2024 Sheltie Annual

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

LNOT ALL TRANSFORMATIONS ARE VISABLE Anonymous

While it seems I have been quiet, never underestimate the power of stillness. There is nothing that will invigorate you more than taking a step back and being able to come at your passion from an entirely new vantage point.

If you thought I loved what I did before, you haven’t seen anything yet! I realized to continue to improve my products and services, it was time to hire on. So stay tuned as we hope to have a few new faces around here to help my vision grow!

One of the other changes you will notice is the quality and feel of the magazine. After years of searching, I have found a local printer that genuinely shares my attention to detail and provides luxe finishes that I can’t wait to utilize. I can now proof everything right off the press and oversee production from start to finish. The 2024 Annual will be just a taste of what’s to come!

- Jen Milani

- Eleanor Roosevelt

Questions

TO ASK BEFORE PLANNING

A BREEDING

by JOHN BUDDIE

Many years ago in preparing to do a seminar, the facilitator sent me a couple of questions which she hoped I would cover in the seminar. One question was “How do you mentally prepare yourself prior to doing a breeding?”

I mulled over the question for several days, trying to come up with a decent explanation when I realized that basically I spent those weeks PRIOR to the breeding constantly questioning myself. As I was putting it all together I realized how much impact that they had on future generations.

In any case, I found some of my notes with those questions and thought they might be useful…..so here goes:

The Checklist....

• Did you write down your specific goals for this breeding? (You should)

• What were the reasons you chose this particular sire?

• How many dogs in the sire’s pedigree have you actually seen?

• If you are outcrossing, have you gone to see puppies by this sire in various stages of growth? (Sure helps later when making selections)

• If your breeding goals are centered around a particular virtue, can you assign those virtues to not only the sire but his parents and grandparents as well?

• Will you keep something from the litter that does not have the qualities that you did thebreeding for even if it is the “showiest” and most ”winnable”?

• Will you keep one that might be less winnable but which has that elusive quality that you finally achieved?

• Have you given thought to where you will go with the next generation? And why?

I have always found that going back and re-reading these type questions when it comes time to pick puppies is very helpful….so one last thought…..write the answers down!

Training

SHELTIE PUPPIES

by STEVIE WEI

heltie puppies—can there be anything softer, fluffier, and cuter? I start by handling them frequently after birth so that they are used to human touch. As with any breeder, I prefer that my puppies do not shy away from human contact, so I try to handle them as much as possible, multiple times a day. The puppies and their mother are in my living room, so I can easily check in for some handling whenever I walk past them from one room to another.

When the puppies grow a little, I introduce them to different parts of the house. My son, Dean, really helps because he is also young, a bit awkward and clumsy, and makes a lot of noise. Dean introduces them to all his toys! This is good because, having

handled multiple breeds, Sheltie puppies specifically need to be exposed more to novelty (sounds, sights) to build resilience. So, it is not any particular new toy or singular experience itself that is life-changing, but consistent exposure to change will help a sheltie puppy build resilience. I keep this in mind throughout my puppy raising and show dog training.

The puppies might initially be nervous, but I never worry and let them grow. I used to want them to be superstars at first, but gradually, I find that the scaredy ones, if given a chance to blossom, can also be amazing. It is tempting to want to see super brave puppies taking in everything easily at first, but honestly, that’s too much to expect.

When the puppies start to get used to wandering around my kitchen, living room, and rooms while Dean bangs and clangs away, I call them and walk around. I use a happy voice, whistling, praise, and funny noises. They love funny noises and happy voices! When they follow me, I give them string cheese. I always keep a lot of string cheese at home because feeding puppies and Dean string cheese is easy, plus keeps me from training the puppies for too long. One piece of string cheese and both the puppies and I are done! I do this several times daily, expecting nothing except for their attention.

When the puppies start to be a bit more steady on their feet, I increasingly ask for stillness and reward intermittently. Again, I do it briefly. When they are up to date on shots, I also take them around different places. For example, I bring them to my morning coffee place to continually see the world. I go to farm stores and any place that allows me to bring a dog. Give them their favorite treats as rewards for coming out with me, a few times later, they may even stack it for you without asking! Showing is not only for the show ring. It is a lifestyle. If the dog can show in a parking lot with vehicles coming and going, it can show in a show ring.

Of course, if I have shows, I also bring the puppies. As I do not handle big dogs, the pups need to hear the booming voices of bigger dogs, especially in indoor settings where echoes may make them sound even bigger. Usually, I keep some stable, well-adjusted adult dogs with them so that the puppies can learn that these sounds mean nothing. In a show situation, I am busy and cannot always be there to ensure it is a positive experience. Thus, these stable adult dogs are doing the ‘babysitting’ for me.

Sheltie puppies soak in the world like sponges. This critical period should not be missed if they are to adapt to the world easily. We should not focus too much on the skills but rather on the ability to adapt to their surroundings. Skills can be taught anytime, but the desire to be with humans, to be resilient, and not to be hand-shy are life skills that a puppy needs to live well in our world.

Tips for CREATING A TRUST FOR YOUR SHELTIES

b y SUSAN L. ANDERSON, ESQ.

f you have pets and you’re discussing your estate plans with your attorney, remember your furry family members. If you haven’t done this yet, you should.

If you’re looking for an attorney, I suggest you look for one with Shelties or another dog breed. That attorney will understand your specific concerns and needs.

Every state has different laws, so advice from someone like me in Pennsylvania would probably be the wrong advice for someone in a different state. For example, Pennsylvania has an inheritance tax, and that factors into decisions regarding your estate.

Recently, several of us had an unfortunate situation dealing with an Estate and Trust to benefit a Sheltie breeder’s dogs. As a result, we thought we should share some of what we learned.

• Clearly define what pets are included in the Trust.

• Identify the caregivers for the pets.

• Be as specific as you can regarding what expenses should be reimbursed to the caregivers and for what period, e.g., for the life of the dogs.

• Name no more than two Trustees and name substitute Trustees if the named Trustees cannot or do not want to serve.

• Make sure that the named Trustee or Trustees are willing to act according to your wishes and can deal with any issues that may arise.

• Include language in the Trust that the Trustees “may act independently of one another”, which the Bank will require when you open your bank account.

• Name individuals or an organization and a substitute organization who will receive any money remaining after the dog or dogs die, and the Trust terminates.

• Review the Trust at least annually to ensure that you still have named the right Trustees and that the individuals or organizations that will receive the money when the Trust terminates are still alive or in existence.

Here’s the issue—if you don’t do this correctly, your Trustees may have to go to Court to enforce the conditions of your Trust.

An excellent article on “Pet Trusts” was written by the ASPCA. Here is the link: https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/pet-planning/pet-trust-primer.

NATIONAL JUDGES’

2023 Critiques

FUTURITY JUDGE — KIM ASTON

Iwould like to thank all the breeders and exhibitors for giving me the privilege of judging such a beautiful entry. The classes were deep with quality and I had many difficult decisions to make. I began the day hoping to be inspired, and I am happy to say I was. Congratulations to all.

