Best in Show Magazine USA • December 2021 by Best in Show Magazine

BEST IN SHOW MAGAZI N E

BE S T I N SH OW MAGA Z I N E

BEST IN SHOW MAGAZI N E

BE S T I N SH OW MAGA Z I N E

BEST IN SHOW MAGAZI N E

BE S T I N SH OW MAGA Z I N E

BEST IN SHOW MAGAZI N E

BE S T I N SH OW MAGA Z I N E

BEST IN SHOW MAGAZI N E

BE S T I N SH OW MAGA Z I N E

Best in Show

WE ARE

It was a great year that is already behind us! What a lovely journey full of ups and downs, but that is what makes it interesting. When decorating for the Christmas holidays, I always use that time to think of everything we have been through during the year. I am very thankful for all the lessons learned and the great moments that I will treasure as memories. I am grateful for a wonderful magazine, and forever thankful to our amazing team who work hard to bring us all these great stories, beautiful candids, and lovely designed ads. While writing this, I feel happy about our first USA birthday! Thank you to all the readers and clients who have supported us through 2021. We will work even harder to bring you a great publication in 2022.

JOVANA DANILOVIC Chief Editor

CHRISTIAN RANGEL Marketing Director

BISCREATIVE.COM Art Department

MARY MARSHALL, LEE GROGAN, ANNE TUREEN & CARLA IVANCIC Contributing Writers

WORLD OF ART

122

ROBIN PUNSALAN

W O ND E RF U L W O RL D O F

ALLISON ALEXANDER

MARTIAL ROBIN

106

DONALD STURZ

WORLD OF ART

MEET THE BREED

AFGHAN HOUNDS

RINGSIDE CLICK

MONTGOMERY & MORRIS & ESSEX

FR O M “ O H” L EASH

STEPHANIE HILL

134

ALICIA MORRISON JONES

INTERVIEW WITH JUDGE

INTERVIEW WITH HANDLER

128

CONTENT

TWO ICONS

ORLANDO

BEST IN SHOW MAGAZI N E

BE S T I N SH OW MAGA Z I N E

BEST IN SHOW MAGAZI N E

BE S T I N SH OW MAGA Z I N E

BEST IN SHOW MAGAZI N E

BE S T I N SH OW MAGA Z I N E

BEST IN SHOW MAGAZI N E

BE S T I N SH OW MAGA Z I N E

BEST IN SHOW MAGAZI N E

BE S T I N SH OW MAGA Z I N E

I N T E RV I E W W I T H PROF E S S IONA L H A N D L E R

ALICIA

Morrison Jones To know Alicia Morrison Jones is an honor, to call her a friend a blessing. From New York to Palm Springs with Orlando in between, I have shared many great adventures, laughs and consumed many glasses of everything with the living legend that is Alicia Morrison Jones. I hope the following interview will give you an insight to the Alicia I know. The handler extraordinaire, breeder, person, mother to two wonderful children and wife to big daddy.

BEST IN SHOW MAGAZI N E

BE S T I N SH OW MAGA Z I N E

I NT ERVI EW WITH HANDLER

and my sisters. At a young age, I competed in large puppy matches. As I entered my tween years, I followed other exhibitors around begging to help show their dogs. A few allowed me the opportunity to show their dogs, and I started junior handling. I was able to start honing my handling skills early on. During this time, I sat ringside watching the graceful talents of Michael Strockbine, Richard Souza, Lenny Fernandez, Ben Carter, Jan Reital, Rosemary Sutton and many others. I watched every move they made, knowing there was a reason behind it all. I asked many questions. I wanted to know the reason behind every movement. I listened and learned. I am grateful to those who took the time to mentor and encourage me. You hold the record for handling the top winning specialty male and the top specialty winning female in AKC breed Finn winning his final specialty Best in Show under Lotte Jorgensen, Boxaden

history. I am willing to bet you hold the record for the most specialty Best In Show wins ever won by a single

Alicia, before we get down to the questions, could you

person too. Can you please tell our readers how many

please tell our readers how you got started in the world

Specialty Best In Shows you have won over the years?

of pedigreed dogs?

Honestly, I have no idea. It feels pretentious to keep

My start in Afghan Hounds began long before I was

count of every single one. I’m uncomfortable with the

born. In the summer of 1969, my mother was driving to

idea of holding any record myself. For me, the sport is

work in southern California. While she was waiting at

about the dogs. However, there are specific specialty

a stoplight, a woman strolled right in front of her with

wins that stand out to me.

four black-masked silver Afghan Hounds. That woman was Georjean Jensen of Pamir Afghan Hounds. It was love at first sight for my mother. She started to scour

Do you prefer to show at all breed shows or breed specialty shows?

magazines and newspapers and finally found a local

Absolutely regional specialties. They are a celebration

breeder. Later that year, she obtained her first Afghan

of decades of commitment to our breed. Many of our

Hound. That moment in time influenced my entire life.

regional clubs have been in existence longer than I’ve

By the time I arrived, Afghan Hounds were a fixture in our home. I grew up attending shows with my mother

BEST IN SHOW MAGAZI N E

been on this earth. That simple fact deserves my respect. I know it will not be easy as you must have so many

I NT ERVI EW WITH HANDLER

memories to choose from, but can you share your favorite

special people that heavily influenced me in countless

memory from any dog show with our readers?

ways. I’m not sure they truly realize the significant

My first, which was actually two in one day at only 16 years of age. Specialty Best In Show at the Afghan

contribution they made to my life. I am forever grateful for their knowledge, guidance, and encouragement.

Hound of California with our bred-by class dog, Ch.

Many people have seen the beautiful conditioning of

Magique Quick Draw MacGraw, Mac (Ch. Genesis Red

your dogs. Please share what it takes to keep your dogs

Cloud x Sushila’s Cristianna), was bred by Les Lindop,

in the best possible healthy condition both mentally and

Lenny Fernandez, Denise Priest, and my mother. He

physically.

was a Domino Red Cloud son who was also my junior showmanship dog. Twenty miles away was the San Angeles Saluki Club Specialty, which I won on the same day with Ch. Zafara’s Seven Come Eleven, Lucky. That is a day I will never forget.

Jan Reital (Tifarah Afghan Hounds) had the biggest impact on me regarding conditioning. Her dogs were always in superb condition. Afghan Hounds are athletes, and it is always my priority to give them a variety of exercise. This allows them to handle anything I ask of

GCHP Agha Djari’s Fifth Dimension of Sura, Finn’s final

them in the ring with ease. I took all that Jan taught

Specialty Best in Show under the incomparable Lotte

me and created a formula that works for each individual

Jorgensen (Boxaden). She ran her ring with authority

dog.

and joy. She made the breed competition a true contest and my legs almost gave out on the last lap. It was truly an honor to have my dog awarded such honors by someone I hold in such high regard. I draw so much joy from my closest friends’ successes. They are second and third generation dog women. To see them continue on the family tradition and succeed overwhelms me with pride and happiness. Who were your mentors growing up in the sport? Jan Reital (Tifarah), Roberta Keller (Zafara), Judy Bloom (Jubilan), Hank Nave and Lou Guerrrero (Genesis), Michael Duhnam and Richard Souza (Coastwind), Chuck Alarcon & Victor Barajas (Barala). Growing up in California, I had the opportunity to watch these iconic breeders create generation after generation of truly great Afghan Hounds. These are the

Showing in the rain!

BE S T I N SH OW MAGA Z I N E

I NT ERVI EW WITH HANDLER

Every dog that has lived with our family has been

are many days when my family willingly picks up the

different in so many ways when it comes to the amount

slack. Our children are learning the importance of

of exercise they require. There are those who self

dedication and diligence when no one is watching.

condition and those who don’t.

What breeds (other than Afghan Hounds) have you

Currently, the dog that I am showing (GCHG Sunlit’s

handled in the past? Please share some of your successes

King of Queens) is an incredibly high energy dog. He

with them.

loves free running on the beach with our Whippet LuLu. We also add light roadwork on an all weather track and daily hurdling. I prefer the rubberized, artificial running surface of an all weather track for joint health, and it is unaffected by bad weather. I condition our dogs in all weather.

I’ve shown just about every breed. I wish that I had attempted the German Shepherd in my younger, healthier years. I worked for Amy Rutherford and had the opportunity to show countless terriers. I won the Specialty Best in Show at the Saluki Club

My entire family has been involved with the conditioning process as my health isn’t dependable right now. There

of America Western Regional multiple times, Best of Breed at Westminster Kennel Club with the Saluki GCH Ladyhawk Guinness The Menace Of Tazi. What is your favorite Afghan Hound specialty and favorite all breed show to attend and why? I have to start with Palm Springs. The first shows of the year bring great excitement and anticipation of the new year. The perfectly manicured polo fields, the large entry with many international exhibitors all makes for an exciting weekend. Santa Barbara Kennel Club and Del Valle Harvest Moon Cluster are special for sentimental reasons. Another favorite weekend is the Western Hound Association of Southern California. I have fond memories of attending the Afghan Hound Club of Northern California as a child. As an adult I became a member of this regional club and had the opportunity to learn all that goes into hosting a successful specialty. What Afghan Hound (past or present) that you have never owned/handled would you like to own/show?

Jones Family at Westminster, (L to R) Ransom, Alicia, Jeff & Alexis

BEST IN SHOW MAGAZI N E

Ch. Xandali Isabeau of Boanne, Izzy, handled by the

I NT ERVI EW WITH HANDLER

incomparable Bobbi Kinley-Blewett. I have so many moments in time etched in my memory. I am fortunate to have had the opportunity to experience her in the flesh. I had the opportunity to take Ch. Beachbrook’s It’s Raining Men, Sprinkles for a spin. Breeder/owner/ handler Floyd Gale asked me if I’d move her for him. I was astonished by her power on the move. After two large laps, Floyd was in tears. Some moments stay with you forever. There is no denying that the presentation of dogs in North America is high, do you feel that sometimes the grooming is taken too far? I don’t see it very often anymore. What I see more of is lack of effort or knowledge. Hand pulling a saddle takes time and dedication. Lately, I’ve seen long or shaved saddles. When it comes to trimming I try to maintain a dog’s shape with hand pulling. I don’t own a pair of straight shears, and my favorite thinning shears are 20 years old. I find roadworking keeps the foot coat from growing too long, thus there isn’t much left to maintain. As we know hair is the icing on a perfectly constructed

breeders who are making a conscious effort to educate judges about patterning in our breed. I have shown countless patterned Afghan Hounds, and I understand the struggle of acceptance by some all-breed judges. Do you judge the breed and if not would you like to?

cake, and Afghan Hounds are known for having beautiful

I have been licensed to judge junior showmanship

long, flowing hair. Do you feel that patterned Afghans

for nearly 20 years. I am only showing dogs I’ve bred

are overlooked because they cannot compete in the hair

or owned, so I have started the process of applying to

department or do you find a good dog wins patterned or

judge Afghan Hounds.

un-patterned? Absolutely. I always spend time discussing the importance of the patterned Afghan Hound when mentoring new and potential judges. There are many

How did you enjoy Westminster at Lyndhurst Mansion this year? Are you happy the show will go back to NYC? I loved showing outdoors in such a historic and

BE S T I N SH OW MAGA Z I N E

I NT ERVI EW WITH HANDLER

breathtaking setting. This was an excellent alternative to New York City. I was impressed with the elaborate group ring that was constructed to replicate Madison Square Garden.

showing? Our son, Ransom, is a dog lover. I don’t know what breed he will choose in adulthood, but sighthounds are near and dear to his heart. While he loves to compete

The hard working members of WKC went to great

in sports at school, showing dogs has not interested

lengths to make the 2021 show happen. I am grateful

him although his room is covered in show ribbons.

they worked tirelessly to continue the tradition during

Our daughter, Alexis, has the gift with our breed. She

all of this uncertainty.

has navigated countless wild and untrained puppies

I’m one of the few who always wants to show outdoors. I’ve always said, I’d rather show outdoors in the rain, than indoors. These athletes need the dirt and grass to dig in and drive forward on the move.

to major wins, all while ensuring they have a positive experience. This has honed her skill and ability to handle pressure. She has many years of college and medical school ahead of her as she plans to become a pediatrician. I wouldn’t be surprised if she continued

You have two wonderful children, do you feel either will

the family tradition of breeding purebred dogs. The dog

carry on with your love of the Afghan Hound and dog

family has supported her through some difficult times,

BEST IN SHOW MAGAZI N E

Alicia & Finn

BE S T I N SH OW MAGA Z I N E

I NT ERVI EW WITH HANDLER

and I know she cherishes them. If not Afghan Hounds, what breed would you have in your life? I’m a sighthound lover, so it would have to be Whippets and Saluki.

