Dog News, January 21, 2011 by Dog News

Editorial

Connie’s Comments

Inside Out

BY CONNIE VANACORE BY JOHN MANDEVILLE

Contents JANUARY 21, 2011

22 Question Of The Week BY MATTHEW H. STANDER

26 Brace Yourself BY ANDREW BRACE

30 The New Home of The AKC/Eukanuba National Championship! BY MICHAEL CANALIZO

34 Bests Of The Week 38 Ten Questions BY LESLEY BOYES

46 Letter From Sweden BY ROBERT PAUST

50 The Fancy Speaks BY MARY BRADLEY

54 Cardigans Are Not Lap Dogs! BY MJ NELSON

92 dog show calendar

58 The Kennel Club of Palm Springs

94 handlers directory

62 Another Piece of the Chinese Puzzle

98 classiﬁed advertising

BY PETER KUBACZ

BY DESMOND MURPHY

66 Crown Classic in Cleveland: 18 Acres of Dog Show BY SHARON SAKSON

68 The British Scene BY GEOFF CORISH

70 Off The Leash BY SHAUN COEN

72 AKC - A Regulatory Body, Three Books And More BY MATTHEW H. STANDER

82 The Gossip Column BY EUGENE Z. ZAPHIRIS

84 Click – Dachshund Club of America BY SIDNEY STAFFORD

88 Click – The Way We Were BY PERRY PHILLIPS

4 Dog News

96 subscription rates 100 advertising rates

All advertisements are copyrighted and owned by DOG NEWS, Harris Publications, unless received cameraready. Permission to reprint must be requested in writing. DOG NEWS (ISSN 0886-2133) is published weekly except the last two weeks in December by Harris Publications, 1115 Broadway, New York, N.Y. 10010. Periodical Postage paid at New York. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to DOG NEWS, 1115 Broadway, New York, N.Y. 10010

Editorial

Connie’s Comments

Inside Out

BY CONNIE VANACORE BY JOHN MANDEVILLE

Contents JANUARY 21, 2011

22 Question Of The Week BY MATTHEW H. STANDER

26 Brace Yourself BY ANDREW BRACE

30 The New Home of The AKC/Eukanuba National Championship! BY MICHAEL CANALIZO

34 Bests Of The Week 38 Ten Questions BY LESLEY BOYES

46 Letter From Sweden BY ROBERT PAUST

50 The Fancy Speaks BY MARY BRADLEY

54 Cardigans Are Not Lap Dogs! BY MJ NELSON

58 The Kennel Club of Palm Springs BY PETER KUBACZ

62 Another Piece of the Chinese Puzzle BY DESMOND MURPHY

66 Crown Classic in Cleveland: 18 Acres of Dog Show BY SHARON SAKSON

68 The British Scene BY GEOFF CORISH

70 Off The Leash BY SHAUN COEN

72 AKC - A Regulatory Body, Three Books And More BY MATTHEW H. STANDER

82 The Gossip Column BY EUGENE Z. ZAPHIRIS

84 Click – Dachshund Club of America BY SIDNEY STAFFORD

88 Click – The Way We Were BY PERRY PHILLIPS

4 Dog News

92 dog show calendar 94 handlers directory 96 subscription rates 98 classiﬁed advertising 100 advertising rates

Dog News 5

DOG NEWS COVER STORY - JANUARY 21, 2011

GCh.Saks Hamelot Little Drummer Boy

PUBLISHER

STANLEY R. HARRIS EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

EUGENE Z. ZAPHIRIS CREATIVE DIRECTOR

SEAN KEVIN GAFFNEY ADVERTISING MANAGERS

SHAUN COEN Y. CHRISTOPHER KING ACCOUNTING

STEPHANIE BONILLA GENERAL TELEPHONE

212 807.7100 x588 FAX NUMBER

212 675.5994 FAX EDITORIAL SUBMITTAL

212 243.6799

EMAIL ADDRESS

dognews@harris-pub.com WEB ADDRESS: www.dognews.com SUBSCRIPTIONS

IAN MILLER 212 462.9624

In October 2009, Texana Top Dogs, LLC and Cecilia Ruggles, established the winning combination of a top handler, respected breeders, experienced owners and one exceptional dog! This winning team proved to be recipe for greatness. Drummer and handler, Scott Sommer, hit the ground running, with limited showing that started the end of October 2009, Drummer ﬁnished #7 Bichon, we knew 2010 would be even better. Drummer’s exceptional breed type and love for the ring started turning heads everywhere he went. With only one year of campaigning, Drummer ﬁnished 2010 as #1 Bichon all-systems, Multiple Best In Show & Best In Specialty Show winner and #4 non-sporting dog in the country**. Drummer was also a group winner at the prestigious Morris & Essex Kennel Club and the Eukanuba World Championship dog show. We look forward to an even better year in 2011. Thanks to all the judges that have acknowledged Drummer and his entire entourage. Go Drummer!

*All Systems **The Dog News Top Ten List - All Breed

6 Dog News

CONTRIBUTING EDITORS Sharon Anderson Lesley Boyes Andrew Brace Agnes Buchwald Shaun Coen Carlotta Cooper Geoff Corish Allison Foley Yossi Guy John Mandeville Desmond J. Murphy M. J. Nelson Robert Paust Sharon Sakson Gerald Schwartz Kim Silva Matthew H. Stander Sari Brewster Tietjen Patricia Trotter Connie Vanacore Carla Viggiano Nick Waters Seymour Weiss Minta (Mike) Williquette DOG NEWS PHOTOGRAPHERS Chet Jezierski Perry Phillips Kitten Rodwell Leslie Simis Paddy Spear

DOG NEWS is sent to all AKC approved Conﬁrmation Judges every week on a complimentary basis. No part of this publication can be reproduced in any form without written permission from the editor. The opinions expressed by this publication do not necessarily express the opinions of the publisher. The editor reserves the right to edit all copy submitted.

Dog News 7

8 Dog News

Dog News 9

IT TOOK GUTS FOR SURE

The bold and strong moves recently taken by The Kennel Club in the UK with regards to ensuring a dogs health and wellbeing have been further extended starting with the Crufts 2012 show. The latest announcement that dogs of 15 ‘high profile breeds’ who win best of breed there and at all general and group championship shows thereafter in the UK will need to be given a clean bill of health by the show vet before their awards are confirmed and before they are allowed to continue to compete at the show was made. In addition, before the championship title of any dog or bitch within these breeds can be confirmed, the dog will have to undergo the same procedure at a group or championship show. AKC, through its Board Chairman, announced at the January Board meeting that it “has no plans to impose such a policy”. The environments that exist in our two countries insofar as these two registries are concerned and in their reactions to outside public pressures are different indeed. Practically the likelihood of dogs in either country failing these examinations is in the opinion of these pages remote as both breeders, exhibitors and judges certainly in America are eminently aware of the particular problems the show vets have been instructed to look for which include signs of ectropian, entropian, corneal damage, dermatitis, breathing difficulty on moderate exercise, lameness and skin disorders. The intent is not for the show vet in any way to act as a show judge of conformation nor to exclude dogs for aesthetic reasons or because of exaggerations alone. Whether this will be the case remains to be seen. The breeds named are the Basset Hound, Bloodhound, Bulldog, Chinese Crested, Chow Chow, Clumber, Dogue de Bordeaux, French Bulldog, German Shepherd, Mastiff, Neapolitan Mastiff, Peke, Pug, Shar-Pei and St. Bernard. Specifically the Crested has been singled out and the vet told to look for skin damage arising from hair removal! Certainly this overall move will make people think more about a dog’s health but if they are being made solely due to the pressure of the animal rightists the concerned constituent must sit up and take notice. Not that we must reject automatically all agenda of the ‘ar’ers’ but it’s our obligation to promote and benefit the organization --the AKC and the dogs involved therewith. If there are legitimate concerns that some of these breeds suffer from health issues why not investigate the breeds at the breeding level or early on in their show careers. Why wait for the championship level? Does this kind of an attitude bring the entire hobby of dog showing into disrepute or does it strengthen it? Which is better in your view--a kennel club which reacts with little or no prior advanced notice in these areas or one which does not seemingly react at all.

THE SHORTENED JANUARY BOARD MEETING

It took a snowstorm--not the big blizzard of December to reduce the January Board meeting from two days to one day. Perhaps all Board Meetings should be so reduced as the Minutes reflect that as much was accomplished in one day as usually is accomplished in two days. The reported figures at this meeting indicated that at the year-end there would be an overall increase in entries for AKC events leaping over the 3 million mark by 14,000 dogs. Indeed this fact was confirmed due to the

increase of 9% in Agility in a later press release. The new Grand Champion title assisted by increasing Best of Breed entries by over 40,000 which equated in terms of dollars to 1.2 million dollars extra for Conformation clubs as opposed to the originally projected decrease in BOB entries of 9,000. That’s extra money for everyone but still leaves a void in the minds of these pages as to what the true meaning of the title really is. In addition two shows held classes for 4 to 6 month competitions--increases in entries of course with more money but a new stress on younger dogs for sure. Is there no concern for the welfare of the dog in these instances? It astounds logic to extend dog shows to this age group without any restrictions being placed on the number of times such a youngster may be exhibited or ﬂown from show to show. And to further extend the philosophy of rewarding anyone and everyone no matter the quality of the dog or the competition by adding 5th and 6th place group ribbons was approved in certain instances. More points--more monetary rewards and less of an emphasis upon quality is the prevailing attitude right now for this Board. Just think had there been no snowstorm and a two-day meeting held, a Reserve Reserve Best in Show could have been added to the newly approved Reserve approved the ﬁrst day. Next thing you know we’ll have a separate Dachshund Group and join FCI!!!

THE CANDIDATES SPEAK MOST GENERALLY

The Delegates Quarterly Meeting is faithfully reported in the GAZETTE and contains in its past issue the speeches given by the seven candidates running for the Class of 2015 which election, as most of you know, will be held in March. Four of the seven people running are pretty well known to these pages so the motivating factor in reading the speeches of the comparatively unknown individuals was to gain an insight into their backgrounds and philosophies. The three labeled as unknowns by these pages are Delegates Amen, Burgess and Smyth. Without taking a stand on any one individual these pages learned the most about Delegate Amen by what he said and was reported. He was forthright and speciﬁc about his business background for sure, which read most impressively. A positive factor for him, particularly with the expected loss of Chairman Menaker due to the terms limits amendment next year. The other two speeches were extremely general so that hopefully the DIRECTORS QUESTIONNAIRE to appear in DOG NEWS will shed more light on their backgrounds and philosophies. Once again it is too bad that the Questions and Answers asked by the Delegates of all candidates at the Forum held the day before the meeting are unrecorded as it would have been an interesting learning experience to read how these people handle themselves extemporaneously to say nothing of what they really think. Comment is deliberately withheld about the speeches of those four people known well by the dog community at large since it would be unfair to show any real preference at this stage of the campaign. Let’s read the Questionnaire ﬁrst, which hopefully will go a long way in deciding who if anyone to support for the Class of 2015.

THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK

There is a concerted eﬀort to crackdown on Internet vet pharmacies. Particularly is this true in the UK where the British Veterinary Association there, according to the DVM, will approve in April of 2011 websites which will be legally allowed to dispense and supply veterinary medicines. There is little doubt that in the US there is concern that all pet owners could inadvertently buy counterfeit medicines online as well. Everyone is urged to seek advice from their vets in this matter and to make sure the right drugs are bought and administered correctly. Overseas companies particularly may have the reputation of selling medicines that look genuine but are placebos at best and dangerous at worse. Be careful that’s our thinking for sure!

