King of Queens • Afghan Hound Best in Show at Palm Springs K.C. January 7th 2024

MULTI CH MULTI W Mamitas Invincible Iron Man • Havanese Best in Specialty Show 28.9.2024. MULTI CH MULTI W Mamitas Invincible Iron Man

GCH Master Yoda s Lipetskih Ozer Chihuahua

National Dog Show Granada 2024 17 February 2024

Harpersband Make A Killing Brussels Griffon Best in Show 14th of September Novosibirsk, Russia

GCHS Fairytale’s Oxford, RA, BN, IT, FDC, CGC • Briard Best in Show at Michigan Ohio Briard Club 2024

Multi Ch. EW JCh. Fashion First Zinge Papillon BIS Int show Tulln 10th August 2024

the International Dog

Sevilla - Spain September, 16, 2024

Edwardsville IL KC 12/7/2024

5

BIS NEWZELAND

OLIWIA 2

Del Trasnocho Alegría Macarena Standard Poodle Best in Show at

Show

GchG. Beaumanor Brogan Charlotte Pembroke Welsh Corgi Best in Show

MBIS MBISS WW’20 EuW’21 IntCH MCH Vaskurs Maiasaurus Gisadotter • Pharaoh hound Best in Show at Group

Specialty Slovenia

Supreme Ch Wymeswold Mr Rumble (imp Netherlands) • Clumber Spaniel 21 April 2024, Hawkesbury District Championship Show, NSW, Australia

Ch. Waggerland Kissimmee Cardigan Welsh Corgi Best in Show at International Dogshow Maastricht September 28. 2024

The Netherlands June 30th 2024.

Ch Boujan Fizzy

Standard Schnauzer Dutch Schnauzer Specialty 06-10-24

June 1st 2024

Margot Dalmatinski Vrisak Tornjak International Dog Show Karlovac 12.10.2024.

Multi

Flatcoated

BISVeteran at the International Dog Show Geneva Day Switzerland 15.11.2024

Magik Rainbow Ginger • Dachshund Best in Show Puppy at the International Show in Utrecht,

GCHG Texano Order of The Phoenix Whippet Best in Show at Fargo Moorhead K.C.

GCHG Fairytale’s Ria Verde Briard Best in Show at South Jersey K.C.

Ch Join the Club z Mokré Hory

Retriever

Stuff

JSBIS, Multi JCH, J.C.I.B., SI CH, HU CH Nava Shirini Ava Parsa • Saluki Junior BIS at 41st Specialty Sighthound how Postojna ‘24, Slovenia

GCHS. The Lion Lady’s Autumn Blaze Chinese Crested Best in Shows 5/2024, 7/2024, 10/2024 x 4, 11/2024 x 2

GCHS Morgenwald’s Reach For The Sky V Katon • Standard Schnauzer Best in Show in Tucson Arizona November 2024

CH.Hsots Shutting It Down • Chow Chow Best in Show Bred by Chambersburg K.C.September 28th 2024

BIS GChB Timberlnoll’s Diamond in the Sky at Blackberry CGN • Newfoundland BIS at Campbell River Dog Fanciers, Vancouver Island Canada, Aug 2nd 2024

Olympos Il Mio Eolo Dio del Vento Bracco Italiano Best in Show at Roskilde 22-9’24

Multi Ch Multi Winner Very Vigie LoveFor-Sale • Cocker Spaniel Best In Show, Romania 15.9.2024

Sesukan LHis Double Entendre Tibetan Terrier BIS Puppy Allora Show Society (Australia) 6 Feb 2025

WW22 EW 22 MBIS CH INT CH ONCE IN A LIFETIME DE LA NOVAL “JAGGER” Australian Shepherd IDS Asturias, Spain 07-04-2024

MULTI BIS,

Au 18, 2024 Club Canófilo Tabscoob, Tabasco, MX.

MX

PanAm CH, MXGCH, Int. CH, AKC GCHS Zacahuil Del Rey RN CGC TKN ATT • Xoloitzcuintle

Multi Ch BHANYANAN TROUBLEMAKER

Toy Poodle Black Best In Show in Helsinki all breed Nordic Show 7th of July 2024

Po-Latro Big Ben • Pointer

Junior BIS at the National show Zakopane (28.06)

International Dog Show Herve Belgium 21-07-2024

2024,

Po-Latro Believe in Love Pointer

Junior BIS at the NDS in Gradacac Bosnia and Herzegovina

Richmond Dog Fanciers Woodland California 11/24/2024

GCHG Traleigh Trans Am Keeshond Best in Show at the Pocono Mountain Kennel September 13th 2024

NEFERTARI Euri-Escot Scottish Terrier BEST IN SHOW Świebodzice2024

Miner’s Lake Mystery Bearded Collie

IRL. CH. Uluru Roan Inish, An CH. , CW Irish Wolfhound International Dog Show Pinkstershow

The Netherlands

(12.10)

MBIS, MBISS, WW, Am. Can. GCHB Kick ‘Em Kenny V. Tani Kazari • Affenpincher

Pepper N Spice Bos Evangelinas- Oscar Golden Retriever Dog Show Prijedor 02. 06.2024. JBIS & Supreme Junior Best In Show