I strongly dislike moving. As a military spouse, moving is a significant part of our lifestyle. While I am proficient at coordinating all aspects of a permanent change of station, it doesn’t get any easier. I am preparing for a move in June 2022. What advice or nuggets of wisdom would you pass down

Most that show dogs understand the importance of being

to someone that was thinking of embarking on life with

sufficiently caffeinated, what are your coffee orders?

an Afghan Hound as a companion and show dog?

I’m simple. Cappuccino or coffee with almond milk.

Afghan Hounds can do just about anything. You get out

If your life was a book, what would the title be? You’re fine, keep going. Would you share one random fact about yourself that not many people know?

BEST IN SHOW MAGAZI N E

of them what you put into them. Never give up, but be patient. This isn’t an instant gratification breed. They take time to mature mentally and physically. If you dedicate yourself to this majestic breed, the experience is captivating.

BE S T I N SH OW MAGA Z I N E

BEST IN SHOW MAGAZI N E

BE S T I N SH OW MAGA Z I N E

I N T E RV I E W W I T H J U D GE

DONALD Sturz

Donald awarding the Hound Group at Westminster Kennel Club 2006 to Ch. Thistleglen Margot handled by Lesley Anne Potts

I NT ERVI EW W I T H JUDG E · DONALD STURZ

Don, first we would like to thank you for taking the time

years. Is there a special win you would like to mention?

out of your busy schedule to do this interview with us. To

Was there a special breed or dog that you were showing

start, please tell our readers how you got involved in the

during those three years? Who was your mentor or

world of dogs?

inspiration back then?

It all began because my sister Janet was afraid of dogs, so

It is so important that children are offered opportunities

my parents thought the best solution was to get a dog.

to find their awesome and have a place where that

The neighbor had a Golden Retriever, and they provided

awesome can shine. Dog shows provided that for me. I

my parents the contact info for the breeder from whom

was bullied in school for many years but when I arrived

they got their dog. The breeder invited us to a match

at the dog shows on the weekends it was completely

show with our new puppy. I was eight years old, and

the opposite experience. I developed a group of friends,

I was the one encouraged to go in the ring with him.

many of whom are still involved in the sport. I also got

We didn’t win but another breeder came over to help

to pursue what became a lifelong passion and learned

me and encouraged me to continue. My parents joined

lots of great life lessons along the way.

the local club and eventually realized our first Golden was not of a quality to be competitive in conformation. I continued to show him in juniors initially and did obedience with him. He is the dog I learned to groom

As far as a particular win in juniors, I think being sent to the junior finals at Westminster by Frank Sabella was the most memorable moment. Mr. Sabella was an icon

on, so he had quite the look at times! We got a second Golden and then the kennel grew from there. My mom was the driving force as she saw the passion in me and the value in the experience so she did all she could to make it accessible to me on many levels. I had responsibilities for the daily care, training, grooming, and conditioning of puppies and dogs right from the start. Other breeds were added as my interest grew and my parents were very indulgent of this if I did the work taking care of them. My entire family was involved and shared this as a family hobby for many years, including the third generation when my nieces Jillian and Jayme began showing dogs years later. You were a very successful junior handler and ranked number one in the United States for three consecutive Donald with Ch Courtllyn Chagal, Judge Nigel Aubrey Jones

I NT ERVI EW W I T H J UDG E · DONALD STURZ

Donald awarding BIS at Santa Barbara 1999 to Ch. Trebor Shortstop, breeder owner handled by Gary Wittmeier.

as a handler and his Kennel Review cover photo with

I had the privilege of showing a variety of dogs and

the white Standard Poodle Command Performance is

breeds in juniors over the years. I never had one junior’s

what sparked my interest in getting a Poodle. My first

dog. Much like that Westminster memory, I had to show

poodle was a son of Command Performance. The first

one of the dogs that was going to the shows.

dog I was supposed to show got ill and I had to show a Golden who I loved to show in breed and had lots of winning, but she was not very reliable in long junior

I was fortunate to have many mentors among handlers and breeders growing up.

classes. In those days the open senior classes often had

I also apprenticed under several handlers learning

50-75 entries at major events, and she lost interest long

about care and grooming in addition to the handling.

before those marathons were over so the semi-finals at

I eventually ended up working as an assistant solely

Westminster was not going to be her forte. But she was

for Patricia Proctor and focusing on Poodles. More

the dog going to the show so that’s who I showed. Mr.

important than the practical things I learned from her

Sabella commented afterward that he appreciated how

was the ethics and how to conduct oneself with dignity

I managed a dog who clearly had lost interest in the

and respect. Much of who I am as a person today was

crunch moments. It all worked out.

impacted by her.

BEST IN SHOW MAGAZI N E

I NT ERVI EW W I T H JUDG E · DONALD STURZ

Besides showing dogs, you had also competed in

and reveled in her wins and was heartbroken when she

obedience and field trials. Can you tell us about some of

lost. I brought her out only once as a veteran to show at

your highlights?

a specialty to Mrs. Ann Stevenson, a woman for whom

Our early Goldens all worked in the field to get their GRCA Working Certificates. I remember being out there throwing boat bumpers first to get them retrieving to hand and then graduating to pigeons and ducks to get them used to carrying birds. I enjoyed watching the dog’s work. These early experiences in the field established my appreciation for understanding breed history and function as it relates to conformation. Anyone deciding to judge dogs should make the time to view the breeds engaged in the activities of their original purpose to understand the form and essence of

I had tremendous respect. Val went Best of Opposite from the veteran class over some top winning bitches of the day. Her son stood in front of her as best of winners from the bred by exhibitor class. Another Golden that is memorable for me is Ch. Golden Glo’s Come by Chance, the last Golden I specialed before becoming a judge. He was my mom’s heart dog. He always slept at her feet until the day he passed. Chance was a top ranked Golden with all-breed and specialty best in show wins. He was an extremely handsome dog with a gorgeous head, and he was so balanced in construction that he just floated

each breed more fully. Obedience was a challenge for me and my first dog. Sheriff was incredibly smart and would ace everything at home and in training classes. However, when we would go to obedience trials, he would be consistently inconsistent. He never erred on the same element twice. It was always something different which I think was his way of showing who was really in control. Obedience titles were achieved but not without much anticipatory stress. The structure of obedience didn’t suit my need for a bit of flair and showmanship, so I eventually left that to others to pursue. You bred and owned some amazing Goldens, Miniature Poodles and Corgis. Can you mention 3-5 dogs you are especially proud of? In Goldens, one would be Ch. Golden Glo’s Valentine who was the first dog I specialed as a teenager. She was a top winning bitch in the breed at a time when bitches did not fare well against the dogs as champions. I loved her Donald with his first Golden Retriever at an obedience trial

BE S T I N SH OW MAGA Z I N E

I NT ERVI EW W I T H J UDG E · DONALD STURZ

around the ring. He stood on his own without me having

fascination with evaluating and sorting dogs using

to touch him at all.

photos in Kennel Review magazine to create mock

In Corgis it would be Ch. Courtllyn Chagal, a UK import I co-owned with Andy Carter. Polo oozed type and had a commanding presence. He won multiple Bests in Show and placed in the group at Westminster. In Miniature Poodles it is Ch. Dassin Madiselle, who I co-owned with her breeder Joseph Vergnetti and my mom. She was shown only 40 times over two years and was ranked number one Miniature both years with a total of 13 BIS and 25 Group firsts. She loved to look back over her shoulder at judges and stare them down. Stunning standing, she was exhilarating in motion, hitting the end of the lead, and creating a perfect picture of carriage and light springy gait. Madison and I had a connection that was immediate and intense. I was incredibly invested in her emotionally due to life circumstances at the time and she never let me down. When and why did you decide to become a judge and to be more involved in judging than showing and breeding? Early on as a child and teenager I had developed a

groups which I then sorted and placed. I had the opportunity to judge at many matches shows very early on and this confirmed that I truly enjoyed the process and respected the responsibility of the role. I began talking with judges I respected about the prospect of pursuing this path and got lots of encouragement and excellent advice. I never actually stopped breeding and showing although it was with less frequency due to my professional career. I honestly believe that it’s important for judges to keep their hand in it. It helps maintain perspective on so many levels, not the least of which is having your hands and eyes engaged with dogs daily and appreciating all that goes into the rearing and preparation of dogs by breeders and exhibitors so they can bring the dogs for us to judge. Which show is your favorite when it comes to showing and which one when it comes for judging? Do you prefer showing at specialities or all breed shows? And what about when it comes to judging? Westminster has always been my favorite show overall and I have not missed one since I was ten years old. No other event comes close to the intensity and excitement created each year. This is attributed to its history, tradition, and significance in the sport. There are shows that no longer exist in their original forms that were quite spectacular in their day. One that I feel has reclaimed its spot successfully is Santa Barbara and I would make that my runner up as a favorite show for me. I enjoy showing and judging at specialties for the access

Donald co-hosting the live telecast of the Westminster Kennel Dog Show on Fox Sports with Chris Myers and Gail Miller Bisher

BEST IN SHOW MAGAZI N E

to be able to view greater numbers of a breed and focus on a breed specific perspective. I enjoy showing and judging at all breed events for the broader access to multiple breeds and opportunity for conversations with a greater variety of people. Next year, at Westminster, you will be judging Best in Show. That won’t be the first time for you in the main ring at the Garden. In 2006 and 2010 you judged the Hound and Sporting groups. Please tell us something about how it feels to be in the middle of the crowd and how do you feel judging BIS? It is surreal. Nothing has come close to this in my experience. It is for a moment overwhelming in its

Donald with his first champion, Ch. Golden Glo’s Valentine

enormity but then comforting in its familiarity. The

Madison Square Garden that night to judge Best in Show

atmosphere is so charged with excitement. I remember

at Westminster 2022.

having to take a deep breath before stepping out onto the floor and Tom Bradley assuring me in that last moment that I would be fine and telling me to enjoy the experience. Once I started focusing on the dogs and the task at hand, I settled in. Being mindful of the television aspect and timing can throw some people but I was ok with that. When it came time to make the placements, I had another wave of emotion as the importance of the event and the outcome hit me again. I believe I will have the same experience with this Best in Show assignment but tenfold on the emotion meter! This is everyone’s dream and to have it happening for me at this stage of my life is incredible. Sadly, my mom passed away this year. My only regret is that she will not be able to share this with me as she played a pivotal role in making this all possible for me in my life and was there for all the major milestones in the sport. I know she will be with me in spirit as I walk onto the floor of

Due to Covid circumstances, this year’s Westminster was held at the property of Lyndhurst Estate. Personally, I think Westminster K. C. did an amazing job organizing the show under such circumstances. I believe it was a very hard task to replace the irreplaceable atmosphere of the Garden. As a co-host for the live telecast and the Westminster Kennel Club Highlights Show, could you tell us how it went from your point of view? I agree with you that the Westminster Kennel Club members did an amazing job reimagining the event and bringing all the magic of Westminster to Lyndhurst. It was genius bringing it to a place with so much beauty and such a long history with the sport of dogs. I am so grateful, as should we all be, for what the club members did to bring it all to life. From a television host perspective, it was fantastic because there were so many stories to tell and such incredible visuals that enhanced the television coverage.