Editorial JANUARY 21, 2011

10 Dog News

Dog News 11

12 Dog News

Dog News 13

Connie’s Comments A new year. The start of new adventures. It’s not that I believe in throwing out the old year with “good riddance.” Actually, it was a good year, and I leave it with fond memories and with regrets for the changes new ventures will inevitably bring.

eing an AKC Delegate for over 30 years has given me perspectives that few have been privileged to witness. Changes both within and beyond the organization, its constituents and its beneficiaries, have shaped how we think about things. My decision to give up my Delegate seat was a difficult and sad one for me. The heartfelt send-off I received from my club, the Irish Setter Club of America, and from Delegates, officers and the Board of AKC gave me memories I will always treasure. I have regrets for the separation that distance in time and space among friends brings to those who have grown close over the years. I look ahead with determination not to lose what I have treasured until now. That takes work far beyond any New Year’s resolutions. Those are usually discarded with the first recycling day of the calendar year. It takes more than an occasional email greeting. To hold close those we hold dear despite distance, time and preoccupations requires a real commitment. It’s easy to allow a birthday, an-

niversary, graduation or holiday to slip by unnoticed. My calendar book marks as many of those occasions as I can recall, but inevitably some slip by. There is always a sense of guilt and regret. But then one thinks, what if that person has passed on? That would be worse than not acknowledging their existence at all! And then one thinks, lives change, circumstances evolve. Maybe it’s not important to someone to receive a greeting once a year. Occasionally one receives a returned card, “address unknown.” That is a clear indication that I have fallen down in my good intentions during the year, and so have they. If it is someone important to me, I try to locate them. But then I think, “I am not important enough for them to send me a card,” so I put it aside, shuffle it around from place to place, trying to decide whether I really want to know why my card was returned. Leaving an all-consuming life of almost half a century is a monumental thought in itself. But then comes the realization that something should be done with all the “stuff” one has accumulated in closets, drawers, cabinets and shelves. It reminds me of the great routine the comedian, George Carlin, used to give on moving one’s “stuff” from one house to another. For people who are constantly on the move, as many Americans are, shedding one’s belongings is no big deal, but when you stay in one place for more than half a century, it becomes a different matter. For some, leaving it all to the “kids” is an inviting option, but is that fair? Who gets to pay for the dumpster? Fortunately, retirement is not all about shedding one’s skin, like a snake. It is not really even about changing lifestyles (horrible word that!) It is hopefully widening one’s perspectives, finding new things of interest to engage the mind, while keeping the essential things in mind. It is my intention to appear at AKC’s important events and perhaps attend a conference or a dinner or the Eukanuba shows and Meet the Breeds in New York and Florida. Those are good times for reunions. I look forward to seeing friends and acquaintances there. Perhaps I’ll even get to write that book that Matt and Gene keep talking about! In relinquishing my Delegate’s column, I realize that every writer has his or her own style of communicating. There will be no Monday-morning quarterbacking from this corner. I do hope, however, that as a Delegate - writer, my successor, if there is one, will remember that in the governance of AKC there is no strict separation of church and state. If you are a Delegate, you are expected to support AKC’s goals and ambitions. There may be differences of opinion on how to achieve those goals, but a Delegate is not expected to be the opposition at every turn. A Delegate represents his or her club, but that person also represents the American Kennel Club and at critical times must

{

“Fortunately, retirement is not all about shedding one’s skin, like a snake. It is not really even about changing lifestyles (horrible word that!) It is hopefully widening one’s perspectives...”

}

convey the positions of the organization to its constituent members. Delegates do not make ﬁnancial or management decisions for AKC. Those are matters assigned by law to the Board of Directors and the staﬀ. We have heard too much lately about the role of the Delegates from people who would very much like to replace those in charge by turning the governance of AKC topsy turvy. It is my opinion that the passage and upholding of the term-limits law by the Delegates will be the worst possible decision ever made. It was passed without reason in an atmosphere of acrimony. Or, one might say, “Act in haste and repent at leisure.” As the opening salvo of Connie’s Comments, I hope the term limits clause will be revisited and repealed. It is my prediction that former incumbents will be re-elected in March, thus again disproving the statements that AKC needs “new blood” on the Board. This column is open to anyone who wishes to voice an idea, put forth a thought or suggestion, compliment or complaint. All are welcomed. •

BY CONNIE VANACORE 14 Dog News

Dog News 15

16 Dog News

*C.C. System

Dog News17

WESTMINSTER 2011, READY OR NOT

Out A

h, self interest. When your ox isn’t being gored, so to speak, reasons to ﬁnd out what’s going on are greatly reduced. Meaning we made no entry for this year’s Westminster and therefore while aware there would be an “Alternative Benching Format” because of construction, what it would actually mean for exhibitors wasn’t a personal concern. Come what may we were going to be there – without a dog. By way of full disclosure half of this household wants to show at the Garden every year. I, on the other hand, want to exhibit every year winning a ribbon looks like a good bet… …such glib comments, and others like it, come virtually unbidden whenever I write anything. That one misrepresents my opinion of Westminster. Westminster is The Dog Show. Count me among the overwhelming majority in the fancy who want nothing more than having a winner at the Garden… and when that’s been accomplished we’ll take another and another after that – and, of course, you can’t win if you don’t show. So I’m very much in favor of entering Westminster every year. You take your chances – you never know. Still, with Westminster 2011 bearing down on us – most readers will see this with less than three weeks until the weekend kicks off – it was past time to ﬁnd out what the impact of the renovations

underway would be. Oh and here’s a gratuitous crack I’ll gladly apologize for, if warranted, come Westminster 2012 or some year thereafter: The renovations underway will improve the Garden, probably significantly. Still, the building’s basic “bones” are what they are – making it a virtual certainty the benching and grooming areas will be as crowded as ever next year, if not more so, since Westminster has asked for patience “during these next few years of rebuilding.” Ouch. What 2012 and beyond hold are anyone’s guess. To find out what to expect this year I read what Westminster included in its premium list and looked at what was posted on its website. Then I did the smart thing: I called Dave Frei and asked him what to expect. The patience Dave showed while I asked him for all practical purposes the same question in slightly different ways multiple times has to give him a leg up for sainthood. Please note: Anything that follows which turns out to be inaccurate or wrong about this year’s Garden is solely my fault. I freely admit I have long believed the least stressful way of exhibiting at Westminster – winning and losing aside – is to have a professional handler take your dog. The corollary to that belief for exhibitors taking their own dogs is: Get there early. Really early. Crack of dawn early. Before the Garden is even open, no matter if this means trudging out of your toasty hotel room in the dark, after a weekend of late hours and/or too much alcohol. That raises another critical piece of advice worth repeating every year for everyone attending Westminster, especially out-oftowners: be prepared. Make that: BE PREPARED in all regards. Bring more clothes of all weights than you can possibly imagine using – February 14th’s average high in Central Park is 41 with a low of 28, which are mere guessing guidelines for February 14-15, 2011. Remember, too, the average New York City hotel room in February is drier than the Sahara. I’m not recommending you turn the shower on and let it run the entire time you’re in your room but I’ve been told by someone who’s been to many more Gardens than most it’s the only way to get a little moisture in the air, unless you bring a humidifier.

his year’s premium list states, “Dogs are received only… (at the usual entrance on 33rd Street)… beginning at 6:00 A.M.E.T., each morning.” Far be it from me to tell you what time to queue up, but if you get in line at 6AM Monday or Tuesday, it will be approximately 50 minutes until the sun’s official rise, to say nothing of the certainty you will be nowhere near first in line… but it’s likely worth it. The reality of this year’s Westminster makes being in the building at the earliest possible time a given. That’s true for professional handlers, but they’re pros and will in many cases be in the building over the weekend setting-up, something Monday’s exhibitors would also be well advised to do, if at all possible. “Alternative Benching” means exhibitor areas are designated by Group, e.g. there are defined areas for each Group, but that’s it: First come, first served and no saving space for anyone. We can expect Westminster, with the usual assistance of the PHA, to have the “alternative benching areas” fully manned from the get go – and hopefully everyone understands cooperation is a necessity. Dog people, who can be impressive when they have to be, should more than rise to the occasion. So, who thinks exhibitors will so love being able to crate and groom their dogs in the same place they will beg Westminster to continue it every year hereafter? •

{

}

“The reality of this year’s Westminster makes being in the building at the earliest possible time a given.”

BY JOHN MANDEVILLE 18 Dog News

Dog News 19

20 Dog News

Dog News 21

Question ofthe Week As a Veterinarian and showgoer what is your reaction to the edict of The Kennel Club in the U.K. that at Crufts and at all subsequent championship shows all breed winners in 15 designated breeds (including pugs, bulldogs, german shepherds, basset hounds and pekingese) must be declared healthy by the event’s vet before their award is confirmed and they can compete in the group or best in show? Specifically, the event’s veterinarian is to look for “clinical signs of pain or discomfort, such as breathing difficulties, skin disorders, eye damage and lameness.”

BY MATTHEW H. STANDER 22 Dog News

Joe Kinnarney The core root of dog shows is to evaluate breeding stock. I personally find it rare for a show dog breeder to use blatantly unhealthy dogs in their breeding program. My experience has been that no one is more interested in producing healthy pets and show dogs than the breeders themselves. A cursory exam by a veterinarian ‘post breed-win’ is not going to unveil issues that may crop up later in a breeding program. Organizations like the Canine Health Foundation that seek out participants for genetic testing of breeding stock for disease carrying genes is the route to go, on a voluntary basis. As a Veterinarian, I personally think it is inappropriate to have a veterinarian routinely examine a dog after the dog won a breed. If a competent judge has found a dog to be sound enough to win a breed, then a veterinarian should not be put in a place to be certifying that judge’s opinion. David Qualls This is the first I have heard of this recent K.C. rule change. Regardless of how ridiculous it sounds, this comes as no surprise with the Kennel Club’s recent history of virtually stumbling over itself in a rush to bow down and succumb to the whims of any and all critics of the sport and pure bred dogs in general. Serious competition at Group and even breed level is no longer dominated by the uninformed Novice or the casual exhibitor, yet the Kennel Club sees an apparent need to treat their entrants like children. If a dog demonstrates any evidence of the serious maladies posed in this question, heaven forbid that first of all the owner would choose to exhibit the dog, but most of all that the Judge would not be qualified or confident enough to decline sending that exhibit on to further competition. It does not require an advanced degree to determine whether or not a dog is

fit for competition and you cannot legislate common sense. Don Schwartz I think this is a ridiculous requirement. Think of all the problems a dog can have that a physical exam will not find. Examples are epilepsy, thyroid disease, early hip dysplasia, PRA. This list of possibilities is endless. Are the veterinarians going to dilate the eyes to check the retinas and then expect the dogs to show well? We must trust the breeders and exhibitors to show animals without underlying health problems. Fran Smith I think this is a good idea with the following caveats: the evaluating veterinarian would have to be familiar with ring procedures, grooming products and unique gait characteristics for the breeds being evaluated. It is relatively simple to assess breathing difficulties with minimal equipment in a show environment but it would be difficult given the lighting conditions at many shows to assess either past or ongoing eye issues. It is very unlikely that a dog with a skin condition will be presented at a championship show. Lameness is also very difficult to assess unless the dog has a non -weight bearing lameness or makes an obvious effort to reposition his luxated patella on the down and back gaiting pattern. A number of breeds have unusual gait characteristics i.e. the characteristic Bulldog shuffling, sideways motion “the roll” which could be considered a lameness if encountered in a different breed. The motivation for this health assessment is appropriate and even if difficult to apply will encourage exhibitors not to exhibit dogs with obvious defects. It could lead to a more comfortable life for many show dogs. CONTINUED ON PAGE 90

Dog News 23

24 Dog News

Dog News 25

Veterinary Examination Mandatory for 2012 Winners

Brace Yourself

InarecentKENNELGAZETTEtheChairmanof the KennelClubbasedinLondonannouncedthat,asfrom2012, alldogsinfifteen“highprofilebreeds”whowinBOBatCrufts andallgroupandgeneralChampionshipshowsthereafter, andallinthosebreedswhowinthreeChallengeCertificates, thusrenderingthemeligiblefortheirChampionship,aretobe subjecttoa“clinicalassessment”bytheshow’sveterinarian beforeitcancontinueinfurthercompetition.

he fifteen listed breeds are: Basset Hounds, Bloodhounds, Bulldogs, Chinese Crested Dogs, Clumber Spaniels, Dogues de Bordeaux, French Bulldogs, German Shepherd Dogs, Mastiffs, Neapolitan Mastiff, Pekingese, Pugs, Shar Pei and St. Bernards. It is unclear at this point exactly what will be the show vet’s brief but I assume that they will be wishing to ascertain that the examined dogs can move soundly, have clear and healthy eyes, have no breathing difficulties and mouths that cause no discomfort. This announcement is the latest move by the Kennel Club to be visibly placing health and fitness in show dogs at the top of its list of priorities. Few judges would object to having a vet check over their BOB winner as surely we are all convinced that the dogs we award top honours are sound, fit and healthy. Likewise no winning exhibitor would feel that their dog was anything other than compliant with all the requirements. However, where the waters may become muddied is if a vet should decide that a dog is deficient in some respect. What happens then? Clearly it will be prevented

