As the international dog community prepares for the highly anticipated World Dog Show 2026, controversy surrounding leadership within Italy’s canine establishment has cast an unexpected shadow over the event.

Italian authorities have confirmed an investigation involving animal rights advocate and Italian lawmaker Michela Vittoria Brambilla and Ente Nazionale della Cinofilia Italiana President Dino Muto in connection with allegations of false invoicing and suspected tax-related offenses totaling approximately €1.5 million. Italian media outlets report that the investigation centers around sponsorship arrangements connected to Brambilla’s television program, Dalla Parte degli Animali (“On the Side of Animals”).

According to reports from Italian prosecutors in Milan, investigators are examining financial transactions dating from 2020 through 2026 involving sponsorship funds allegedly provided by ENCI to support the television production. Authorities allege that invoices tied to the sponsorship arrangement may have been inflated or improperly structured, with investigators claiming that a significant portion of the funds ultimately benefited Brambilla personally as compensation related to her role as the program’s host.

Italian financial police reportedly conducted searches at ENCI headquarters as well as several television production companies connected to the program. Multiple Italian news organizations stated that the investigation followed earlier reporting by the investigative television program Report, which had previously questioned the relationship between the television production and ENCI sponsorship funds.

Representatives for Brambilla have strongly denied wrongdoing. In statements published by Italian media, her legal team stated that her compensation as host of the program was governed by regular contractual agreements and that sponsorship and product placement arrangements are common practices within Italian television production. ENCI sponsorship, according to the response, provided extensive promotional visibility for purebred dogs and canine culture through the broadcast.

At the time of publication, no formal convictions or findings of guilt have been issued against any parties involved. The investigation remains ongoing.

For the international dog fancy, the timing is especially significant. ENCI serves as Italy’s national kennel organization and is the host organization for the upcoming World Dog Show in Bologna. The World Dog Show is one of the largest and most prestigious canine events in the world, drawing exhibitors, breeders, judges, handlers, and spectators from dozens of countries each year.

While there has been no indication that the event itself is in jeopardy, the news has generated considerable discussion throughout the global dog community. Questions regarding governance, transparency, sponsorship oversight, and public perception inevitably arise whenever high-profile investigations involve leadership figures tied to major international canine organizations.

The situation also places additional attention on the relationship between animal advocacy, media influence, and organized canine institutions in Italy. Brambilla has long been a visible public figure in Italian animal welfare initiatives and media programming, while ENCI remains one of Europe’s most influential kennel organizations.

As preparations continue for the World Dog Show, many within the sport will undoubtedly be watching developments closely. For now, the focus remains on the legal process unfolding in Italy and whether the controversy will have any broader impact on the international canine community or the presentation of one of the sport’s marquee global events.

The American Kennel Club (AKC®) today announced the judging panel for the 26th AKC National Championship Presented by Royal Canin, to be held December 12–13, 2026, at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Florida. The Club also released the judging panel for the AKC National Owner-Handled Series (NOHS) Finals. The panel for the AKC Royal Canin National All-Breed Puppy and Junior Stakes will be announced at a later date.

The 2026 event will showcase top canine athletes from across the country and feature popular competitions, including Best Bred-by-Exhibitor. The championship will again be held alongside the AKC Agility Invitational, Obedience Classic, and AKC RACH Invitational. Junior competitions in Conformation, Agility, Obedience, and Rally will also be offered, along with the North America Diving Dogs (NADD) Santa Splash.

Dr. Thomas M. Davies of Brimfield, Massachusetts, will serve as Best in Show judge. Mr. David J. Kirkland of Sanford, North Carolina, will judge Best Bred-by-Exhibitor in Show.

“The AKC National Championship continues to bring together the best of the best—exceptional canine athletes, exhibitors, and judges,” said Gina M. DiNardo, AKC President and Show Chair. “We are honored to have AKC Chairman Dr. Thomas Davies and Mr. David Kirkland leading the 26th show. It promises to be an exciting and highly competitive event.”