6-9 PUPPY DOGS

A very lovely class to start the day.

1 Rosmoor Paint It Black - Tri color dog, in beautiful coat and condition. Nice outline and clean up and back. Light, lean skull, pretty expression and dark eyes. Good body proportions. Good tail set, nice short hocks.

2 Beckon Go For Broke - Sable dog, with beautiful outline neck and head carriage. Refined, light skull with perfectly placed ears, beautiful eye and expression. Good angulation front and rear resulting in good reach and drive. Top quality.

3 Suncrest Viewpoint – Blue, in beautiful condition, nice outline and clean up and back.

4 Argos Quintessential - Bi black, with abundant coat. Moderate, with a pretty shape and good legs.

9-12 PUPPY DOGS

1 Oakdale Honeyhill Vantage Point – A bi black dog in beautiful condition, with glamourous markings, impressive outline and body balance. Head was very correct, with well-placed stop, good head planes and finish of underjaw. Masculine, with good movement in all directions. Very eye catching.

2 Dury Voe N Festivas Who’s On First - Blue merle, with good overall body balance, short coupled and moderate. Very good matching front to rear. Balanced side gait.

3 Ch Renegade Winds Noble Pursuit – A lovely sable, with beautiful coat. Pretty head and expression. Nice tail set and short hocks. Very good reach and drive.

4 Liberty Bell’s Bardotga Fly High In The Sky – A bloomy sable, with pretty shape. Lovely expression and nicely balance. Overall lovely dog.

2023 NATIONAL JUDGES’ CRITIQUES

12-18 MONTHS DOGS

1 Two J’s Laughing Out Loud - A shapely sable dog, very well angulated. Nice movement in all directions. Pleasing eye and a light skull, with no depth in profile.

2 Homespun Kymric Accolade - Moderate blue dog, in nice coat, nicely angulated front and rear. Pleasing eye, pretty ears, nice croup.

3 Ch Wildoak A Hold Of My Heart - Sable dog, with a touch less coat likely due to age, pretty lean skull, pretty eye, nice front angulation and long upper arm, good rear.

4 Keystone Fancy Like - Handsome bi black, with nice shape, good coat and condition, pleasing angulation and good on go around.

6-9 MONTHS BITCHES

Another strong class of beautiful puppies!

1 Rosmoor Party Favor – A well coated tri color, with beautiful balanced outline and refined skull. Pretty ear set, giving a pleasing expression. Good front, with a long upper arm placing her front below withers. Well balanced angulation front and rear. This puppy was my Runner-Up to Best in Futurity.

2 Suncrest Coronation - Beautifully balanced blue in lovely condition, beautiful expression. Very feminine. Balanced angulation front and rear. Nice type, pretty croup. Good tail length.

3 Starfire Winterfell A Dance With Dragons – Sable, with lovely outline and very balanced proportions. Good bone, moved well in all directions.

4 G or-Don Cloud Fire – A moderate sable with beautiful, refined skull in profile. Pretty ears and expression. Very pleasing puppy.

9-12 MONTHS BITCHES

1 Solange Curiosity – A sable in profuse coat with beautiful expression, high ear set and nice light lean skull, pretty shape and pretty on the move.

2 Solange Rosetta – Sable, very similar in type to first place (found out they are littermates). Very nice on the go. Pretty eyes. Nice lean skull, nice tail set.

3 Rosmoor Starlight – Blue, in beautiful condition. Long lean skull with pretty ears and expression. Beautiful outline, strong rear.

4 Dury Voe Festiva Flying First Class – Bi-black, with excellent reach and drive and beautiful outline. Showy temperament.

12-18 MONTHS

1 Rosemear One Last Secret – A sable that captured my eye and gave me goosebumps the moment I saw her. Flowing outline and exquisite breed type. Feminine and refined. Her head and skull in my opinion were flawless. Perfect well-placed ears, head planes, smooth full muzzle, dark almond eye, resulting in beautiful expression. Pretty outline, beautiful reach and drive and quiet topline on the move. Temperament showed a real bond with her handler. She was ultimately my Best in Futurity.

2 Kyrie Ever After II - Balanced bi-black in beautiful bloom, she has a lovely skull, smooth muzzle and was very sound and moved well in all directions.

3 Royal Hills Black Swan – Bi-black, very moderate with beautiful breed type with refined skull.

4 Shadow Hill First In Line – A biblue with abundance of coat, well angulated front and rear refined skull, pretty ears. Unsure on the table, but was able to assess her nevertheless.

VETERAN SWEEPSTAKES JUDGE – JOY BASS

Thank you to ASSA for inviting me to judge the Veteran Sweepstakes classes. It has been the thrill of a lifetime for me to be able to judge at our National. My sincere thanks to Sheryl Kendrick and Stephanie Riley for their assistance inside the ring. The entry was outstanding, and it was a joy to see so many lovely veteran Shelties who could show us all that age has no boundaries. Congratulations to all of the exhibitors in the classes and their breeders for giving us these beautiful, treasured dogs to see. The classes were packed with quality, and I wish that more ribbons could have been awarded.

DOGS 8 YEARS & UNDER 10 YEARS

1 G CHS CH Silverado Coastal Mocha Latte – Beautifully presented sable with a balanced outline, beautiful head and correct movement. His dark eyes melt my heart. I eventually chose him as my best veteran.

2 Ch Echowyn Obsidian – A lovely bi-black with beautiful head planes, abundant coat and correct movement.

3 G CHS CH Ilemist As It Should Be – A nicely presented sable with a balanced outline, beautiful head and correct movement.

4 G CHB CH Darmil Ain’t No Saint – A nicely presented sable with a balanced outline and correct movement.

DOGS 10 YEARS & UNDER 12 YEARS

1 G CH MACH Allaround Majestyk Strike Anywhere RA HT MXS MJG PJD MXFT2B CGC TKA – A striking blue merle with a clean head and abundant coat.

2 CH Stargazer’s Incendio At Hollybush CD RN HT FDC NAP CGC TKI – A lovely bi-black with a beautiful head.

3 G CH CH Cinder Glo Living The Dream CD BN RA – A lovely blue merle with abundant coat.

4 CH Hidow Piece Of The Puzzle – A nice sable with abundant coat.

DOGS 12 YEARS & OVER

1 Mistybrooks Roundabout – A lovely bi-blue with balanced outline, beautiful head and abundant coat.

BITCHES 8 YEARS & UNDER 10 YEARS

1 G CHS Solange Viva La Vida – A beautifully presented sable with a balanced outline, beautiful head and correct movement. She was under consideration for best opposite sex to best veteran.

2 G CH Elora Panache’ – A lovely sable with a clean head and in nice coat.

3 CH Solange Shopaholic – A nice sable with good movement and in good coat.

4 G CH CH Dimar Spice O’Life Nite Dreams – A beautiful tri-color with a nice outline and in good coat.

2023 NATIONAL JUDGES’ CRITIQUES

BITCHES 10 YEARS & UNDER 12 YEARS

1 CH Attridge Teenage Dream – A very showy tri-color with a balanced outline, beautiful head, correct movement, and abundant coat. I chose her as best opposite sex to best veteran because of her compact outline.

