The AKC's Latest Rule Change: Boosting Excitement in Dog Shows!

News from the AKC!

The American Kennel Club (AKC) is at it again, innovating to enhance the experience for dog show exhibitors! You might already be buzzing about their latest decision, effective from next July, which brings a thrilling twist to dog shows beyond National Specialties. Now, Reserve Winners Dog and Bitch at specialties can also earn majors!

What's the Buzz About?

The AKC's announcement has sparked diverse opinions. Some argue that this change might dilute the prestige of winning at the National Specialty. Others believe it’s a strategic move to revive regional club shows, which have seen dwindling entries. But what does this mean for you and your beloved canine companions?

The Rule's Impact on Dog Shows

This rule aims to invigorate participation by offering additional majors, especially when they're scarce. For many exhibitors, the struggle to achieve championship status due to...

Owner Handlers Stand Tall  Part 3

Why your dog is not winning in the ring:

Have you studied the terminology?

Part 3 of 3

Owner handlers, stand tall and look no farther than your own actions and the quality of your dogs for your wins. If you want to be a successful owner handler, you’ll have to take personal responsibility for how you and your dog show up in the ring.

In this three-part series we have looked at why it is important to determine if your dog meets their breed standard. We then discussed how you can prepare to enter the ring. In this final look at why owner handlers are not prepared for the ring, we look at the importance of studying the terms and language fundamental to the sport of dog shows.  

When I talk to exhibitors, I may mention the simplest concept, only to realize that the person has no idea what I’m talking about or they are shocked at what I’m telling them. They don’t know what to prepare for. Basically, they don’t know...

Owner Handlers Stand Tall Part 2

Why your dog is not winning: Is he prepared to enter the ring?

Part 2 of 3

Owner handlers, stand tall and look no farther than your own actions and the quality of your dogs for your wins. If you want to be a successful owner handler, you’ll have to take personal responsibility for how you and your dog show up in the ring.

In the first of this three-part series, we asked you to take a cold hard look at your dog. Is your beloved dog competitive and worthy according to the breed standard? In this second part we will look at how owner handlers and their dog move in the ring. 

Many exhibitors get upset and don’t understand why their beautiful dog isn’t winning. Others complain about the state of judging in the United States or how poorly they think the American Kennel Club vets judges for the task. They see others winning more than they do, especially professional handlers, and misconstrue that as handlers being favored by...

Owner Handlers Stand Tall

Part 1 of 3

Why your dog is not winning in the ring:  Is he show quality?

Here's some "tough love!" Owner handlers, stand tall and look no farther than your own actions and the quality of your dogs for your wins. If you want to be a successful owner handler, you’ll have to take personal responsibility for how you and your dog show up in the ring.

In the first of this three-part series, we ask you to take a cold hard look at your dog. Is your beloved dog competition worthy, according to the breed standard? The owner handlers of today are personally invested in their dogs, and the dog show world is taking notice that some of them are getting their share of the wins. We’re not just talking class; we’re talking group placements and BESTS. No longer the minority in the winner’s circle, these successful owner handlers have taken the time to figure out how to get the wins they deserve. Some of them are spurred onward and work harder to...