Judges for the seven variety groups and the Miscellaneous Classes at the AKC National Championship are:

SPORTING – Frank Kane

HOUND – Dennis Sprung

WORKING – Robin Stansell

TERRIER – Kathleen Ferris

TOY – David Fitzpatrick

NON-SPORTING – Grace Fritz

HERDING – James Frederiksen

MISCELLANEOUS CLASS – Frank Kane

BEST JUNIOR HANDLER – Mary Dukes

JUNIOR PRELIMS – Adam Peterson and Caroline Clegg

Judges for the seven Bred-by-Exhibitor variety groups are:

SPORTING – Debbie Campbell-Freeman

HOUND – Jon Cole

WORKING – Dr. Steven Keating

TERRIER – Dr. Valeria Rickard

TOY – Angela Pickett

NON-SPORTING – Harold “Red” Tatro III

HERDING – Linda Clark

The AKC NOHS Finals will be held at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Florida as a part of the AKC National Championship Presented by Royal Canin on Saturday, December 12 and Sunday, December 13, 2026.

Best in Show for the NOHS Finals will be judged by Mr. Daniel J. Smyth, Esq. of Bermuda Dunes, CA on Sunday evening.

Judges for the seven variety groups at the AKC NOHS Finals are:

SPORTING BREEDS AND GROUP: Sharon Ann Redmer

HOUND BREEDS AND GROUP: Bryan Martin

WORKING BREEDS AND GROUP: Chris Ann Moore

TERRIER BREEDS AND GROUP: Todd Clyde

TOY BREEDS AND GROUP: Debra Ferguson-Jones

NON-SPORTING BREEDS AND GROUP: Todd Clyde

HERDING BREEDS AND GROUP: Sharon Ann Redmer

BREED JUDGING FOR THE AKC NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP:

SPORTING GROUP – BREED ASSIGNMENTS

David Kittredge – Barbet, Spaniel (Cocker – all varieties), Spaniel (English Cocker), Spaniel (Field).
Jamie Hubbard – Bracco Italiano, Lagotto Romagnolo, Nederlandse Kooikerhondje, Spaniel (American Water), Spaniel (Clumber).
Corinne Miklos – Brittany, Pointer (German Wirehaired), Retriever (Curly-Coated), Weimaraner, Wirehaired Pointing Griffon.
Jon Cole – Pointer, Pointer (German Shorthaired), Retriever (Chesapeake Bay), Retriever (Nova Scotia Duck Tolling).
Rosalind Kramer – Retriever (Flat-Coated), Setter (English), Setter (Irish).
Paula Nykiel – Retriever (Golden), Spinone Italiano, Wirehaired Vizsla.
Carl Gene Liepmann – Retriever (Labrador).
Linda Clark – Setter (Gordon), Setter (Irish Red & White), Spaniel (Boykin), Spaniel (English Springer), Spaniel (Irish Water).
Ann Ingram – Spaniel (Sussex), Spaniel (Welsh Springer).
Phoebe Jordan Booth – Vizsla.

HOUND GROUP – BREED ASSIGNMENTS

Patricia Clark – Afghan Hound, Greyhound, Scottish Deerhound.
Pamela Lambie – American English Coonhound, American Foxhound, Basset Fauve de Bretagne, Black and Tan Coonhound, English Foxhound, Harrier, Otterhound, Pharaoh Hound, Plott Hound, Redbone Coonhound, Treeing Walker Coonhound.
Dr. Steven Keating – Azawakh, Bluetick Coonhound.
Rosalind Kramer – Basenji, Bloodhound, Cirneco dell’Etna, Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen, Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen.
Ryan Horvath – Basset Hound, Dachshund (all varieties), Portuguese Podengo Pequeno.
Harold “Red” Tatro III – Beagle (both varieties), Rhodesian Ridgeback.
Mary Dukes – Ibizan Hound, Irish Wolfhound, Norwegian Elkhound, Borzoi, Saluki, Sloughi.

Phoebe Jordan Booth – Whippet.