2 G CH Atwater’s Lockehill Daydream Believer CGC – A beautiful sable nicely presented with a balanced outline, beautiful head, and correct movement.

3 G CH CH Stargazer Spellbound – A lovely blue merle with good movement and abundant coat.

4 CH Trelynn Applecross Indeed BN RI – A beautiful sable with a nice outline and in good coat.

BITCHES 12 YEARS & OVER

1 G CHB Solange OnStar – A beautifully presented sable with a balanced outline, beautiful head and correct movement.

2 MacLaren Lululemon – A lovely bi-blue with a balanced outline, beautiful head and correct movement.

3 G CH TC MACH2 Promise’s Silver Streak Of Grace CD BN GN RE HSAds HSBd HIAs HXAs HXAdM HXBdM MXS MJS

MJP MXF T2B TKN – A very nice blue merle beautifully presented with correct movement and abundant coat.

BEST IN VETERAN SWEEPSTAKES

GCHS CH Silverado Coastal Mocha Latte

BEST OPPOSITE SEX TO BEST IN VETERAN SWEEPSTAKES

CH Attridge Teenage Dream

DOGS JUDGE — LISA GRASER

One of the greatest honors in any breed judging is to be voted by your peers and Parent Club members to judge the National entry. I thank you for your confidence and trust.

I would like to thank all my peers who voted for me and put their trust in me for the ultimate honor as a breeder, judging at my National Specialty. A Dream of a lifetime.

I would like to thank everyone who made my week wonderful and seamless. Sheryl Kendrick the Show Chairman and her entire crew for their tireless hours before during and after the National. My wonderful Ring stewards Marjorie and Janell who kept everything running timely and smooth. And a big shout out to Rita & Dean for all the wonderful hospitality, taking us to amazing restaurants each night and finding our resting place in one of the most peaceful restful relaxing places I have ever stayed.

I have been attending Nationals as an Exhibitor for over 30 years. I truly felt that this year the quality of the males was exceptionally deep especially in my puppy classes. This was exciting to see as these dogs are the future of our stud force and all of our breeding programs.

Since judging should be about finding dogs with the most virtues. I would like to point out the virtues in the breed I feel we have done well with this year. I found the majority of my dogs had lovely refined long lean slightly tapered heads with very little depth. Clean sides with smooth zygomatic arches and lovely well-rounded muzzles with good finish of underjaw. (We do need to be cognitive of losing our “blunt wedge” some heads are getting to lean/tube like with NO stops) Eyes were dark with gentle intelligent expressions. My boys were masculine with sturdy bone and substance. Body balance and symmetry were very pleasing with correct length of leg to body. I saw very few that were short on leg and out of balance. Also, we have improved greatly on tail sets, correct carriage and length. Rears have also greatly improved and I actually saw some “converging towards a center line”. Dogs were moved at correct speeds, no racing around the ring. Temperaments were sound and solid. Coat textures were quite correct being harsh and double coated as needed to withstand elements.

Now as an active BREEDER JUDGE… things I found that we need to improve. FRONT END ASSEMBLIES AND BODIES. Many dogs were very slab-sided with no spring of rib or depth/width of chest and had short upper arms. I saw to many “show ponies” which is my term for front legs right under ears or IN FRONT of ears, with heads looks STRAIGHT up lacking the beautiful arched neck with correct shoulder layback/ length of upper arm that gives complete correct symmetry. These things put together resulted in some very disturbing front movement and lack of correct front reach in many dogs. NOT just loose puppy fronts, but dogs that are lifting so high AND crossing over in front that will more than likely NOT improve with age. We need to be mindful of this moving forward. Fronts are VERY hard to fix once lost in any breed. Bites were good, all but one dog had a correct scissor bite. “Faults -Missing Teeth”- I am not DIGGING for teeth. I can live with a few missing teeth. However, I was shocked at how many dogs had 4-7 missing teeth. Were do we, as breeders, “draw11 the line in the sand”? We keep moving the line on what we can live with… now we are at 4 or more in large numbers. As a judge in this breed for over 20 years correct dentition is moving in the wrong direction. We need to keep in mind this FAULT moving forward before it is impossible to correct.

Thank you again for this honor. They future of our stud dogs looks BRIGHT.

6-9 SABLE PUPPY DOGS

1 Emmy’s Simply Driven – This flashy puppy had effortless sidegait for a young puppy. Perfect body balance/ Length to leg proportion and outline. Front Legs set back where they should be and lovely rear angulation. Flat topskull , light refined headpiece and parallel plans with smooth sides. Lovely small ears placed high set the beautiful expression.

2 Belmark Timeless – Nicely balanced dog with parallel planes , lovely almond eye and sweet expression and nice dark pigment. He definitely did not always want to be there and did not use himself as well as he was built.

3 Wistwin Mr. Congeniality – Sweet expression, lovely almond eye. Nice round full muzzle, flat topskill. Masculine with great bone and substance in great coat and condition. A bit different style than my first two dogs but lovely virtues.

4 G or-Don Serios Heart Fire – Not as mature as my first 3 today. Good bone and substance, masculine, correct balance and movement well in every direction. Full round muzzle very happy puppy. A bit deeper in skull than my first 3 placements.

6-9 AOAC PUPPY DOGS

1 Mystic Suntime Heart On Fire – This masculine Blue Merle caught my eye when he walked in. He had sturdy bone and substance a beautiful statuesque outline with lovely neck arch. His length of leg to body was perfectly “Moderately long due to angulation” He was in exceptional condition. Best body in the class. Correct 45-degree angulation on both ends and the most rock-solid rear stopped perfect every time naturally. Lean head with smooth sides full round muzzle and flat top skull. Nice rounded croup with correct tail length and carriage. His perfect ear size and high set and placement with tips breaking forward correctly was frosting on the cake. (1 of my final 5)

2 Argos Quintessential – Moderate biblack boy. Also, in great condition and bloom. Great balance and proportion, short well let down hocks. Moved around the ring well sometime could have a little happy puppy bounce but was very happy to be a there, a great show dog. Flat top skull, Perfect stop placement with one break and defined planes from side view.

3 Mystic Suntime Heart And Soul – Tri color with exceptional head detail, Flat on sides smooth on top with parallel planes lovely full round muzzle, dark almond eyes with soft sweet expression, also beautiful ear set and size and shape. Fabulous happy temperament. Not quite as correct in front end assembly as my first two dogs.

4 Rosmoor Paint It Black – Tri color with another wonderful correct head. Dark almond eyes, stop in correct place and breaking in ONE correct spot, flat side skulls beautiful head planes. Good bone and substance with lovely short let down hocks, not as well-developed spring of rib and chest as my first 3.

