Table Talk · November 5, 2025
I have had many discussions with fanciers over the years about why breed enthusiasts attend and show their dogs at their National Specialty. The consensus opinion is they go to exhibit their best dogs to their breed community. While winning the National is always on everyone’s bucket list, letting their fellow breeders, owners, and exhibitors see their dogs, “shopping” for a stud dog, or searching for “outside” bloodlines to add to their breeding program, continue to be the main reasons for attending the National.
That being said, it is likely that many exhibitors will have more than one special to show in the Best of Breed class at the National. At most National Specialties, the National Club and the judge work together to allow individuals to move dogs around in the assigned groups to enable exhibitors with multiple dogs to show. For most, it is assumed that the “switching of groups” will be accommodated.
A couple of weeks ago at the Akita Club of America National Specialty, the Best of Breed judge did not allow this to happen. I had a conversation with the Akita Club of America President, and despite the parent club representatives talking with the judge to urge him to change his procedure, he would not have it. In fact, the judge accused individuals–specifically professional handlers–of being ‘greedy’ if they planned to show more than one special at the show. Based on my discussions with exhibitors throughout the years, it is my humble opinion that greed does not enter this scenario.
In addition to allowing exhibitors to show their dogs, separating champion dogs into groups for Best of Breed judging helps ensure the safety of the dogs and exhibitors. There are breeds where it is not a good idea to crowd too many dogs into a ring together. Unfortunately, as the Akita Club of America President described to me, there were too many Specials crowded into the ring at one time, making safety a concern.
Fortunately, no dogs or people were hurt, but there were several disappointed exhibitors. My friends! Don’t let your National Specialty be impacted in this way. Make sure your contract language clearly states the requirements for the judging procedure of the Best of Breed class. Since this has happened multiple times that I am aware of, you cannot make assumptions. State that allowing handlers to switch groups is permissible and be clear about the maximum number of dogs allowed in the ring at one time.
The American Kennel Club has announced a new program for Juniors. Beginning in 2026, the AKC will approve up to 8 regional Junior Showmanship events throughout the 2026 calendar year. The events are designed to expand meaningful opportunities for Juniors by offering a distinctive and prestigious experience that is more accessible in terms of time and travel. The goal is to encourage broader participation, foster skill development, and recognize the dedication of young exhibitors within the sport. For information, please see the press release at https://caninechronicle.com/current-articles/american-kennel-club-announces-regional-junior-showmanship-events-to-begin-in-2026/ or contact Mari-Beth O’Neil, Vice President of Sport Services for AKC.
At the Fort Wayne shows this past weekend, a celebration of life was held for Kate Hanlon. The gathering was standing room only, as friends celebrated Kate’s memory by telling stories and shedding tears over her loss. The also gave Kate’s partner, Eileen Hackett, as many hugs as she could stand.
If you were unable to attend, we have posted the remarks from the celebration on the Canine Chronicle Facebook page.
Unfortunately, the rooms the Old Fort Cluster has used for Obedience experienced a recent fire. After exhausting all possible options, the Club decided to cancel obedience and offer refunds to exhibitors.
CJ Favre needs our love and support as Lisa, his wife of nearly 50 years, is being moved to hospice. Lisa is currently resting comfortably while watching football. Please keep CJ and Lisa in your thoughts at this most difficult time.
Congratulations to Christian Rutten and Megan Honari who tied the knot last week. May the two of you have many years of love, happiness, and prosperity ahead.
Happy anniversary to Harry and Lisa Miller who are celebrating their 38th wedding anniversary! Luke and Diane Ehricht also celebrated their wedding anniversary this past week! Chris Keith and Dylan Kipp-Keith are also celebrating their special day this week. Best wishes to these love birds for many more happy, healthy years together!
Fanciers celebrating birthdays this week include Esteban Farias, Alfonso Escobedo, Jerry Klein, Peggy Browne, Alberto Montilla, Rebecca Pentecost, Christian Manelopoulos, Hal Bierman, David Williams, Dasha Mlinarich, Ernesto Lara, Jim Noe, Candice Duclos, and Ernie Conti. I would also like to wish a very special, happy birthday to my dearly beloved, Robert Cooper! Best wishes for the greatest year yet to all!
Wherever your journey takes you, please be safe. I will see you soon down the road! Until next time…
Short URL: http://caninechronicle.com/?p=343415
Posted by Comments are closed
