A breeder is not counting the sleepless nights before and after arrivals of puppies, nor does he or she mind the sacrifices and missed social calls, or favorite TV shows. A breeder’s heart measures one thing… the first looks when those eyes open, the first responses to his/her voice, the first wagging of tails to his scent and the first kiss, framed with eyes so adoring, that love and trust spill over abundantly, from both breeder and pup.
Mediation is the art of conducting a discussion, voluntarily and confidentially, among participants in dispute. A mediator acts as a neutral third-party and facilitator in the room. Mediators allow the parties to tell their respective stories without interruption.
Where do I begin to explain to those with physical challenges how to begin a show career with your dog? First, let me say that it will not be easy for you or your dog. I raise, train and show Brittanys, and have successfully exhibited in the Conformation & Obedience rings at all levels for 40 years. Here is my story.
For more than a century, breeding and showing dogs has been a popular American pastime. During this time owning an American Kennel Club registered purebred dog was the gold standard.
It began in October when we would ordinarily be headed for Saskatchewan. What few stunted deciduous trees exist in the southwestern part of the province where we hunt would have lost most of their leaves by this time.
“Meet and Compete” combines the annual Masters Agility Championship At Westminster with an enormous AKC “Meet the Breeds” display. The event has become a staple of Westminster Weekend, and beginning last year, welcomes cat breeds.
I do not believe that I have ever attended a specialty club meeting, or engaged in a serious conversation with a group of similarly-minded breeders without someone, sooner or later, saying something about the breed standard. In some cases, the thought is that something should be added.
What’s worse than serving on a Breed Standard committee? How about an Illustrated Standard committee? This has become an essential plank of the purebred education package over the past few decades and many clubs are currently into their second or third revision of this delightful task.
We asked 3 experienced AKC judges 2 questions about current issues affecting our sport. Here’s what they had to say…
Every dog breeder is well aware of the importance of early socialization in puppies. Scott and Fuller’s research indicating the prime time for puppy socialization is from 3 to 14 weeks of age is among the most often quoted studies when talk- ing of puppies. Now a new study has shown that socializing at an even earlier age is beneficial.