9-12 SABLE PUPPY DOGS

1 Randomcreek Belmark Roadster (RESERVE WINNERS DOG) – This puppy exuded correct sheltie type and exceptional detail of skull like my winners dog. Light and refined in head with sweet expression. Exceptional smooth and flat in every direction, parallel equal planes and sweet almond oblique set eye. Pretty tight ear set and carriage. Perfect body balance and length of leg very shapely. He was not as confident at times to use what he had. (1 of final 5)

2 Liberty Bell’s Bardotga Fly High In the Sky – Very moderate sable dog with sweet soft expression, full muzzle, lovely head profile with correct stop placement and parallel planes with flat top skull. Not as curvy as my class winner and not as smooth in side skull as first place dog.

3 Cherryhill Cupid Shuffle – Well balance with nice outline, sweet expression, moved around the ring with good reach and drive, full muzzle good bone and12 substance

4 Starbrite’s Advocate – A more masculine boy with lovely head detail, flat top skull with smooth sides and full round muzzle. Not as smooth in movement as first 3 a bit bouncy and immature in body yet.

9-12 AOAC PUPPY DOGS

1 Twoj’s Tabloid Famous – ( WINNERS DOG). This blue merle puppy would go on to be my ultimate winner. When he walked in the ring his head profile and body balance took my breath away. Then when he moved…….. wow.. effortless reach and drive correct level quiet topline at perfect speed with reach to nose and drive off his rear without lifting on either end and short hocks. Coming and going was perfectly converging towards and center line with no crossing over or lifting. I was HOPING his head would feel as good as it looked. And I was not disappointed. In my mind his head WAS PERFECTION ACCORDING to our standard. FULL round muzzle with finish reaching right to nose but not massive and overdone. NO DEPTH at any angle. A CORRECT BLUNT WEDGE with perfectly placed moderate defined stop. Head Light and refined but masculine. Back skull going right back to occiput with perfect 50-50 parallel planes. PERFECT Head and that sweet soft sheltie expression from medium size almond eyes set correctly(obliquely) in skull. He was in fabulous condition.

2 Oakdale Honeyhill Vantage Point – Handsome masculine biblack dog. Style different than my first place but so many exceptional virtues. Exceptional coat and condition. Full round muzzle, perfect finish of underjaw. Stallion like outline and neck with dark eyes correct single breaking stop. Moved around the ring effortlessly with great reach and drive, loved to show

3 Coastalviews Cincerlee Good Times – Biblack dog in outstanding coat. Hard straight correct outer coat. Lovely dark eye , and lean skull, Good spring of rib and dept of chest, dark almond eye.

4 Z esta Linked In – Pretty expression and eye with full round muzzle lean sideskill flat topsull. Also well balanced body to leg proportion. Did not have the body development, chest and rib spring nor as smooth and easy on his legs going around the ring as my first 3 placements.

12-18 SABLE DOGS

1 Jesstar Sommelier – Masculine boy with soft melting expression. Full muzzle flat top skull that did not drop off. Well defined stop, beautiful ears and placements Correct angulation front and rear and body balance. With nice long tail and correct rounded croup

2 Twoj’s Laughing Out Loud – Very showy flashy boy with full muzzle and flat top skull. Not quite as smooth on sides as 1st place dog. Nice correct ear size and placement, Moved around ring effortlessly and smoothly.

3 Jesstar Socialte – Nice hard coat texture. Good reach and drive, flat Sid skulls with correct wedge-shaped head. A bit on deeper in head.

4 L egends & Dreams The Game Of Charm – Good smooth side gait with no lifting, quiet topline on go around.

12-18 AOAC DOGS

1 Homespun Kymric Accolade – Handsome blue merle dog in great condition. Effortless side gait clean, coming and going lovely body balance long tail. Full muzzle with correct stop nice finish of underjaw. Lovely ear size, set and placement.

2 Stargazer Sirio Resolution – Tri dog- Masculine and handsome. Exceptional head with detail of skull, correct placed stop and full round muzzle correct almond eye and sweet expression. Great reach and drive, correct length of upper with equal correct shoulder layback. Long tail. I would like to shorten him up in loin area a little for better outline balance.

3 Country Lane Kin-Tin Bettn On Blu – Blue Merle- Correct body balance. Nice hard straight coat, correct blue merle colored, full muzzle very masculine. A little wider in back skull and fuller in eye than first 2 placements.

4 Jesstar Tuxedo – Biblack boy and my guess is he was on the younger side of this class. Pretty dark eye, flat top skull, very lean skull with no depth. Not as developed in body, lacked spring of rib and depth of chest that my first 3 placements exhibited.

NATIONAL JUDGES’ CRITIQUES

NOVICE DOGS

1 Lynphil Aritzia – Flashy blue merle with beautiful clear silver color correct merling. Great balance and outline, Masculine with good bone and substance. Lovely bend of stifle with long tail and short hocks. No depth of skull, flat on top skull and smooth sides.( 1 of my final 5).

2 Domaine’s Celtic Pride – Sable dog also with good balance. Full round muzzle correct hard coat texture, almond eye. correct croup and tail set and nice length of tail.

3 Pacific Return Bi Dark – Biblack looked very young. Lovely skull flat on sides and flat on top dark eyes, light lean skull. Moderately angulation front and rear. Long tail nice harsh coat but dead out of coat.

4 Wysteria Mist Darlin I Don’t Give A CGC – Blue Merle. Fabulous temperament. Happy boy who loved to be in the ring. Well balanced good bone and substance

BRED BY EXHIBITOR DOGS-6 MONTHS AND UNDER 12 MONTHS

1 Z esta Hickstead – This handsome tri puppy was in beautiful bloom and condition With the sweetest expression full muzzle , smooth skull and 50/50 head proportions. Great bone and substance for a smaller dog with beautiful tight feet, short well let down hocks, stand off hard straight coat texture.

2 Emmy Simply Rymes With Orange – Flashy Orange sable with all the frosting, nice and up on leg with great body balance. Lean head, pretty almond eye with nice dark pigment. Loved being in the ring, easy on legs around ring.

3 Argos Reasonate – Biblue. Heavily marked. Also on younger side. Pretty dark eye nice bone and substance flat skull. Not as developed in body and chest yet and not as smooth on side skull as my first two placements.

4 Shenell Sunnyvale Like No Other – Tri color dog with dark eye flat top skull with no depth in any direction got around the ring smoothly and with little effort would have liked to give him a little more length of leg/better body balance.

BRED BY EXHIBITOR DOGS-12 MONTHS AND OVER

1 Incendio Foxglove Burn After Writing NA AXJ – Blue Merle. This moderate dog was exceptionally balanced and moved correctly in every direction. Effortless side gait, with no bounce or dip in topline, clean coming and going with no lifting or crossing over. Correctly placed moderate stop with almond eyes set correctly in skull gave sweet expression. Great condition

2 Lynphil Fetish- Flashy blue merle male, masculine, eye catching outline well balanced. Nice full muzzle and finish of underjaw, lean skull.

3 Snovali Glamar Hakuna Matata – Tri dog. Very moderate with good body balance and nice skull flat on top and clean on sides.