WORKING GROUP – BREED ASSIGNMENTS

Dr. Joyce Dandridge – Akita, Alaskan Malamute, Great Dane, Kuvasz.
Paula Nykiel – Anatolian Shepherd Dog, Bernese Mountain Dog, Black Russian Terrier, Boerboel, Boxer, Chinook, Danish-Swedish Farmdog, German Pinscher.
Pamela Lambie – Bullmastiff, Dogo Argentino, Dogue de Bordeaux, Mastiff.
Jon Cole – Cane Corso, Greater Swiss Mountain Dog, Komondor, Neapolitan Mastiff.
Carolyn Herbel – Doberman Pinscher, Portuguese Water Dog, Rottweiler, St. Bernard, Standard Schnauzer.
Ann Ingram – Giant Schnauzer, Great Pyrenees, Leonberger.
Debbie Campbell-Freeman – Newfoundland.
Clay Coady – Samoyed, Siberian Husky, Tibetan Mastiff.

TERRIER GROUP – BREED ASSIGNMENTS

April Clyde – Airedale Terrier, American Hairless Terrier, Cesky Terrier, Dandie Dinmont Terrier, Irish Terrier, Lakeland Terrier, Rat Terrier, Welsh Terrier.
Jamie Hubbard – American Staffordshire Terrier, Glen of Imaal Terrier, Parson Russell Terrier, Russell Terrier, Sealyham Terrier, Staffordshire Bull Terrier.
Richard Powell – Australian Terrier, Fox Terrier (Smooth), Fox Terrier (Wire), Kerry Blue Terrier, Standard Manchester Terrier, Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier.
Kathi Brown – Bedlington Terrier, Cairn Terrier, Scottish Terrier, Skye Terrier, West Highland White Terrier.
Debbie Campbell-Freeman – Border Terrier, Bull Terrier (both varieties), Miniature Bull Terrier, Miniature Schnauzer.
Ann Ingram – Norfolk Terrier.
Desmond Murphy – Norwich Terrier, Teddy Roosevelt Terrier.

TOY GROUP – BREED ASSIGNMENTS

Patricia Proctor – Affenpinscher, Brussels Griffon, Japanese Chin, Papillon.
Dr. Valeria Rickard – Biewer Terrier, English Toy Spaniel (all varieties), Russian Toy, Russian Tsvetnaya Bolonka, Silky Terrier.
Richard Powell – Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Maltese, Toy Manchester Terrier.
Joe Walton – Chihuahua (both varieties), Shih Tzu.
Margaret Reed – Chinese Crested, Italian Greyhound, Toy Fox Terrier.
George Milutinovich – Havanese, Miniature Pinscher, Pug, Yorkshire Terrier.
Clay Coady – Pekingese, Poodle (Toy).
Fred Bassett – Pomeranian.

NON-SPORTING GROUP – BREED ASSIGNMENTS

Angela Pickett – American Eskimo Dog, Coton de Tulear, Finnish Spitz, Lhasa Apso, Löwchen, Norwegian Lundehund, Shiba Inu, Tibetan Spaniel.
Fred Bassett – Bichon Frise, Schipperke, Xoloitzcuintli.
Debbie Campbell-Freeman – Boston Terrier, Chinese Shar Pei, Chow Chow, Keeshond, Tibetan Terrier.
Phoebe Jordan Booth – Bulldog.
Frank Kane – Dalmatian, French Bulldog.
Clay Coady – Poodle (Miniature & Standard).

HERDING GROUP – BREED ASSIGNMENTS

Amy Gau – Australian Cattle Dog, Bergamasco, Border Collie, Lancashire Heeler, Norwegian Buhund.
Susan Landry-Whiticar – Australian Shepherd.
Frank Kane – Bearded Collie, Pembroke Welsh Corgi, Spanish Water Dog.
Debbie Melgreen – Beauceron, Berger Picard, Entlebucher Mountain Dog, Finnish Lapphund, Icelandic Sheepdog, Miniature American Shepherd, Shetland Sheepdog, Swedish Vallhund.
Fred Bassett – Belgian Laekenois, Belgian Malinois, Belgian Sheepdog, Belgian Tervuren.
Clay Coady – Bouvier des Flandres, German Shepherd Dog.
Thomas Coen – Briard, Canaan Dog, Collie (both varieties), Mudi, Puli, Pumi.
Ann Ingram – Cardigan Welsh Corgi.
Jon Cole – Old English Sheepdog, Polish Lowland Sheepdog, Pyrenean Shepherd.

