Once a year, my wife and I go to a show simply to watch the dogs and share time with friends and colleagues. This time, my wife suggested that I should concentrate my attention on the judging. While sitting ringside, I had some random thoughts. Those thoughts were uncolored by my entries, because there were none that day.
Will Alexander Drops Some Knowledge About What’s Happening in the Sport of Dogs. It’s Deep… It’s Humorous… It’s Provocative… It’s Will Unfiltered! Will Alexander has an in-depth conversation with Dan Sackos. Click here to watch on Canine Chronicle TV!
Karen LeFrak is sometimes described, vapidly, as a “socialite,” sometimes, more accurately, as a “philanthropist,” but the term best suited to this talented musician, author—and once again–campaigner of champion Standard Poodles, is “lady.” Google was no help in retrieving the definition I learned as a child—”a woman who could speak to the highest in the land and the lowest in the land and still remain herself.” But when I call on her at her striking black-and-white themed home off Central Park, this is the quality I remember: graciousness coupled with a radiant enthusiasm.
Not everyone who wants to be healthy and live longer will actually be able to do it. Recent studies show that those who own a dog and follow a few lifestyle recommendations have the best chances. According to research findings, scientists are racing to collect information and document how. Five factors have been identified that make the difference, and–when taken together–they confirm that doing the right things contributes to a longer and healthier life for both owners and their dogs.
Will Alexander Drops Some Knowledge About What’s Happening in the Sport of Dogs. It’s Deep… It’s Humorous… It’s Provocative… It’s Will Unfiltered! This week Will gives us 10 Questions in 60 Seconds. Ep. #33. Click here to watch on Canine Chronicle TV!
Can we discuss the journey we take in the sport of purebred dogs? Or is it best to say evolution? The paths we choose and the path we travel into the sport/hobby we commit to is part of that journey. We all come to our sport due to our love of dogs and the love of competition; but through the years we evolve our niche and find our purpose. There are many factors to consider like finances, space, time, intention, but most importantly it’s about drive and motivation. These last two parts can be in unison or independent.
One of the great things about AKC has always been their staunchly personal approach to everything. Regardless of what’s going on or what anyone else might be doing in response, their carefully deliberated decisions happen in their own time–and rarely with much or any accompanying explanation.
How many conversations have you been part of in the past year where the quality of dogs in your breed was lamented? Those conversations could be actual face-to-face talks, phone calls or virtual conversations conducted on social media channels like Facebook. Talk to anyone who’s been involved in conformation competition for more than 10 years and you’ll probably hear the same thing: the understanding of correct type, soundness and movement just isn’t as prevalent as it was in years past.
Want to start an argument…(again)? Bring up why the NOHS is either a good or a bad thing. That’s what one popular judge did in a recent Canine Chronicle online interview. When asked how shows differed today from years ago, she brought up NOHS, and opined she thought it created handlers who were complacent about their abilities rather than striving to get better by competing against the pros. This, of course, caused an eruption amongst NOHS exhibitors protesting the remarks, as well as an equal number of social media posts supporting it.
Join Michael Hill in his exciting series “INFLUENCERS.” Michael will be hosting dog show enthusiasts, handlers, breeders, and judges as they reveal who has impacted them the most. This series will touch upon how influential mentors are and how they shape not only individuals but the future of the dog show world. Next, in the series is [...]
