In the Spotlight: Professional Handlers Adam & Maddie Peterson

Join us for an interview series where we get to know some of our most successful professional handlers in purebred dogs.

Tell us about your introduction to the sport of purebred dogs. Share the steps that led you to your success as a handler today.

Maddie: I grew up going to shows with my mom. She got me my own dog, a Smooth Fox Terrier, which I started showing in the breed until I was old enough for Junior Showmanship. After Juniors, I apprenticed with multiple handlers for over six years.

Adam: I started going to shows with my parents when I was 13 and showed my parents’ Rottweiler in Junior Showmanship. I then went on to show my Whippet and Mini Longhaired Dachshund. After that, I apprenticed with several handlers for 14 years. Finally, Maddie and I decided to go out on our own, and we’ve been handling professionally for the past 13 years.

Has there been an individual who has been instrumental in your success? Who was the first dog that put you on the map?

Maddie: My mom has always been my biggest cheerleader and did so much for Adam and me when we started our business. I’ve also had many amazing mentors who helped shape the person I am today. There are many client dogs that I feel fortunate to have started with, but two, in particular, are GCH Saranac Toblerone “Toby” (Gordon Setter) and GCH Goldruls it’s All Greek To Me JH “Eros” (Golden Retriever).

Adam: My parents have always supported me in being a professional dog handler and breeder. Maddie is my biggest cheerleader and pushes me to be the best handler I can be. I’ve learned different techniques from all the handlers I’ve worked with, including Daryl Cooper, Scott and Suzie Kipp, Carlos Puig, and Scott Sommer. The first dog that put me on the map was GCHP Raydachs Ride My Ducati SW (Wirehaired Dachshund). 

How do you ensure your dogs are mentally and physically prepared for shows especially when you are attending more shows than ever before? How do you handle nerves and pressure for both humans and dogs?

Maddie & Adam: We let our dogs be dogs as much as possible, both at home and on the road. When we’re at home, they get plenty of time to run and play in their paddocks, especially when the weather is nice. They often get muddy, dig holes, and just enjoy being dogs—this keeps them pretty happy. On the road, we spoil them with treats, lots of attention, and regular walks to keep their minds stimulated while traveling.

What are some of your favorites? Favorite weekend? Favorite showgrounds? Favorite restaurant? 

Maddie: My favorite shows to attend are the Dachshund and Golden Retriever Nationals, as well as the AKC Show in Orlando. My favorite show grounds is Morris & Essex. My favorite restaurant is any good sushi place, and my favorite hotels are Hiltons.

Adam: My favorite shows are the Dachshund National, Westminster, and the AKC Show in Orlando. My favorite showgrounds are Morris & Essex and the old Montgomery showgrounds. My favorite restaurant is Outback Steakhouse and our own kitchen (whatever Maddie cooks).

Tell us your favorite win or memory in the sport of dogs.

Maddie: There are so many memorable moments… my first Best in Show with a Longhaired Dachshund, GCHP2 Brownwood Royall T’s Peace On Earth SL “Biscuit,” my first Best in Show with a Smooth Fox Terrier, GCHG Pinnacle Broxden Lickety Split “Desmond,” and the time I was ringside at the Golden National when my husband called to tell me he won the breed with my veteran Smooth Fox Terrier, GCH Lil’Itch Steeplechase “Chase,” at Morris & Essex.

Adam:  There are many wins that mean a lot to me. One of them is going Group Two at Westminster with a 10-year-old Cavalier King Charles Spaniel named “Jet”, CH Grandtilley’s Galaxy Moon under Mrs. Keke Kahn. Another is Ducati going Best in Show under breeder-judge Mr. Tom Nesbitt. Winning the breed in Smooth Fox Terriers with our veteran Smooth Fox Terrier “Chase” at Morris & Essex from the veteran class under Mr. Mike Buckley was also incredibly special—Chase was our pet, and we were so proud!

What advice would you give someone experienced or inexperienced about competing in the sport of purebred dogs? 

Maddie and Adam: Enjoy the time spent with your dogs. The bonds we form with them and watching them blossom into great show dogs is the most rewarding part.

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Posted by Liz on Nov 27 2024. Filed under Current Articles, Featured. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0. Both comments and pings are currently closed.