BE S T I N SH OW MAGA Z I N E

I NT ERVI EW W I T H J UDG E · DONALD STURZ

Do you have favorite breeds to judge? Is there an

are held each weekend which dilutes competition. The

especially difficult breed to be judged and why?

concept of leveled events, much like the horse show

I enjoy and appreciate all the breeds I judge because I made a very conscious choice to limit myself to judge only breeds, I could learn about and understand deeply. It is less challenging to sort through high quality animals of multiple breeds on the group and Best in Show level, However, to be able to evaluate and sort

world utilizes, has never caught on with us but should be revisited. Creating multiple levels for conformation events could benefit judges, breeders and exhibitors and make outcomes more meaningful. There is so much to say about this, and it certainly goes way beyond just me.

on the breed level one needs breed specific knowledge

In the last years the world of show dogs has been under

to understand forgivable and unforgivable, prioritize

attack from many animal rights groups. What would you

breed specific virtues and flaws, be aware of trends and

say to explain to them why we need purebred dogs and

breeding challenges in breeds, etc. As for difficulty, I

dogs shows?

find it most difficult when presented with classes of dogs where the quality is not high, and one must weigh and prioritize what minimal virtues do exist. It often leaves me feeling disappointed. I much prefer when dogs shown to me make my heartbeat faster and give me goosebumps. I am sure my heart will be beating faster, and I will be feeling goosebumps when I meet the seven group winners at Westminster. How do you see the dog world in ten years? What you think needs to be improved and which negative aspects of today should we try to stop? Dogs have been our best friends from the beginning of time, so I don’t see that changing. Efforts to make our events more accessible and more inclusive are positive but when it comes to conformation, I am concerned that things are getting watered down on every level. Too many judges are being approved too quickly and I am concerned they are moving too quickly beyond their experience and capability. This has a negative impact on the validity and value of the feedback breeders and exhibitors are getting for their efforts. Too many shows

BEST IN SHOW MAGAZI N E

I would start with not using the term purebred and use purpose bred instead and talk about the commitment of preservation breeders. Preserving breeds that were developed for a particular purpose, with an eye toward a standard of quality and attention to health and temperament concerns assures families of the type of dog they will bring into their lives long term. This is only possible based on years of work on the part of preservation breeders. Is there something in life that you would like to do or to visit, that is your life’s dream? I very much would like to travel more for leisure. My travel experiences have for the most part been for dog shows. There is often not much time to see anything other than the airport, the hotel, and the show venue. I have on a few occasions taken the time to allow a few days for exploration more recently and I realized how much I enjoy exploring new places and new cultures. I would like to do more of that. What breeds do you truly enjoy judging?

BE S T I N SH OW MAGA Z I N E

I NT ERVI EW W I T H J UDG E · DONALD STURZ

I enjoy judging all the breeds I judge for different reasons. For example, Labradors come most easily to me, and the culture of the breed is very relaxed, so it makes for a fun time. Poodles are a passion for me and

the role but doesn’t take themselves too seriously. Is there a show you haven’t judged but you would love to judge?

challenge me to judge with my eye and my hand and to

Well, Best in Show at Westminster is a hard act to follow!

appreciate all the details that go into the essence of a

I think if I could make the time, I would enjoy judging

great Poodle.

at more international events as I have enjoyed those

Do you ever rethink your judging decisions? Pretty much always. I was fortunate to have some truly great judges make themselves available to me over time. One thing they all did was reflect on judging assignments. They frequently discussed reasons for the choices they made. They acknowledged situations where perhaps they had been too hard on a particular feature or might have placed dogs differently. What is important is that one uses reflection as a learning exercise to understand why you are questioning it or how it confirms the decision you made. We all continuously learn through each new experience. What is it that you like the most and you like the least about judging?

experiences in the past given the different judging systems and seeing dogs and people I don’t get to see frequently otherwise. What was the greatest advice you have been given as a judge and what advice would you give to new judges? As a judge, the best advice I was given is twofold: (1) Get your ring procedure set and don’t stray from it so you can completely focus on the evaluation and sorting of the dogs. (2) Judge every show as if you are never going to judge again. It frees you up from the human distraction of pleasing others and concerns about the impact of your decisions on future judging assignments.

What I like most about judging is the dogs themselves. Both the individual interactions with all dogs and the pleasure I get from encountering beautiful examples of breeds. The thing I like least is the travel time demands. Given my professional life, time is unfortunately at a premium right now. What is your definition of a good judge? Someone who loves dogs, is knowledgeable about the breeds they judge, one who is kind and compassionate to both dogs and exhibitors, one who is confident but not arrogant, and one who respects the responsibility of

BEST IN SHOW MAGAZI N E

Donald handlilng Ch. Dassin Madiselle to her first Best In Show win under judge Dee Hutchinson. Co-owner and Mom, Marilyn Sturz, standing next to Donald.

BE S T I N SH OW MAGA Z I N E

BEST IN SHOW MAGAZI N E

BE S T I N SH OW MAGA Z I N E

BEST IN SHOW MAGAZI N E

BE S T I N SH OW MAGA Z I N E

American Grand Champion Polish Champion | Mexican Champion

Solo

SATURDAY NIGHT LIVE

BELLA MARE Junior World Winner 2018

Sire: GCh. Dickendall Buckstone Three dog Night Dam: C h . S h o u l d N o t S e l l B e l l a M a r e Black Carrying Yellow, HD - A, ED - 0/0, PRCD - PRA - Clear, EIC - Clear, Eyes - Clear

Owned by Gina Roidopoulos | Bred by Sonia Czajor - Bella Mare Labrador 56

BEST IN SHOW MAGAZI N E

Top 20 Labrador Retriever All Breed Oc tober 2021 CC

Presented by AKC Registered Handler

Celso SchneideR

celsoschneider@mac.com

BE S T I N SH OW MAGA Z I N E

MAR TIAL RO BIN 58

BEST IN SHOW MAGAZI N E

Martial, Thank you so much for taking the time to interview for Best In Show Magazine. I know that our readers will enjoy getting to know the talented breeder, owner, handler, and artist that is Martial Robin. Please share with our readers how you got involved with Afghan Hounds and the world of pedigreed dogs and dog showing? I was born into a rural environment with parents and grandparents who farmed. I have always been surrounded by a large variety of animals including dogs. Although none of those dogs were purebred, they were an integral part of our family life. My first interest in a purebred dog was while leafing through a magazine at the dentist’s office. I fell in love with a photo of an Afghan Hound. This love at first sight never left me and I bought my first Afghan in 1983. Although I discovered dog shows at the same time, I very quickly realized that Aïdi, my Afghan, did not present the dog show qualities required for the exhibition. Nonetheless, she taught me a lot about the breed.

BE S T I N SH OW MAGA Z I N E

W O RL D O F A RT · MARTIAL ROBIN me. When Catherine had a litter from him, I harassed her day and night for two months so she would let me have the very pretty Chanel de la Chapelle Saint Blaise which became the basis of my breeding. On my first trips to the USA, I met Taco, Pahlavi Puttin On The Ritz, and it was an emotional shock! I came back to Europe with Pahlavi Zeni Int’l Intrigue (his double grandson) with the intent to cross these two lines. Certainly, very distant in pedigree, they presented some interesting morphological similarities. Subsequently, I mainly worked with pure Scandinavian lines (carried by the affixes El Khyrias and Boxadan). My last and final litter was ten years ago. You have had wonderful success not only in Europe but all over the world. Would you please share some special show memories with our readers? What is the meaning of your kennel name and how did you decide on it?

Among the many titles and honors obtained over 25 years, it is difficult to choose between the most

I am passionate about medieval literature. I devoured

prestigious ones and those which have the most

these many Round Table novels. In one of them the

emotional charge. Let us quote two events which

hero was called Menuel Galopin. He was a wonderful,

marked the history of the breed in Europe: Glorious

tall, handsome, intelligent, and generous prince. He also

Intrigue du Menuel Galopin, winning the BOB at the

had the ability to run very fast. I came to identify this

world championship in Bern (record entry with more

character with the Afghan Hound, and to appropriate

than 300 Afghans) and Parce Que du Menuel Galopin

him by my affix.

becoming the first foreign Afghan to win the Crufts BOB

Where did you get did your foundation Afghan Hounds? Is there any breeders you are currently working with today?

in 2002. This was the first year that foreign exhibitors were allowed to show in UK. Several months later I had the first continental owned English champion. There have been so many great victories.

When I realized that Aïdi would remain as a pet, I observed the Afghans a lot and I was quickly interested by the Scandinavian bloodlines. The champion Dur-I-

Can you please tell our readers about some of your favorite dogs?

Durran Gazebo at Catherine Faget ‘s De la Chapelle Saint

I always had more affective attachments with my

Blaise kennel in France. This dog’s physical type dazzled

females In my breeding years, if there was a king, it

BEST IN SHOW MAGAZI N E

W O RL D O F A RT · MARTIAL ROBIN would be Parce Que. There were three queens: Glorious

game was the breeding side. As much as I think a judge

Intrigue, the seductress, Marie France, the fusional and

who breeds is very positive, I have serious restrictions

Capucine, the conqueror.

about the judge who exhibits his dogs. Not judging and

On the breeding side, I worked exclusively from my starting line (75% El Khyrias /Boxadan and 25% Palhavi) without an outcross during these 25 years of breeding in six generations. I have always favored a functional type, without any exaggeration, probably very close to the original

never having taken responsibility in clubs allowed me to preserve my independence and my freedom. And then, maybe, cowardly, I didn’t want to risk being like a lot of my friends who were excellent breeders who became bad judges! Will we ever see you in the show ring again?

standard, even if it meant being considered old-

Never say never, but there is very little chance that I

fashioned. I have always preferred the word oriental

will return to the rings one day.

to exotic. Even if in terms of oriental image, there is a lot of difference between the kamikaze warrior and

How would you describe your style of art?

the geisha. In my opinion, the original Afghan Hound

Those who view or buy my art are the most apt to

is closer to the first, but currently looks more like the

answer this question. Some will tell you that it is purely

second. All my Afghans brought a piece to the Menuel

figurative painting, others will tell you that it is abstract.

Galopin puzzle.

My art is probably in between.

Do you judge and if not, would you like to some day?

In my paintings, I try to suggest things as much as to tell

I do not judge, and I do not wish to judge. I had started my career as a judge 20 years ago, but I quickly realized that was not going to suit me. What interested me in the

them. By leaving less figurative areas, I leave room for the viewer’s personal interpretation. By moving away from the purely photographic representation of my

BE S T I N SH OW MAGA Z I N E

subject, I feel closer to his soul. People will ask which

Whether animal or human, I love the portraits. I love

breed I am representing, but I never answer because I

the search for the soul of my subject. I love the said, the

want them to decide for themselves.

unsaid, and the suggestions I can make to render this

I know from speaking with you that you use antique paper, such as newspaper and music sheet paper, as a background for your paintings. Where did you get this idea? Where do you source your supplies and how do you choose which paper to use for each painting? I do not set rules for my supports as well as for my

portrait a unique and personal interpretation. I have a special attachment to monkeys and their expressions. My monkeys are probably the most personal part of my painting. Is there any subject, person, or animal that you find difficult to paint?

painting techniques. For the same work, I can use

All topics interest me. Nothing is more exciting than the

acrylic with coatings, collages, pastels, fusins, and inks.

challenge of tackling a new subject. However, painting

For the supports, I work mainly on canvas, on wood and

takes a long time and since I have a lot of other activities

on paper. I like to use old paper and I try to match my

in parallel, that time is limited. The same goes for

subject matter, which creates an additional story and

sculpture: I dream of being able to devote more time to

intensity in the work. When I start a work, I never know

it. I think there is a lot to express with sculpting as well.

how it will end. I leave a lot of room for my instinct.

I hope to be able to dedicate more time to my art over

You not only paint canine, but also humans and other animals. What is your favorite subject to paint?

the next few years and continue this exploration even more deeply. Are there any breeds of dogs that you would like to paint

BEST IN SHOW MAGAZI N E

W O RL D O F A RT · MARTIAL ROBIN

in the future? My taste for varied expressions tend to make me

an order, it’s a little different. I am ready to make corrections according to the feelings of the customer.

prefer breeds which show morphological character--

What other artists work do you admire throughout

sighthounds with their slender silhouettes and their

history?

movements, Bulldogs, Pugs or Pekingese with their extreme faces, terriers with their hyper, racy lines, certain hunting dogs with their attitudes, Afghans, American Cockers, Poodles, or bobtails, with their generous coats.

All periods have brought us painting geniuses who remain sources of inspiration. From prehistoric times, some offered us exceptional quality frescoes in caves. Rembrandt is the absolute master. I am very sensitive to the spirit of research and permanent artistic

Where and how do you like to work? Do you listen to

exploration of Da Vinci, Soutine, Matisse, Picasso, and

music?

Monet. Among contemporaries, the portraits of Lucian

I am fortunate to have a very nice and large art studio which offers me great conditions to work. I try to block out for whole days to isolate myself. It’s not always easy to cut the connection to my other activities, but it’s necessary to find inspiration. Having absolutely no musical ear, I often work in silence. I am sure the time you spend on creating art differs. Do

Freud and Jenny Savile fill me with emotion. In the dog world, I particularly admire the work of Michele Trifiliano and Leslie Hutto. What is your favorite personal creation? When I consider my painting to be finished, I detach myself from it emotionally. It has its own life. Even though the subject is particularly sensitive to me, I can

you find yourself coming back to a canvas after some time or are you committed to finishing something before starting on something new? One of the peculiarities of my way of painting is that I am constantly working on several paintings at the same time, sometimes more than ten. I switch very easily from one to the other and most importantly, I give them time to mature. I come back to them several times with successive layers which require drying time. It allows me to come back with a new eye each time and to give myself the chance to rectify if necessary. Paintings can go unfinished for several weeks. Then one day they live on their own. So, they don’t belong to me anymore. I feel like I’m detached from them. When it comes to

BE S T I N SH OW MAGA Z I N E

W O RL D O F A RT · MARTIAL ROBIN

and while these paintings gave me a lot of emotions, in the end, I hardly kept any. Tell our readers about your new Château, and do you find inspiration from it when painting?

setting for artistic inspiration. What is the best way for people to contact you and to see more of your art? I exhibit my art regularly, in galleries and in art salons.