*Panel subject to final approval.

About Best in Show judge Dr. Thomas Davies: Dr. Thomas M. Davies, of Brimfield, Massachusetts, became heavily involved in the world of purebred dogs after his college graduation. He is currently serving as Chairman of the AKC’s Board of Directors since 2020 and has served on AKC’s Board of Directors for many years, having held the position of Vice Chairman from 2009 -2012 and again from 2017- March 2019. He has served on numerous AKC related boards and committees, including the Chairman’s Committee on the Judging Approval Process, Public Relations Committee, the Events and Clubs Committee and the Breeders Committee.

Dr. Davies became president of the Bearded Collie Club of America and oversaw its acceptance into the AKC Stud Book. He is an honorary lifetime member of that club and is the author of the Bearded Collie standard. Dr. Davies has been extensively involved with Old English Sheepdogs, Bearded Collies, Siberian Huskies, Belgian Sheepdogs and Tervuren, Beagles and Xoloitzcuintli.

He and his wife, Roberta, have bred and finished numerous champions in many of their breeds. Dr. Davies judges Best in Show, Junior Showmanship, the Herding Group and 11 Working breeds. He has served as president and show chairman of the Springfield Kennel Club and has been the club’s AKC Delegate for more than 50 years. He is the longtime show chair for the Springfield Kennel Club and previously for the country’s first working group club, the Connecticut River Working Group Association, for which he is vice-president. Dr. Davies is retired after more than 30 years in various areas of scientific research, and product and market development.

About Best Bred-By-Exhibitor judge Mr. David Kirkland: David J. Kirkland of Sanford, NC attended his first dog show in 1973. Starting in Obedience, Mr. Kirkland thereafter acquired his first show dog, a Miniature Schnauzer. He has bred, owned and handled many to championship titles including Group and National Specialty winners. In 1994, Mr. Kirkland acquired his first Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. His love affair with the breed continues to the present. Mr. Kirkland has also owned and bred multiple champions in Japanese Chin and Tibetan Spaniels.

This agreement strengthens international collaboration around shared priorities, expanding canine exhibitions and registrations, advancing education, promoting dogs as family companions, and supporting responsible breeding, while establishing a framework for cooperation to deliver meaningful value to breeders, exhibitors, and dog owners in both the United States and Korea.

“A shared commitment between the AKC and the Korea Kennel Foundation to the preservation, growth, and advancement of purebred dogs is strengthened through impactful collaboration,” said Gina DiNardo, President and CEO of the American Kennel Club. “We are proud to partner with the Korea Kennel Federation and look forward to working together to enhance breeder support and strengthen the long-term future of purebred dogs and dog sports on a global scale.”

Wol-Nam Jun, Secretary General of the Korea Kennel Federation (KKF), remarked, “This agreement further solidifies the enduring partnership between our two organizations—a relationship that has flourished since the AKC Board of Directors first approved the mutual recognition of KKF pedigrees on January 22, 2007. I take great pride in this milestone.” He further noted, “We are dedicated to strengthening our support for purebred dog development and breeders worldwide, while collaborating to enhance canine culture in both countries.”

Under the agreement, the AKC and KKF 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.

  • Gina M. DiNardo – President and CEO

 • Theodore E. Phillips, CPA – Chief Financial Officer

 • Sheila Goffe – Executive Secretary

Ms. DiNardo brings a wealth of knowledge and leadership to the AKC, with over 50 years of experience in the sport of purebred dogs as both a breeder and owner-handler. She has worked at the AKC for more than 30 years, having served as Executive Secretary for nine years prior to being elected as CEO in April 2025.

Ms. Goffe joined AKC in 2006 and was promoted to Vice President of Government Relations in 2016. She owns and breeds Siberian Huskies, having finished numerous champions from the Bred-By Exhibitor class. She is a member of the Siberian Husky Club of America and various specialty and all-breed kennel clubs. She was first elected as Executive Secretary in April 2025.

Mr. Phillips joined AKC in May 2020 with over 38 years of experience in financial leadership roles with Carnegie Hall, Merrill Lynch, and Deloitte. He is a committee member and lecturer for the New York State CPA Society and AICPA.