BY ANDREW BRACE 26 Dog News

from appearing in the group, but what happens to its Challenge Certificate? Is it automatically disqualified? In that event will the Reserve CC then be vetted and asked to compete against the Opposite Sex winner under the breed judge and a new BOB declared which is in turn vetted? Details maybe, but details that need to be clarified. The people involved with the fifteen listed breeds may feel that they are being unfairly targeted in this move towards ultimate fitness. If their dogs need to be vetted, why shouldn’t all BOB winners? Certainly most of us can recall witnessing lame dogs competing in groups which did not come from the “high profile” breeds, so should they really continue to compete unchallenged? If nothing else, Mr. Irving’s latest announcement will result in judges thinking long and hard about the nuts and bolts of the dogs they judge and not allowing themselves to be swept away with the niceties of breed type, no matter how beautiful a dog may be. Since the whole health and fitness thing kicked in post PDE (that infamous television programme) there has been concern expressed in various quarters that the obsession with the basics would result in a downward turn in the standard of judging in that some elements of breed type would be ignored. Although it has only been a few years I cannot see that this has been the case. We still regularly see dogs that are essentially typical, but are also sound, fit and healthy, competing in our group rings. Presumably the list of fifteen breeds has been arrived at because the powers that be after long consultation have been convinced that certain physical problems have been identified and need addressing. Many of the people involved with these breeds have accepted that perhaps breed type has over the years become rather exaggerated, and these exaggerations have brought with them health issues. Responsible breeders are now addressing these issues and the results are being seen. Breeders and judges alike are more conscious than ever that our show dogs need to be happy and healthy. It is to be hoped that the veterinary profession appreciates the efforts they are making and work with them. How the “clinical assessment” works in practice remains to be seen. •

GCh. Jamelle’s Aristocrat V. Elba THE BEST IN SHOW WINNING SAINT

MULTIPLE GROUP WINNER AND MULTIPLE SPECIALTY WINNER LOOKING FORWARD TO LEAPING FROM THE SNOW TO THE SHOWS

Shown being awarded Best of Breed at the New England St. Bernard Specialty by Specialty Judge Mr. Robert Bostrom

Shown being awarded a Group Third under Judge Ms. Sharol Candace Way Proudly Owned By: Eddie & Linda Baker Elba Saints

Handler: Melody “Snooki” Salmi

Breede By: Michele & Jack Mulligan Jamelle St. Bernards Dog News 27 2

*The Dog News Top Ten List

28 Dog News

Dog News 29

What do you call a world class facility in one of the world’s most famous tourist destinations?

The New Home of the AKC/Eukanuba National Championship!

t’s been a thrilling ride for the AKC/Eukanuba National Championship, which has grown in a decade to one of the sport’s most illustrious events . The challenges of a “Special Event Attraction” such as the National Championship are perpetually evolving. There are many logistics to consider at every stage. The intent was to be able to have the show rotate on each coast with some regularity. The show moved from coast to coast between two different Florida locations and the Long Beach Convention Center. It was successful for the first five years, but that concept became increasingly difficult as there were only a handful of suitable venues that could accommodate all the elements required to host the event. It was getting increasingly apparent venues of this ilk were always in demand to host some of the country’s highest profile events and our unique dates were not always available. The formula of securing a multi year agreement in a top venue for the competitions had merit. Early on the AKC had the groundwork laid by Michael Sauve who, as the Field Rep in Florida, kept abreast of the expanding Orange County Convention Center as it grew and grew into a state of the art facility with over 2,000,000 ( two million) square feet of exposition space. Sauve and Diane Albers, of the Central Florida KC, would carefully monitor the facility’s progress and let me know exactly when to make a formal proposal. In mid-2008, I began to actively pursue securing this amazing facility to host the “AENC” ( AKC/Eukanuba National Championship). The idea of making Orlando our new home went from wishful thinking to reality in the summer of 2008. At the end of 2008, the team of Sauve, Albers and Canalizo were dealt a devastating blow with the sudden loss of Diane Albers. Michael and I met with the three local breed clubs (the Space Coast KC of Palm Bay, the Central Florida KC and the Brevard KC) and their officers : Linda Rowell, Pat Minton, Glenda Stephenson, Edna Corney and Betty Page, who collectively supported the vision Diane had of bringing the AENC back to Florida during their week of shows. Subsequent meetings at the site were held in June of 09 and the decision to move forward was made. The day after this pivotal gathering the call that Michael Sauve had a fatal heart attack came to our offices. The loss of another major force behind the project was indescribable. But…with the help of these very capable ladies and their hard working members, we managed to stay focused on the plan. The City of Orlando was genuinely enthusiastic to host the event. Some of the drawbacks were swiftly remedied. The City would make special arrangements to allow RV’s to remain overnight on city owned property, many of the host hotels would allow well mannered show dogs in their rooms and our dates could be secured with an extended, multi-year contract. Being able to obtain a long term agreement in a city that could make claim to millions of daily visitors to their area would be key to an event’s success in gaining a large public audience. This also offered the principles security in knowing their event dates would be consistent. It allowed for long range initiatives

BY MICHAEL CANALIZO 30 Dog News

to be put into action and it would give our constituents a place to call home for a few years, which after five consecutive years in Long Beach we realized, did have its advantages. The event will now have over 650,000 square feet of exhibition space. That nearly triples any of our previous venues in space allotted. There are four major hotels that abut the convention center. Each hotel offers more than 800 rooms each. Actually, what that represents is….any one of these hotels singularly is larger than all four hotels we had available to us in Long Beach combined. These hotels are first class hotels that are making great exception to host our exhibitors. Each hotel is within walking distance and all of them have covered walkways that access the convention center in case of inclement weather. What is unique for this venue is that new technology in constructing arena style seating will allow us to build an arena to accommodate over 7,000 spectators for the televised evening events is now possible. Joining the existing events of the week will be the addition of DJAA (Dog Judges Association of America) hosted seminars over the days of events. This event will have activities for every facet of the sport during the week long festivities. Look for all of the different activities’scheduled dates and times as the event date nears. Our time in Orlando is secured from 2011 to 2015 and from all the comments being generated I think the fancy is looking forward to sharing our activities with the public in this new and invigorating undertaking. •

Dog News 31

*All Breed Points, All Systems

32 Dog News

Dog News 33

BESTS of the WEEK

Greater Daytona Dog Fanciers Tampa Bay Kennel Club Bichon Frise GCh. Saks Hamelot Little Drummer Boy Judge Mrs. Robert Forsyth Judge Mrs. Vicki Abbott Owners B. Weidner, L. Darman, K. Grifﬁn, C. Ruggles Handler Scott Sommer

Corpus Christi Kennel Club I Pharaoh Hound Ch. Northgate’s As You Like It Judge Mrs. Peggy L. Lloyd Owners Jennifer Mosing, Jenny Hall & Annica Lundqvist Handler Brian Livingston Merrimack Valley Kennel Club - Sunday & Monday Whippet GCh. Starline’s Chanel Judge Dr. James Sillers Judge Mrs. Carol T. Murray Owners Carey & Lori Lawrence Handler Lori Wilson Northern Neck Kennel Club of Virginia Greater Fredericksburg I Affenpinscher GCh. Banana Joe V Tania Kazari Judge Mrs. Peggy Dillard Carr Owners Zoila Truesdale & Mieke Cooymans Handler Ernesto Lara Clearwater Kennel Club Boxer Ch. Winfall Brookwood Styled Dream Judge Mr. Norman L. Patton Owner Debbie McCarroll, Mrs. Jack Billhardt & Sergio Tenenbaum Handler Diego Garcia Chesapeake Kennel Club of Maryland - Sunday Scottish Deerhound Ch. Foxcliffe Hickory Wind Judge Mr. Whitney Coombs Owners Sally Sweatt, Cecilia Dove and Robert S. Dove DVM Handler Angela Lloyd

JANUARY 21, 2011 34 Dog News

Greater Lowell Kennel Club I & II English Springer Spaniel GCh. Cerise Signature of Telltale Judge Mrs. Patricia Mowbray-Morgan Judge Mr. Thomas Baldwin Owners Dorothy Cherry & Rosemary Fugit Handler Meagan Ulfers Sammamish Kennel Club - Monday Irish Water Spaniel GCh. Poole’s Ide Got Water Judge Mr. Chuck Winslow Owners Stacy Duncan, Colleen McDaniel, Cathy Shelby and Greg Siner Handler Stacy Duncan Greater Fredericksburg Kennel Club - Saturday Australian Shepherd GCh. Equinox Ad Astra Judge Mrs. Carol K. Noe Owner Courtney Bell Handler David Stout Golden Triangle Kennel Club of Mississippi - Saturday Mastiff Ch. Lazy D’s Bonnie Blu Judge Mrs. Murrel Purkhiser Owners Nancy Walker & Colette Livingston Handler Colette Livingston Northern Neck Virginia Kennel Club - Thursday Great Dane GCh. Lobato’s Jitterbug Man Judge Mr. Charles Olvis Owners Mary Ellen Thomas, Joy Lobato and Glenda Cole Handler Marie Somershoe Kennel Club of Buffalo Irish Terrier GCh. Sugarbush’s American Girl Judge Mr. Robert E. Fetter Owners Thomas R. and Diana Miller Handler Alison Sunderman

{

To report an AKC All Breed Best In Show or National Specialty Win Call, Fax or Email before 12:00 Noon Tuesday Fax: 212 675-5994 Phone: 212 462-9588 Email: Dognews@harris-pub.com

}

Dog News 35

NOT JUST ONE OF THE BUNCH BUT “TOP”BANANA The Number One Affenpinscher All Systems Number Five* Among All Toy Breeds 2010

Owner Mrs. Zoila Truesdale Hi-Tech Kennels Breeder & Co-Owner Mieke Cooymans Handler Ernesto Lara 36 Dog News

Judge Mrs. Murrel Purkhiser

*The Dog News Top Ten List

Dog News 37

10 QUESTIONS ASKED BY LESLIE BOYES OF:

Polly & Bob

Smith

Born: Bob - Charlottesville, VA Polly - Howard County, MD Reside: St. Stephens Church, VA Length of partnership - 50 years

38 Dog News

What year did you start showing dogs and what breeds were they?

Bob: 1960 - German Shepherds. Polly: As an adult in 1960 German Shepherds; as a child Chow Chows.

Which dog no longer being shown would you liked to have shown or owned?

Bob: The English Foxhound, Winslow shown by George Alston. Polly: Winslow the English Foxhound George Alston showed; he was stunning.

Why do you think most people want to judge?

Bob: For most, it’s probably an extension of the ego trip they were on when showing their dogs; for some it’s a means of continuing in the sport to which they have devoted a large portion of their lives. Polly: Ego, and they feel that will do a better job then anyone else can do.

Who are your non-dog heros or heroines exclusive of immediate relatives?

Bob: Thomas Jeﬀerson. Polly: The Men & Women who serve in our Armed Forces.

If you could change one thing about your relationship what would it be?

Bob: That we had it all to do over again (knowing everything we know now). Polly: Nothing.

How would you describe yourselves in personal ads?

Bob: Old, worn-out honky. Polly: Fun-loving and likes the outdoors.

Do you think there are too many dog shows?

Bob: Yes. Polly: No , but I do think we are getting to that point. No one makes you go to a dog show, or judge them.

Which are your three favorite dog shows?

Bob: AKC-Eukanuba, Montgomery County, Westminster and the one I’m judging next week. I know, that’s more than three, so sue me. Polly: AKC Eukanuba, Louisville Cluster, Chicago International.

Do you think there should be a limit on the number of times a dog may be exhibited in a year?

Bob: No, but I do think handlers and exhibitors could use better judgement in this matter. Polly: No that should be left up to the owner.

How do you react to people ﬂying in and out of shows on the same weekend?

Bob: I think they’re abusing their dogs, but I don’t think it’s an issue in which AKC should involve itself. Polly: I think it is dumb if they can aﬀord to do it. It is harder on big dogs than little ones unless you have your own plane.

ULI

She Can Play Any Role Judge Mrs. Robert D. Smith

Judge Ms. Beverly Capstick

Judge Mr. Jon Cole

Owners: Joan L. Fisher Robert D. Speiser Barbara Wolfe

CHIC# 69674

Handler Extraordinaire! Phoebe J. Booth 203 938-0226 Dog News 39

Absolutely Smooth when Smooths gather you don’t need more than a Peek...

