Top Notch Toys June 2019

The dog show magazine celebrating the Toy Group of dog breeds - featuring articles, tips, and information provided with help from breeders, owners, handlers, club members, and judges.

m u l t i p l e g r o u p w i n n i n g c h a m p i o n

© T & T p h o t o g r a p h y

TIMEB MB PUFF

K E KO WO N B E S T O F B R E E D AT T H E N AT I O N A L S P E C I A LT Y A N D A G R O U P 2 T H E S A M E D AY .

2 • T op N otch T oys , J une 2019

G R A N D C H A M P I O N

T H A N K Y O U J U D G E S

OWNED BY CAROL & DOYLE GIROUARD HANDLED BY ASHLIEWHITMORE & ALFONSO ESCOBEDO | BRED BY JACKIE & TERRY STACEY, TAMARIN KENNELS MR. EDD BIVIN, MS. BETSY DALE & MRS. SUSAN ST. JOHN BROWN

T op N otch T oys , J une 2019 • 3

thank you JUDGES FOR THESE

special awards

multiple best in show winning

MULTIPLE BEST IN SPECIALTY SHOW WINNING MULTIPLE RESERVE BEST IN SHOW WINNING

HANDLER KELLY RACKLEY RACKLEYKH@GMAIL.COM OWNERS SORELLA CAVALIERS SUSAN SAVAGE GREEN & DONNA SAVAGE SUEGREEN@EMAIL.COM BREEDER/OWNERS BROOKHAVEN CAVALIERS PAULA AYERS & BRENDA MARTZ PLAYERSCAV@AOL.COM

4 • T op N otch T oys , J une 2019

# 1 CAVALIER ALL SYSTEMS *

10 TOY DOG ** TOP

BROOKHAVEN HERE COMES HOGAN gold grand champion

*ALL SYSTEMS AS OF 4/30/19 **TNT ALL BREED STATS AS OF 4/30/19

T op N otch T oys , J une 2019 • 5

CONTENTS TABLE OF

ARAMEDIA

AJ ARAPOVIC President aj@aramediagroup.com Office 512-686-3466 ext. 102 Cell 512-541-8128 HANIFA ARAPOVIC Vice President hanifa@aramediagroup.com 512-686-3466 ext. 104 Cell 512-541-8687 MICHAEL R. VERAS Chief Operating Officer michael@aramediagroup.com 512-686-3466 ext. 101 SAMANTHA ADKINS Production Co-Ordinator Advertiser Relations samantha@aramediagroup.com 512-686-3466 ext. 103

18

34

MAILING ADDRESS PO BOX 18567 TAMPA, FL 33679

48

40

TNT

6 This Month in Top Notch Toys

45 Coming Attractions 58

TNT Top Twenty Toys

BONNIE GUGGENHEIM Editor/Advertising Director 512-971-3280 bonnie@aramediagroup.com DANIEL CARTIER Director, Social Media & Web Site daniel@aramediagroup.com JOSEPH NEIL McGINNIS III Executive Editor Emeritus Chief Media Consultant editor@aramediagroup.com

10 From the 18 Toy Talk

46 48 52 54 56

58 TNT All-Breed System

Editor-in-Chief Joe McGinnis

Survey Says

60

The Biewer Terrier Journey to Full Recognition

TNT Breed System

Bonnie Guggenheim

TOP NOTCH TOYS is published twelve times per year by AraMe- dia Group, Inc. PO Box 18567, Tampa, FL 33679. Postage paid at Omaha, Nebraska. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form without the express writ- ten permission of the editor. The opinions expressed in this publica- tion either editorially or in advertis- ing copy are those of the authors and do not necessarily constitute endorsement by the publishers. The editor reserves the right to reasonably edit all copy submitted. All articles become the property of the publishers. Subscription price for third class service in the United States: $75.00. Canadian and U.S. First Class: $110.00. Overseas rates upon request. Inquiries to: Michael R. Veras, COO, AraMedia Group Inc., PO Box 18567, Tampa FL 33678512 686 3466 ext 105 or michael@aramediagroup.com.

