The Judges View – Houston Clark

96 – February, 2010

What made you decide to become a judge?

We handled dogs for twenty five years, and judging dogs was a natural progression.  I always hoped to be able to contribute to the sport by judging.

Who, if anyone, has influenced your style of judging?

There were a number of judges from the past to whom we showed dogs for many years that were a big influence on me. Mainly, Phil Marsh but also Percy Roberts, Alva Rosenberg, Henry Stoecker and Langdon Skarda.

Describe your favorite dog show memory or moment.

Of course, with as many years as we’ve been in the sport there are many memorable moments; the first that comes to mind is my first Best In Show under Mr. Derek Rayne with the Pembroke Welsh Corgi, Ch. Larklain’s Redcoat, in the early ‘60’s. Another favorite is winning BIS with our Schipperke, Ch. Klinahof’s Marouf A Draco, at the Ravenna Kennel Club show with an entry of more than 3,000 dogs.

What breed do you feel has the most depth of quality?

Of the five groups that I judge, I cannot make this distinction. This is a very difficult question to answer because the depth of quality varies from region to region in all breeds. As of late though, the toy group seems to have more consistency of quality.

If you had to pick just one show to judge, which show would it be?

That would be the Louisville Kennel Club show.

In your opinion, what is the best dog you have judged to date?

I am sure that there are others but these are some in their own breed that answer this question:

Australian Shepherds: Ch. Bayshore’s Russian Roulette & Ch. Bayshore’s Flapjack

Pointer: Ch. Cookieland Seasyde Hollyberry

Gordon Setter: Ch. Bit O’Gold Titan Treasure

Afghan Hound: Ch. Shenandoah Smoke and Mirrors

Scottish Terrier: Ch. Roundtown Mercedes of Maryscot

Sealyham Terrier: Ch. Elbe’s Hidalgo at Goodspice

Pekingese: Ch. Yakee If Only

What do you enjoy most about judging?

I enjoy finding excellent specimens of different breeds, especially good puppies.

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