4 G oodwin Rewrite The Stars – Biblue dog in massive coat and bloom. Exceptionally necky and very masculine, nice correct angulation front rear very developed in body. A little bit overdone in bone and substance and heavier in head to place higher.

AMERICAN BRED DOGS

1 Penmore Cappadocia – Biblack dog with lots of neck and outline. Moved around the ring fluidly, held topline level and firm. Clean coming and going. Correct stop placement and dark eyes with great pigment.

2 Trelynn Artor Watch Me Sizzle – Sable dog with soft melting expression nice ear size and set full round muzzle. Not as easy mover moving around as my first place dog.

3 Caraids In Hot Pursuit – Biblack boy. Flat top skull and clean side skull. Definitely did not want to be in the ring today.

NATIONAL JUDGES’ CRITIQUES

OPEN BLACK DOGS

1. North Roe’s Muralista – Eye catching tri boy that caught my eye immediately. Masculine with good bone, dark eyes and great pigment. Moved around the ring with reach and drive, due to correct angulation front and rear and correct length of upper arm. Front legs placed behind ears with perfect silhouette. Nice straight hard coat sometimes hard to find in black dogs. Full muzzle with nice finish of underjaw and nice and flat on topskull. Correct croup and tail carriage. Nice tight feet. (1 of my final 5)

2 Mystic Suntime Jesse James – Tri dog with exceptional head detail in every direction and sweet almond eye and melting expression. Full muzzle and a lov14 ely correct stop. Also nice straight harsh correct coat, perfect rounded croup and tail carriage with long tail. It was a tight race between first and second in this class till the bitter end.

3 Caerleon Dundee Rewrite The Stars – Biblack dog. Smaller more moderate boy. Dark eye full muzzle correct stop, parallel planes and pretty ear size and set.

4 Belmark Greatest Asset – Biblack nice body balance, nice dark eye, correct front end assembly, short hocks correct croup and tail set and carriage.

OPEN BLUE DOGS

1 Shandy’s American Kid – Biblue dog with just and exceptional head detail and almond eye with sweet expression. Easily finishable but would have liked to see him in better condition. Nice moving in every direction.

2 Topnotch Royal Flush – Blue Merle dog . Masculine with flat top skull, going all the way back to occiput in big coat.

3 Caraid Benitoite – Blue Merle dog., Well balanced, good condition. Did not really want to be here today.

OPEN SABLE DOGS

1 Emmys Julius Caesar – Effortless mover on side gait floated around the ring. Nice body balance and length of leg. Exceptional condition and loved to show. Masculine with full round muzzle and finish of underjaw.

2 Z esta Joy Of My Heart Lil Scamp – Smaller boy but still masculine. Pretty sweet expression good croup and tailset. Correct placed stop. Not quite as well balanced as my 1st place.

3 Starphire Life Of The Party At Vanguard CD cAA CGC ATT – Moved around the ring quietly, clean coming and going, loved showing. Full round muzzle, flat top skull and smooth clean side skull.. Would like a little better shoulder layback and length of upper arm.

4 Cassbar’s Fit To Be Ty’D – Very balanced dog, masculine good bone and substance. Great coat and condition. More restricted in movement than my first 3.

VETERAN DOGS – 9-12 YEARS

1 G CHS Ch Ilemist As It Should Be – This sable dog ROCKED the ring. The more people clapped the more he came alive. Was effortless on his legs for any age. His skull was smooth as glass in every direction, light and refined and “correct blunt wedge” with no depth of skull and lovely fill under eye and sweet melting expression.

2 Ch Rosmoor Elysium – Tri color. Full round muzzle with flat top skull well placed stop and parallel planes. Well balance with correct well angulated front and rear.

VETERAN DOGS – 12 YEARS AND OLDER

1 CH Mistybrooks Roundabout RN – Biblue dog with another smooth as glass skull. Parallel planes full muzzle lovely expression.

STUD DOGS

1 G CHS CH Rosmoor Afterglow – This handsome tri dog had 2 black daughters with exquisite head detail, Long lean heads with correctly placed slight but definite stops giving you a beautiful head in profile. Solid toplines, beautiful reach and drive and effortless side gait correct clean down and backs.

2 Ch Emmys Simply Orange – Flashy orange sable with 2 offspring with his exact same marking and body style. All looked like they came from same mold. Light and refined in headpieces beautiful balance.

BITCHES JUDGE — CARL SKINNER

Iwould like to thank the ASSA members for the privilege and honor of judging the class bitches at this year’s National. Another huge thanks go out to Show Chair Sheryl Kendrick and her committee, Marjorie Tuff and Janell Lowman for keeping things flowing in the ring, and Rita Von Pusch for judges’ hospitality. Thanks also to the owners and exhibitors for bringing me such a quality filled entry. What a treat to judge!

6-9 MONTHS SABLE AND WHITE

1 G or-Don Cloud Fire – This puppy had a body of correct proportions, and a level topline with short hocks. A good mover. The head displayed parallel planes separated by a correct stop. Feminine expression.

2 Belmarkyou Had Me At Hello

3 Lynphil Privada

4 Winterfell Dragonfly In Amber

6-9 MONTHS AOAC

1 Suncrest Coronation – A stunning blue puppy with a faultless outline and excellent front assembly, level topline, and in good coat. True mover coming and going with good reach and drive from the side. Correct eye shape and carriage and a high ear set. She displayed a sweet expression.

2 Mystic Suntime Heart Of Glass

3 Shaizach Amarylis

4 Lanstarr Triumph Destined To Lead

9-12 MONTHS SABLE AND WHITE

1 Solange Opportunity – A well-built bitch of good outline and substance. Level topline and short hocks. As expected, following my examination, she was good mover. High ear set and tip and correct eye shape with parallel planes leading to a pleasing expression.

2 Powder River Pipersonic

3 Starbrite’s Breath Of Fresh Air

4 Starbrite Elora Akemi

9-12 AOAC

1 Belmark Me Myself and Aye – A beautiful, moderate bi-black with correct outline, body proportions and neck carriage. She moved effortlessly coming, going and from the side. The headpiece was a delight to look at. Her high tight ear set is only possible with a lean back skull. Small, almond eye and parallel planes gave her an inquisitive and intelligent expression.

2 Twoj’s Glamour And Glitter

3 Northview The Devil Wears Prada

4 Desiree’s You’re The One That I Want

2023 NATIONAL JUDGES’ CRITIQUES

12-18 MONTHS SABLE & WHITE

1 Camelot Isle Heaven Sent – A pleasing junior bitch with excellent body proportions and outline. She moved effortlessly. She displayed smooth cheeks with no prominence of zygomatic arch, correct eye shape, parallel plains, and a moderately blunt wedge. The result was a sweet, intelligent expression.

2 Bridgeway Just The Two Of Us

3 Powder River Primoju

4 Presidio Trelynn Stitch Fix

12-18 MONTHS AOAC

1 Heritage Hills Abbotsford Zenith – A moderate, outgoing tricolor who showed herself beautifully. Excellent body proportions, short hocks, and an efficient mover. True coming and going and from the side. Her correct planes and stop and small eye led to a melting expression.