Adam is

America’s Number One* Smooth Fox Terrier Number Two** Among All Terrier Breeds and Number Ten** Among All Breeds 2010 Multiple All Breed Best In Show & Specialty Winner

Ch. Slyfox Sneaks A Peek Owner J. W. Smith

Breeders Joan & Mark Taggart

Absolutely Smooth Fox Terriers *Breed Points, All Systems **The Dog News Top Ten List

40 Dog News

Handlers Edward & Lesley Boyes Grass Valley, California 530.272.4940

Fox Terriers

Judge Mrs. Robert Forsyth

Dog News 41

DogNews

The Digest

Of American Dogs

The Deadline For The Westminster Kennel Club 2011 issue of Dog News, which publishes on Friday, February 11, 2011 will be Friday, February 4, 2011 42 Dog News

“Mondo” You are the BEST!

Mondrian

AKC GCH. & CAN. CH. & CKCSC USA CH. Mondrian V.H. Lamslag of Piccadil RE

Flash Back-to-Ba ck Group Firs ts Fitchburg, MA Cluste r under Judg es: Mr. Jeffrey Bazell Mr. Hirosh i Kamisato

Thank you Judges Ms. Sandra Goose Allen and Mr. Thomas Kilcullen for these Group First Wins

Number 9* Toy 2010

National Specialty Winner 2010 Number 1 Cavalier All Systems 2009, 2010 With 15 Best In Shows! And 131 Group Firsts! Multiple Specialty Wins! Shown by Owner-Handler Janet York *C.C. System

Dog News 43

Looking Ahead To 2011 Multiple Best in Show Winning

GCh. Lobatoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Jitterbug Man, HOF Wishes Everyone a Happy New Year!

2010 was A Great Year for a GREAT Dane! Number One Great Dane All Systems 21 Bests In Specialty Show Great Dane Club of America Hall of Fame Great Dane Club of America National Specialty Best of Opposite Sex Under Breeder Judge: Mr. Eric Ringle

Presented by Marie Somershoe -- Thank You! Owner Mary Ellen Thomas Beech Hill

44 Dog News

Breeders Mary Ellen Thomas Joy Lobato

Co Owners Joy Lobato Glenda Cole

“James”

Flash: Starting Out 2011 with Four Group Firsts and a Best In Show!

Dog News 45

Letter from

Sweden It was the beginning of the summer of 1969, when I walked into Tall Pine Kennel and asked one of the scout leaders from troop 155, for a summer job. Having known each other already he gave me a job, working in the kennel.

BY ROBERT PAUST 46 Dog News

BOB CLYDE

Ric Chashoudian always talked about learning by coming up from the trenches, but with Bob Clyde we learned how to make the trenches. The basic care and upkeep of dogs was where you started. Water, feeding, cleaning, exercising was the first thing you learned. With over 100 boarding dogs during the summer you learned quick. Grooming of course was done on the premises, teaching simple procedures as brushing and bathing, then going on to trimming, clipping and finishing work. The first breed he taught me to trim was a Bouvier. We had, at that time 4-5 in the kennel and several that would come for show grooming. Of course there were many terrier breeds coming in and out of the trim room. The first day I was there I saw and fell in love with Dandie dinmonts. He had a young dog, Diamonds Tweed, he was trimming that became one of his first dogs to handle, when Mr. Brumby finally allowed him to handle dogs. Many Cairns, Westies, Welsh, Norwich, Norfolk, Fox, Airedale came to be trimmed for show or as family dogs. But the dogs were brought there by a wide variety of known Long Island people, Barbara Miller, Sue Weiss, Dick Monnich, Ralph and Gloria Nelson, Kay Murray, Diane La Greca, Richard Diamond, Mike Leonard, and many more looking for Bob’s help and expertise. But Bob was also a person that would help anyone or any club that asked him. When I started there were about 20 Irish terriers in the kennel. Even though Bob started with Standard Poodles, Irish terriers were his love. His Cocksure kennel name is known around the world and is to be found in many pedigrees. He bred and showed them until his untimely passing. He took me to my first show in February 1973. It was the terrier specialties held in the armory, and then to my first Westminster. One of the first things we did at the armory was to go and say hello to Peter Green. That was the first time I met him and did not know that one day I would be working for him. One of the greatest things about Bob was the support he gave us, that worked for him, to move forward. Think he was as proud as I was happy to have that chance to work for Peter. His handling career, when he was granted a license, included some great kennels in their time, Tex Coltan and Sunnys. Many champion were made as well as groups and Best in Shows. I think some of his favorites were the first best with Pretty Queen under Bob Waters and third at Montgomery, under Mr. Kendrick with the Welsh Groveview Jake. He was also nominated for Limited handler of the year, for the then Kennel Review awards. It was Montgomery last year, that would be the last time I would see him. He told me abort the changes in his life within the past year, all for the better. How he was looking forward to coming over to Sweden to stay for a while and to judge at the allbreed show I work with. Unfortunately it will not be so, to add more memories to the long list . It will have to end with me watching him mentor Geir Flyckt-Pedersen and Connie Clark at Montgomery, with his life long love the Irish Terrier. Thanks Bob for helping to give me my life in this world of dogs.•

{

Bob was also a person that would help anyone or any club that asked him.

}

Dog News 47

Buddy ch. cragsmoor

goodman

starts the new year with six group firsts and a best in show a clean sweep montgomery weekend

morris and essex kennel club best of breed breeder-judge mr. walter goodman hatboro dog club best of breed and group second judge mr. desmond murphy devon dog club best of breed judge mrs. charlotte mcgowan group fourth judge mr. david alexander montgomery county kennel club best of breed skye terrier club of america national specialty breeder-judge ms. sandra goose allen 48 Dog News

owners carolyn koch victor malzoni, jr. handlers larry cornelius marcelo veras breeders eugene z. zaphiris matthew h. stander *the dog news top ten list - all breed Dog News 49

The Fancy Speaks “I’m Here For The Dog Show.”

have been working with many, many others on the education of the public and the differences between Animal Welfare and Animal Rights, since AB1634 began. Along the way I have met many wonderful people and very hard workers, ﬁghting to keep our rights to own animals. Below is what a few of them did during the Palm Springs

BY MARY BRADLEY 50 Dog News

Show weekend and the impact I saw with the general public. During the past year spectators and exhibitors of Southern California dog shows have been wearing little yellow stickers. Thanks to Marcie Dobkin and her little yellow stickers stating “I am here for the dog shows”. I just returned from the Palm Springs Dog Show. I was touched by the all the little yellow stickers that I saw everyone wearing. Additionally there were 8 large signs with the explanation written by Judy Kasper and Florence Blecher “...that we are no longer the silent majority...wear the button with pride...” These signs prompted more of the public to ask the superintendant for a little yellow sticker.There were also goldenrod tent pole signs at every ring, written by Kathy Grosso and printed by Julie Bradshaw, stating the list of things that will disappear if the ARs (Animal Rights) have their way…no more horses or dogs in the Rose Parade, no zoos, aquariums, circuses, rodeos, no KFC, McDonalds, no search and rescue dogs, no military dogs, no drug or bomb dogs or therapy dogs….the list was long, inclusive, and very well done. It seems like the tide is turning. The public seemed to be questioning less and in agreement with the sentiment of the signs, stickers and tent pole signs. What an impact a small yellow sticker can have. We should all thank Marcie Dobkin for her little yellow idea. •

â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s eye bull ngs e S p ri th ts lm Pa

Ae ro hi at

Our sincere appreciation to Judge Ms. Maureen A. Day for acknowledging Aero as Best of Breed at the Kennel Club of Palm Springs 2011 Specialty Show.

Can. Ch./Am. GCh. Sevenoaks Footprints on the Moon Owned by: Vanessa & Sam Maynard Bred by: Hilary Oakes Expertly handled, groomed and conditioned by: Carlos Carrizo Assisted by Joseph Washnesky Dog News 51

52 Dog News

Dog News 53

Cardigans Are Not Lapdogs! A recent Animal Planet segment about Cardigan Welsh Corgis ended with a line that called them mainly lap dogs today.

his assertion by the Animal Planet folks was, to put it mildly, greeted with considerable dismay by the Cardigan Welsh Corgi people. “I cringed,” said Susan Stephon, who owns TC (Ch HC MACH) UKC Ch Corwynt Tayken Leo HSAcdx HIAds HXAds MXP MJP (“Leo,”) the breed’s only triple champion, “Onyx” (Am/ Can/UKC Ch MACH2 Hedgerow’s Black Onyx VCD1 PT MXP3 MJP4 PAX XFP) and “Crush” (Ch MACH6 Corwynt Tayken Crished Ice HSAds HIAds HXAds XF.) “My next response was ‘Eek.’ We should all be concerned about that perception. This is a herding dog! It’s not a lapdog! We must maintain the working/herding instinct and ability in this breed. Being a pretty breed specimen is nice but it is extremely important that the breed be capable of performing its historical function which, in this case, is herding. If breeders don’t keep that as a priority then what is the point? A Cardigan that can’t herd is of little value to the breed.” The Cardigan Welsh Corgi is among the oldest of all the herding breeds. They may have CONTINUED ON PAGE 74

{

“Harry” (UAG-1 U-CDX Ch OTCH Bluefox’s Harrison UDX6 VER OM2 RAE NJP NAP TDI VC), Stella Vola’s Cardigan, had some initial problems with focus in obedience because he has a strong prey drive but he was able to learn how to overcome this issue and now is a hard worker every time he enters the ring.

BY M.J. NELSON 54 Dog News

}

“Being a pretty breed specimen is nice but it is extremely important that the breed be capable of performing its historical function...”

Dog News 55

“PLUM”

She’s Ripe For The Winning!

56 Dog News

Judge Mr. Rodney Herner The Number One* Norfolk Terrier All Breed 2010

Ch. Cracknor Cross The Tâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Owners Pam Beale & Beth Sweigart *The Dog News Top Ten List

Co-Owned By Her Breeder Elisabeth Matell

Presented By Roxanne Sutton and Co-Owner Beth Sweigart Dog News 57

TheKennelClub ofPalmSprings T

hanksgiving and Christmas have come and gone, the ball has been dropped, and before we knew it 2010 was behind us. It always amazes me how fast a year goes by. Especially in our high paced world of dog shows. We are always living and planning several weeks ahead of ourselves that before we know it we’ve exhausted our luggage, ourselves, and our dogs; then BAM! The year is over and we start the same process all over again. In keeping with that tradition I decided to expand my horizons. Instead of going on the famous Florida Circuit I packed my bags and headed west for Indio, California to attend the Kennel Club of Palm Springs. Since there were no non-stop flights into Palm Springs, I flew into John Wayne International located in Orange County. For anyone who may decide to fly to the west coast this was a lovely little airport and may provide a decent alternative to LAX. After gathering my bags I proceeded to the rental car terminal which was Along with what seemed like never conveniently located 100 feet from where ending rows of rings, there where 4 exI collected my belongings. In only a few tremely large grooming tents set up on short moments I was off on my 2-hour drive each side of the show with electricity proto the show. vided by large industrial sized generators. I found the drive to be quite lovely,offer- There was also plenty of room for people ing many different views of the mountains, to set up their own EZups, which lined the valleys, and deserts. Something I rarely get whole perimeter of the grounds. Also a to see living out east in New Jersey. With a large completely enclosed tent held over brief stop at In & Out Burger, a west coast 20 different concessions, allowing for effavorite that anyone who loves a good ficient one stop shopping for exhibitors burger must visit, I had reached the show and spectators a like. The food concession site. The show is held at the beautiful Em- stand also offered a wide variety of burgers, pire Polo Club, along with the Kennel Club wraps, salads, and paninis all made fresh in of Palm Springs, which is held on the week- front of you. A pleasant sight from some of ends. There are several specialty clubs and the roach coaches that some clubs have group shows held the Thursday and Friday cater their shows. And for those who like before. The Desert Empire Terrier Club, Toy the “sauce” a cocktail stand was setup ofDog Breeders Assoc., and Sand to Sea Non fering a variety of beers, wines, and spirits. Sporting Assoc.along with 6 other indepen- If none of that interested you the grounds dent specialty clubs had the grounds that also had a tavern, that I had a very lovely day. Friday hosted the same 3 group shows meal at that Thursday evening. plus the Indian Empire Hound Club and 11 However, with the riches come the separate independent specialty clubs. spoils, parking. General parking was locatWith 33 large rings plus 3 more for ed completely on the opposite side of the obedience on lovely, flat, well kept grass, grounds. The motor parking and handler I could see why so many people hold this parking was close but very few vehicles show with such regard. This was Bucks Co. were parked on the grass except for in the on steroids! The weather all four days was unloading area. General parking was quite as equally lovely as the grounds. It was a ways away, though they did offer very between 65 and 70 all four days and the efficient shuttle service to and from the surrounding mountains allowed for a very parking areas along with a valet service cooling breeze making it the most perfect that was very speedy at delivering your car. of dog showing weather. Having just left a snow blanketed state with highs in the 30s, I got much amusement out of the spectators and exhibitors who were wearing heavy jackets as the sun was going down calling it cold out.

