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?

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?

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.

“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.

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.

Woofstock Cluster
Contra Costa County Kennel Club
Yolo County Fairgrounds
Woodland, CA
June 5-7, 2026

The shortage of judges, too many dog shows and the need for a better system. Click here to watch on Canine Chronicle TV!

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.

Click here to read the complete article 114 – July, 2026

My son and I were recently wandering through an antique shop, mostly for a distraction from the daily work routine, and perhaps to experience a transport back in time.

In July of 2026 the United States will celebrate its 250th anniversary, or its “semiquincentennial.” Since this is a hard word to wrap your tongue—or mind—around, it’s generally referred to as the “Semi Q.” In a wide range of celebrations all over the country, homage will be paid to our first citizens—the various tribes representing Indigenous peoples—the founding fathers—Jefferson, Madison, Washington, etc.— and other social, cultural, political and artistic movers, shakers and shapers of the American experience.