34 Just Judy’s Thoughts: Cyber Training for Junior Handling Judy Thompson 40 2019 American Shih Tzu Club 44 The Most Popular Toy Breeds National Specialty Jo Ann White

Are Breeder-Judges Good For The Sport? Michael and Cathy Dugan 62

National Owner Handled System Top Toys

65 Advertising and

Toy Box

Subscription Rates

66

On The Line: Breed Standards Ensure Preservation BJ Andrews

Index to Advertisers

6 • T op N otch T oys , J une 2019

ABIS BISS GCHB AZTEX MARCH-ON BUDDHA AND THE CHOCOLATE BOX

select dog NATIONAL WEEK – REGIONAL SPECIALTY Sidd and Larry are pictured above receiving Select Dog in an entry of 100 at York, PA from Judge Mr. Rodney Merry.

OWNERS LARRY & PENNY DEWEY CO-OWNERS & BREEDER C. SMITH & D. BAYLESS, RUFFIAN MIN PINS

RUFFIAN MIN PINS WOULD LIKE TO WELCOME MARLEX SUNSPRITE DREAM MAKER Larry and Dreamer will be working together to get his Championship. Watch for them in Texas and Louisiana. He is co-owned with Armando Angelbello. Thanks for trusting us with this beautiful puppy.

T op N otch T oys , J une 2019 • 7

Owned by roy & joann Kusumoto BRED BY TANYA ZHUKOVSKAYA

Presented and spoiled by daryl martin

Bronze grand champion ALFA LAVAL Ayron Dog breed * all breed ** #4 top ten

PAM PEAT, RAY FILBURN, NANCY HAFNER, GENE BLAKE, JUNE PENTA & DELORES BURKHOLDER THANK YOU FOR THE BEST OF BREED PLACEMENTS

*TNT breed stats as of 4/30/19 **TNT all breed stats as of 4/30/19

8 • T op N otch T oys , J une 2019

© Susan booth

T op N otch T oys , J une 2019 • 9

FROM THE EXECUTIVE EDITOR EMERITUS Joseph Neil McGinnis III

SOMETIMES ONE JUST HAS TO LAUGH. This month’s been rough on all of us; we lost some truly beloved friends. In honor of their smiles and the smiles they put on the faces of others, I felt we could benefit from a little mirth. Having been raised a Catholic, I know the value of prayer. Having been a long-time breeder and exhibitor of purebred dogs, I know the value of praying really hard . And having been a publisher for over thirty-six years, I know the value of interjecting humor into a life spent in serious pursuit of difficult goals. So, lumping everything to- gether, I share with you one of my all-time favorite stories. You don’t have to be Catholic to get it, but if you don’t get it...we need to talk.

Young, eager Novitiate (let’s think of it as Junior Prayerman- ship) Mary Katharine wished to join the Convent of Perpetual Peace. During the admissions in- terview, Mother Superior—the Catholic version of a Queen Bee—greeted her warmly but then said, "Mary Katharine, this is a silent household. You are welcome here as long as you like, but you may not speak un- less directed to do so." A quick learner, Mary Katharine nodded assent; she was accepted. And so it began. Mary Katharine lived quietly in the convent, em- bracing her lessons in becoming a Nun. Then one day Mother called her in. "Mary,” she said, “you have been here for five years. You may now speak two words." Mary Katharine replied, "Hard bed." "I'm sorry to hear that," Mother Superior responded. "We will get

you a better bed." After another five years, Mary Katharine again received the supreme summons. "Happy tenth Anniversary,” Mother Supe- rior said. “Today you may say another two words." "Cold food," said Mary Katharine, and Mother Superior assured her that in the future the food would indeed be hot. On her 15th anniversary at the convent, Mary Katharine was once again called to Mother Su- perior’s office. “Congratulations on 15 years of Silent Prayer and Service,” Mother Superior said. “In honor of your successful ef- forts to grow into a true Servant of the Lord, today you may say two more words." "I quit!" said Mary Katharine. "It's probably for the best," Mother Superior observed. "You've done nothing but bitch since you got here."