{

BY PETER KUBACZ 58 Dog News

“I could see why so many people hold this show with such regard. This was Bucks County on steroids!”

}

Despite the parking distances many of the exhibitors seemed happy unloading their dogs under the grooming tents or their perspective EZups and using the shuttle service to retrieve their cars later. I didn’t get the impression that the parking was a big deal for the exhibitors or John Q public. Having that Thursday “off” allowed me to get reacquainted with my new Irish Setter special and his owners who drove all the way down from Seattle, Washington. I had recently sent the dog home for the holidays after the Invitational in Long Beach so that the owners could have him before we started the new year. He greeted me with his butt wiggling and tail wagging, and after several doggy kisses we went to work preparing for our specialty the following day, which we won with an entry of over 60, a very good start to the new year. Saturday’s event held over 3400 dogs with many of the specialty clubs supporting the entries for the weekend. With over 60 judges on the panel to sort them out this was certainly a dog show! By the time best in show was in the sun was down and the grounds’ stadium-like lights had kicked in. In the line-up we had the Irish Setter Ch. Rosette’s No Stone Unturned, Whippet GCH Starline’s Chanel, Boxer GCH Duba Dae’s Who’s Your Daddy , Welsh Terrier CH Bruhil’s First Lady, Affenpinscher Ch. Banana Joe V. Tani Kazari, Standard Poodle GCH Brighton Lakeridge Encore, and Rough Collie Ch Clarion’s Ribbon In The Sky. Judge Dr. Michael Woods from Canada had the honor of selecting from the stellar line-up, and at 6:50pm the Affenpinscher handled by Ernesto Lara was chosen as the winner. Having a 7:45am flight home on Monday I decided to get a leg up (no pun intended) and drive back to Orange County to find a hotel closer to the airport to avoid a 3am wake up. After a few phone calls I learned that the same Standard Poodle from the previous night’s line-up handled by Tim Brazier was selected by Mr. Jon Cole from Tennessee as Palm Spring’s second winner. I tip my hat to all those involved in making this weekend possible. They went through great strides to provide a great show and lovely grounds where exhibitors showcased their dogs not only to each other but the surrounding public as well. I saw many people walking around with “I’m Here For The Dog Show” stickers on. We must not forget that dog shows were not just created for the fancy, but to also allow the fancy to educate the public in purebred dogs. This weekend was a tribute to that cause and should be emulated by all clubs and show clusters alike. And as this year breezes by as they all seem to do, I just may find myself again back in Palm Springs again in 2012. Everyone, be safe have fun, and have a great 2011 and don’t let it slip by to quickly!

***

*All Systems **The Dog News Top Ten List ***C.C. System

Dog News 59

60 Dog News

Dog News 61

ANOTHER PIECE OF THE CHINESE PUZZLE

Sitting at my desk late on a Thursday afternoon wondering if I was going to be physically able to ﬂy to Bogotá the next day because of a terrible cold - the phone rings. It was a call to see if I could judge the following week in Beijing.

his did not shock me since this happens with assignments in China. The following morning I got another call to see if I could judge for another organization the following weekend to judge in another city. This all seems hard to believe if one is not accustomed to judging in China. My initial reaction was that there was no way I could go or had the desire to go at this late date. When I started to think about it I thought let me see if I can work it out. Betsy Dale was going to be the other judge and I always enjoy spending time with Betsy. My other reason for trying to go was the organizer, Andy Wong, is a good friend to me. Grabbing my passport, I saw my visa for China would expire two days before my departure. Since I was leaving in the morning for Bogotá I would not be able to mail it to the company I use for getting visas until Tuesday and would need it back by Thursday. After calling, “Passports To Go”, they assured me that they could do it that quickly for an extra fee. I also was concerned about the cost of a last minute ticket and if there would be any available seats on the Friday flight. Betsy told me that for cost reasons and not to have to fly in a middle seat she was going to have to have a connecting flight. Stacy Davis of Jack’s Travel checked and the price was not much higher than usual and she could get me an aisle seat. With these two favorable factors I decided I would go. Friday morning I booked the ticket but while in Bogotá I became apprehensive about getting my visa on such short notice. I decided to bite the bullet and go to New York City

{

}

“Grabbing my passport, I saw my visa for China would expire two days before my departure. “

CONTINUED ON PAGE 78

BY DESMOND MURPHY 62 Dog News

Dog News 63

64 Dog News

Dog News 65

CROWN CLASSIC IN CLEVELAND:

18 Acres of Dog Show

When you walk into the International Exposition Center for the Cleveland Crown Classic, the vastness of it takes your breath away. This is one of the biggest convention centers in the world. We’re talking an exhibition hall that is more than 800,000-squarefeet; that’s 18 acres for the dog show. There is so much room that exhibitors spread out their crates and breed fanciers create their own neighborhoods.

{

athy Blatz of Summerhill Dachshunds said,“I find it a very hospitable place. Once you are inside the building, you never have to leave. You can set up your own expens and settle in for the weekend.” She mentioned the relaxed attitude toward bringing your own food as a big plus. If you hadn’t cooked ahead, there were several vendors for meals and other vendors with snacks, like the guy with the big cart selling nothing but roasted nuts, a delicious smell that wafted across his corner of the site. Rebecca Zaun said,“Everyone was pleasant, enjoying the camaraderie. I was with a friend who was showing a Corgi. We didn’t get there until Friday afternoon, and we were still able to find a place with an electrical outlet! That impressed me. We actually ended up with plenty of space for grooming. Also, I was surprised at how quiet it seemed to be. I’m always concerned about the sound level indoors when I’m showing a puppy.” A bonus, she admitted was, “My Whippet puppy got her second major on Sunday!” The snow outside remained stuck on the ground because the temperature never made it past 25 degrees, making for a cold and slippery environment. But the only time we were outside was going to and from hotels. The IX Center took care of all our needs. There were obedience events and agility events going on at the same time, but you never even saw them if you kept to the conformation rings. The rings were huge. I was judging on Thursday, and loved telling the small breeds’ handlers, “Use only half the ring.” The rings were just great for Greyhounds, Ridgebacks, Borzoi and all big breeds, which could really show the judge how they could move. On Thursday, a big snowstorm paralyzed a large swath of the country from Minnesota to Washington, DC. But in a streak of luck not usually reserved for dog shows, the storm dipped south of Cleveland. Exhibitors driving in from Pennsylvania, New York and places East were not affected, while a Skye Terrier exhibitor who showed on Thursday had to pack up and leave Friday to help his wife dig out of the house in Virginia. The weekend began with 2287 dogs entered onThursday, jumped by 400 more for Friday, then up to 3009 for Saturday, and 2881 for Sunday. There was a festive atmosphere, which didn’t necessarily stem from the fact that it’s Christmas. Dog show people gather here for various agendas. Eight of the Top Ten nationally ranked dogs were present because battles for position were raging. The question of who would be #1 dog was still underway, seesawing back and forth between Iris Love and David Fitzpatrick’s Pekingese, Ch. Palacegarden Malachy and Sandra and Howard Hoffen and Phil and Amy Booth’s Smooth Fox Terrier, Ch. J’Cobe Kemosabe Vigilante Justice, known as Dodger. Cleveland was good to Dodger; he went in to the weekend #2 in the country and came out of it #1, after scoring three of Cleveland’s big Bests in Show. 2,000 dogs a day is a lot of points. But Malachy was racking up points in Florida and Pennsylvania, so the battle continued.

“The rings were just great for Greyhounds, Ridgebacks, Borzoi and all big breeds, which could really show the judge how they could move.”

}

CONTINUED ON PAGE 86

BY SHARON SAKSON 66 Dog News

“Kiera”

Group Winning Multiple Group Placing Award of Merit/ Select Bitch – Midwest Specialty Award of Merit/ Select Bitch – National Specialty Best of Breed – AKC/ Eukanuba National Championship 2010

0 - #8 breed* in 4.5 mos.

GCh. SpicerackShe’s AllThat,RN Owner: Cadbury Giant Schnauzers Melisa Davis

*2010 Breed points, All Systems

Professionally handled by: AKC registered handler Rhanda L. Glenn 205-612-0284

Dog News 67

The British Scene A

s we came near to the end of the year, the battle for the top dog spot still lay between Phil Davies Kerry Blue Ch Perrisblu Kennislain Chelsey , and Tom Isherwood and Lee Cox’s Chinese Crested Ch Vanitonia Unwrapped. These two had led the leader boards for most of the year and interesting as that both of them are bitches. The penultimate show was The Midland Counties Ch show, always held at Stafford, a venue l have mentioned several times as this is a most popular venue. It’s an agricultural showground and as such has the facilities that most dog shows are looking for. It’s situated just north of Birmingham, one of the countries major cities. plus it is close to the main motorway systems too. A nice touch was banners depicting former best in show winners, also was pumpkins on the judges tables though some of the dogs were rather intrigued by them !! In some ways it was sad that this would be the final show for the long time secretary Margaret Everton. Margaret has been secretary pretty well since its existence and has seen the show go from an ordinary open show to one of the major championship shows of the year. Margaret was also a very popular judge in her own right and her final appointment was judging best in show at Crufts a few years back. Her ‘Impton’ Great Danes were a major force in the breed and still talked about today. Entries during the year had dropped for many societies but on this occasion they were up, by 113 dogs making a total of 9,057 dogs, with Labradors topping the breeds with an incredible 199 dogs. As l have said on numerous occasions and best of breed in these large breeds really is something to be proud of. It was good to meet up with Beth & Peter, both judging various breeds, Beth awarding Labrador cc’s for the first time. Peter was judging the toy and terrier groups. Also from the states was Judy Harrington, she judged Great Danes and Akitas. American imports had a particularly good show. Jaxson Manser and Amy English lovely black American Cocker bitch Am Ch Silverhall Shangri-La not only took best of breed but went onto group 2. Also in the gundog group another US import went group 4 and that was Sue Harris’ German Short Haired Pointer, Show Ch/Am Ch Vjk-Myst Sterling of Barleyarch. I was the judge for the non sporting group and my winner was the youngish black Std poodle

BY GEOFF CORISH 68 Dog News

Ch Vicmars Rave On, he is also sired by Sw/ Norw Ch Torpaz It’ll Be All white, bred in the UK but re-imported and has sired some very good dogs. My group 3 was also an American import and that was the Shar Pei Ch/American Ch Asias Red Marsh Whip It Good, owned by the Ball. Bradley, Marshall and Myers partnership. Beth Sweigart judged Australian Terriers and her winner was Sheila Stoddart’s Ch/American Ch. Millvalley Red Rufus. In Wire FT’s Victor Malzoni’s dog Ch. Travella Starlord won the breed though without cc’s today, he went onto group 3 under Peter Green. Peter’s winner was Chelsey, the previously mentioned Kerry Blue, handled by owner Phil Davies as of course l was in the judge’s seat. But this win gave her another ﬁve points to her ‘dog of the year total. Sadly her rival the Crested could only manage third in her class! Such are dog shows Here in the UK handlers are

allowed to judge, the Kennel Club believe in their judges integrity. World wide of course that is not the case, but then who knows dogs better than handlers who have so many through their hands over the years. I was also the best in show judge and so without the Kerry Blue of course l had the Tervuren, Alaskan Malamute, Pekingese, Std Poodle, Irish water Spaniel and Petit Basset griﬀon Vendeen. My decision for best in show was the Irish Water Spaniel Show Champion Stanegate Sparks will Fly, a gorgeous bitch and only the fourth ever of her breed to take a general champion ship show best in show award. She is sired by the American/Canadian Ch Sylmars Raindancer, who is all US breeding. For reserve l awarded that to the stunning black Std Poodle.

