Table Talk • September 10, 2025
By now, the September AKC Secretary’s pages have reached fanciers’ inboxes, and there are a couple of proposals and updates that are worth reading. Of particular interest to many is the proposal the Board of Directors discussed that would allow dogs with Limited Registration to compete in conformation events. There have been many reactions to this proposal, with several fanciers stating they feel strongly that the breeder that placed that limited registration on the dog should determine whether that dog should be exhibited in conformation or not. While I recognize that this would be another way to get more people interested in exhibiting in conformation, my concern is that it changes the purpose of AKC conformation events, which is evaluating breeding stock. Perhaps there needs to be another category when registering dogs, so the breeder does, in fact, have the final say regarding whether or not the dog is exhibited in the conformation ring.
The proposal will be referred to the Dog Show Rules Committee and discussed again at the October meeting. If approved, the policy change would become effective July 1, 2026. What are your feelings on this topic? Please comment on The Canine Chronicle Facebook page or send me an email at deb.cooper@caninechronicle.com.
The revised AKC Code of Sportsmanship and Civility was also published in the September Secretary’s pages and is being circulated throughout the dog show community. I strongly encourage you to read our publisher’s comments regarding sportsmanship in the September issue of The Canine Chronicle. I feel that Tom’s comments do a great job of reminding of us how important sportsmanship and civility are to a successful career in dogs. Here is the link: https://caninechronicle.com/current-articles/from-the-publisher-67/.
You may remember that in May of this year, a handler was caught taking merchandise from a vendor at a show in Illinois. The AKC Event Committee reviewed the case and has imposed a 5-year suspension from AKC activities and a $2,500 fine.
If you have not had a chance to read Pat Cruz’s article regarding the Doberman Pinscher Club of America’s proposal to amend Article VII Section 1 of the Charter and Bylaws of the American Kennel Club, it is worth the read https://caninechronicle.com/breaking-news/proposed-amendment-to-charter-and-bylaws-of-the-american-kennel-club-inc-article-vll-section-1/. Currently the provisions require that when a board member “terms out” after two consecutive terms, they must have a one-year hiatus before serving again. The proposal increases the required hiatus to four years. This proposal was defeated by the delegate body six times in previous years and is now being served up as a demand. As participants in the fancy, how do you feel about this issue?
Sadly, a dog recently lost its life due to an error in the listing of the show veterinarian in the judging program. Please let this serve as another reminder to show chairs and others responsible for reviewing premiums and judging programs to make certain that the veterinarian listed in your show documents is available, arrangements have been made with the clinic, and the information is listed accurately in the judging program.
It is bee season, my friends! That means that yellow jackets are hungry and angry which makes them more of a threat to our canine friends and us. Be sure to carry antihistamine and other first-aid items that will help if you or your dog(s) get stung.
At the shows last week in Mississippi, a dog got loose from his owner. Sadly, the owner’s inability to catch their dog caused havoc at the dog show; in some instances, causing other exhibitors to miss their ring. While accidents happen, every effort should be made to ensure that dogs are not allowed to run amok and causing other dogs stress, danger, or even worse. What may not seem like a big deal to you could me a very big deal to someone else.
Happy 50th anniversary to Debbie and Steve Melgreen! I don’t know how you two lovebirds could be married for 50 years! Karen and Sam Mammano are also celebrating an anniversary this week. Happy anniversary and may you all have many more wonderful years ahead.
Fanciers celebrating birthdays this week include Lisa Thomas, Lorraine Rainwater, Diane Baker, Eric Glofka, Elliott Wentzel, Nancy Hritzo Tragmar, Corinna Ohrnberger, Susan St. John Brown, Pam Beale, KayCee Klang, Jay Serion, and Richard Lawless. Best wishes to all of you for a great trip around the sun!
Here is a reminder to every judge and those aspiring judges: Judges hold the power to protect or destroy. Learn the standard. Respect it. Reward correctness over glamour, presentation, and polish. Once the true breed is gone, no ribbon will bring it back.
Best wishes to all for a great week! Be safe out there! If your travels bring you to Purina Farms this coming weekend for a National or All-Breed, please stop by Purina Hospitality and say hi! Keep an eye on The Canine Chronicle Facebook page this weekend for photos and video! Until next time…
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