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260 – May, 2026

By Elaine Lessig

It’s SPRING. The long, dark nights and frigid weather are GONE. Hooray! Yippee! Good riddance! The worst winter in years has come to an end and, hopefully, will not return anytime soon. My dogs feared going out in the icy 3 degree weather which stayed around month after month this winter. Even the comfort provided by freshly dried warm towels did not adequately compensate for the harsh cold winds, snow-covered ground, and the small ice pellets that adhered to their long, silky coats. Getting the hard ice balls from between their feet was probably the most difficult of all. The floor of their room was covered in colorful beach towels most days. The dryer got a real workout. There must be a joke in all of this which I am missing. Mother Nature must have been saving up her fury for a decade or two.

The transition from winter to spring was very slow. The ups and downs of the temperature, high winds, and rainfall were a challenge. Every day was different. The weather forecasts were often wrong. You walk out the door only to turn back again and change your clothes, footwear, or both. A predicted warm sunny day suddenly goes cold with rain. You run quickly to your car before you get soaked. However, many times the deluge is unavoidable. You quickly turn on the engine, seat heater, and windshield wipers, determined to get home as soon as possible.

Then on March 8th, 2026, a minor miracle occurred, and Daylight Savings Time came around at last. The days were longer, but the overnight temperatures rarely got above freezing. Twelve days later–on March 20th–spring formally returned to the Northern Hemisphere. Suddenly, the extra light brought out dormant vegetation, large and small animals, and the birds were singing once again. How wonderful it is to see the forsythia bloom. Just the sight of those yellow flowers was a boost. One after another, the buds appeared on the trees. Quickly, the daffodils, crocus, and tulips provided a colorful array on the landscape. The dull brown and grey ground cover was swiftly replaced by bright spring green lawns. We have turned the corner. With no more dangerous ice on the ground, frozen water pipes, or dead car batteries, we can enjoy the warmer weather. It is about time.

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238 – May, 2026

Are you ready for this week’s #ThrowbackThursday? Who do you recognize in this week’s Throwback Thursday?

Check back on Monday for the correct answer!

Don’t forget! Do you have a fun photo that you would like to share for #ThrowbackThursday? Email Liz at showresults@caninechronicle.com with your photos!

By Denise Dang, RTBCA Secretary “Breeder of Merit”

Co-Author – Tatiana Semenova-Petrossian, PhD Biology MSAOM “AKC Breeder of Merit”

“A toy breed may be small—but type is never small.”

The Russian Tsvetnaya Bolonka is proof of that.

The newest Russian toy breed recognized by the American Kennel Club arrives in the ring with charm, softness, and undeniable appeal. But beneath the curls and sweetness lies a history of survival, purpose, and resilience. To judge or breed this dog correctly, one must understand the forces that shaped it—and the type that preserves it.

This is not a fragile ornament. This is a sturdy; companionable dog built for real life.

Born From Hardship, Built for Purpose

In the years following World War II, Russia faced unimaginable devastation—more than 20 million lives lost, cities destroyed, and its dog population nearly erased. As families rebuilt living in small apartments and harsh climates, they needed a compact, hardy companion that could thrive in close quarters and cold weather while acting as an early alarm for the larger guard dogs.

By the early 1950s, the Leningrad Toy and Companion Dog section identified the “colored lapdog” as a distinct type. White dogs were excluded to stabilize color. A formal standard followed in 1966, and by the 1970s, roughly 100 dogs formed the foundation of the breed.

“The Bolonka was created to comfort people—but never to be delicate.”

Understanding this origin is essential. Correct type reflects a dog that is small, yes—but sturdy, capable, and resilient.

The Silhouette: Where Type Begins

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228 – May, 2026

This partnership strengthens global collaboration around both organizations shared priorities, expanding and enhancing canine events and registrations, advancing education and health initiatives, supporting responsible breeding, and promoting purebred dogs as valued family companions, while delivering meaningful benefits to breeders, exhibitors, and dog owners in both the United States and New Zealand.