ecently our Kennel Club chairman Ronnie Irving was asking how we could encourage new people to join our sport? Then suddenly exhibitors are hit again with yet more rules and regulations to be added to the famous ‘Red Book’! (“The famous ‘Red Book’ l refer to is the one which the Kennel Club lists all its rules and regulations. On occasions you need a Philadelphia lawyer to make sense of them!!” ) To my way of thinking adding more rules will drive people away not encourage them. We have had random coat testing in the past, now we are told this will happen at every show. It says ‘no exhibitor should be allowed to have an unfair advantage over another’. What are they testing for? “They say that no substance which alters the natural colour, texture or body of a dog’s coat is allowed to be present in its coat at any time during a show. The same applies to any substance which might alter the natural colour of any other external part of the coat.” Well l am very sorry but that will always happen when you have clever handlers, some have a natural ability and some don’t, that’s life l’m afraid. But doesn’t a simple bath change the texture of a coat? Are they really suggesting that we take dirty dogs to a show now? That will really make for encouraging new people, seeing dirty dogs in the ring. And then we had the change on policy with regard to Caesarians, 2 strikes and you are out. Do they really believe that every vet in the country is going to sit down and ﬁll out forms for the Kennel Club ? I know my vet is an extremely busy farm and horse vet too, l am yet to get his opinion on that one. Most conscientious breeders would not breed after two, anyway. It’s the puppy farmers they should be targeting and once again they are left to their own devices. And ﬁnally we have the four litters from a bitch and you are out. Again do they really believe they can police this? It will make some people dishonest. They will simply register an extra bitch in a litter and when the time is right they will use that. It’s madness. Four litters from say a Golden Retriever does not correlate with four from say a Pomeranian. The Dog News question a few weeks ago was interesting to hear the views of the US breeders and yes we all wonder if whoever makes these has ever bred a litter, and l really think we all know the answer to that one-don’t we?? So the dog world is changing by the week here, and it will be concerning to us to see how it all pans out.

the multiple best in specialty and best in show winning

GCh.Caperâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s SiriusEndeavor

RUFUS

sstarts 2011 with two Group Firsts! Thank you Judges Mrs Glenda Dawkins, pictured and Mr Rodney Merry Breeder-Owners: Phillip & Carolyn Fisher

Handler: Linda G Rowell Dog News 69

Off The Leash

he 112th session of US Congress is now underway and it is wasting no time in getting down to business. A freshman class that includes 94 new House members and 13 new Senators is already hurling around many legislative proposals that may affect the ability to own and breed dogs. In addition, forty-four state legislatures and the District of Columbia are currently in regular session, where further ordinances and laws that could have consequences for dog owners are being considered. The American Kennel Club’s Government Relations Department tracked over 1,100 hundred such bills at the federal and state level in 2010 and is warning its constituents that 2011 is gearing up to be its busiest year yet. But before addressing what the new members of government are tackling, it’s worth a mention what one departing government member is proposing. Outgoing Governor Ed Rendell, who left his post in Pennsylvania this Tuesday, is readying to announce a plan that will address two problems with one solution: he wants to give dogs to prisoners. Rendell’s plan is to lessen the strain on the state by reducing its stray animal population while teaching inmates responsibility as they care for animals in the process. Pennsylvania’s stray animal crisis came to the fore last summer when the Delaware County SPCA announced that it would no longer accept strays after July 2011. As of January 1, it stopped accepting strays from 20 municipalities that don’t help defray costs, and other state facilities are considering similar steps. While Rendell couldn’t arrive at a solution while serving as Governor, his ﬁrst act as a civilian since leaving his post may be to personally raise the money to create a network of animal shelters at state prisons to respond to the rising number of shelters that no longer accept strays. He has a reputation as a legendary fund-raiser so it’ll be interesting to see how successful his efforts will be. While the concept of pairing inmates and dogs is not novel – at least four prisons in Pennsylvania have programs that match selected inmates with dogs and there are several more states that use inmates to train dogs - the statewide network may be a ﬁrst. Sounds like a win-win situation for all involved and a program other states should monitor. The new year has already brought some new ordinances and proposals around the country, many of them addressing familiar concerns, with some arriving at interesting conclusions and compromises. The Sheyboygan Common Council, which has been meeting for several weeks to craft an ordinance to address dangerous and vicious dogs, unanimously approved one this past Monday. Under the ordinance, owners of dogs that have caused injury or attacked a human must pay a $75 fee to the city, register the dogs with police, provide proof of $300,000 in liability insurance and make sure the dog is kept indoors or in a secure pen outdoors. A dog will also be considered “dangerous” if it runs loose three or more times a year, but if it does not display dangerous behavior or completes an approved behavior class (the AKC’s Canine Good

BY SHAUN COEN 70 Dog News

Citizen?) and remains trouble-free for at least six months, the dangerous label could be removed. In a nod to dog owners and breeders opposed to breed specific legislation and mandatory spay/neuter, the ordinance does not single out certain breeds and will not require owners to spay or neuter their pets. Another interesting provision, which would’ve authorized city veterinarians to collect dog license fees, was not included in the ordinance because Sheyboygan County, and not the city, oversees the dog-licensing program. There have been movements afoot to change the way dog licensing fees are collected and by whom in many, many communities, municipalities and states and all dog owners – especially fanciers who are on the road so often – should check with their local governments to make sure they are in compliance with licensing laws, which make them an easy mark and are part of being a responsible dog owner. Already as of mid-January, the AKC Government Relations Department and its federal advocacy team in Washington D.C. are tracking approximately 500 new and prefiled bills at the federal and state level. It’s easy to become complacent and distracted by the stresses of daily family life and work, with so many people, places and gadgets that demand our attention –not to mention our dogs. But it’s also become easier than ever to get involved and go to bat for our dogs. We all must do our part to track the proposals and ordinances that can affect our rights to own and breed dogs on every level. We can all advise those who are in the market to purchase a dog where to find reputable breeders and urge them to register those purebred dogs with the only registry that fights for their rights. Do any of the 30+ other paper registries lobby in Washington for the rights of their constituents? The AKC public relations department has done a wonderful job of getting its message out amongst the general public in recent years, increasing the AKC’s recognition and enhancing its brand image. But are all clubs, fanciers, owners and breeders doing their part? Whether its providing informative discussions at dog parks or at dog shows, are we all doing our part to enlighten prospective dog owners on the joys of canine companionship and the merits of reputable breeders and responsible dog ownership?

n estimated 77.5 million dogs are owned in the United States with nearly 40 per cent of all households owning at least one dog. These numbers are at an all-time high and public demand continues to increase. The highly successful Meet The Breeds Event at the Jacob Javits Center in Manhattan drew over 39,000 people this past October — with more than 80 local, state and federal lawmakers from the tri-state area that participating! That speaks volumes about the type of clout that the AKC has in its Government Relations Department, which is certainly doing its share to enlighten legislators on the amazing abilities of our canine companions and the importance of responsible dog ownership. Why wouldn’t a prospective dog owner want to align itself with the only registry that holds sway with legislators, and is the only one in the country with a signiﬁcant kennel inspections program? Perhaps that’s the message that needs to be hammered home to those owners who fail to register puppies with the AKC. All dog owners are affected by legislation and all must unite in order to protect our rights to continue to own and breed them. •

*The Dog News Top Ten List - All Breed

AND MORE

AKC--A REGULATORY BODY, THREE BOOKS...

here he are thr three bbooks ks on th the market rket I would like to tell you about--the ﬁrst is the brand new book by the multi-talented Karen LeFrak, the second is the newly formatted AKC’s 2011 JUDGES DIRECTORY and the third is the 2005 published MEN & DOGS. Starting with Mrs. LeFrak, her latest literary contribution is called BEST IN SHOW, which on ﬁrst glance is geared towards children. But the fact is that her book is for dog lovers of all ages. Properly developed, it offers major messages about our sport and hobby. It is the story seen through the eyes of a young girl’s introduction to the marvelous world of breeding and exhibiting dogs. It is magical in celebrating the relationship between a very special dog and an extraordinary young person. As importantly, Mrs. LeFrak succeeds in presenting an informative and instructive book which answers, deliberately or not, many of those animal rights critics of both the purebred dog and those who participate in the sport of the purebred dog. It is a feeling and experienced view of the show world itself and the art of raising a dog. I would strongly suggest the use of this book as a tool for Parent and All-Breed Clubs as an inducement to get young people involved in our sport. After all one of the harshest complaints the showgoer hears is about the so-called “graying of our sport”. Let me tell you Mrs. LeFrak’s book

BY MATTHEW H. STANDER 72 Dog News

pr properly ly dir directedd by parents and nd cl clubs could go a long way in helping to revitalize the sport itself among yo young people. Yes it is primarily a children’s boo book but with a major positive message about bo our sport and hobby today. It’s cost is $16.99 and it’s published by Walker & Company, which is a division of Bloomsbury Publishing Inc at 175 5th Avenue NY 10010-www. bloomsburykids.com and is ﬁnely and intelligently illustrated by Andrew Day. As an aside, Mrs. LeFrak is donating her proceeds from this book to AKC’s CHF and Take the Lead. The newly formatted 2011 AKC JUDGES DIRECTORY is only 158 pages as compared to the 378-paged 2010 DIRECTORY but the comparison ends there. This new Directory is 8 and 1/4” wide and 12 3/4 inches long and costs $25 while the old one was only 2 and 1/2 inches wide and 8 inches long and also cost $25. The new Directory’s front cover is illustrated with pictures of former judges doing their thing. A moneymaker--who knows?-- but I presume AKC must think so. The third book somehow reappeared on my desk and is titled MEN & DOGS- A Personal History From Bogart to Bowie with every major celebrities pictured with their dogs. It is a fun, intriguing collection with anecdotes about these people. The front cover is of Laurence Olivier and his Airedale pup taken in l931 and is pictured above. There is a sister book which I have not seen called WOMEN & DOGS. Published by ATRIA BOOKS in 2005 originally in London it was written by Judith Watt and Peter Dyer. Deﬁnitely an in-

terestin and fun read. Atria Books is located at teresting 1230 6th Ave but I think you make inquires for this bbook through www.simonsays.com. The opening paragraph of the abbreviated January Board Minutes--Tuesday was cancelled due to a snowstorm expected on Wednesday-was an announcement about the 15 breeds to be health investigated in the UK. It incorrectly stated that these breeds will be required to have a veterinary examination before being awarded a cc or a championship and that AKC has no plans to impose such a plan. In fact what was stated as I understand it was that starting in 2012 at Crufts and other championship shows in those 15 breeds after breed judging in order to compete in the Group a vet must examine them. A questionable policy as far as I am concerned for any number of reasons but that’s not my point here. My point is that at the very least the Kennel Club in the UK is acknowledging that show problems do exist and rightly or wrongly they are facing them. Our Board and our Delegate Body are so selective in these kinds of situations that hardly anything concerning the dog show conformation world is brought to the fore unless we are expanding existing situations or looking for ways to make more money i.e. the Grand Championship, i.e. the 4 to 6 month class, i.e. group placements expanding from 4 to 6. These are not core problems--the core problems--number of shows, number of times dogs are shown, ﬂying of dogs, ﬁnishing dogs without beating members of the opposite sex--ad nauseum. Ignored---ignored-ignored. Which do you prefer? A TKC scene, which is into everything, or our AKC, which seems show correction ways to be into nothing of importance?? •

GCh. Le Coeur Dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Ange De Briardale Group Winning

Thank You To Judge Mrs. Robert D. Smith! Breeders Rick & Liz Kenitz

Owner Peggi Weymouth

Handled By Christy Collins Improvtibetanspaniels@Yahoo.Com Dog News 73

AP al e rn

Cardigans Are Not Lapdogs! CONTINUED FROM PAGE 54

existed in Wales for more than 3,000 years. Although the breed was originally used as a farm guardian, they eventually took on the job of cattle drover and herder. However, they were initially used as almost an anti-herder. There was a time when the land available to a Welsh farmer was determined by the acreage his cattle covered. So, the Cardigan Welsh Corgi was trained to drive cattle as far afield as possible by barking and nipping at heels and hocks in an effort to expand his owner’s realm. Unfortunately, when the common lands were finally partitioned, these Corgi skills were no longer needed so the breed changed to become more of a herder. But, the physical attributes of the Corgi, which make it a good cattle dog simply because they are low enough to the ground to generally avoid being kicked by cows, can be a drawback when herding other livestock. “Cardigans have short legs and consequently a sheep can outrun them. When herding sheep, if I make one little mistake, the sheep will escape. The most difficult thing for a Cardigan to do is cut off sheep when they are in a dead run due to the difference in speed. Longer-legged breeds such as Border Collies can outrun the sheep. Cattle don’t require as much speed. Cardigans have a natural herding instinct that allows them to move the stock as we believe we want them to. They are biddable dogs that will do what they think you want them to do. They are also very smart and athletic dogs within the limits of their physical structure. When a dog has these characteristics, with some training, they’ll do just about whatever you want,” said Duane Forbes who owns DC Cheysuli’s Patented Bonus CD HXsd (“Bonus”) that is also an ASCA WTCh and an American Herding Breeds Association HTCh. “Dogs should be able to do what they were originally bred to do,” said Amy Hill, whose dog DC Cornerstone’s My Dear Beli HSAsd HSBs HRDIII-s HTDIII-d (“Beli”) was the first Herding Champion, Dual Champion, B Course titled Cardigan. “The original purpose for which a breed was developed is important to its standard as well as its future. Whether or not the dog is still ‘needed’ to do that job, it is important that they still have the desire to do it. While Cardigans were developed as all-around farm dogs and drovers, there are still useful on small farm holdings today. Dogs with usefulness are happier

DC Cheysuli’s Patented Bonus CD HXsd (“Bonus”), Duane Forbes Cardigan is also an ASCA WTCh and an American Herding Breeds Association HTCh.