The Canine Chronicle is saddened to share the passing of Ralph Del Deo. He passed peacefully on March 25, 2026, at the age of 101.

Dogs that are AKC registered or listed and have earned eligible CKC titles may now have those titles recorded on their AKC records and reflected on their AKC pedigree. Dogs that have previously earned qualifying titles are also eligible to apply.

“Dog owners in both countries have long enjoyed a strong and productive relationship,” said Doug Ljungren, AKC Executive Vice President of Sports & Events. “This program encourages participation in sports on both sides of the border, strengthens our shared values, and supports responsible breeding practices. The love of dogs truly knows no boundaries.”

Gina M. DiNardo, President and CEO of the American Kennel Club, adds:

“This collaboration reflects the strong spirit of cooperation within the global dog community. By recognizing achievements across borders, we support responsible ownership, uphold registry integrity, and highlight excellence in dog sports—helping ensure the sport of dogs continues to thrive.”

“We’re proud to partner with the American Kennel Club on this important initiative. Together, we celebrate our members’ achievements and strengthen our shared commitment to advancing dog sports and responsible ownership worldwide.” Natalie Tarini, Executive Director, Canadian Kennel Club

The AKC Title Application Portal (TAP) provides a convenient way for owners to apply to have CKC titles recorded on their dog’s AKC record and pedigree. To learn more about the Title Recognition Program and to access TAP, visit the AKC Title Recognition Program webpage or click here.

Under the agreement, the AKC and CBKC will facilitate the mutual recognition of dog registrations and certified pedigrees. 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.

“This agreement reflects our shared commitment to advancing and preserving purebred dogs through collaboration, education, and responsible stewardship,” said Gina M. DiNardo, President and CEO of the American Kennel Club. “We are excited about the future ahead as we strengthen our relationship with the Brazilian Kennel Club – CBKC, expanding opportunities to support breeders, advance canine health, and build a strong, sustainable future for purebred dogs and the sport worldwide.” 

“This agreement represents an important milestone for both Brazilian and American breeders and the entire canine community. Partnering with the American Kennel Club strengthens our shared commitment to responsible breeding, international cooperation, and the continuous improvement of canine health and welfare,” said Mr. Fábio Amorim, President of the Brazilian Kennel Club – CBKC. “Through this collaboration, breeders will have access to shared knowledge, and new opportunities to connect with the global purebred dog community. We are proud to work alongside the AKC to build a stronger, more transparent, and sustainable future for purebred dogs.”

Built on a shared commitment to education, transparency, and the continued advancement of the sport of dogs, the agreement creates a framework for collaboration across registration, breeder education, events, health initiatives, and advocacy, with the goal of delivering meaningful benefits to breeders, exhibitors, and dog owners in both the United States and Brazil.

Doug Ljungren, EVP of Sports and Events, AKC, adds, “Partnerships like this strengthen the global community of dog sports. Collaborating with the Brazilian Kennel Club – CBKC creates new opportunities to share expertise and enhance the experience of events in both countries.”

The agreement strengthens the AKC’s global partnerships in service of dogs and their communities.

The FCM Universal Dog Show will bring together breeders, exhibitors, and dog enthusiasts from across the Americas and beyond, fostering cultural exchange and collaboration within the sport.

“The American Kennel Club is honored to recognize the Federación Canófila Mexicana as the host of the first AKC-licensed show in Mexico,” said Gina DiNardo, President and CEO of the American Kennel Club. “This significant milestone underscores the strong relationship between our organizations and serves as a launch pad for future collaborations that advance the well-being of dogs and the sport worldwide. We commend Dr. Payró and the FCM team for their dedication in presenting an event that celebrates the beauty, diversity, and excellence of purebred dogs.”

This event marks a historic milestone for the sport of dogs, as it will be the first time an AKC-sanctioned show has been held in Mexico. Each day of the four-day show will feature both an AKC-Licensed Show and a FCM Special Attraction show in order to accommodate every recognized breed in the world. Dogs may enter the Universal Show under their foreign registration number, but for the results to be recognized by the AKC they must become AKC registered.

