The Leonberger – A Gentle Giant

Many years ago, we bought a tiny black and tan Miniature Dachshund puppy (who would later become the renowned ‘Alfie’) and dutifully attended our local ringcraft classes.

Many years ago, we bought a tiny black and tan Miniature Dachshund puppy (who would later become the renowned ‘Alfie’) and dutifully attended our local ringcraft classes.

By the time you finish reading this article, I hope you will come to the conclusion that dog clubs have increasingly come to recognize the need for more workers. Unfortunately, many are missing an opportunity that is hiding in plain sight. All clubs need more volunteers. Those who have found a way to develop this army of workers are building the backbone and atmosphere necessary to support the future success of their club. The better clubs find ways to recruit and use these individuals to benefit their club and the sport. For example, we know that members and non-members who volunteer to serve do so because they know it helps their club and it builds friendships. Collectively they like being with others, they want to help where needed, and they care about the sport. Yes, there are other benefits produced by volunteers including the economic, professional, and personal benefits. In many ways volunteers inject thousands of dollars into local economies across the country. Dog show data collected by AKC confirms that communities benefit from hotel stays, food, liquor, and gasoline sales– money spent by volunteers and those attending shows. For some of the younger volunteers, it boosts their employment prospects. Generally speaking, volunteers provide an effective and meaningful service, and demonstrate their commitment to a cause. Some see themselves as problem-solvers. Others have the satisfaction of seeing what they bring to the sport, their club, and the local community through their efforts.

Click here to read the complete article 240 – July, 2026

How did our journey into the wild world of canine reproduction become such a three-ring circus? Most of you know what I’m talking about, so don’t pretend otherwise. Just ask any private, purebred dog breeder muttering as their bitch nears her heat cycle—they’ll confirm the madness. Honestly, we’ve all gone a bit mad. Yet here we are, doomed to repeating the cycle until our wallets wave the white flag.

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!

The American Kennel Club (AKC®), a not-for-profit organization, the world’s largest purebred dog registry, and a leading advocate for dogs, and Dogs Australia, a not-for-profit organization that represents the interests of its member bodies throughout Australia, are pleased to announce that they have entered into a Mutual Cooperation Agreement. This agreement strengthens international collaboration around […]

The cell phone dilemma. These gadgets have become so woven into our daily routines that some folks can barely function without them–even in the middle of a dog show ring.

Last week the AKC Board released a new policy and disciplinary update focused on Dog Safety (https://caninechronicle.com/breaking-news/memorandum-new-akc-policy-and-disciplinary-updates-focus-on-dog-safety/ ). In my humble opinion, this communication had the potential to be viewed in a positive light: The AKC was taking the initiative to communicate their concern for the safety and well-being of the dogs. Unfortunately, the initial communication backfired due […]

The American Kennel Club (AKC®), the world’s largest registry of purebred and mixed-breed dogs and a leading advocate for canine health, welfare, and responsible dog ownership, is pleased to announce the winners of the AKC National Obedience Championship and AKC Rally® National Championship. More than 800 dogs from across the country competed in the two […]