Around The Rings – Woofstock
Click here to read the complete article 222 – July, 2026
“Author Archive”
The Big E – Enough Is Not Enough
Once upon a time, very long ago, my husband and I made our first trip to England to visit two breeders whose acquaintance we made at a specialty show in San Diego, California. In talking with each other, we discovered we had a lot in common. We both had acquired Cavalier King Charles Spaniels from the same line, and had several dogs related to each other. Both of the gentlemen were eager for us to visit them. The opportunity to actually see their dogs and those from other breeders in England was too good to refuse.
Showing A Dog Under Its Breeder? – The AKC Rule Change
There’s always an uproar at the World Show. One of the “scandals” this year was a dog winning BOB under a judge who was also its breeder. Fortunately, AKC would never allow that—right?
Type vs. Hype – Judging Dogs According To Breed Standard
There was a time when the conversation always began with type. When breeders spoke, they spoke of heads and boning, of expression and balance, of silhouettes that told a story long before the animal ever took a step. We discussed virtues, forgave faults, and measured excellence against the standard, not against popularity. But somewhere along the way, the conversation shifted. The dialogue quieted. And in its place rose something far louder, far emptier: hype.
How Welcoming Is Your Parent Club?
“Join now! It’s easy to apply!” That’s on the Golden Retriever Club of America website, and I can practically see a Golden Retriever wagging its tail and inviting me in for a cup of coffee as a new member.
To Win More In The Juniors’ Ring
If you are not winning your class as often as you would like, you can. To win more in Junior Showmanship, you should focus on skill development, plan and conduct consistent and engaging practices with your ring partner, and develop a competitive mindset that allows you to prioritize your effort and personal growth in the sport over just winning. Also, if you practice good sportsmanship and take ownership of your successes and failures, the wins will come to you.
Closet Confidential — Woofstock Cluster
Woofstock Cluster
Contra Costa County Kennel Club
Yolo County Fairgrounds
Woodland, CA
June 5-7, 2026
Still Standing 8 Too Many Dog Shows, Too Much Carbon Paper, And Not Enough Qualified Judges!
The shortage of judges, too many dog shows and the need for a better system. Click here to watch on Canine Chronicle TV!
Did You Know? – The “BASICS” Should Still Be In Play
One reads lots of comments about how someone “Woulda, Coulda, Shoulda” done something in the ring–or, to a certain degree, how they “Woulda, Coulda, Shoulda” improved their results. I see exhibitors making “rookie” errors both inside and outside the ring. So, I think this month we will have a little review of some basic show skills to bring into the ring with you.
Around The Rings – The Roast Of Pat Trotter
Click here to read the complete article 114 – July, 2026