The course of life is full of dreams; some are larger than

In the dog world, I like to present my paintings at major

others and end up becoming true. Marking our name

exhibitions like Crufts, Orlando, Donaueschingen, or

in the history of this magnificent Château de Launay by

the world shows. Apart from that, my workshop is wide

becoming its owners and living there is a big challenge

open to visitors and of course, I can be easily reached by

that we have succeeded in, despite the difficult period

email at robinmart@aol.com.

due to the pandemic. While being an architectural marvel (with parts ranging from the 13th to 19th centuries), the chateau is very functional, and the romantic charm takes hold immediately. The natural environment is exceptional with trees that are a halfcentury old. Over the course 800 years, the chateau has seen several historical figures pass by, notably Victor Hugo, who resided there regularly. Launay is the perfect

Due to the pandemic, I couldn’t make Orlando last year. I missed my American friends very much. Unfortunately, I am not sure I will be able to attend this year. Nevertheless, Joleigh Nolen, who represents me in the USA, will be there with my paintings. Thanks to my American friends for their huge interest in my art for many years.

BEST IN SHOW MAGAZI N E

BE S T I N SH OW MAGA Z I N E

Thank you, Robin, for agreeing to this interview. You are one of the kindest, sweetest, insightful, and talented people I have ever had the pleasure of meeting. Please share with our readers an insight into Robin Punsalan. How did you get involved with Afghan Hounds and the world of pedigreed dog showing? My mother, Carol Ness (Sahiba) got her first Afghan Hound puppy in 1967 while we were living in Northern California. Pharaoh was a black mask red from Reigh Abram (Dureigh). We also acquired Ch. Sugar Plum Fairy from Betty Richards who would later be bred to Hap, Ch. Mecca’s Falstaff. By then, we had moved to Cleveland, Ohio. I was fortunate to grow up in the seventies and eighties which was a time of great representatives of our breed and great breeders. I was always leafing through publications Our Afghans and The Afghan Hound Review. I was in junior handling but my most of my experience showing was in the breed ring with our dogs and

ROBIN Punsalan

handling for others. After high school I had moved to New York City to work in theater and dance. Often, I’d come home to Ohio and attend a show handling for my mother. Can you please share some memories of your families Afghan Hounds. There are funny family memories with the dogs, as this is a family sport. One memory that I hold close to my heart occurred when I was 8 years old getting ready for school. I walked downstairs and my mother informed me that I didn’t have to go to school that day as I would help her whelp a litter.

BEST IN SHOW MAGAZI N E

W O RL D O F A RT · ROBIN PUNSALAN

That was a litter (Sugar x Hap) that included Ch. Sahiba’s

hers are still beside me on our bookshelves. A favorite is

Sudden Snow, Tinkerbelle, the dam of Ch. Camri Black

The Dog in Action: A Study of Anatomy and Locomotion

and Tan Rebellion, and BIS Ch. Sahiba’s Battle Cry.

as Applying to All Breeds by McDowell Lyon.

Holding these new babies as they were brought into this world was the best classroom. Can you remember how you first got interested in art?

Where and how do you like to work? At the easel in the studio. I’ve had many drafting tables only to prefer sitting on the floor like I did as a child

My father was the artist. He was a professional oil painter,

with my coloring book. Once I created a logo while

creative director in advertising and photographer. He

sitting in bed watching Crazy Rich Asians.

shot cover ads for friends in The Afghan Hound Review. He shot the 1978 cover of Razzle, Ch. Zuvenda Renegade of Esfahan for Karen Wagner. Creativity was just natural

What is your favorite medium to work with and what have you worked with?

to me. I was drawing Afghans everywhere, even in the

Oils. In the beginning it was anything, then I fell in love

Phone Book Yellow Pages, while my mom talked on the

with gouache. Many think some are watercolor, which I

phone for hours about breeding options.

use on occasion. But I use black gouache, watered down

How would you describe your style of art?

then swift movement strokes, and may apply splashes of color. So, if I want a quick high energy sense of freedom

I don’t know what my style is, and I experimented

in movement (as with the portrait of Wally, Ch. Thaon’s

with many. It’s about expression, the heart, and love

Wallstreet in only black gouache) that is my favorite

to these dogs who surrounded me at home. So, it’s

medium for that effect. But since I started large oils, not

intuitive. I don’t think about the mechanics, and I’m

just of dogs, but abstract florals, being in front of the

not a trained artist as my profession was performance

canvas for hours over months is the most intoxicating

art. The art is self-taught. In the beginning the dogs

result. The richness of the medium, the work involved

were wispy and extreme. But painting an abstract artsy

... nothing else compares.

Afghan is separate from looking at a sound dog, good movement, and correct structure. I prefer moving dogs,

How do you name your paintings?

being a former professional performer and dancer. It’s

Music is key while I’m painting. The energy and feel

sensitivity to balance, energy, and line. Picasso, Pollock,

comes through the brush, how I’m feeling and then

Dali, and others (cubism, abstract expressionism,

go from there. So many times, just the line of a song

surrealism etc.) all had to study a still life and paint the

will be that name as I was listening to the song at that

realism of an apple or loaf of bread before they created

time. Or it could be a sentence in beautiful prose I’ve

the far-out stuff they were known for by the masses.

read. It’s funny because someone sent me a photo of

So, I grew up as the daughter of a breeder, with classic

a painting, I did many years ago. I opened an email to

books filled with illustrations of correct anatomy and

read ‘Remember this? Infatuation Junkie hangs in my

structure. My mom drilled it into me. All those books of

home, and I cherish it.’ It was a black and silver bitch

BE S T I N SH OW MAGA Z I N E

W O RL D O F A RT · ROBIN PUNSALAN

out of my head. Most my work is from my mind not a

smooths who are litter mates. I’ve recently joined the

photo, I should add. I giggled as I remembered that I was

Central Ohio Dachshund Club as a member.

listening to Alanis Morisette at the time. If it’s a portrait of someone’s actual dog, then it’s titled by the name of the dog. I am sure the time you spend on creating art differs. Do you find yourself coming back to a canvas after some time or are you committed to finishing something before starting on something new? Breaks are necessary and finding the balance. I have other commitments that bring me as much joy and

Do you judge and if not, would you like to some day? Just recently I have given it more serious thought as I’ve been approached to do so. I’d like to, yes. Are you painting anything exciting now? Yes! It’s a secret for now. Are there any dogs/ dog breeds you would like to paint in the future?

part of who I am besides the art. First and foremost,

Besides Afghans, I’ve worked with Salukis, Ibizan

I’m serving myself before others as it’s an intimate

Hounds, Azawakh, Poodles and Chinese Crested. I’m

relationship with myself and what I create. We all need

starting to do more Dachshund art now that they are my

to do that and keep those healthy boundaries in place,

breed. I’d also love to do Scottish Deerhounds, Tibetan

whether it’s personal relationships or the relationship

Mastiffs, Shiba Inus, Belgian Shepherds, Leonbergers,

you have with your craft, your sport. From there we

Borzoi (which has always been the toughest for me and

create the best work. With the oils, some take months,

irks me to no end as I’ve been in love with this breed

so I rotate between pieces. While one may come out

since I was a child.

‘boom, and we’re done’ some may take a year until I feel it’s finished. What other artists work do you admire. These can be from anywhere in the world or any point in history?

What interests do you have outside of painting and the dog world? Figure skating and I have just began instructing. I’m working toward competing again as an adult skater. I

So many and they change over the years. Off the top of

just started sculpting which I love and studying it at

my head ... Lautrec, Joe Eula, and Kenneth Paul Block

the Cleveland Institute of Art. My first sculpture was an

(fashion illustration) Pollock, Rothko, O’Keeffe, Francis

Afghan Hound bust which was chosen to be in a gallery

Bacon, Manet, Basquiat, Camille Claudel (sculpture),

exhibit.

Louise Bourgeois, Deborah Turbeville and Sally Mann (photography) Are you currently showing any dogs now?

What is the best way for people to contact you and to see more of your art? The best way to contact me is by email at RPunsalan77@

Yes, I just returned to the ring after years away. Now

gmail.com. To view the art, I have a business page on

I am into Dachshunds, and we have two standard

Facebook Robin Punsalan Art.

BEST IN SHOW MAGAZI N E

BE S T I N SH OW MAGA Z I N E

M E E T T H E BR E E D A F GH A N H OU N D

WITH

JOY Mauro-Berh Please tell our readers how you got involved in the world of pedigreed dogs, the Afghan Hound and dog shows. I became involved with Afghan Hounds when I was about 16. I attended the Atlantic City Dog Show with my father. We had

BEHRWOOD AFGHAN HOUND

Boxers and had a son of Bang Away. A very famous Afghan Hound was being shown by Jane Forsyth at the time named MBIS Holly Hill Desert Wind. After seeing him go BIS and meeting him, I knew I must have one of those majestic creatures. My father’s answer was, “Not until you are on your own.” That was the first thing I did--I got an Afghan Hound.

BEST IN SHOW MAGAZI N E

MEET T HE B REED · AFG HAN HOUND

I also Have Smooth Fox Terriers. Their kennel name is

remained friends with the others that were in that

Kenterra (the land) and the Afghans I bred were under

backyard with me till this day.

the kennel name Abitare (to live).

As we know hair is the icing on a perfectly constructed

Where did you get your foundation Afghan Hounds and

cake, and Afghan Hounds are known for having beautiful

what breeders (if any) do you work with today?

long, flowing hair. Do you feel that patterned Afghans

I got my first two Afghan Hounds from Gene and Jane Jantos. Province’s Milo, a black masked red dog and Province’s Beylerian a domino bitch. Beylerian was from a litter that Sunny Shay and Gene Jantos had bred. Which Afghan Hound breeder or breeders do you respect most, anywhere in the world? Stefan Boieck of Agha Djari; Jay Hafford of Thaon, Karen Wagner of Pahlavi, Lotte, and Ulf Jorgensen of Boxadan, Camilla Tell and Bret Hamilton of Tells, and Sunny Shay of Grandeur fame. Sunny traveled with us at times, she was truly a

are overlooked because they cannot compete in the hair department, or do you believe a good dog win patterned or un-patterned? I believe a good dog can win both ways. When you special a dog, it is a different story. Most all breed judges seem to accept a coated dog more than a patterned one. Judges that are doing specialties don’t seem to mind as much. How have Afghan Hounds changed since you first started showing and breeding. This can be in quality and or presentation. Do you think the breed has changed for the better or worse?

character! After her passing, Boy Blu was being shown by Joy Brewster. Joy also had a Whippet that she did a lot of winning with. My husband Guenter Behr one of the top terrier handlers. We were at the shows, and I had nothing for the Hound Group. Joy asked me to show Boy Blu! He was amazing, a true king of dogs. You never had to touch him, he stood out on the end of the lead gazing into the sunlight. Joy wasn’t too happy when I won the group with him under Peter Thompson. Those were the good old days. Who was your mentor in the breed when you started out and do you still have mentors today? Mrs. Jantos, and Gene and Jane Jantos. I started out at handling classes in Mrs. Jantos’s back yard and have

BE S T I N SH OW MAGA Z I N E

Well, the quantity has changed. When I was actively

gait but had a body like no other under that beautifully

showing there were sometimes 40 dogs in the open

conditioned coat.

class. Today you are lucky to have 5 unless it’s a specialty. I believe that there are a few spectacular dogs out there, but when I was actively showing the competition was incredible! We had Michael with Blu Shah, Jay Hafford who lived here in the East at the time with Annie, Glorvina with one of her many, and me with

From the outside of the ring looking in, there appears to be a great variation in type around the world in the Afghan Hound ring. Would you agree? Is there a country where you believe the quality of Afghan Hounds is especially strong?