“Our agreement with the New Zealand Kennel Club reflects a deep commitment to preserving and advancing purebred dogs and dog events,” said Gina DiNardo, President and CEO of the American Kennel Club. “We are pleased to work alongside the New Zealand Kennel Club to promote canine well-being, support responsible purebred dog breeding, and strengthen the future of dogs and dog sports worldwide.”

“Many individual competitors and judges in both our clubs have been friends for years,” said Owen Dance, President of the NZKC.   “Now we are delighted to formalize the relationship at the organizational level, to share resources and synergies as we work towards our common goals.”

“The NZKC was established in 1886.  The country has a long tradition of responsible dog ownership,” said Doug Ljungren, AKC Executive V.P. for Sports & Events.  “There is much we can learn from each other and we look forward to strengthening our relationship.”

Under the agreement, the AKC and NZKC will explore opportunities to hold events, promote the registration of purebred dogs to expand breeding opportunities, share knowledge to advance the education of judges, exhibitors, and breeders, and promote dogs as family companions. The agreement further encourages cooperation on canine health and welfare initiatives, including the sharing of research, resources, and best practices, and supports coordinated efforts to promote the value of purebred dogs and responsible dog ownership.

Curated By Elaine Lessig

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220 – May, 2026

“We’re delighted to be in Philadelphia for AKC Celebrates 250 and look forward to an exciting, event-filled weekend,” said Gina M. DiNardo, President and CEO of the American Kennel Club. “It’s a meaningful opportunity to mark our nation’s 250th anniversary while recognizing the dogs and people who serve our country, showcasing extraordinary canine athletes, and highlighting responsible dog ownership.”

Over three days, the Philadelphia Navy Yard will transform into a festival-like environment featuring high-energy canine competition and family-friendly experiences, including:

• AKC Diving Dogs Team Challenge: Top canine athletes take flight in a fast-paced team competition filled with big jumps, bigger splashes, and a thrilling knockout finish
• AKC Agility Premier Cup: Elite agility dogs and handlers race through fast, technical courses in an exciting test of speed, precision, and teamwork
• AKC Agility Team Challenge: A brand-new team format brings strategy and speed together as top teams battle through unique rounds and head-to-head knockout races.

• Mini AKC Meet the Breeds: Meet, play with, and learn about a variety of different dog breeds at a mini AKC Meet the Breeds, happening 12pm – 2:30pm on June 6-7!
• Kid’s Zone: Test your agility skills in our interactive fun zone and participate in games and photo opportunities for the whole family
• Food Trucks

AKC Celebrates USA 250 will take place at the Marine Parade Ground Field at the Philadelphia Navy Yard from 11am to 4pm each day.

Additionally, debuting at AKC Celebrates USA 250 is the AKC FIT DOG Star-Spangled Scurry, a new addition to the AKC FIT DOG Programs virtual group walks! The event encourages dog owners across the country to get active with their dogs through a flexible, community-driven virtual 5K that can be completed from anywhere.

Participants can complete the 5K all at once or in smaller segments any time from June 1st through August 15th, 2026. Commemorative medals that act as your registration for the event will be available for purchase at the AKC Celebrates USA 250 event in Philadelphia for $20 each. A portion of medal sale proceeds will benefit a charitable dog organization.

For more information on AKC Celebrates USA 250, click here.

]]> https://caninechronicle.com/current-articles/akc-celebrates-usa-250-an-action-packed-weekend-thats-fun-for-the-whole-family/feed/ 0 https://caninechronicle.com/current-articles/inside-their-minds-insights-from-the-2026-westminster-kennel-club-breed-judges-2/ https://caninechronicle.com/current-articles/inside-their-minds-insights-from-the-2026-westminster-kennel-club-breed-judges-2/#comments Tue, 19 May 2026 12:00:31 +0000 AnthonyA https://caninechronicle.com/?p=357335 Click here to read the complete article
204 – May, 2026

By Jessica Braatz

Photos by Lisa Croft-Elliott

Mr. Raymond E. Yurick, Surrey, British Columbia, Canada

“Westminster has always been the pinnacle of our sport. I have attended Westminster as an assistant, handler, breeder, owner, exhibitor, spectator, and ring steward in the past, and have loved each experience and opportunity. There is something just magical about the venues, crowds, spectators, exhibitors, and beautiful quality entries from around the world. I was extremely honored and humbled by the invitation to judge at this iconic event’s historic 150th anniversary.