Photo taken at the Poodle Club of Amer- ica National Specialty, Purina Farms, Gray Summit, Missouri, April 18, 2019, by Brian Cordova.

We’re truly blessed living in our cozy, dog-loving cloister of sorts, often ignoring the cacophony and chaos with which non-dog-lov- ing folks are afflicted. Or from which they don’t get the canine comfort and companionship of we who do. I hope your June is peaceful, cool and quiet, and that

your dogs provide a respite from the rigors of outside life. I know mine do, and I bet that yours do, too. Until next month, always remember: He (or She) Who Lives with the most Toys Wins.

10 • T op N otch T oys , J une 2019

BEST IN SHOW STOPPER.

At ROYAL CANIN ® , we obsess over purebred dogs—and the perfect nutrition for each of them. ROYAL CANIN ® formulas are developed with your breed’s unique needs in mind for superior muscle tone, coat health and digestion. As a breed expert, you know the right nutrition can unlock the magnificence inside your dogs, and so do we. A Major Win for Breeders Join the Crown Partners Rewards Program Today! my.royalcanin.com

© ROYAL CANIN ® SAS 2017. All Rights Reserved. Image used with permission.

T op N otch T oys , J une 2019 • 11

ON THE COVER

m u l t i p l e g r o u p w i n n i n g c h a m p i o n

TIMEB MB PUFF

AFTER AN AUSPICIOUS START BY FINISHING HIS CHAMPIONSHIP WITH MULTIPLE SPECIALTY WINS, TIMEBOMB EXPLODED INTO THE SPECIALS RING IN 2019 WITH MULTIPLE GROUP WINS TO BECOME THE #1 MALTESE. TOY SPECIALISTS CONSISTENTLY REWARD HIS CLASSIC MALTESE TYPE: A TOY DOG COVERED IN A NATURALLY SILKY, WHITE SINGLE COAT THAT EFFORTLESSLY GLIDES AROUND THE RING. HIS CORRECT HEAD AND EXPRESSION ARE RARELY FOUND IN THE RING TODAY, AND HAVE BEEN ADMIRED BY BREEDERS AND JUDGES ALIKE. HIS QUALITY IS NOT BY ACCIDENT, BUT RATHER DUE TO CAREFULLY CURATED PEDIGREE FILLED WITH DECADES OF TOP WINNING AND PRODUC- ING MALTESE. HIS BREEDER, DARYL MARTIN, HAS DEDICATED OVER 60 YEARS TO THE PROMO- TION AND PRESERVATION OF THE MALTESE, AND IS PROUD TO PRESENT HIM TO THE FANCY FOR OWNERS JO-ANN AND ROY KUSUMOTO.

o w n e d b y ROY & JO-ANN KUSUMOTO

B R E D & C O - O W N E D b y DARYL MARTIN

12 • T op N otch T oys , J une 2019

* T N T a l l b r e e d s t a t s a s o f 4 / 3 0 / 1 9

Ricky GCHB DARKSIDE’S WALKER STALKER BCAT 5 TH in the breed * 2018 - 5th in the All Breed and 8th in the Breed BOB 2018 NOHS Finals BOS and BOBOH TMT 2017 AMTC National Specialty Select and AOM at Westminster Many NOHS Group 1’s Multiple Variety Toy Group placements CO-OWNED WITH MADONNA LEE CURRENTLY

both candids of Ricky by

Bar n um GCH BARBARY'S KALLMEE THE RINGMASTER

Select at Westminster before 1 year old 2018 – 12th in the Breed at 10 months old Growing up to his potential!