2 Laketrail The Contessa

3 Z esta Bi Mistake

4 Stargazer Siro Bunnahabhain

NOVICE BITCH

1 Serendipity Phoenix Rising @ Prairie – This moderate tricolor bitch had a good outline and level topline. She was a good mover. Correct planes and a moderately blunt wedge when view from the side or from the top leading to a pleasing headpiece.

2 Solange Retail Therapy

3 Wedgewood Sally Pt

4 Karefree Pursue BRED BY EXHIBITOR PUPPY

1 Westar’s Dreamland – A stunning headpiece and a good mover; what’s not to like on this sable bitch? Short hocks, level topline, and neck carriage gave her legs the tools to move effortlessly. Parallel planes, correctly placed stop, finish of underjaw, and almond eyes accounted for the beautiful expression.

2 Rosmoor Party Favor

3 Cloudside Zippity Zoom

4 Belmark Celestrial Persuit BRED BY EXHIBITOR ADULT

1 Belmark Rewrite The Stars – A showy bi-black bitch in excellent coat and condition. She moved with the best of them. Her moderate outline, and short hocks displayed an exceptional silhouette. Correct wedge, stop and eye displayed a sweet expression.

2 Shannon’s Hell-On Heels

3 Trelynn Presidio Continuing Adventures

4 Lynphil Little White Lie

2023 NATIONAL JUDGES’ CRITIQUES

AMERICAN-BRED BITCH

1 Holly Hill Blue Jasmine – A beautiful blue bitch in excellent condition who showed her heart out. Side gate displayed good body proportions. A good mover. Good head planes, stop, and eye placement leading to a pretty expression.

2 Renegade Winds Solange Elegance

3 Somerhaven Belmark Dad Hattie

4 Starstruck Sophisticated Lady

OPEN BLACK BITCH

1 Dynestar On Wings of Thunder – A tricolor of lovely outline and substance. A level topline, excellent front assembly and a good mover. Parallel planes with a nice stop and eye placement. A sweet expression.

2 Belmark Quinceanera

3 Jesstar Captiva

4 Dury Voe Special Agent

OPEN BLUE BITCH

1 Breyston’s Ruslin Sassy Sabrina – A moderate bitch with good coat and front. An easy mover with no wasted motion. Good head planes and finish of underjaw. A feminine expression.

2 Mystic Suntime Bacardi

3 Cassbar Keystone Decadence

4 Suntime Kung Fu Panda

OPEN SABLE AND WHITE BITCH

1 Z esta Lynphil Clairvoyant – A stunningly plush bitch in abundant coat. Excellent bone and substance. A profile of great symmetry with no part out of balance with the whole. Head planes, stop, eye placement, and finish of underjaw entirely correct with a soft, inquisitive expression.

2 Elora Inverness

3 Belmark Vanellope Von Schweetz

4 Citation Tempestuous

2023 NATIONAL JUDGES’ CRITIQUES

My winners bitch class displayed similarity of virtues among them. Important to me was correct body proportions defined as correct length of back to length of leg with a level topline. Inside movement the legs should converge without overlap or gap. When I found correct head detail defined as a moderately blunt wedge, parallel planes, a leanness of back skull, dark almond shaped eyes defining the location of stop, those qualities lead to a beautiful expression. Each of the class winners displayed those virtues. In the end I pulled four for final consideration. My Open Sable, my American Bred blue, my 6-9 Month AOAC blue, and my 9-12 Month AOAC bi-black.

WINNERS BITCH

Belmark Me Myself And Aye

RESERVE WINNERS BITCH

Zesta Lynphil Clairvoyant

NON-REGULAR CLASSES: VETERAN BITCH 9-12 YEARS

1 Ch. Gypsy’s Etched Bi Angels NA NAJ AXP AJP – A bi-blue bitch with lovely outline and head piece. She was in great condition. She had the lightness of step of a younger bitch. Her adoration of her handler was very apparent.

2 G CH Shandy-Stornway’s Paint The Sky With Stars

3 CH Attridge Tennage Dream

4 G CH Stargazer Spellbound

VETERAN BITCH OVER 12 YEARS

1 Ch. Shazadar’s She Made It – A blue bitch of 13 years who never took a bad step. Excellent body proportions and coat. Correct planes, stop, eye placement, and shape. A stunning headpiece. A pleasure to judge.

2 G CH Wyndsong Radiance

3 Maclaren Lululemon

4 G CHB Solange Onstar

BROOD BITCH CLASS

1 Emmys Lady Marmalade – The tail female lines are the heart of any successful breeding program. When judging the brood bitch class, I wasn’t just judging for lookalikes among the get. Coat markings and similarity of size are minor considerations. I looked for virtues of the dam that passed on to the get. Correct body proportions, and correctness of head detail that passed on are hard to get. I felt this bitch laid a good foundation for future generations.

2 CH Wistwin Tralynn Flamestitch

3 Dury Voe Special Agent

4 G CHB Costa Del Sol’s Cindy Lou Who

BEST OF BREED JUDGE – JANET TURNAGE NAHIKIAN

My thanks to the ASSA members who voted for me and everyone who worked to put this year’s National Together. This was the second time I was judging BOB and it was a thrill to again see the quality that my Fellow breeders brought to this National Specialty.

BOB

GCHB CH KISMET LEGENDARY – A blue merle dog that caught my eye on the first go round and each time I saw him I found more to like. Every inch a male without being overdone and his body proportions fitting together perfectly. His head was a work of art with clean, flat cheeks, parallel planes, lovely underjaw and lip line, and a beautiful, sweet and intelligent expression. He moved effortlessly covering ground with the reach and drive of a True Herding dog. He was also the consummate show dog owning the ring with his confidence and beauty. He filled my eye of what a Sheltie should be.

BOS

CH WESTAR’SFAIREST OF THEM ALL – What a perfect name for this beautiful bitch. Although not in Her best coat her head properties were so beautiful, I had to reward her. Her back skull was so flat and lovely and so hard to find in our breed, the beautiful full muzzle, clean sides that you could barely feel the zygomatic arches, and absolutely lovely eye and expression. No depth of head wonderful underjaw and smooth tight lip line. She moved around the ring smoothly with confidence. Truly a very special bitch.

BOW

TWOJ’S TABLOID FAMOUS – A very masculine dog with a full muzzle, clean cheeks and correct head detail. Lots of bone and coat. He was very confident and trotted around the ring smoothly.

SELECT DOG

CH SOLANGE WE THE PEOPLE – This young sable male was the dog I would have liked to take home. With a beautiful melting expression and correct body proportions he was an eye-catching picture. The head was a perfect wedge with a full rounded muzzle, a sweet lovely eye set obliquely, smooth flat cheeks and flat back skull. His movement a smooth and easy trot as he floated around the ring with a confidence in beautiful condition and beautifully presented. The expression on him was absolutely enchanting and what I am always looking for and seldom find.