“The Westminster Kennel Club is history and the future wrapped up in a glamorous package, watched at all levels by dog lovers around the world. There is only one Westminster, and the show chair, members, and committees pour so much into giving us the most prestigious and enjoyable experience every year. Their hospitality and incredible organization are second to none. Attention to detail and genuine love of purebred dogs are present in everything they do. It was an experience I will not forget.”

Afghan Hounds

“The Afghan Hound is an aristocrat; the whole appearance is one of dignity and aloofness with no trace of plainness or coarseness. The striking, exotic breed-specific characteristics of the Afghan Hound give them the appearance of the ‘King or Queen’ of dogs, which has held true to tradition through-out the ages. My breed winner, GCHG Zaida Bint Muti Von Haussman, was squarely built, moderately an-gulated, and dripping in femi-ninity, and the above classic breed characteristics. Where she excelled heads and tails above the rest was her tre-mendous ground covering movement, the whole appear-ance of great style and beauty. My Opposite winner and other placements shared these qualities in varying degrees. It was a quality entry that drew a large crowd of enthusiasts.”

Whippets

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204 – May, 2026

By Lisa Dubé Forman

Feng Shui (“fung shway”) is an ancient Chinese art and philosophy rooted in Taoism, Yin and Yang, and the Five Elements: Water, Wood, Fire, Earth, and Metal. By arranging our spaces to flow with Qi—the vital life force—we shape our health, relationships, and luck. These eternal principles, which uplift human lives, can also work wonders in our dogs’ world.

Feng Shui is not just about decorating—it is a way of living in harmony with the energy that surrounds us. Even the smallest shifts can relieve stress and welcome peace. For those who live and work alongside dogs, Feng Shui becomes even more meaningful, as dogs are keenly attuned to every subtle change in their world. Here we will explore Feng Shui for dogs—at home, in the kennel, and in the bustling dog show grooming area.

The Dog in Chinese Tradition: Earth, Loyalty, and Protection

Before exploring how to arrange a dog’s sleeping space or design a kennel with Feng Shui, it helps to know how deeply the dog is woven into Chinese philosophy. In Chinese astrology, the dog is the eleventh zodiac sign, linked to the earthly branch Xu, symbolizing vigilance and guardianship at night. Through the Five Elements, the dog embodies the Yang Earth element: steadfast, reliable, and protective, which reflects his role as a loyal companion and vigilant guardian. As guardians, dogs were believed to bark at unseen forces to scatter negative energy (Sha Qi) and shield the home. So when you think your dog is barking at nothing, it might be purifying the space of hidden harm.

How Dogs Affect the Feng Shui of a Home

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194 – May, 2026

By Robin Kelly

The Västgötaspets is an ancient breed of Sweden, known internationally as the Swedish Vallhund. Originating in the region of Västergötland, this primitive spitz herding breed is valued for its intelligence, versatility, and strong working character. Historical records trace the breed back to at least the 8th century, though it nearly disappeared in the 1940s before being revived through careful breeding efforts. One of the breed’s most distinctive traits is its naturally occurring tail variation. Swedish Vallhunds may be born with multiple tail types ranging from spitz, sickle, stub, and tailless. All tail types are accepted under both AKC and FCI breed standards, with no preference given to any particular type. Over time, tail type has become the subject of growing discussion, particularly regarding breeding practices and their potential impact on litter size, and possible links to spinal health. This article reviews peer-reviewed scientific literature and available breed-specific data to clarify what is known, what is often misunderstood, and what the research tells us about tail genetics and health in the Swedish Vallhund.

Within the breed community, questions have emerged about whether breeding certain tail types together, especially short-tailed or tailless dogs, could increase health risks. Concerns often focus on two primary areas:

1. Whether breeding short-tailed dogs together leads to smaller litters

2. Whether short tails are associated with spinal defects

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178 – May, 2026