SUSAN AND STEVE THIBODEAUX COCOA, FL HOME OF EXCEPTIONAL DOGS SINCE 1978

*TNT breed stats as of 4/30/19

T op N otch T oys , J une 2019 • 13

14 • T op N otch T oys , J une 2019

T op N otch T oys , J une 2019 • 15

Joey NUMBER ONE MALTESE * ©TOM MEYER 2019 16 • T op N otch T oys , J une 2019

NAT IONAL BEST IN SPECIALT Y SHOW WINNING BRONZE GRAND CHAMPION DIVINE’S TAKES THE CAKE AT SARCENET

JOE Y I S HAV ING HI S CAKE

and eating it too!

As the icing on the cake, Joey wins the 2019 American Maltese Association National Specialty. Joey was honored with this win under Breeder Judge Sandy Bingham-Porter.

OWNED BY ZACH AND STACY NEWTON, SARCENET MALTESE, SARCENETMALTESE@GMAIL.COM

HANDLED BY ZACH NEWTON, PHA, JOEYTHEMALTESE@GMAIL.COM BRED BY STACY NEWTON, ANGELA STANBERRY AND ELLEN KURLAND

*TNT BREED STATS AS OF 4/30/2019

T op N otch T oys , J une 2019 • 17

IN PRINT OR ONLINE—WORDS MATTER TOY TALK ETCETERA by Bonnie Guggenheim, TNT Advertising Director & Associate Editor

R eading on a computer, phone or tablet is fine but can never re- place or have the impact of the printed word. Very true in ad- vertising where printed words and photographs become a part of a “dog person’s” library in a way online never can. Collectible, and a part of breed history in books or magazines.

My thoughts for the summer: • A man could learn a lot from his dog—

be a true friend, to be faithful and appreciate those who love him.

• There is no such thing as a dumb dog; after all, while we are out working all day they are sleeping at home. • A dog’s smile runs from the depth of his eyes to the tip of his tail.

• Anyone who says he words like a dog obviously does not own one.

• A dog is not affected by the color of another dog.

• Dogs are perfect companions.They never argue, fuss or fight with you and they listen carefully to what you say. • Dogs have twice as many muscles for moving their ears as people. • Anyone can buy a dog, but it takes a kind and loving owner to set his tail wagging.

Have fabulous wins for the summer and enjoy your favor- ite dog show. Stay in touch, I really want to hear from you with your exciting wins, your ideas and candid photos of club events. Remember, inquiring minds want to know! Bonnie bonnie@aramediagrp.com 863.738.8848

18 • T op N otch T oys , J une 2019

Stryker

A VERY CORRECT YORKIE!

STRYKER IS PROVING THAT GIVEN THE OPPORTUNITY, AN EXCEPTIONAL EXAMPLE OF OUR BREED WILL ALWAYS EXCEL.

# 1 YORKSHIRE TERRIER NOHS *

THANK YOU TO THE JUDGES WHO ARE CONSISTENTLY FINDING STRYKER’ S QUALITY AND ADHERENCE TO OUR STANDARD.

*AKC NOHS STATS AS OF 5/6/19

MULTI GROUP PLACING/BISOH G C H B T YAVA’ S S U G A R F O OT ’ S S T R I K E F O R C E

BREEDER AVA TYREE | TYAVA’S YORKIES

OWNER / HANDLER VICKI EDWARDS | SUGARFOOT YORKIES

T op N otch T oys , J une 2019 • 19

Toy Group 1st and 2nd and four National Owner Handled Series Toy Group 1sts on the way to THREE NOHS BESTS IN SHOW! CHAMP ENJOYED AN AMAZING WEEKEND IN MARIETTA, OHIO

NOHS BEST IN SHOW #1 Miss Collette Jaynes Magic Valley Kennel Club | May 17, 2019 NOHS BEST IN SHOW #2 Mr. Terry Stacy Blennerhassett Kennel Club | May 18, 2019 NOHS BEST IN SHOW #3 Mrs. Jacqueline Stacy Blennerhassett Kennel Club | May 19, 2019

OUR APPRECIATION to Miss Collette Jaynes, Mr. Jeffrey Kestner, Mr. Jeffery Bazell and Mrs. Jacqueline Stacy for awarding Champ four consecutive NOHS Toy Group 1sts.