Chuck on a weekly basis. Unfortunately, those days are

The Agha Djaris dogs in Germany, the Von Haussmn

gone forever. I was at Morris and Essex this year, a show

kennel in Chile and of course the dogs in the USA.

that is held in the East every five years. I got to see a few very nice dogs in the breed. There was one spectacular dog that stood out, MSBIS MBIS GCHG Sunlit’s King of Queens, truly a king of dogs. Presented impeccably by

An Afghan Hound is referred to as the King of Dogs. What breed features and qualities make an Afghan Hound the king (or queen) in your mind?

Alicia Morrison Jones, whom I have known since she

To me it’s all about presence. They must own the

was a young girl. After winning the breed she brought

ground, not only standing there but the way they

him over to me and I had the privilege of going over

comport themselves when moving around the ring.

him. Not only was he elegant with the proper spring of

Head and tail held high with effortless movement,

BEST IN SHOW MAGAZI N E

MEET T HE B REED · AFG HAN HOUND

lovely spring of gait, with a level topline, and almost in a

garden with the crowds screaming is like being at the

stacked position as they move. Their eyes must be dark

horse races, and your horse is ready to cross the finish

and penetrating, as if they can almost see through you

line a winner.

while gazing into the distance. What is your proudest achievement in the world of Afghan Hounds?

Do you judge? No, I do not. I would have difficulty judging the Afghan Hound as we see it today. I love beauty and sometimes

Winning the inaugural award for best owner-handler

it’s hard to find it. I suppose if I could only judge specialty

in the US. It has since been named the Winkie Award.

shows or the National, I would enjoy it, or traveling out

Winning the breed at Westminster twice, first with

of the country.

Chuck, MBIS MSBIS Ch. Jamica’S Seyreif of Jeheran and then with his daughter Kamali, MBIS MSBIS Ch. Karamar’s Kamali of Abitare. I might also add that Chuck’s father was MBIS and National Specialty winner MSBIS Ch. Jamica’s Rani Fafnir, who won the breed there as well. That was three generations of wonderful dogs. I also won the huge show in Tokyo Japan over 6,000 dogs. Another interesting win was a specialty where Rudy won the veterans class and Chuck won the breed. Chuck’s son Virgil won best of winners and his other son Garp won the sweepstakes. Please mention some of your most successful dogs, owned or bred by you. MBIS MSBIS Ch. Jamica’s Seyreif of Jeheran, Chuck, MBIS MSBIS Ch. Karamar.s Kamali of Abitare, Kamali, which was a father to daughter breeding. What is your most favorite show to attend, anywhere in the world and why? The World Show in Amsterdam. I love Amsterdam and could live there very easily. It reminds me of New Hope in Bucks County. The coffee shops on every corner, and the tulips. I love flowers! You can bicycle everywhere. Westminster is also a favorite. Being on the floor of the

BE S T I N SH OW MAGA Z I N E

MEET T HE B REED · AFG HAN HOUND

they are special, and the judges should realize it. Would you rather show at specialties or all breed shows? Please give reasons for your preference. I love all-breed shows. I enjoy the variety of breeds and the people. I have been doing this for a very long time. My husband was one of the top terrier handlers in the country, so therefore my heart will be happiest at an all-breed show. There is no denying that the standard of presentation of dogs across North America is very high, do you feel that sometimes the grooming is taken too far? I was taught to groom by a master. My husband taught me to pull everything by hand so seeing some of the clipping and scissoring that is done today can be quite bothersome to me. The purpose of dog showing was to evaluate and “show off” breeding stock, do you think for some breeders and owners it is becoming more about ribbons and rankings? I think dog shows today are mostly about ribbons and rankings. The top dogs are backed with the people that have money and are shown by the top handlers in the Please name three Afghan Hounds that you wished you owned or bred. These can be any dogs in any point of history. They are MBIS & MBISS Ch. Sandina Spellbound, MBISS Ch. Pahlavi Puttin on The Ritz, and BISS Ch. Karzak’S Apocalypse. What do you wish all judges knew about the Afghan Hound before judging them? That attitude is the essence of the breed. They know

country. So, the people like me, an owner-handler, don’t have it quite so easy. But I was married to a handler, so I could hold my own and was able to show Chuck to the number one Afghan Hound title for all breeds. What are your future goals/wishes in the sport of pedigree dogs? A: I can only speak for myself. I have semen from Chuck, my Afghan Hound, and Lance, my 16-year-old Smooth Fox Terrier. I would like to breed one last litter sired by each of them. That would make me extremely happy.

Online Handling, Training, and Grooming Courses for

A l l B re e d s & A l l S k i l l Leve l s Access our 100+ courses, webinars, interactive learning experiences, coaching, and more with Winner's Circle: Full School Subscription for only $39/Month!

BIS20 Use Code

for 20% ANY course, bundle, or subscription!

COMING SOON

New Courses with Allison Alexander on Golden Retrievers, Double-Coated Breeds, Salukis, Havanese, Puppy Training, and More!

w w w. l e a d i n g e d g e d o g s h o w a c a d e m y. c o m

M E E T T H E BR E E D A F GH A N H OU N D

WITH

STEFAN Boieck Please tell our readers how you got involved in the world of pedigree dogs, the Afghan Colin winning Best in Show in Leeuwarden, over 7200 dogs

AGHA DJARI’S AFGHAN HOUND

Hound and dog shows. (please mention your kennel name, it’s meaning and any other breeds you are involved with.) My first Afghan Hound was bought by my parents. It was in 1980 and I was 11 years old. I saw this breed in dog books, I had never seen one live before, and I was absolutely fascinated. We never had dogs before, always cats. It was a pretty bitch, but not suitable for shows. When we went to dog shows I fell in love with a dark-red

BEST IN SHOW MAGAZI N E

M EET T HE B REED · AFG HAN HOUND

bitch from Erika Rödde’s famous “Von Katwiga” kennel. In 1981 I got a bitch from this kennel. My kennel name “Agha Djari’s” was registered in 1987 (I was 19 years old at that time). Where did you get your foundation Afghan Hound’s and what breeders (if any) do you work with today? The Katwiga bitch described above then sparked my enthusiasm for shows. Of course, my parents always had to drive me at that time, so success was quite limited, but she still managed to complete her championship. Soon, the desire arose to have offspring from her and in 1987 the first litter was born from her, but only 1 bitch. The second litter followed in 1989, from which 1 male became a champion and even achieved a BIS, I was so proud. Both litters were from pure “Katwiga” (vdom) lines, but then I saw more and more dogs of the American type at shows, which absolutely fascinated me. I was so fascinated that in my 3rd litter an American stud dog was used. Almost all of my dogs go back to this

Multi SBIS & Group winner Ch Agha Djari’s Double Dare, “Summer” , World Winner in Amsterdam

C-litter. Which Afghan Hound breeder/breeders do you respect most, anywhere in the world? (past or present.) I respect breeders the most who love their animals and do not regard them as objects. I respect breeders who keep the number of their animals small (I never had more than 7 dogs at a time), who keep and care for their old dogs. I detest breeders who suddenly give away old animals that have repeatedly provided for offspring when they are no longer able to do so. They then look for a “good sofa place”. If I myself am not in a position to provide for this highly deserved sofa place, I should rethink my breeding practices. This is of course independent of the breed.

Who was your mentor in the breed when you started out and do you still have mentors today? Erika Rödde was certainly a mentor in my early years. She told me later, when I was already breeding and showing very successfully, that she was very disappointed when I chose the American lines and that I could have been her successor. At that point I was shocked and flattered at the same time, but I was speechless at first. I started to know very early what I wanted. The American type was quite frowned upon in Germany at the beginning of the 80s, especially because of the superiority of “Katwiga”, but I went my own way early on and didn’t have a mentor any more.

BE S T I N SH OW MAGA Z I N E

MEET T HE B REED · AFG HAN HOUND

As we know hair is the icing on a perfectly constructed

whippet toplines. I hardly see the Afghan expression

cake, and Afghan Hounds are known for having beautiful

there. These remarks often come from breeders who

long, flowing hair. Do you feel that patterned Afghans

breed dogs with hair masses at home, I always have to

are overlooked because they cannot compete in the hair

smile and think to myself why they don’t cross these

department or do you believe a good dog wins patterned

dogs into their lines....

or un-patterned? At all-breed shows among non-breed specialists, pattern dogs certainly have a harder time. A deep saddle, possibly with bare pasterns, gives a different silhouette, looks narrower, many judges are used to hair masses, which of course can hide a lot. Breed specialists should recognize this, most of them do. I also find it

The hair that is there should be well groomed, there must be a natural saddle, the rest should be secondary. How have Afghan Hounds changed since you first started showing/breeding. This can be in quality and or presentation. Do you think the breed has changed for the better or worse?

worrying that dogs are often favoured because of the

I think in all areas we tend to say “everything was better

lack of hair. Sometimes dogs are described as “so raw

in the past”, including the dog world. Over the years,

and primitive”, which hardly look like Afghans, have

of course, you become more critical. In the beginning

extremely high set ears and round yellow eyes and

you think almost every dog is beautiful. Today, when

BEST IN SHOW MAGAZI N E Multi SBIS & Group winner Ch. WW Agha Djari’s Leontyne

M EET T HE B REED · AFG HAN HOUND

I look at old pictures or videos, I see a lot of beautiful

spring, many have hardly any stride, due to extremely

dogs, but also a lot of mediocre ones. I think because

steep and narrow fronts, the hindquarters, even if well

of the smaller and smaller population of our breed

angulated, are often stiff, there is a lack of flexibility.

(breeding and show-numbers), it is of course more

Another characteristic of Afghan Hounds are the

and more difficult to find outstanding specimens, but I

prominent hipbones, which are also disappearing more

think that the quality has not dramatically deteriorated

and more. I want prominent hip bones in an athletic

in proportion.

dog, not in a skeleton. The standard demands a straight

From the outside of the ring looking in, there appears to be a great variation in type around the world in the Afghan Hound ring, would you agree? Is there a country in particular where you believe the quality of Afghan Hounds is especially strong? I think America was the strongest country, years ago, of course, it’s also a huge country. Sadly, so many great breeders died, disappeared, changed their breed. For

topline, often you see very curved loins with round croup showing no hip bones at all. These croup’s also prevent the drive from the hindquarters. I always say that the fascinating thing about the Afghan is on one hand we have the glamour, combined with an original and often hardly tameable wildness. What is your proudest achievement (so far) in the world of Afghan Hounds?

the moment, I’m not sure if there is a country which

The proudest achievement is, that all of our dogs are

has the best ones. Certainly Russia has a high standard

kept like pets in the house, we never gave old dogs

of grooming and presentation, but this is true for all

away. At this moment in time, we have bred 172

breeds, but there is a lack of background knowledge,

individual champions worldwide, more than any other

especially when I look at the many pictures where

breeder anywhere. (with the FCI, you are not allowed to

Afghans are posed like German Shepherds (this was

co-breed, so all of these dogs are born and raised in our

also extreme in Australia, but here it has improved.)

home). I’m working on the 200th, I have bred 50 litters

Hair and presentation above all, anatomy and gait seem

in 34 years (1987-2021), this makes 1.5 litters on average

secondary.

per year. All of this was done with never more than 7

An Afghan Hound is refereed to as the “King of Dogs”. What breed features/qualities make an Afghan Hound the King (or Queen) in your mind? Once upon a time it was the gait and the aura that defined an Afghan Hound as the “King Of Dogs”. Unfortunately, this unique gait is being lost more and

dogs at the same time at home, alongside my studies, and then a normal “full time job” without any kennelhelp. We also bred the top-SBIS winning Afghan Hound Male and Female in the USA of all times. Please mention some of your most successful dogs, owned or bred by you.(show ring, litter box and/or stud.)

more. If you look in the Irish Setter or Weimaraner

Multi BIS Ch.Agha Djari’s Reflection Of Xenos,

ring today, you will often find dogs with better gaits

“Reeva”, born 2005, she set several records, was the

than many Afghans. They simply lack the high class

first European Afghan to win BOB at the American

BE S T I N SH OW MAGA Z I N E

M EET T HE B REED · AFG HAN HOUND

A daughter of him also became a World Winner . Multi BIS Ch.Agha Djari’s Wilson Of Xenos, “Wilson” certainly not the perfect showdog, he was always a bit lazy, but I loved the look and the anatomy of this dog. Of the current dogs certainly Multi BIS Ch.Agha Djari’s Lonesome Cowboy, “Lucius”, now 6 years old, multiple All Breed BIS and title winner and a Champion in the UK. Unfortunately the last two years more or less we lost to Covid-19. He was Top Winning BIS Dog all breeds in Germany in 2019. There are so many dogs that meant/mean a lot to me, breeding-wise, character-wise, at shows, to name them all , would go beyond the scope. What is your most favorite show to attend, anywhere in the world and why? The USA National, still the place to be to maybe find a new stunning dog. Do you judge? (if not please comment if you would like Multiple BIS SBIS BIS Grand Ch. Agha Djari’s Fifth Dimension of Sura, 2 times Westminster BOB winner, America’s No. 1 Afghan 2017 and current No. 1 all systems, Top Sire USA 2016

