Breed Priorities – Labrador Retrievers

The Labrador Retriever continues as the most popular breed based on AKC registration. They have big entries at dog shows.

The Labrador Retriever continues as the most popular breed based on AKC registration. They have big entries at dog shows.

Are We Taking the Wrong Approach When Trying to Defend the Sport of Purebred Dogs?

We all have stories we have been told, but cannot reveal the source. Here is one of those stories that has to be told. Unfortunately, we can’t reveal the storyteller.

By Amy Fernandez There’s always been something vaguely schizophrenic about Westminster and the split venue seems to have brought it to the forefront. It’s straddling two worlds trying to stabilize its brand message. Is this a celebration of top winners or the ultimate showcase for the achievements of hobby breeders- the proverbial bedrock of our […]

This month I deviate from my usual State of the Breed column. It has come to my attention that we have a situation in our sport that, contrary to popular belief, is extremely detrimental to our well-being! (at least in my humble opinion)

Courting Controversy For Over 100 Years. The gorgeous Sheltie is a breed that has recently been the subject of quite a bitter controversy here in the UK.

By Amy Fernandez Westminster fans love their Sporting Group. Year after year, (regardless of who actually wins Labs or Goldens) they are roaring the moment that dog hits the green carpet. Upstaging that kind of spectator enthusiasm is no easy feat, never mind doing it with a breed that rarely gets a second look on […]

Even Fitzpatrick is having trouble getting his head wrapped around this situation. “You don’t always get a world class dog. Some dogs come close but every breeder can tell you that it’s like playing darts. Every once in a while you hit the bulls-eye. And when it happens, it’s a stroke of luck. And I’m getting older. At this point in my life you never know. I made up my mind when this year started I was going to enjoy showing my dog.” And so far, there’s been plenty to enjoy.

Twenty minutes of focused training (on stacking, baiting, or gaiting, etc.) will be a far better use of time and will make training more sustainable. It will also serve to dramatically increase your handling proficiency. Additionally, it will be much easier to keep your ring partner interested and focused with shorter sessions.

By Amy Fernandez Among other things, Westminster 2018 was a nice antidote to those dire predictions about the future of this sport. In addition to the sold out crowd packing the Garden Tuesday night, a crop of young dogs added quite a jolt to the week. That started Friday when Ch. Pequest Feel The Burn, […]