SPECIAL APPRECIATION to Mrs. Jacqueline Stacy for awarding Toy Group 1st to Champ on Sunday, May 19, 2019

20 • T op N otch T oys , J une 2019

#1 NATIONAL OWNER HANDLED SERIES Blenheim & Prince Charles English Toy Spaniel in 2018 and 2019 *

Multiple Toy Group and Specialty Winning

*AKC Stats 2018 & as of 5/17/19

i x n d

TOY GROUP 2 Mr. Jeffery Bazell Blennerhassett Kennel Club | May 18, 2019

RICHARD L e BEAU BREEDER/OWNER/HANDLER:

MICHAEL J. WHITE, MD, CO-OWNER:

BEAUPRIX ENGLISH TOY SPANIELS PITTSBURGH, PENNSYLVANIA BEAUPRIX@COMCAST.NET

JOSH KREPPS ASSISTANT:

T op N otch T oys , J une 2019 • 21

Bash GCH ROSEMARK GOLDEN ARROW SE-BASH-TIAN GCHG CH CAN CH RIGAIR UNIQUE LEO ROM X CH ROSEMARK’S VIRTUE ROM

BREEDER R O S A N N E F E T T OWNER S H A N O N P A R K

THANK YOU JUDGE TED EUBANK FOR THE GROUP PLACEMENT

22 • T op N otch T oys , J une 2019

Wicked possesses great breed type, from her lovely outline, to her fluid movement and her glorious dark blue silk coat. Now that Wicked has matured a bit and adjusted to handler Tonia Holibaugh, we are expecting great things from her. Wicked ROSEMARK’S NEWEST BRONZE GRAND CHAMPION GCHB CH ROSEMARK’S WICKED GCHG CH CAN CH RIGAIR UNIQUE LEO ROM X CH ROSEMARK’S VIRTUE ROM

BREEDER/OWNER R O S A N N E F E T T 214-693- 1840

RFETT@ROSEMARKKENNEL .COM RFETT.HOMELOANS@GMAIL .COM R O S E M A R K K E N N E L . C O M

T op N otch T oys , J une 2019 • 23

at barely 6 months old!

24 • T op N otch T oys , J une 2019

The Regional Specialty 1 (held in conjunction with the 54 th American Maltese Association National Specialty) Phoenix, AZ | May 21 st , 2019

54 th Annual American Maltese Association National Specialty Phoenix, AZ | May 24 th , 2019

Breeder/Owner SANDS MALTESE AMY PREUETT www.sandsmaltese.com sandsmaltese@hughes.net Sands Ante Up

T op N otch T oys , J une 2019 • 25

Thank you to the American Chinese Crested Club for the fabulous show!

WHAT A NATIONAL!

ESTILLINIS BLACK PANTHER B E S T I N S P E C I A L T Y S H O W • B R O N Z E G R A N D C H A M P I O N M U L T I P L E G R O U P W I N N I N G T'Challa

S O H A P P Y TO S H A R E T H I S W I N W I T H H I S CO - OWN E R S J A N I C E & G A Y E

Mireille Liwgren bred by owned by

TOP 20 JUDGES Sue Nelson Smyth, Thank you to the

Kerri Indovina (Ethereal), Janice Chaffin-Bell (Silkyence) & Gaye Coleman beautifully conditioned and expertly handled by

Jaime Coppage and Kelly Shupp

Sammie Lewis

26 • T op N otch T oys , J une 2019

dream come true!