SELECT BITCH

CH SOLANGE SUGGESTIVE – A mature sable bitch she was the picture of femininity. She moved out smoothly in a gait that did not show her age. She looked at me with a lovely dark eye placed obliquely in her skull which was flat. Her head planes were parallel and the sides of her head smooth. So correct and lovely she was showed flawlessly.

I was honored to award so many AOMs. Each one I chose were beautiful representatives of the Shetland Sheepdog who excelled in type, structure, symmetry, correct movement, head detail and the elusive Sheltie expression.

2023 NATIONAL JUDGES’ CRITIQUES

MeritAWARDS OF

LISTED ALPHABETICALLY BY DOG’S NAME

CH CASSBAR REFLECTIONS (Bitch)

Owner: Michelle & Dale Rogowski

GCH CIELITO LINDO SILVER STAR “STERLING” (Bitch)

Owner: Ximena Cavaliazzi & Guillermo Rodriguez

GCH ELORA PANACHE’ (Bitch)

Owner: Cindy Frusetta

GCHS FOXHOLLOW WINTER SOLSTICE (Bitch)

Owner: Michelle Toczek

GCH GORDON ACAPELLA (Dog)

Owner: Donna Crabtree

CH GRANDVIEW’S BELLA KARISMA (Bitch)

Owner: Mary Visser & Mendy Gleason

CH LYNPHIL PERSONA (Dog)

Owner: Donna McCulloch, Kim Wendling & Phil Wendling

CH ROSMOOR FOLKLORE (Bitch)

Owner: Jennie Hynes, Rose Tomlin, Kate Hynes & Katharina Grohowalski

CH ROSMOOR VOYAGER (Dog)

Owner: Jennie Hynes & Rose Tomlin

CH SILVERADO COASTAL MOCHA LATTE (Dog

Owner: Cathy Smith

CH SHADOW HILL’S REGAL (Dog)

Owner: Jane Hammett Bright

GCHS WESTAR ARATONE WILDFLOWER CD BN RI TKN CGCA CGCU (Bitch)

Owner: Linda & Michael Bianco, Marie Eguro & Mark Hersman

CH SOLANGE PEAKY BLINDERS (Dog)

Owner: Linda Nicholas & Cheryl Pike

CH SOLANGE SILK SONIC (Dog)

Owner: Linda Nicholas

Legacy:

HOW TO ENSURE YOUR BLOODLINE GOES FORWARD

by JON BRECKENRIDGE-MITCHELL

or the true dog breeder, one who has devoted decades to developing a bloodline, the greatest con cern must be the assurance that all the effort, all the learning, all the eventual mastery of the art does not dissolve into thin air upon your retirement. Nothing can be more satisfying and enriching than to believe you have made a lasting positive impact on your breed of choice, one that will continue onward long after you have stopped making the breeding decisions yourself.

The term “bloodline” is often subject to misuse by those in the dog fancy. Only a very small percentage of breeders have the right to call their efforts “a bloodline,” and yet we hear the term bandied about by almost everyone. I must assume that many, when speaking of “my bloodline,” are not referring to the decades of careful breeding and development of a family of dogs. Instead they are referring to the dogs they currently own. However, to rightly refer to your breeding efforts as a “bloodline,” you must have developed a unique, identifiable and consistent family of dogs that are interrelated through many generations. A bloodline must be physically identifiable, which is to say it must have distinguishable family characteristics. In essence, a bloodline is the manifestation of a breeder’s vision of their concept of ideal breed type. Although there are useful and useless bloodlines, with regard to the perpetuity of such we need only consider those that have proven themselves to be valued as a virtuous family.

Healthy Bloodlines

Although I do not subscribe to any actual rule regarding what constitutes a bloodline, I will put forward that it must be a genetically related, phenotypically consistent family of dogs that are of a viable population to maintain basic consistency even as relatively unrelated dogs are added into the gene pool. It has become the current fashion by many in the dog fancy to refer to the “danger” of inbreeding coefficients as an argument against close breeding. Although we cannot make generalizations about all breeds, as each breed is unique with regard to phenotypic variation and genetic health, there are many bloodlines with generations of closely bred ancestors that

have excellent health. Indeed, while sloppy inbreeding is guaranteed to produce defective animals, an intelligently managed bloodline can boast exceptional health not in spite of but due to close breeding. By carefully weeding out unwanted characteristics, including diseases, a skilled breeder can absolutely create a healthy family of dogs. The attempt at wholesale regulation of the inbreeding coefficient should be critically questioned upon the veracity of applicable scientific data. In other words, there are breeds in which close breeding is inadvisable and breeds in which it can be very beneficial. I know of no controlled scientific study using experienced breeders that can prove otherwise, and I have extensive personal experience to support the concept of a bloodline. The canine genome is the most expansive of any living species, and most broad generalizations are invariably refutable.

So let us describe what a bloodline worth perpetuating would be. Through decades of dedication, it must be one in which breed type virtues are exploited to a very high degree. In essence we want breed examples that are verging on perfection in many ways; they will not be perfected in all ways, but they will be considered “the source” for many breed type features. The breeder creed is to produce ever stronger and ever more breed virtues in one’s stock. Do not misinterpret “stronger” to mean “exaggerated,” as unwanted exaggerations are just as unwelcome as deficiencies. Yes, many breeds are the subject of exaggeration of the original desired characteristics, and they must be brought back to balance through the skills of true breed connoisseurs. A good example is the Pekingese coat. Traditionally, the coat has been an enhancement to the breed, but over the last few decades, the breed began to look for all the world like a moving tumbleweed, attractive to no one but restless hairdressers. Today we see a strong swing back to a manageable and proper-fitting coat that enhances this proud lionesque dog. Likewise, the athletic and square Afghan Hound went through a phase where the appeal to exhibitors and judges was more focused on yards of hair than the amazing hunter under the coat. Today I wonder just how much taller Poodle and Shih Tzu topknots must be before their breed intelligentsia tire of the infantile silliness. It is never the followers who force these corrections; it is always just a handful of knowing breeders who lead breeds out of their dark corners.

Every legacy breeder must feature breed health as a top criterion. And by that I mean, the breeder must aggressively work to identify animals with unhealthy genes and remove them from the gene pool. This, of course, must be countered with maintaining appropriate genetic variability within the breed, a sometimes difficult and complex balancing act. The dog world today must realize the “purebredishness” of most of our dog breeds is a relatively recent invention. Some breeds that are plagued with disease may have gotten there through misfortune, but refusing to find solutions is tantamount to mismanagement. Falconi in Basenjis has been addressed through the importation of native African dogs to good effect. Development of genetic testing for Lens Luxation has pulled the Miniature Bull Terrier back from the brink of inevitable extinction. Aggressive programs to wait until full maturity is helping the Pomeranian combat Black Skin Disease. A broad spectrum of strategies must be used to right seriously compromised breeds that today face real risk of becoming extinct in the next human generation. The

option to introduce healthy genes through cross-breeding to phenotypically and/or genetically related breeds if intra-breed options are not viable must be included in that arsenal.