“The FCM holds dog shows throughout Mexico, and our breeders proudly compete in AKC events and exhibitions around the world. Mexico is the homeland of the Xoloitzcuintle, Chihuahua, and Calupoh — breeds that represent our nation and its deep canine heritage rooted in native art and history,” said Dr. José Luis Payró, President of the Federación Canófila Mexicana. “The FCM is proud and honored that the AKC has chosen Mexico City to host, the first FCM Universal Championship Dog Show to be held outside the United States, over four exciting days.  Don’t miss these shows!  Mexico and the FCM welcome you all with open hearts.”

“The sharing of knowledge and experiences that will occur at this event will broaden our perspective and strengthen our fellowship,” adds Doug Ljungren, EVP of AKC Sports & Events.  “The potential is there for other sports to benefit through this type of cooperation.  The love of dogs knows no boundaries.”

The AKC will be offering a special $50 (US$) registration fee for all foreign registered dogs planning to attend the show that are not currently AKC registered. This special rate will be available online starting January 12, 2026. For more details about this special offer, please contact akc.mex@akc.org . Additionally, this special rate will be available at the AKC booth at the AKC National Championship in Orlando in December 2025.  Owners should bring their dog’s foreign registration certificate, a 3-generation pedigree, and a picture of their dog.

Additional details, including event schedules and entry information, will be released as they become available.  Information will be posted on both the FCM and the AKC websites .

We are deeply saddened to share that Kate Hanlon, a beloved figure in the English Setter world and a steadfast friend to so many in our dog show community, has passed away.

A driving heart behind the Wingfield ’N Chebaco partnership, Kate’s name became synonymous with type, temperament, and the kind of sportsmanship that lifts everyone around her. Together with Eileen Hackett and Don & Pat Coller, Kate helped guide a program that produced generations of notable English Setters—dogs that excelled both in the ring and in our memories. Their collaboration earned national recognition, including many multiple Best In Show winners who garnered ESAA top dog honors with multiple specialty wins; the Wingfield & Chebaco English Setter Challenge Trophy at the ESAA National carries that legacy forward in perpetuity.

Kate’s ringside presence was warm, witty, and encouraging—an open book of knowledge with a contagious laugh. She celebrated others’ wins as if they were her own and never missed a chance to offer a kind word.

We extend our heartfelt condolences to Eileen Hackett, Abigail Van Meter, Donald & Pat Coller, and to all of Kate’s family and friends who loved her. Her passing is a profound loss to everyone who knew and loved her.

Run free, dear Kate. Godspeed. It must have been the greatest dog show ever when you arrived—surrounded by the glorious English Setters of Wingfield ’N Chebaco, the dear friends and judges you cherished, and all the great dogs you spoke so fondly of through the years. What an amazing lineup that must have been to greet you.

We will miss your laughter, your kindness, your friendship, and your unwavering love for the sport. Though the rings here feel emptier without you, your spirit will always be with us—at every sunrise, every ribbon awarded, and in the wag of every tail.

Thank you Ryan Wolfe for the photos of Kate

“The American Kennel Club is proud to accept pedigrees from the Canine Owners & Breeders Association (COBA),” said Gina M. DiNardo, President and CEO of AKC.  “Collaborating with respected registries around the world strengthens our shared mission and ensures a bright future for all dogs. By working together, we can advance education and opportunities for breeders and owners, and continue to promote the health, well-being, and excellence of all dogs.”

Founded in 2019, COBA is a non-profit organization that serves as the official registry of all purebred and non-purebred dogs and is the internationally recognized national kennel club of Nigeria. The organization boasts over 5,000 members and licenses dog sports across the country. It hosts 10 shows annually, which includes six breed specialty shows, three regional shows and a national show.

“We are deeply honored to receive this recognition from The American Kennel Club. This milestone is a proud moment for our entire canine community and reflects our shared commitment to preserving, protecting, and promoting the excellence of purebred dogs worldwide. We look forward to building on this partnership through meaningful collaborations that will benefit breeders, dog owners, and canine enthusiasts between our two nations,” said COBA President, Dr. Olakunle Sowumni.

Dogs born in Nigeria will be eligible to participate in AKC events given all other requirements are met, including AKC Foreign Registration.