A N E X H I B I TO R / OWN E R ' S

B E S T I N S P E C I A L T Y S H O W • G R A N D C H A M P I O N LUNATTA ACCREA Accrea

Natalia Baldovska bred by owned by expertly handled by Kerri Indovina (Ethereal)

Thank you to the

RESPECTED BREEDER JUDGE Steve Kelly

Sammie Lewis

T op N otch T oys , J une 2019 • 27

Charlie Tango & Vader

THE SONS OF EGOR

S I R E D B Y : 3 X B I S I N T H E U K , A K C G R O U P P L A C I N G , S P E C I A L T Y B O V , G C H A M C H / E N G C H S O L S P L A S H S A R G E N T M A J O R A T B R A M E R I T A

TERLINGUA FIFTY SHADES OF CHARLIE TANGO New Grand Champion

AKC Royal Canin National Stakes Longcoat Chihuahua Junior of the Year BOS in Specialty Multiple BOV with limited showing

Champion

TERLINGUA DARK SIDE DAZZLER

Multiple BOV out of puppy class NOHS Group Placing

BOTH OWNER HANDLED BY: MARILYN DEMPSEY | BOTH BRED BY: CARA RYCKMAN OF TERLINGUA CHIHUAHUA'S

28 • T op N otch T oys , J une 2019

GCH SILHOUETTE’S SEEKING NIRVANA

DAVID KIRKLAND, JON COLE AND ANA EUGENIA VAZQUEZ FOR HONORING COBAIN WITH GROUP PLACEMENTS HIS FIRST WEEKEND OUT WITH ALY

as he continues his specials career

HANDLED TO HIS CHAMPIONSHIP & FIRST GROUP PLACEMENT BY STEPHANIE HENTSCHEL

OWNER: DEBORAH SNOW (COUTURE POMS) CO-OWNER/BREEDER: ELIZABETH HECKERT (SILHOUETTE POMS)

T op N otch T oys , J une 2019 • 29

30 • T op N otch T oys , J une 2019

THE AMAZING TEAM DEBORAH WHEELER & PETER PARKER

SIRE OF GRAND CHAMPION & MULTIPLE GROUP PLACING OFFSPRING

A special “Thank You” to our judges for all these outstanding awards. Mrs. Ruth H. Zimmerman | Group & BIS Judge Dr. Troy Clifford Dargin | Breed & Group Judge Mr. Jon R. Cole | Breed Judge

owned by George & Debra Kailer www.gryphonwoodpoms.com Facebook/George Kailer bred by Gail Garvey

MULTIPLE RESERVE BEST IN SHOW WINNING GCHG GAR-V N GW’S THE AMAZING SPIDER-MAN

© Annie Coughlin

H E H A S “ S P I D E Y P O W E R S ”

T op N otch T oys , J une 2019 • 31

32 • T op N otch T oys , J une 2019

SPOILER CH ALURA MARCHWIND VICTOR BY WARWICK X DOUBLE CHAMPION MARCHWIND BOBBI JEAN DC GRAND CHAMPION MARCHWIND TO THE VICTOR GO THE SPOILS

© PHYLLIS ENSLEY

THIS TYPEY PUPPY WAS A GRAND CHAMPION BEFORE HE WAS A YEAR OLD. THANKS FOR THE EXPERT PRESENTATION BY JUSTIN AND CHESLEY SMITHEY HTTP://WWW.MARCHWINDIGS.NET OWNED AND BRED BY LOIS MARCH, MD

T op N otch T oys , J une 2019 • 33

JUST JUDY’S THOUGHTS:

CYBER TRAINING FOR JUNIOR HANDLING

by Judy Thompson

I have three young granddaughters who are all smitten with my Papil- lons. All three are just itching to get into the Conformation ring and handle a dog. They all live on Long Island, where I spent most of my life, but I have since moved to Florida, over 1,300 miles away from them. When the oldest, Claire Paetzel, turned nine and was eligible for Ju- nior Handling, I was able to spend some time with her preparing for her first dog show. She had lots of prac- tice time with my Papillon. She was well prepared and did a wonderful job handling her very first time out. Recently, when a second granddaugh- ter, Hannah Lahey, turned nine I reg- istered her as a Junior Handler and entered her in the Ladies’ Kennel As- sociation of America dog show inOys- ter Bay, Long Island. Unfortunately, this time I was not able to spend any time on Long Island before the day of the show to help Hannah pre- pare. She had worked with my Papil- lon, Sunny, in Florida a few months prior when she came to visit during a school holiday, but that was not very recent. I was not sure how much she would remember. What to do?My first thought was to go to my favorite source for information: www.youtube.com I am an artist and

34 • T op N otch T oys , J une 2019

YORKSHIRE TERRIER BITCH *

YORKSHIRE TERRIER IN BREED *

*TNT breed stats as of 4/30/19

©Malinda Julien

M U L T I P L E G R O U P P L A C I N G

CHMAGNIFIQUE’S CENTER STAGE S I LV E R G R A N D C H A M P I O N

Thank you Mr. James Moses for awarding Chloe a very nice group 2nd at the Great Lakes Toy Show.

Breeder/Owner/Handler: Michele Shute, Magnifique Yorkies | Co-breeder: Tatyana Kolesnikov, Rigair Canada

T op N otch T oys , J une 2019 • 35

an imaginary lineup, I stacked Sunny as he filmed from the position the judge would assume. Our second video showed Sunny gait- ing around the “ring” and stopping at the table. Sunny is a Silver Grand Champion and gaits confidently on a loose lead, so I was confident that would be the easy part for Hannah. Next, we made a video showing Sunny’s placement on the table. This would NOT be easy for Hannah. The hands of a nine-year old are small and the table is relatively high for a child that age. Thankfully, Sunny is a trim seven pounds, but even that is a

of videos of Junior Handling competi- tions from all over the world. Unfortu- nately, I was unable to find a video that was perfectly suited to a young Junior just getting into the sport. We needed the basics, not advanced techniques. My iPhone came to the rescue! Han- nah’s grandfather and I planned to make our own short videos specifical- ly to help prepare Hannah for her first show. Off we went to the tennis court where we set up a grooming table. He recorded while I spoke and came in the gate with the Papillon. I explained how to fold up the show lead into her hand so it would not dangle. Then, in

consider myself a student at what I like to call “YouTube University”. I spend countless hours watching art tutorials and videos other artists have posted there. I’ve learned there’s hardly any- thing you can’t learn about in the cyber world of YouTube. So, I began to search topics such as “dog handling”, “show dogs”, and “Ju- nior Handling”. If you search “Dog Show Tips” you find that Will Alexan- der has posted some excellent videos teaching viewers how to handle a dog in the Conformation ring. Eric Salas has posted numerous videos of his handling seminars. There are dozens

36 • T op N otch T oys , J une 2019

MULT I PLE BEST IN SHOW WINNING, BEST IN SPECIALTY SHOW WINNING & MULT I PLE CHAMP ION

#3 OWNER HANDLER YORKIE *

#5

SECRET LOVER OF XANADU Bronze Grand Champion PARKSIDE’S

ALL BREED **

bred by MARIE KAUFMAN-CARDONA owned by MARIE KAUFMAN-CARDONA PAULETTE BLANCHET

BOBOH - Progressive Toy Dog Club - Mrs. June Penta SEL, BOBOH - Yorkshire Terrier Club of America - Mr. James Reynolds (pictured) Group 1 - Fort Lauderdale Dog Club - Mr. Jon R. Cole Group 2 - Greater Miami Dog Club - Mr. James Moses (pictured) Group 4 - Greater Orange Park Dog Club - Mrs. Peggy J. Hauck Group 4 - Caribe Kennel Club - Mrs. Cindy Meyer Group 2 - Ponce Kennel Club - Mrs. Terry Berrios (pictured) Group 1 & RBIS - Ponce Kennel Club - Mr. Jon Cole (pictured ) Group 1& BIS - Ponce Kennel Club - Mrs. Terry B. Carter (pictured)