74 Dog News

Cardigans were developed as all-around farm dogs and drovers and are still useful on small farm holdings today as Amy Hill’s Dog “Beli” (DC Cornerstone’s My Dear Beli HSAsd HSBs HRDIII-s HTDIIId) demonstrates with a group of sheep and lambs.

and better developed as a total dog because they have direction.” While Cardigans are generally willing partners in any activity their owners want to do, it does not mean that there are not areas of diﬃculty in any sport. “Agility was our greatest problem,” said Stella Vola, who owns UAG-1 U-CDX Ch OTCH Bluefox’s Harrison UDX6 VER OM2 RAE NJP NAP TDI VC (“Harry.”) “Cardigans are deep chested with short legs and carry most of their weight on the forehand. Harry was never a good jumper. Despite trying to retrain his jumping style, he just continued to struggle with knocking bars. He was very fast but not very accurate. We both loved agility but it was clear it was not going to be our best choice of a sport in which to excel. He completed his novice jumpers preferred and novice agility preferred titles but then we retired from the agility ring except for running an occasional agility course. We did much better in obedience but that also had its own set of problems. Attention in and out of the ring was a huge one because Harry is a herding dog with a strong prey drive. Learning to channel that drive into a work ethic was the hardest piece of the obedience puzzle. He works hard every time he enters the ring and he has learned to focus and overcome any issues in obedience.”

athy Hannah noted that while the breed generally takes quickly to any sort of activity with their owner, their loyalty can sometimes create a problem. Her dog,, UACHX UCh Ch CT Dwysan’s Hot Wheels Can TD JA NAJ NAP NJP is one of the breed’s rare champion trackers. “My dog prefers to be with me at all times. But, knee problems prevented me from doing conformation with him. So, he was sent to a professional handler and he needed a period of time to adjust to being in the ring with her. We ﬁnally solved the problem by having him spend the weekends with his handler and the rest of the week with me. Also, I didn’t attend any of the shows where he was in the conformation ring. As for performance events, they are very intelligent and easy to train although they don’t like repetition and they can become quite creative if they are drilled too much. He earned his tracking championship quite easily because he is a natural at tracking. Sometimes tall cover gave him trouble when we were tracking but that’s what happens when you have a dog that’s close to the ground.” Stephon said that while her dogs have taken to just about everything she has tried with them, she was the one creating problems in some of the sports. “Herding is by far the most diﬃcult thing I have every done. I’m a lifelong suburbanite and I had absolutely no stock

CONTINUED ON PAGE 76

Dog News 75

Cardigans Are Not Lapdogs! CONTINUED FROM PAGE 74

sense until I started herding with my dogs. Gaining this stock sense has taken a lot of time as has learning all the commands and timing that are necessary in herding. Unlike my dogs, I had NO instinct for herding. Onyx had some problems with herding. He has such extreme drive and he also has a very independent nature. It was difficult for him to master all the required stops. He was making progress toward being ready to run in ‘started’ when a recurring shoulder injury ended his days of competitive herding although he did manage to get his PT title. I also have to deal with my ring nerves no matter what activity we’re doing. Since I’ve been doing this for ten years and the nerves are still there, I guess it’s a permanent condition so there’s nothing to do but suck it up and get on with it. As far as any problems with the dogs, time and patience have been all that was necessary. It takes time to learn the various sports and time to learn how to break things down to successfully train the dog. Also you have to work to see what training methods will work with a particular dog. A one-size-fits-all approach is not usually as successful as one that is tailored to the needs of each individual dog. Cardigans are highly intelligent and most are willing to try just about anything that you can throw at them. However, they do not require and really don’t like endless repetition and drilling. Cardigans just love to do things!” Stock management seems to be a recurrent problem with people who do herding with their Cardigans. “I often practice moving stock myself without the dog in an effort to better learn how to read the stock so I know what they’re going to do sooner and thus have a better chance of providing the directions quickly and quietly. When I move stock without the dog, I have to learn to predict what the stock will do when I do different things. I have found that practicing alone with the ducks has been very useful in learning how to read stock. This is important because the dog needs to know what I want done with the stock. My ability to communicate that information is essential and depends on my ability to read the stock as well as my ability to train the dog. One problem we encountered in the AKC’s herding program is the large number of Border Collies in that program. In order to finish Bonus, we had to outscore them. With the herding ability and the speed a Border Collie has to correct their

“Leo” (TC [Ch HC MACH] UKC Ch Corwynt Tayken Leo HSAcdx HIAds HXAds MXP MJP) Susan Stephon’s Cardigan and the breed’s only triple champion does the breed’s historical job.

76 Dog News

UACHX UCh Ch CT Dwysan’s Hot Wheels Can TD JA NAJ NAP NJP (“Ryan”), Kathy Hannah’s Cardigan, is one of the breed’s rare champion trackers.

handler’s errors, it is difficult to beat them. One thing that worked to our advantage was when the trial ducks were difficult to herd, the Border Collies would become frustrated much easier than my Cardigan so we could take advantage of the Border Collies’ frustration and win. But, if the ducks were easy to put through the course, it was very, very difficult to beat the Border Collies.” said Forbes.

ardigan breeders, as is the case with many breeds, face problems preserving all the standards for the breed. “For the future of the breed, it is very important that there are several of us who not only are showing our dogs but also that these same dogs are able to perform some of the jobs for which the breed was developed,” said Hill. “For conformation judges, these working show dogs are a reminder that there are moderate, correctly-built dogs. For herding, these dogs are a reminder that the breed must stay moderate and maintain and improve their working ability. If you go down any one path—conformation, herding, performance—without maintaining contact with the others, you are liable to stray from breeding the all-around Cardigan that we love. Multi-titled dogs show that not only are they worthy of a show championship but they are also soundly built, can take the rigors of herding and are biddable enough to be guided through their task. Along with improving conformation, we must keep Cardigans moderate enough to work all day with the desire and ability to do so and also have a wonderful temperament which makes them able to be a great family companion.” Stephon added, “We need to get more breeders concerned with the complete Cardigan Welsh Corgi, not just winning in the show ring. Size is becoming a real issue that must be monitored. I have also seen and heard of Cardigans that have no interest in stock and that is not good. We must continue to be vigilant about health issues. While the breed has come a long way, we have an obligation to keep our eyes on the whole dog and safeguard the talents of these delightful little dogs.” •

Dog News 77 *Breed points, All Systems 2010 **All Systems 2010

ANOTHER PIECE OF THE CHINESE PUZZLE

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 62

{

}

“The reason for the last minute scrambling for a judge was the organizers, The China Kennel Club, had just secured the venue for the show. “

to the Chinese Consulate for the visa. This literally took up the whole day from leaving home at 9 AM and getting back home at 6 PM. I did not realize the process would take as long as it did. I just looked at it as another learning process with international travel. The reason for the last minute scrambling for a judge was the organizers, The China Kennel Club, had just secured the venue for the show. We forget China is a country where the government controls everything, including dog shows. Can you imagine here in the states if all the shows were controlled by the federal government. The venue was a new Expo Center near the Beijing airport that has to be one of the largest Expo Centers in the world today. Saturday through Tuesday was a pet products exhibition of a size that is difficult to imagine. There were several connecting buildings each larger than a football field. In another separate connecting hall was where the dog show was held. The dog show only encompassed maybe a tenth of the building at most. The government would not allow the dog show to be held on Saturday or Sunday so the shows were held Monday and Tuesday. The show was only allowed to use one ring instead of two because of some security reasons. This was not a hardship with the entry being less than 120 dogs. It actually made it easier for the handlers since they would have no conflicts. For Betsy and me it made for a more leisurely day and we each enjoyed watching the other judge. Both days the show was over around 5 PM. On previous trips to Beijing, I have always stayed at lovely hotels right in center city. This time since the Expo Center is out by the airport, they opted to put us up right there in a wonderful new Crowne Plaza. This made it very convenient each morning since the dog show was less than five minutes away. Most evenings we were taken into the heart of the city for dinner which was a struggle fighting Beijing traffic. Monday evening after the show we went to dine very close to the hotel at a restaurant where the cuisine was absolutely sumptuous. Tuesday afternoon since Betsy and I wanted to relax a bit before dinner and we knew our host had to be exhausted we opted to have dinner right in the hotel. After a rest we enjoyed a wonderful meal which was no surprise since the breakfast buffet has to be as good as I have ever seen anywhere in the world.

78 Dog News

HAVING

a free day on Sunday the club arranged a city tour for us. We were transported on a small bus and the tour guide had only six of us to chaperone. It was an extremely full day of over nine hours of sightseeing. By the end of the day we were all exhausted from a great deal of walking, but it included several sights of the city I had not seen before. By the end of the touring we were glad the following day would be much less strenuous since judging dogs would require much less physical strength. Within eleven days of the venue being secured and finding two judges the show started. The hardest part for me to comprehend was how they got the word out to exhibitors and handlers that a show was being held in such short notice. Do not forget here in the states entries close two and a half weeks before a show weekend. Can you imagine any club here finding a location and within eleven days hiring judges from over seven thousand miles away, closing entries and putting on a very well organized show. I know the size is much different but the mechanics are pretty much the same. In nearly all countries of the world there is one governing body, like AKC, with the exception of some countries which have a breakaway organization. It is hard for Americans to comprehend the way dog shows are organized in China. We have to remember the first dog show ever held in China was as recent as ten years ago. In China there are three main organizations and not one recognized kennel club. Besides the three main kennel clubs, there are a lot of shows put on independent of any large organization. I have judged several shows that were put on by local politicians or someone who was a dog fancier. These shows have hired a person that acts like a superintendent who organizes and runs the shows for them. Nearly all of the shows are run by The China Kennel Club, The N.G.K.C. or The China Kennel CONTINUED ON PAGE 80

2010 NUMBER ONE GCH. CANE CORSO

Leo’s head piece is one of a kind, the AKC standard reads “Molossus, large, its total length reaches approximately one third of the height at the withers. Planes of the skull and muzzle are slightly convergent; they are not parallel. The circumference of the head measured at the cheekbones is more than twice the total length of the head; skin is ﬁrm and smooth.”

Leonitis is an outstanding representative of a true Cane Corso, overall balance and breed type with an incredibly friendly, loyal and loving temperament! Many judges have agreed, sending Leo to the top ranks quickly, maintaining throughout 2010!

Professionally Presented By: Kathy Caton-Eiler • Safari Handling and Training, LLC www.safarihandling.com *The Dog News Top Ten List - All Breed

Dog News 79

ANOTHER PIECE OF THE CHINESE PUZZLE

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 78

Union, which has aligned themselves with FCI. The N.G.K.C. has a strong alliance with AKC. The China Kennel Club operates independently of FCI or AKC and has their own registration system. There is another organization which just puts on shows for Tibetan Mastiffs. I understand this group has aligned themselves with the China Kennel Club. Most Americans that go to China to judge their assignments are with N.G.K.C. or China Kennel Club. I do not know much of the FCI group, but the N.G.K.C. and China Kennel Club put on a very well organized show and the judges are treated very well. These two organizations are putting on the majority of the shows. A lot of the exhibitors show only at one of the three organizations, but some show their dogs at all three shows. I ﬁnd it puzzling to understand that Goldens, for example, have types that do better at N.G.K.C. and China Kennel Club than they do at FCI shows and vice versa. At the China Kennel Club show that I recently judged there were some outstanding dogs. An American bred Siberian who has done tremendous winning was present. On previous visits to China I had awarded “Rush” a Reserve Best and not long ago a BIS. This American BIS winner on this occasion had me struggling very hard making my decision in the group between he and a Doberman. This young Dobe bitch is owned by Sonny Wong, who resides six months of the year in Beijing and six months in Los Angeles. It was just a few weeks earlier I watched Sonny go BOB in Mini Schnauzers at our great Montgomery County show. This young red Dobe bitch several weeks earlier captured an AOM at the American Doberman National. She is a “Victoria Secret” daughter and is sired by the great winning Argentinean dog that just

80 Dog News

won the “World Challenge”. Later in the day I awarded BIS to the Dobe in a very nice lineup. This was the ﬁrst time I had ever awarded a Doberman BIS anywhere. This bitch will enjoy a great career in both China and the US. The DiNardo’s have a litter brother that already is a BIS winner here in the Northeast. A litter sister won our Futurity under Gwen DeMilta and is being campaigned by Ann Ramsbottom-White for Glen Lajeski.