National, (also 5 Nationals in 5 European countries) as well as 2 consecutive World Champion titles (with a litter of 7 puppies in between). She had only 2 litters, one son was again World Winner, both Top Specialty Winning Afghans in the US mentioned above are Reeva grandchildren (and both also won National BIS in the US).

have ever had the pleasure of judging/seeing? A: I started very late with judging (4 yrs ago, after 37 yrs in the breed) I have judged in Australia, USA, Norway, South Africa, France, Spain, Germany and by the time you read this in Hungary also. As many of the dogs I have judged are still being shown, I do not want to mention any names. I am in the process of training to judge the entire FCI group X (Greyhounds), at the moment I’m licensed for Irish Wolfhounds, Sloughi, Whippet as well

Multi BIS Ch. Agha Djari’s Unplugged Version, “Colin” , also a World Winner, BIS at the FCI European Winner in Netherlands (8000 dogs), Champion in over 20 countries.

to in the future.) Who is the greatest Afghan Hound you

BEST IN SHOW MAGAZI N E

as Basenji. Please name three Afghan Hounds that you wished you owned/bred. These can be any dogs in any point of

M EET T HE B REED · AFG HAN HOUND

history. I have to name 5 : Xandali Izabeau Of Boanne, Karakush Irresistable U, Blue Shah Of Grandeur, Applause Majic Show and Kyros von Katwiga.

if you can’t walk properly anymore, you have to find a handler for your dogs. But you can do something for your dog’s condition and fitness. Our dogs walk with us every day for at least 1 hour , even though we have a big property. As everyone knows Afghans can get lazy

What do you wish all judges knew about the Afghan

quickly, they need active exercise. A weekly bath is also

Hound before judging them?

essential to be successful in the ring.

That Afghan Hounds are sight-hounds, hunters and

The purpose of dog showing was (and should still be) to

athletes. They are not a huge toy breed that only needs

evaluate and “show off” breeding stock, do you think for

coat! Look through all the hair, when you judge them,

some breeders/owners it is becoming more about ribbons

go not “over them , go “through them”!!! They need

and rankings?

muscle, substance and strength, without being spongy or clumsy, or ribbed without muscle. Pay attention to the unique gait. Don’t be dazzled by long, swinging masses of hair, they don’t make the special gait.

I can’t speak for other breeders, I don’t know what their goals are. For myself, I have remained true to my lines and goals for 37 years now. Almost all of my litters go back to my first litters. Unfortunately I was not so

Would you rather show at specialties or all breed shows?

happy with outcrosses in the past. We now have the 7th

Please give reasons for your preference.

SBIS Ch.Generation bitches at home. All lived and die

In the past it was of course the specialties, but unfortunately the number of entries has gone down so dramatically that we have almost the same number of entries here at specialties as at all breed shows. Then it is of course more interesting to compete in the group/

here in our home. Of course, you want hard work to be recognized, and that happens in our sport through victories and rankings. Official rankings in this sense have never existed in Germany, I don’t know for what reason, I’m not sure if this one has any disadvantages...

BIS competitions at all breeds shows. Of course there are

What are your future goals/wishes in the sport of

still the few outstanding special shows, like Skokloster,

pedigree dogs?

Donaueschingen, which should be a must for every lover of the breed.

The last two pandemic years were very hard for all of us, of course also for the dog world. I hope that we can all

There is no denying that the standard of presentation of

get back to normal, but maybe this has shown us all that

dogs across North America is very high, do you feel that

there is no substitute for health, that it is still a hobby

sometimes the grooming is taken too far?

that it is meant to be enjoyable and something that most

I think grooming in Russia is overrated, I think in the US everything is nowhere near as professional as it used to be. I always say nobody can do anything for their age,

of us do in our spare time. I hope that it is once again primarily about the love for the dog, without wanting to detract from the professional work of the really good, loving handlers.

BEST IN SHOW MAGAZI N E

BE S T I N SH OW MAGA Z I N E

M E E T T H E BR E E D A F GH A N H OU N D

WITH

TARA Richardson Please tell our readers how you got involved in the world of pedigreed dogs, the Afghan Hound and dog shows. I got involved in the world of dogs through my mom. She showed horses and when she

SUNLIT

moved from her parents’ house, she got

AFGHAN HOUND

Moms kennel name and I proudly carry it

involved in the dog world. Sunlit was my on in my own kennels. My main breeds are the Afghan Hound and Chinese Crested, but I am also involved in the world of Poodles. I have owned, bred, and shown the Standard and Toy Poodle varieties.

BEST IN SHOW MAGAZI N E

MEET T HE B REED · AFG HAN HOUND

Where did you get your foundation Afghan Hounds and what breeders do you work with today?

don’t understand the finer points of our breed. How have Afghan Hounds changed since you first started

I got my foundation Afghan Hounds from Gunilla

showing and breeding. This can be in quality and or

Holmgren of Kingsleah Sweden. My foundation bitch

presentation. Do you think the breed has changed for the

was GCh. Kingsleah Fire Queen. I also imported the

better or worse?

male Ch. Kingsleah Always On My Mind who is a son of the world famous Svinto aka Multi Ch. Kingsleah Blue Star, world winner & BIS-3 at the World Show in Milan 2000. I work with my dear friend Alicia Morrison Jones of Sunset Afghan Hounds here in the USA and Karin Hessling of Abrias Afghan Hounds in Germany.

I think they have changed from how they were in the past, even before I got started in the breed. There was a lot more lift in their movement in the past and they came off the ground a bit more. I was always taught by breeders that this was the correct movement. When I first got involved in the breed, I did not see

Which Afghan Hound breeder or breeders do you respect

that movement very often. I believe this movement is

most, anywhere in the world?

coming back into the breed.

Gunilla Holmgren of the Kingsleah kennels in Sweden for sure. I also have great respect for Gene and Shelly Vaccaro of Charter Oak Afghan Hounds here in the USA and Julie Roche of Qamari Afghan Hounds. Who was your mentor in the breed when you started out and do you still have mentors today? For Afghan Hounds my mentor was Lisa Bettis. I am a firm believer that you never stop learning, and I always welcome mentoring from those I respect in the breed. As we know hair is the icing on a perfectly constructed cake, and Afghan Hounds are known for having beautiful long, flowing hair. Do you feel that patterned Afghans are overlooked because they cannot compete in the hair department, or do you believe a good dog can win patterned or un-patterned? I believe that a good dog can win patterned or unpatterned at specialties, but I the patterned dogs are overlooked at all breed shows as some all-breed judges

BE S T I N SH OW MAGA Z I N E

From the outside of the ring looking in there appears to be

shown the number one Afghan Hound in the breed last

a great variation in type around the world in the Afghan

year, best of breed at this year’s Westminster Kennel

Hound ring, would you agree? Is there a country where

Club, won the Breeders Cup, finished a litter with all

you believe the quality of Afghan Hounds is especially

speciality wins, and bred multiple best in show winners.

strong?

Please mention some of your most successful dogs that

I would disagree. I think Australia has a bigger dog, but their breed standard size is bigger. Overall, I think type is pretty much there anywhere you go. You might go to some shows where the entry is not as beautiful, but when I go to specialties, I think the breed is doing well. I think the breed is especially strong in Europe right now.

have been owned or bred by you. I’m going to start with the Afghan Hound that started my line GCh. Kingsleah Fire Queen. Not only was she a successful dog in the show ring, but she was also a champion in the whelping box. Tindra gave me what I have today. She produced my home bred multiple BISS

An Afghan Hound is referred to as the “King of Dogs”.

and BIS GCHG Sunlit’s Queen of Everything, Araina

What breed features/qualities make an Afghan Hound

Rose Richardson, aka the Queen, who in turn produced

the king (or queen) in your mind?

MBIS, MSBIS GCHS Sunlit’s King Of Queens. Louis was

It’s their attitude! It comes from the moment they walk into the ring, and they stare through the judge. They just own the ground that they walk on. What is your proudest achievement (so far) in the world of Afghan Hounds? I have been very fortunate to have some amazing achievements in the breed. I have owned, bred, and

BEST IN SHOW MAGAZI N E

America’s number one Afghan Hound in the breed for last year and currently holds the title for this year too, as well as being best of breed at Westminster this year. What is your most favorite show to attend, anywhere in the world and why? I would say the World Dog Show. It is my favorite show because I get to see breeds that I don’t get to see in the

MEET T HE B REED · AFG HAN HOUND

USA. I get to see all kinds of dogs from so many breeders

evaluate and “show off” breeding stock, do you think for

in all the breeds that I love. I tend to lean towards the

some breeders and owners it is becoming more about

European dogs for my Afghan Hounds and Chinese

ribbons and rankings?

Crested. Do you judge? Currently I do not judge, but maybe someday. Please name three Afghan Hounds that you wished you owned or bred. These can be any dogs in any point of history. MBIS, MBISS Ch. Fabelhaft Zoot Suit, MBIS, MSBIS Ch. Pahlavi Puttin’ On The Ritz, and MBIS, MSBIS GCHP

Yes, I do. I also believe that AKC allowing judges to campaign dogs and continue to judge is a real problem. I think this is causing a decline in the numbers in our sport. What are your future goals/wishes in the sport of pedigreed dogs? To continue what I am doing and always try to better the breed.

Agha Djari’s Fifth Dimension Of Sura. What do you wish all judges knew about the Afghan Hound before judging them? I wish they would just let them be the king that they are in the ring and not expect a push button show dog all the time. Understand that they are a sight hound, they like to gaze off into the distance and stand there and stare right through you. Would you rather show at specialties or all breed shows? Please give reasons for your preference. I would rather show at specialties because getting the nod from breeders is very important to me as a breeder. There is no denying that the standard of presentation of dogs across North America is very high, do you feel that sometimes the grooming is taken too far? Some days yes, some days no. I have not seen it too extreme really. The purpose of dog showing was (and should still be) to

BE S T I N SH OW MAGA Z I N E

M E E T T H E BR E E D A F GH A N H OU N D

WITH

SANDY Frei Please tell our readers how you got involved

STORMHILL AFGHAN HOUND

in the world of pedigreed dogs, the Afghan Hound and dog shows. I was nearly born into the breed. My mother, Gini Withington, got her first Afghan when I was 3. His name was Koh-i-Baba UD. He was the first Afghan in the US to earn an UD. Stormhill was originally started by my stepfather Bill Withington and was originally a German Shepherd kennel. I did show in Juniors when I was little but didn’t actually start showing/breeding until after I graduated from college. Needless

102

BEST IN SHOW MAGAZI N E

MEET T HE B REED · AFG HAN HOUND

to say my number 1 mentor was my mother. As far as

of entering the breed at the height of it’s popularity.

other breeds go, I have co-owned, co-bred and shown

Shows were fun. Lots more social back then. Much more

whippets on a limited basis.

discussion of dogs and pedigrees. Club meetings were

Where did you get your foundation Afghan Hounds and what breeders do you work with today?

well attended and many times there would be a featured speaker. You just don’t see that today. We are living more in a show and go type of sport. So many people

My foundation Afghans go back to my mother and

don’t even know the pedigrees behind their dogs. Of

stepfather’s original dogs. Their first Afghan was CH.

course, I think dog shows in general have been greatly

Stormhill Silver Dream who was out of CH. Crown Crest

affected by the pandemic shutdown.