The dog fancy has done itself no favors by setting up benchmarks that do more harm than good for a breed. I have always spurned top producer rankings as little more than devices to spread unhealthy genes throughout a breed. And so there are instances in a number of breeds in which once rare health conditions are now on the list of required disease testing because of popular and overly used stud dogs that transmitted disease to a large population of dogs. These situations didn’t occur without the cooperation of participating breeders. For a bloodline to carry on, for it to be worthy of continued propagation, it must be genetically healthy. And while you may have learned to “manage” existing health problems in your dogs, you are kidding yourself if you think there are others in the next generation who will do the same, regardless of what else you have achieved with your breeding program. Health is absolutely critical to the continuance of a bloodline.

In a similar vein, the over-importance of show ring success can also have deleterious effects on the continuation of a viable bloodline. For instance, surgically correcting tail carriage in many of the long-legged terriers is as common as having dewclaws removed. Yes, you may have produced generation after generation of top-winning dogs, but if every one of them requires cosmetic surgery, coloring or some other falsification to allow them to win in the ring, the chances of finding someone else equally committed to doing the same with your bloodline in the future is going to have a very low probability at best. Your dogs must be honest. They must thrive on normal diets, their temperaments must be typical of the breed, and they must be sane and healthy animals.

Creating and Passing on the Legacy

As a teenager, I saw a series on television with a line that has ultimately directed my whole life. It was uttered by a woman who had worked her way up from the bottom to ultimately owning a fine London hotel. She opened the doors of her new establishment eager for customers. When an unpleasant gentleman entered, she decisively refused his business. To her astounded staff she said, “I am starting out as I mean to go on.” To do this you must examine your own morals, your values and firmly draw the line in the sand. You must decide what you will and will not tolerate in your bloodline right from the start because once you give yourself permission to include dogs with significant health problems or dogs needing fakery or some other inappropriate allowance, you will allow it a second time and a third — and before long you will have infected your bloodline so completely a legacy of your work will be out of the question. Start out as you mean to go on.

Equally important, and ultimately more critical to the survival of your bloodline, is instilling in others the “vision” that is manifested by your breeding efforts. Indeed, it could be argued that your legacy through mentorship

could prove to have more impact than the survival of your bloodline. The development of the “look” of your bloodline is driven largely by your perception. Because of your “eye,” you will make breeding decisions and resulting puppy selections that are unique to your perspective. The transference of this “eye” is dependent upon your ability to mentor.

It is wise to realize that your accomplishment in developing your bloodline is based on your own unique talent. Let’s be quite clear on the meaning of “talent” versus “skill.” Talent is an aptitude, a natural ability to do something. Talent is therefore something innate; it cannot be instilled. Skill is a learned capacity to do something. Obviously, the more talent one has, the greater the skill that can be achieved. With a lack of talent, the skill cannot be perfected. When choosing one or more individuals to mentor, those who hopefully will continue your legacy, you must be very aware that they must have the talent to do so. I have seen many bloodlines over the years become a sad shadow of the original developer because the individual assuming the bloodline did not possess the talent to do so or was not properly schooled in the founder’s “eye.”

Once the “who” to mentor has been identified, the challenge is “how” to mentor. Obviously, taking on an individual who is physically co-located, who can participate in every daily activity and is present for every decision-making opportunity is the ideal. Many happy situations have occurred when the original owner brings in a new partner who is as eager and as talented as the founder of the bloodline. The new partner can assist with the physical demands, often allowing the founder to remain active with his or her bloodline much longer than would ordinarily have been the case. If the individual has financial resources, such as employment, additional benefit can be achieved with appropriate sharing of expenses.

My mantra in working with another individual is “contract, contract, contract.” Regardless of whether you enter into a co-ownership agreement on a single dog or a sharing agreement on an establishment, ensure a proper contract is drawn up by a qualified lawyer and that both parties are appropriately covered. Although both parties will assure themselves there will never be a need for a contract, I can only say if people knew at the onset exactly if and how long-term relationships might change, there wouldn’t ever be a divorce! It is exceptionally bad judgment not to very clearly delineate how a partnership will be dissolved should the occasion ever occur.

If such a close relationship is not possible, the next choice may be to at least have someone who can travel to dog shows or who is at dog shows with you. Staying in contact with them through the week will keep them interested and fully invested in the ups and downs of managing the kennel.

Even if a close physical relationship is not possible, effective mentoring can occur across distant countries. Today

with easy access to the Internet and with social media such as Facebook, an ever-present communication construct is easily devised. I recently tested this theory by setting up a private group on Facebook where topics can be discussed and pictures and videos shared. The participation can be limited to two individuals or can include multiple participants. Another “free” communication medium is Google Chat where you can have free video chats with one or more individuals. So for the cost of a computer and an Internet connection, you have a number of technologically advanced, basically cost-free solutions for communicating frequently.

One of the best examples of mentorship I have ever seen was demonstrated by Raymond Oppenheimer of the world-famous Ormandy Bull Terrier kennel in England. As revealed in W.E. Mackay-Smith’s book, Letters from Raymond, during the 1960s and ‘70s, he maintained a worldwide network of students he mentored with endless passion. His letters not only shared his views on current circumstances of the Bull Terrier in England, he requested mercilessly of his students to share their observations of the outcome of every significant specialty. He wanted catalog markings, descriptions of the dogs and perceptions of the judging. Through his questioning he forced his students to really look at the dogs in the ring, to evaluate them and to compare their perspectives to what the judge did. He provided suggestions on breeding their bitches and wanted to know what choices they made, why and the eventual outcome of the resulting litters. Through this tireless interest in his students, he effectively shaped world opinion of Bull Terriers. Although his kennel was the leading producer of top-quality stock, his development of intellectual capital across the planet was in every way as important and lasting.

If you think about it, it is the whole mix of your husbandry that makes your bloodline successful. To mentor the next generation effectively thorough communication and understanding will be your never-ending task. In terms of breed type, your view of outline, head type, proportion, structure, movement and temperament is vital. What are your views on size variation? What are the key elements which must always be considered for exceptional type? What are the things you don’t like, can’t tolerate and why? How are your dogs kept, exercised, groomed, socialized, trained? Think about every task and decision you make through the day and relate this to your pupil. Share and share and share. As a teenager, I greatly treasured the two-hour conversations I had on a weekly basis with my mentor Norma Chandler. She brought the past alive in my mind, shared what she used to believe and what she believed now. I was allowed to share her past, her present and her thoughts on the future. I shared my thoughts, and she helped me to greater insight.

And finally, you must consider what will happen to your dogs when you pass into the great dog show on the other side. Make decisions about who should get your dogs, what you want done with them and ensure the intended recipients are fully aware of your wishes. An unexpected demise without your proper preparation may well ensure the end of your line.

Whether just starting out on your path of breeding or looking to pass on your bloodline to the next generation, none of it can happen without a good plan for the future. Every day affords us the opportunity to direct the rest of our lives; if your bloodline is the stepping stone to future breed improvement, do all that is necessary to ensure that is the legacy you leave behind.