CHOWS

are my own breed and it is always a pleasure for me to judge the breed in China. Chows are in very good shape in China and everyone that judges there comes back saying what nice Chows they saw. On this visit the Chow entry was small but the quality was outstanding. Reserve BIS went to a young dark red dog that pressed the Dobe very hard. The young Chow is as good a Chow as I have seen in a long time. I was very pleased to watch him win an AOM at the AKC/Eukanuba show. As a whole I think China is producing the best Chows in the world today. There were many very nice Samoyeds present also. This breed is quite popular in all the Asian countries today. A lot of the breeds are still lacking in China. Apart from Mini Schnauzers, there are very few Terriers. I imagine this is because of the difﬁculty in preparing the coats. Certain breeds have wonderful depth of quality – Siberians, Goldens, Samoyeds, Chows, Mini Schnauzer, and Bichons are some examples. At the recent AKC/Eukanuba show many people from China competed with a lot of success. On two different days we saw two different Bichons going BOB by the people from China. Several other dogs from China were recognized well over the weekend also. Certainly the sport is very new to China, but it is amazing in such a short time how far some of the breeds have come. In the November issue of “Dogs In Review”, Bo Bengtson did a wonderful interview with Fan Yu. This young handler is just one example of some of the young talent in China today. These young talented handlers and exhibitors have a great passion for the sport. They all look to America as a great source to increase their knowledge and breeding programs. There are a lot of breeders in the states that are reluctant to export dogs to China. I and many others have visited kennels and have seen how wonderfully the dogs are cared for. It is no different than selling a dog to someone here in the states. One just has to know the background of the buyers and hopefully they come with a lot of references. Many of the people have come to the states to meet our different breeders. I strongly suggest that anyone who gets an invitation to China makes every effort to make the trip. Each year we see more and more pieces of the Chinese Puzzle coming together.•

If You’re Off To See THIS Wizard, You Won’t Be Disappointed!!

“Ozzie” Only 14 months old, Ozzie ﬁnished at 8 months of age and was defeating top specials at 11 months. Owned, Loved And Expertly Presented By Pam Bober

Bred & Co-Owned By Janet & Jerry Cohen Dog Do g Ne News ws 81 81

The

GOSSIP Column K

icking off the Westminster weekend the AKC CANINE HEALTH FOUNDATION will have its Charity Cocktail Party on Saturday evening February 12th from 6 P.M. to 8 P.M. at the Affinia Manhattan (the former Southgate). The price is $100 per person and the monies help fund grants given by the foundation for canine research. For further information and reservations visit http://support.caninehealthfoundation.org. In spite of what you might have heard, SPIDERMAN-TURN OFF THE DARK, the Theater Benefit selection, is up and running, it is just the opening date that has been pushed ahead. Even with some technical problems (the reason for the delayed opening night) the show is sold out night after night. It is worth attending a performance just to see what 65 million dollars was spent for (the reported price of staging the production). Is it just coincidence with WESTMINSTER coming up, that the NEW YORK TIMES and the WALL STREET STRRET JOURNAL have features on designer dog wear and gourmet dog food and a Border collie that understands over 1000 nouns? For the many members of the MORRIS & ESSEX KENNEL CLUB, the general membership meeting will take place in the ballroom of the Affinia Hotel on Sunday, February 13th at 1 P.M. It will follow the board meeting, which will be held at 11 A.M. The torrential rain that hit central Florida this week caused the Monday show at the Brooksville venue to be cancelled. SKIP HERENDEEN is flying off to Columbia to judge at the

BY EUGENE Z. ZAPHIRIS 82 Dog News

Club Canino Cup Invitational Show. Flying in a slightly colder direction, FRANK SABELLA, RON MENAKER and MATT STANDER are oﬀ to Moscow for a judging assignment, while PAT & CHUCK TROTTER are unpacked from their recent judging trip to Stockholm. All of us at DOG NEWS were saddened to hear of the passing of multiple group judge MARJORIE TUFF’S husband EDWARD. Owing to his illness, MARJORIE had to cancel her judging assignment at the AKC/EUKANUBA NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP last month. Our deepest sympathies to MARJORIE and her family. JUDY MARDEN, the wife of longtime American Kennel Club board of director KEN MARDEN, passed away on Wednesday. JUDY had been ill for several years and was in an assisted living facility. All of us at DOG NEWS send KEN and his family our deepest sympathies. JERRY WHITE, Collie and Havanese breeder judge from Laredo, Texas, has passed away. A golf tournament to celebrate his life is being held by his wife BETTY and friends on January 29th at the Chula Vista Golf Club in Lake Chapala, Mexico. Our deepest sympathies to his wife BETTY and family. Happy Anniversary to LESLEY & EDDIE BOYES. Birthdaying….MATT STANDER, JEAN HETHERINGTON, NANCY MARTIN, AMY GREEN, SARAH LAWRENCE, PAT TROTTER, JEAN SHEEHY, BILL SAHLOFF, DARYL MARTIN, PEGGY DUGAN, MIKE WORK, BRENDA SCHLEIBLAUER, MARK GEORGE, JOHN WADE, NEIL O’SULLIVAN, BILL DOLAN, GLORIA GERINGER, MANDY CARLSON, BILL TAYLOR and KAREN BRUNEAU.

GCh. Bardwoods Black Prince

Our thanks and appreciation to Group Judges Mrs. Loraine Boutwell (above), Mrs. Marcia Feld, Mrs. Patricia V. Trotter and Mr. James R. White for Rockyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s recent Group Placements. Looking Forward to 2011! Bred by Pat & Ron Lombardi Christopher Faulk

Owned By Lisa & Robert Palmer

Presented By Sharon Turner Dog News 83

CROWN CLASSIC IN CLEVELAND:

18 Acres of Dog Show CONTINUED FROM PAGE 66

What was interesting was that on Friday, Dodger didn’t even win the breed. That went to Ch. Slyfox Sneaks A Peek, known as Adam, who went on to win the Terrier Group, but not Best in Show. There were only two or three specials competing each day in the Smooth ring, yet there were crowds watching on all sides to see the breed’s two great ones. One person said, “It was like a football game, rows and rows of people.” Virginia O’Connor wrote about Dodger on dogshowpoop, “I’ve never seen a better Smooth since I started paying attention to show dogs in 1978! He’s our Secretariat.” Another writer pointed out that Adam and Dodger have been shown against each other 15 times. According to the writer, Adam won at nine of the meetings and Dodger took six. Here’s something to ponder: Dodger is the Nation’s Number One Dog. But he is not the Number One Smooth. That goes to Adam. Dodger is 367 points behind Adam in breed points on the Dog News stats. But Dodger beats Adam by 35,000 all breed points. Cleveland is the last chance to grab points before the end of the year in this part of the country. If your competition goes to Cleveland and you don’t, your placement could tumble. For instance, it’s a close race in Border Terriers, with the number 1 position going back and forth between Ch. Meadowlake Overnight Celebrity owned by Ray and Ginger Scott and Ch. Tyrolian Eight Belles At Meadowlake owned by Karen Fitzpatrick and Thomas H. Bradley III. Coming into Cleveland, both Borders had two Bests in Show. So what happens? They split the weekend, with Celebrity taking two breeds and Belles taking two breeds. As I congratulated Ray on Thursday, Celebrity observed the show from his arms. Her head is very distinctive, startlingly like that of an otter, as the standard prescribes. Ray pointed out that part of the unusual shape comes from the intense, strong jaw muscles of the breed, which ﬂare at the cheeks in a way not seen in other breeds. Why did the Smiths switch from Beagles? “We lost our old guys, and we decided

{

not to get another dog since we like to travel. Then one day I noticed Ginger talking to the fish. Then I knew it was time for another dog.” They’d always liked Borders, and knew quite a few people who have a Border at home. It turns out that even John Ashby, the East Coast show photographer, has fallen to Border Terrier charm. “Pure beginners’ luck,” Ray said about acquiring Celebrity, who won the National Specialty this year, in addition to vying for #1 Border. People who are not interested the superstar positions come because usually you can find majors in Cleveland. And this was a year in which everyone was looking for a major. Watching at the photo stand, a phrase you heard again and again was, “He’s finished!” Rebecca Heighton approached the photographers’stand asking for the“New Champion” sign for her Borzoi. “This win finished her!” she said. “We almost lost this bitch last year to some sort of weird bacterial infection. We never thought she would finish. We came out needing only a major and a total of 4 points. She was dumped Thursday, Friday and Saturday, but ended up winning on Sunday. A great Christmas wish comes true!” Adding to the intensity of that victory is the fact that Teine Lunar Eclipse CD RN is seven years old. Congratulations on a job well done. Deric Aube of Z’Bee Salukis said, “I went because we enjoy these shows and they are part of our tradition. We see our friends for the last time before the holidays and can always count on seeing some good quality entries. We came home with a few more points than we went with and had a fun time.” Deric’s Ch Z’bees Freespirits French Kiss won the breed both weekend days and Ch Z’bee’s Akissla Cocoachino won Select. At a show with so many spectators, the shows wisely put together some Meet the Breeds exhibits. Families and groups of children pooled around those booths and the rescue tables, petting Starting Over Rescue Airedales, Lake Erie Rescue Labrador Retrievers, and Rescue Goldens. You should always feel grateful when you pass a Meet the Breeds booth, because that is one less spectator asking to pat your Havanese that

“Two Golden Retrievers dressed as Santa Clauses spread good cheer, and hundreds of Christmas presents were purchased from the 100 vendors.”

86 Dog News

}

you have just spent two hours grooming. Cathy Blatz brought her Smooth Dachshunds from Pennsylvania to Cleveland, looking for the final two points that would make Ch. Summerhill Whispering Breeze SS a Grand Champion. She was elated to get the points with a Select in a big entry of quality specials. Cathy said, “I was ready to send her home on Friday with my husband, who had brought the puppy girl up just for the day. I figured, with the #1 bitch there, I was just going to get Selects and my girl had her Grand Championship. Other bitch champions could use the Select. “My friend talked me out of leaving. Saturday, the judge put my girl up! I thought I would pass out! It’s the first win I ever cried over.” Another nice note, she said that Mark Desrosiers, handler of the #1 bitch, Ch. Brodny Schoolhouse Dixie, congratulated her. Nice for a professional handler to take time for that. Many times, those of us who show our own dogs see the pros stamp out of the ring angrily, as if they had some special right to the purple and gold ribbon.

ig confession, in Smooth Dachshunds, I transposed the numbers 7 and 11 in my judges’book, accidentally awarding two points to Cathy Blatz’s puppy instead of the Open Dog. Looking for her to admit my mistake, I came across her website, summerhilldachshundsandbassets.com. She devotes a page to praise her mentor, Kaye Ladd, who was also my mentor in Dachshunds. She takes responsibility for her dogs by stating unequivocally that every puppy her kennel produces will have a home there for life if they need it. And she adds a page to educate people about the secret agenda of the animal rights movement. “HSUS and PETA lobbyists are pushing laws that ban the breeding of any dog or make it so expensive to get a breeding license that hobby breeding of healthy, quality pets becomes impossible…. Invasion laws are being enacted that strip away the 4th amendment rights of dog owners and breeders to be secure in their homes.” Laura LeFever was watching ringside as her two daughters, Chanel and Brigette, ably handled the family Beagles. Both girls are extremely talented, with low-key style that puts attention on the dog, not the handler. Laura explained why they were so relaxed. “This is a hobby for us. It’s not life or death, the way it is for some people. We just enjoy it. We enjoy our dogs.” Two Golden Retrievers dressed as Santa Clauses spread good cheer, and hundreds of Christmas presents were purchased from the 100 vendors. One of the most intriguing things about the IX Center is that smack in the middle of the huge space is a Ferris wheel. It was shut down and covered up, and the superintendent and breed club tables were placed all around it. But when you stood back and looked towards the center, there it was, its top half disappearing into the sky. You can just imagine how startled the dogs would be if it started to spin. But it looks like fun. Maybe someday, we should sneak back for the Boat Show, the RV Show, or the International Bicycle Show. Then, it will be running. We can ride it. •

Dog News 99