Taejon. Silver Dream produced a daughter named CH> Stormhill San Dhal/ Dollie was bred to CH. Shirkhan of Grandur. Out of that litter came CH. Pandora of Stormhill. Pan was the top winning Afghan Hound in the breed when she retired with 5 BIS. She also went of

As we know hair is the icing on a perfectly constructed cake, and Afghan Hounds are known for having beautiful long, flowing hair. Do you feel that patterned Afghans are overlooked because they cannot compete in the

to be a top producer. All my pedigrees go back to her. Currently, I would have to say that probably the most influential dog in my pedigrees is CH. Pahlavi Puttin on the Ritz “Taco”. Taco was owned and bred by Karen Wagner, Pahlavi. Which Afghan Hound breeder or breeders do you respect most, anywhere in the world? There are a number of breeders that I respect and have admired worldwide. I am choosing not to answer the question in case I leave anyone out. Who was your mentor in the breed when you started out and do you still have mentors today? My mother. Growing up I was surrounded by so many great breeders because of my mom’s involvement followed by my involvement in the breed. I think we can always learn from each other. Any good breeder has to be open to new ideas. When I was first involved with the breed I had the good fortune

BE S T I N SH OW MAGA Z I N E

103

hair department, or do you believe a good dog can win

you believe the quality of Afghan Hounds is especially

patterned or un-patterned?

strong?

It’s interesting that you ask that question. It has always

We do still have some good breeders here. However,

been harder for a patterned dog to win under a licensed

there are also good breeders in Chile, Scandinavia,

all breed judge vs a breeder judge. I don’t think many

Germany, Italy, Russia, Japan and Australia.

all breed judges were well educated on the fact that a patterned dog should be judged the same as a coated dog. Interesting enough, our national specialty this year had far more patterned dogs entered than I had seen in recent history. How have Afghan Hounds changed since you first started showing and breeding. This can be in quality and or presentation. Do you think the breed has changed for the better or worse?

An Afghan Hound is referred to as the “King of Dogs”. What breed features/qualities make an Afghan Hound the king (or queen) in your mind? To me the most important part of our standard is in the first paragraph under General Appearance. Afghans were bred to be independent hunting dogs. An Afghan that exhibits the qualities of a “king” or “queen” is one that stands on his/her own. There is a pride about the dog. They look through you not at you…as the standard

Afghans have changed. There are some nice dogs being

says “eyes gazing into the distance as if in memory of

shown. However, I don’t think we are seeing the depth

ages past”. They are a balanced dog and are supposed

of quality that we saw back in the 60s, 70s, 80’s and 90s

to move with their head and tail held high.

early 2000s. From the outside of the ring looking in there appears to be a great variation in type around the world in the Afghan Hound ring, would you agree? Is there a country where

104

BEST IN SHOW MAGAZI N E

What is your proudest achievement (so far) in the world of Afghan Hounds? There has been a number of achievements. I would say to have been able to have continued to carry on the

MEET T HE B REED · AFG HAN HOUND

Stormhill name and tradition of breeding top quality

Stormhill’s Sweet Dreams of Raffica. I would say the

Afghan Hounds. To have bred and co-bred multiple

strength of our breeding program as been in our

specialty, Best in Show winners and champions. I need

bitches. The bitch that has had the most influence in

to mention the people that I have been involved with

recent years was CH. Calais Spitfire of Stormhill.

that have helped carry on the Stormhill tradition. They are my good friend and kennel manager Terri Vanderzee, her mother Mary Offerman (Mahrani),

What is your most favorite show to attend, anywhere in the world and why?

Denise Schwebke (Calais) and my ex-husband David

The Afghan Hound Club of America national specialty

Frei. As a judge, to have judged our National twice,

show, Westminster KC, The AKC National Championship

judged and Westminster twice and to have had many

and Crufts.

special assignments judging Afghans worldwide.

Do you judge?

Please mention some of your most successful dogs that

Yes. There have been a number of great Afghans I have

have been owned or bred by you.

had the pleasure of seeing over the years. If I had to pick

BIS and SBIS CH. Stormhill’s Who’s Zoomi’n Who, BIS, SBIS CH. Stormhill’s Silver Star,BIS, SBIS Gold GCH.

one I would pick CH. Pahlavi Puttin of the Ritz “Taco”. Please name three Afghan Hounds that you wished you

BE S T I N SH OW MAGA Z I N E

105

M EET T HE B REED · AFG HAN HOUND

owned or bred. These can be any dogs in any point of

Unfortunately, there isn’t enough mentoring or

history.

encouraging of new owners in the breed. Sadly, we have

CH. Shirkhan of Grandeur, CH. Pahlavi Puttin on the Ritz, CH. Kabik’s the Challenger and CH. Mecca’s Falstaff

a breed that has lost it’s popularity. We don’t see a lot of new people coming into our breed. I think this is for a number of reasons. Afghans aren’t for everyone. They

What do you wish all judges knew about the Afghan

are a large breed that require a lot of coat care. They

Hound before judging them?

need a large fenced in area to run in and covered areas

How to examine an Afghan. How to look through coat when they are moving. Would you rather show at specialties or all breed shows? Please give reasons for your preference? Specialties. Definitely specialties as you generally will have higher quality entry of dogs to judge.

in case of bad weather. What are your future goals/wishes in the sport of pedigreed dogs? I will continue showing in conformation. However, and the pandemic may have played a part in it, :I have to admit showing in conformation isn’t as important to me as it once was. I enjoy doing other things with our

There is no denying that the standard of presentation of

dogs. I have been participating in agility. I have found

dogs across North America is very high, do you feel that

it to be very challenging because of their independent

sometimes the grooming is taken too far?

nature. Some of the other aspects of the sport I have

Afghans have had many exceptional breeder-ownerhandlers over the years and still do today. As far as grooming goes I have seen dogs that have been beautifully groomed and presented and I have seen

participated in are coursing, FAST CAT, Obedience and Rally. I have also done Reading With Rover and for several years I worked with special needs kids with one of our dogs. That was very rewarding.

so many scissored, shaved, and dyed Afghans over

As for judging, I don’t plan on applying for any other

the years. The Afghan is supposed to be shown in it’s

breeds. I am fine judging the breeds I am currently

natural state. However, realistically not all dogs are

licensed to judge…Afghan Hounds, Whippets and Junior

born with a natural saddle or clean face. Top breeders

Showmanship.

and handlers know how to groom this breed to make them look natural. The purpose of dog showing was (and should still be) to evaluate and “show off” breeding stock, do you think for some breeders and owners it is becoming more about ribbons and rankings? I do think in many cases it is all about the win.

106

BEST IN SHOW MAGAZI N E

BE S T I N SH OW MAGA Z I N E

107

MONTGOMERY by

RINGSIDE CLICK

RI NGS I D E C L I C K · MONTG OMERY

110

BEST IN SHOW MAGAZI N E

RI NGS I D E C L ICK · MONTG OMERY

BE S T I N SH OW MAGA Z I N E

111

RI NGS I D E C L I C K · MONTG OMERY

112

BEST IN SHOW MAGAZI N E

RI NGS I D E C L ICK · MONTG OMERY

BE S T I N SH OW MAGA Z I N E

113

RING SIDE CLICK

MORRIS &ESSEX by

RI NGS I D E C L I CK · MORRIS & ESSEX

BE S T I N SH OW MAGA Z I N E

117

RI NGS I D E C L I C K · MORRIS & ESSEX

118

BEST IN SHOW MAGAZI N E

RI NGS I D E C L I CK · MORRIS & ESSEX

BE S T I N SH OW MAGA Z I N E

119

RI NGS I D E C LICK · MONTG OMERY

120

BEST IN SHOW MAGAZI N E

RI NGS I D E C L I CK · MORRIS & ESSEX

BE S T I N SH OW MAGA Z I N E

121

122

BEST IN SHOW MAGAZI N E

BE S T I N SH OW MAGA Z I N E

123

The wonderful world of

Allison

Believing that you should always do what you love, Allison Foley became a professional handler in 1987. She has been presenting Canada’s (and the world’s) top dogs ever since. With more than 550 All-Breed Best in Shows, she was proud to have been highly awarded at such prestigious shows as Crufts, the World Dog Show, Westminster Kennel Club, and the AKC Invitational. She has also had top dog all breeds in Canada on three separate occasions. All three dogs are still record holders. In addition to her wins as an all-breed handler, Allison has spent more than thirty years perfecting the art of presenting one of the dog world’s most difficult breeds to master--the Poodle. Today, she is internationally recognized as one of the world’s most talented and experienced Poodle handlers. Allison has presented seminars on grooming Poodles all over the world. She is also the creative educational advisor and specialist for Chris Christensen Systems. Allison has proven that hard work, dedication, and passion can take you everywhere in this wonderful sport. In 2017, she launched Leading Edge Dog Show Academy, the world’s first online dog show training school. Her mission is to help mentor a new generation of dog show enthusiasts through innovative video-based grooming and handling lessons. LEDSA has won the award for best online education each year since it’s inception. Allison looks forward to working with enthusiastic students as they perfect their skills on the way to the winner’s circle.

The show must go on! by Allison Alexander

At dog shows we all know some dogs win and some dogs have to lose. Everyone you meet has a different opinion as to why. Once you have been in the sport a while you learn that the world of show dogs is subjective. This can make it very difficult for new people in our sport. It can also make it difficult for people that have been in our sport for a very long time. Recently I had a question come to me in a webinar Q&A session where a dog lover wanted to know what did it mean to “critically examine” your dog. To look at our dogs through someone else’s eyes and critically examine them is a very important skill. However, I would like to rephrase it as “constructively examining” our dogs. This means that we are completely honest with ourselves about our dogs’ strengths and weaknesses. For most this simply means when compared to the standard. I personally think that this needs to include not only conformation and structure but also grooming, conditioning, and presentation. Why does this matter they asked? No matter how a dog excels conformation wise if they are not groomed properly or in the proper condition it can be difficult for the judge to truly see the qualities of the dog. Remember that the judge has less than a minute to evaluate a dog is in the ring. This is the time allowed subtracting the marking of the book, handing out the awards, and marking off armband numbers. These are all the tasks a judge does in their allotted time to judge an entry.

BE S T I N SH OW MAGA Z I N E

125

T HE W O ND ERF UL WORLD OF ALLISON

If the judge cannot accurately assess a dog’s conformation because the dog doesn’t know how to be presented for the exam or doesn’t know how to move it can be attributed to the fact that they are judging what is in front of them on that day, and more precisely at that moment. They cannot see how brilliantly your dog moves 20 minutes after judging is over. This is why I include showmanship, conditioning and grooming when I am constructively examining a dog. Think about how we observe our children or friends every day, we may not notice growth or subtle changes. Yet if we go away for even a week those changes become more noticeable. When we see them again, they look like they’ve grown taller, or their hair has gotten longer. The same goes for our dogs as they mature and change. They can go through coat change; their coat can grow thicker and longer depending on the breed. They can go through a physical change as they mature. Many different things can happen but often we do not notice these things. We are more apt to see our dogs through rose-colored glasses. This quality makes it difficult to understand why a judge may have put up our dog one time and not another. Changes in structure, grooming, and presentation can be assessed through photographs. The problem is often we get photos from a show where we were trying to win. By then it is to late to make an assessment. I enjoy getting photos and will often take a marker and trim my dog with the marker so that I can imagine what those changes would look like. It is also valuable to get feedback from people who you like and trust. This may be your mentor or someone whom you consider an expert. It is always very important for me to take constructive criticism from people I trust with a grain of salt. However, even if I don’t agree with what they have seen I will at least try to figure out why they mentioned it. What did they see? What was it that bothered them? Even if I don’t think that something is an issue, I do try to assess why someone would mention it. Knowing your breed standard is different from reading your breed standard as you must have a clear vision of what that breed standard means to you. What does it look like in your mind’s eye? What does the ideal specimen of your breed look like? I say this because if you don’t know exactly what you want your dog to look like how will you get there? By getting there I mean how will you recall the ideal dog? Whether it is in breeding, conditioning, grooming or presenting you must have that ideal firmly visualized. It seems that there are many people that have read the breed standard but don’t have a clear vision of their interpretation. This is similar to trying to bake a chocolate cake but you have the wrong ingredients. You want to get there but you don’t have a recipe for doing it. When you examine your dog’s conformation you need to be aware of common problems in your breed. It is even more helpful to be aware of common misconceptions about your breed. Now you must understand and acknowledge if your dog possesses that trait or not. If it does not make sure your grooming and presentation are not adding faults

