Table Talk • October 14, 2026
“If we want healthier dog shows, the focus has to shift from creating more opportunities to creating better ones.” Wise words from our publisher from his column this month. https://caninechronicle.com/current-articles/from-the-publisher-78/
To further reiterate Tom’s observations: This past Saturday there were 15 different All-Breed dog shows. Of the 15, 5 shows had an entry of less than 400, 8 shows had an entry less than 700, and only 2 shows had an entry that exceeded 1,000 dogs. In my career showing dogs, I have attended many of these shows, and I don’t believe I would have traveled to them for low entry numbers like those from this past weekend. We have talked about the issue of needing judges to cover all the shows currently on the schedule, but we have entered a vicious circle: Not only do we supposedly not have enough judges to cover the shows, but we do not have enough exhibitors to make those shows worth attending. As Tom said, “Give people a reason to enter, and they just might.” Clubs are going to have to compete for exhibitors/customers. While special events and special attractions require more work and more money, creating more of an experience, and carefully planning judging panels may be the way to earn more entries.
The newest AKC two-shows-in-one-day policy took effect October 7th. All Breed or Limited Breed clubs holding two shows back-to-back in one day requires that judging schedules allow judges 45 minutes to an hour for rest/meals when a judge’s cumulative assignment exceeds five hours. Further, special attraction group competition may only be offered at the second show. I know there have been several judges who were not comfortable judging two shows in one day. Perhaps this rule will help make the days less taxing for the judges.
I want to give a shout-out to a few National Specialties who have been commended by exhibitors and judges for not only having well-run shows, but for displaying outstanding sportsmanship! First, the Samoyed Club of America was commended by an exhibitor who has participated in numerous national specialties from many different breeds. She was so impressed with the camaraderie, enthusiasm, and organization during the Samoyed National. Furthermore, the support and encouragement for the younger generation to serve in leadership roles is something that we should note. Second, the Golden Retriever Club of America Best of Breed judge was very impressed the quality of her entry, as well as the sportsmanship demonstrated during the event. Finally, the Portuguese Water Dog Club of America took time to publicly thank their hard-working volunteers. The event was a huge success because of everyone’s hard work. Anyone who has been involved with putting on a National Specialty knows how much hard work goes into it. Being acknowledged for that hard work is icing on the cake!
Out of an abundance of caution, the Hanover Kennel Club and Mid- Atlantic Hound Club of Central North Carolina canceled their shows this past Sunday due to inclement weather and very slippery rings. This is never an easy decision to make. Many thanks to the clubs for keeping safety a priority!
Reserved grooming, RV reservations, and hotel blocks are now open for the Renaissance Cluster held in February in Madison, Wisconsin. You can go to www.renaissancecluster.org to see everything that is in store for the 2027 show–and get your reservations made.
The folks at the 2027 Kentuckiana Cluster have announced the addition of three group shows on Wednesday. It looks like Wednesday will be a busy day with Sporting, Working, and Toy shows. Remember, the shows in 2027 will be a week earlier than normal – March 11-14, 2027.
I missed seeing show photographer John Ashbey at the Montgomery week this year, but I was told he was otherwise occupied. John had a hip replacement, and I am told he is doing well. The best news is he is chomping at the bit to get back to work. John’s daughter, Andrea, did a fine job holding down the fort during his recovery. We look forward to seeing John back at shows soon–new hip and all!
Show photographer Ken O’Brien is in a rehab facility recovering from a stroke. Our thoughts are with Ken, and we wish him a quick, complete recovery.
At last, Lynda O’Connor-Schneider has had her second knee replacement. Our best wishes to her for a speedy recovery. We look forward to having you back at shows soon and doing what you love–running left-handed circles!
Happy Anniversary to Rod Ott and Pilar Kuhn. Best wishes for many more happy times with your little one!
A special Happy Birthday to Ken McDermott who turned 85 years young on October 5th. Other fanciers celebrating birthdays this week include Bob Thomas, Gaby Gilbeau, Teena Uyeno, Justin Smithey, Maureen McCreery, Nikki Ryan, Tristen Miller, Matt McMillan, Krissy O’Brien, Kasey O’Brien, Aaron Rosas, Jamie Hubbard, Ray Filburn and Margaret Rucker. May the year ahead be filled with great adventures.
Here’s a great quote from a wise dog man: “May the health and safety of the dogs while being groomed always be the main concern. Let’s never forget.” Wayne Cavanaugh
Be safe out there, my friends. Take a minute to enjoy the beauty of fall as you travel to your next show! Until next time…
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