126

BEST IN SHOW MAGAZI N E

T HE W O ND ERF UL WORLD OF ALLISON

where none exist. An example; Poodles are often criticized for having bad fronts. When I’m grooming and presenting my Poodles, I am always aware that this is something that could be at the forefront of a judge’s mind. Especially if the judge is not from my group or not a breeder judge. I make sure that my grooming, presentation, and conditioning are the best to make my Poodle’s front look as good as it is. I am always sure that my grooming and presentation do not detract in any way. Once we have critically examined our dog’s conformation to the breed standard, I like to critically examine my grooming. Many times, our dogs are better than their grooming. Too much coat can actually create faults. Think about the times you have seen too much coat on the sides of front legs. This can make your dog look like it is out at the elbows, wide in the front, etc. Similarly, toplines with too much coat look may look high in the rear. There are many more examples. Also be aware of your dog’s color and how markings can create optical illusions. Markings can look like faults. This is something to be aware of when you are critically examining your table breed. Breeds that are judged on the table are there for about 10% of the time when they are in the ring, yet we examine their grooming on the table almost 100% of the time. Look at your table dogs and their grooming on the ground from the judge’s perspective. This is where the judge is looking at them 90% of the time. Be sure to when it comes to grooming to always move your dog several times during a grooming session. Make sure that the coat isn’t doing something distracting when they are moving. Again, this is where I like to take photos of my dogs and mark them where I would like to trim them. I like to use a vision board to create the correct look--the perfect specimen of my breed. Another thing to think about is constructively evaluating your handling skills. Many people move their dogs much too fast. It is much more difficult to see how your dog is moving at the wrong speed. Stacking fronts too far forward is also a common handling error. This results in the front angulation looking generally steeper than it may be. Examine photos of you stacking your dog. Even better is a short video from your Smartphone to see how you are showing your dog in the ring. Were you creating faults in the ring? Watching a video is a great way to improve your handling skills. Of course, it depends on if you are willing to evaluate your own handling constructively and critically. The most important thing and the hardest to understand is training your eye. To help with this you need to educate yourself on the breed standard, the essence of type, and correct movement, and then you should be able to evaluate your dog in a group. I always like to find three good things about every dog that I compete against. Virtues are much more important than faults. When I find the virtue in other dogs that I am less familiar with it helps me to understand the faults and virtues of my own dogs. This helps me improve my skills whether it is with showmanship, grooming or breeding. Try to understand where your dog is lacking compared to your competition. Then be honest and know where the competition is lacking compared to you. This is the first step on your road to success where you can concentrate on where your dog shines and what you can do to make them look outstanding I hope you use a few of these tips. Go forward. Compete. Have fun with your dog and until next time happy handling.

F ROM “ O H ” L E A S H

STEFANIE Beckwith-Kirkland Stephanie, thank you for taking the time to participate in the interview. Please tell our readers how you got involved in the world of pedigreed dogs, and what breed of dogs you have shown over the years, your kennel name, and its meaning. Thank you for the interview. My mother introduced me to purebred dogs, and we now have three generations in my family involved in the sport: my mother, myself, and my daughter, Alex. The breeds I have shown are Affenpinschers, English Toy Spaniels, and Pekingese. Our kennel name is Xela, which is my daughter’s name spelled backwards. Where did you get your foundation dogs in your main breeds and what breeders from the sport do you work with today? Our Affenpinscher foundation was from England. Our English Toy Spaniel bitch foundation was from Doug Johnson and Jamie Hubbard from Clussexx, and Jerome Elliott has been an amazing mentor with English Toy Spaniels. My first Pekingese was from Beth Ferrier and she has been an unwavering mentor to me. I also have been the recipient of mentorship from Diane Burvee, Susan Shepard, and Hiram Stewart.

BE S T I N SH OW MAGA Z I N E

131

What is your most favorite show to attend, anywhere in the world and why? My favorite show is Orlando for the AKC National Championship. I had airline tickets and a hotel reserved for the World Show in Madrid, but Covid cancelled all those plans. A world dog show is on my list to attend. Would you rather show at specialties or all breed shows? Please give reasons for your preference. All breed. I love to compete in the all-breed dog shows. I enjoy group competition and have many close friends with other breeds that I enjoy learning about. Do you compete as an owner-handler and what is your greatest win so far? I have competed in the owner-handled competition in the past and have won several owner-handler Best in Shows. I do not currently compete in owner handled. What do you consider your highlight in the showing, so far? My highlight in showing has been my Best in Shows! I have won BIS with an Affenpinscher, my bred-by English Toy, and two different Pekingese male specials. Please mention some of your most successful dogs owned or bred by you. Affen Ch. Induna Oliver Twist, Indy, who won two BIS; ETS GCHB E.T. Phone Home, Elliott, who won three BISs

I believe this part of dog shows is a wonderful addition for exhibitors. The purpose of dog showing was, and should still be, to evaluate and show off breeding stock, do you think for some breeders and owners it is becoming more about ribbons and rankings? Absolutely. How do you feel competing with professional handlers? Is it always a level playing field?

and four RBIS, Pekingese GCHB Sunrise Dragon Nikola,

I like competing with professional handlers. I have

James Bond, who won four BIS, five RBIS, and 29 group

several very close friends that are professionals. They

1 wins, and Pekingese GCHB Greyport Endeavour, Ping,

eat, live, sleep, and breathe dog shows, and work daily

who has won three BIS, three RBIS and select dog at the

with their dogs to be able to present them at the highest

PCA National.

level. The dedication is - and should be - evident.

132

BEST IN SHOW MAGAZI N E

BE S T I N SH OW MAGA Z I N E

133

F RO M “OH” LEASH

Therefore, as an owner, I must put the same amount of effort in order to be able to compete at their level. I watch and try to learn from the professionals. Many professionals have clients that can provide extensive ad

and friendships. Is there any advice you would like to give to professional handlers, owner-handlers, and judges?

campaigns which is not an option for me. Level playing

For professional handlers the key is to maintain the

field--life is not a level playing field.

highest level of integrity and sportsmanship. I would

What are your hobbies outside of the world of dogs?

advise owner-handlers to work hard to present your breed to the correct breed type, train your dog, groom

Nursing. I am a cardiology RN. I love helping people and

your dog, be a student, and keep educating yourself. I

have been working at a hospital for over 25 years.

appreciate judges who are pleasant and courteous to

Do you judge, and if not would you like to judge some day?

exhibitors. I have been involved in purebred dogs my whole life, and many judges fail at the exam on the table with a Pekinese. Please review proper table exam

No, I do not judge and am not really interested in it in

procedures with toy breeds, and please use a gentle

the future, either. I love my dogs and the competition

touch.

134

BEST IN SHOW MAGAZI N E

BE S T I N SH OW MAGA Z I N E

135

TWO ICONS by Mary Marshall

The AKC National Championship Presented by Royal Canin will bring thousands of dogs of every breed, owners, and handlers back to sunny Orlando, Florida, for a fun-filled week of competition in a wide array of events ranging from conformation, obedience, agility, dock diving, barn hunt and more. There is an event to participate in for every breed of dog and their owner at the AKC National Championship which will be held December 12-23. The Orange County Convention Center will host the event which is the largest dog show in the U.S. Top canine athletes from throughout the country will compete in the Best Bred-by-Exhibitor competition, the AKC National Owner-Handled Series Finals, AKC Royal Canin National All-Breed Puppy and Junior Stakes, and the NADD/AKC Dock Diving. Junior events will be featured in each division including the AKC Agility Invitational and AKC Obedience Classic.

136

BEST IN SHOW MAGAZI N E

BE S T I N SH OW MAGA Z I N E

137

TW O I C O NS · A KC NA TIONAL BY ROYAL CANIN

The breed competition will take place on December 18-19. The judging for Sporting, Hound, Toy, Non-Sporting and Junior Showmanship will be held on Saturday followed by the judging for the Working, Terrier, Herding, Miscellaneous and Best in Show on Sunday. The spotlight will be on puppies in the Junior Stakes, which is a competition that was uniquely created to feature purebred dogs aged 6-18 months—specifically puppies 6-12 months and juniors 12-18 months of age. The event presents an opportunity for breeders and exhibitors to showcase their breeding program and focus on the stars of tomorrow. All AKC registered and miscellaneous breeds are open to compete in the event. The idea for a national championship dog show originated in 1926, and as stated in the AKC Sourcebook, “AKC felt that the dog fancy should participate in a national celebration of the nation’s sesquicentennial (1776-1926).” The Sesquicentennial Show (nicknamed the Sesqui back in the day) was held in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania from September 30 through October 2. It was the largest exhibition of purebred dogs in the country and the first show to be held by the AKC. The English contribution from across the pond had a definite influence on the Sesqui ranging from the spelling of “catalogue” to the contribution of an antique silver cup that was awarded to Best in Show from the English Kennel Club. A great deal of the participants made a living importing

138

BEST IN SHOW MAGAZI N E

purebred dogs including the well-mustachioed British dog man Percy Roberts, who showed the imported Sealyham Terrier, Pinegrade Perfection, to victory that year. The number of entries was impressive considering the modes of transportation available which were primarily train and early automobiles. There was an amazing 2,899 entries from 75 recognized breeds on hand for the show. There were 1,244 breed trophies awarded for such detailed categories as weight and color combination, the state where an owner lived, or memorial tributes. There were numerous awards for two of the most popular breeds at the time—92 for the Boston Terrier and 48 for the Pekinese. The Boston Terrier categories were especially unique offering trophies for such categories as Best Ring Manners, Best Lightweight, Best Middleweight and Best Heavyweight. One lucky Boston Terrier even won a trophy for being the Best Boston from Brooklyn! Fast forward to 2001 when the inaugural National Championship was held in Orlando and initially called the American Dog Classic. During the first year the show was devoted to conformation only, but as the interest grew and dog sports evolved more events were added to the festivities including obedience and agility. By 2019 the show had added the AKC Royal Canin All-Breed Puppy and Junior Stakes and the North American Diving Dogs Championship, and AKC Juniors Classic to the roster. A record number of competitors accounting for 5,000 dogs from 49 states and 21 countries competed for the national

T W O I C O NS · A KC NATIONAL BY ROYAL CANIN

championship titles. The 2019 edition was the largest dog show ever held in the United States and the largest in North America with 11,008 canines competing in all the different events. The Bichon Frise, Ch. Special Times Just Right! nicknamed JR was awarded Best in Show honors in 2001. Orlando was the site for the 2002 edition of the show with the legendary Kerry Blue Terrier, Ch. Torum Scarf’s Michael, Mick, winning Best in Show. In 2003, the show was held in Long Beach, California when the Norfolk Terrier Ch. Cracknor Cause Celebre, Coco, was the judge’s choice for BIS. In 2006 two shows were held in Tampa, Florida—one in January and the other when the venue was changed to December. There were two Best in Show winners that year—the Alaskan Malamute Ch. Nanuke’s Snokclassic No Boundaries in January and the English Springer Spaniel Ch. Felicity’s Diamond Jim in December. The Whippet has the most BIS wins for any breed at the National Championship with GCHP Ch. Pinnacle Tennessee Whiskey taking top honors in 2018 and GCHP Ch. Pinnacle Kentucky Bourbon in 2020. The 2020 edition of the AKC National Championship did not have spectators on-site at the show due to cautionary measures surrounding the Covid-19 pandemic. The attendance was limited to exhibitors, which included handlers, assistants, and owners, judges, production crew and event staff only. Safety requirements were required as well including wearing masks, checking temperatures, social distancing and a show and go policy to keep people from congregating.

This year spectators are welcome, but the AKC will require that face masks (covering the nose and mouth) are to be always worn inside the facility, regardless of vaccination status, unless someone is eating or drinking. For those who are competing in the show, the AKC requires that all exhibitors are required to sign a Covid-19 waiver upon entering the convention center regardless of vaccination status. The Covid-19 guidance of the CDC will be followed by the AKC along with local, state, and federal requirements. The AKC National Championship Groups and Best in Show, Best Bred-by Exhibitor and BBE Groups, NOHS Groups and Finals, Puppy and Junior Stakes Groups and Best in Stakes, Junior Showmanship Finals, Agility, Obedience, and Rally will be offered as a free livestream on AKC. tv and will remain available on demand. The show can be downloaded on the AKC mobile app and can also be viewed on the AKC tv website. ABC will also air the event at a later date. For more information, please visit www.akc.org/ nationalchampionship. “Each year, it is our honor to host the top canine competitors from around the world, as they display their athleticism across our sports,” said Dennis Sprung, Show Chairman, and President and CEO of the AKC in an interview. “We are thrilled to televise our signature event on ABC, where dog enthusiasts across the country can learn more about dog sports, responsible breeders and witness the crowning of America’s National Champion.”

BE S T I N SH OW MAGA Z I N E

139

142

BEST IN SHOW MAGAZI N E

BE S T I N SH OW MAGA Z I N E

143

144

BEST IN SHOW MAGAZI N E

BE S T I N SH OW MAGA Z I N E

145

146

BEST IN SHOW MAGAZI N E