FEBRUARY MARCH APRIL

owner handled by MARIA C. UMPIERRE

*AKC NOHS stats as of 5/6/19 **TNT all breed stats as of 4/30/19

T op N otch T oys , J une 2019 • 37

the dog. Even though Sunny does not live with Hannah, he knows her very well and has been walking with her since she was old enough to hold a lead. He did everything he was asked and cooperated fully with her. Han- nah was confident and capable and we were all so very proud of her. She was beaming as she accepted her rib- bons. Warm congratulations to Katie Gomes, whowonBest Junior that day. There is so much more for Hannah to learn, and I will be back on Long Is- land this summer to continue instruc- tion. But I am guessing I am not the only exhibitor with an aspiring Ju- nior Handler who lives at a distance. I would encourage others in my po- sition to take advantage of the cyber world of YouTube, the internet, smart phones and iPads to do in the cloud what we cannot do in person. We all know that Juniors are the future of our sport, and we need to do every- thing in our power to encourage and support them.

instructed her to walk the dog direct- ly to the judge and stop a good six feet before him or her. I showed Hannah how I use a certain verbal command that cues Sunny to cock his head and show great expression. The final vid- eo showed Sunny gaiting back to the start and resuming a stack. The videos were texted to Hannah’s mother and she was able to let Han- nah watch on her computer and iPad. Hannah was able to watch them over and over. The weather was perfect the day of Hannah’s first show, and you can- not find a more beautiful venue than Planting Fields Arboretum. We all arrived two hours before ring time to ensure that Hannah had plenty of time to practice and relax. After she did the last minute brushing and grooming, she was set to go. Judging Junior Showmanship that day was Judge Maria Meindl-Capozzi, who was wonderfully kind and patient. Judges are looking for presentation, showmanship and a connection with

tad heavy for a child. I demonstrated the stack and how to adjust his tail. I showed how to angle his head to- ward the judge and lift his lip to show his bite. Then we filmed the process of placing the dog back down on the ground and re-adjusting the lead. We made a video of a down and back. I demonstrated the turn and “HANNAH WAS CONFIDENT AND CAPABLE AND we were all so very proud of her.”

38 • T op N otch T oys , J une 2019

GCHP Dartan Diamonds Are Forever at Viva Best in Show Multiple OH Best in Show

Busy after Westminster...

BISS ~ Nashvi l le Chihuahua Club ~ 3/8/2019 BOV ~ Texas Chihuahua Club ~ 3/17/2019 BISS ~ Maryland Chihuahua Club 4/20/2019 NOHS BEST IN SHOW ~ 3/8/2019 & 3/10/2019

BR E D BY DARW I N D E L AN E Y & KA T HY S AWY E R OWN E D & E XC L U S I V E LY HAND L E D BY C E C I L I A BO Z Z O

T op N otch T oys , J une 2019 • 39

2019 AMERICAN SHIH TZU CLUB NATIONAL SPECIALTY

by Jo Ann White

A great time was had by all at the 2019 American Shih Tzu Club national specialty. The location, the Pier Sixty-SixHotel andMa- rina resort in Fort Lauderdale, could not have been lovelier. The Panorama Ballroom was large enough to ac- commodate obedience and rally and grooming, and the adjoining patio overlooking the marina was a great site for our Meet &Greet and It’s Five O’Clock Somewhere parties. Many of our attendees also spent time social- izing by the pool or in the bar or res- taurants, and our awards dinner and auction was at the top of the Tower, with windows all around overlooking the water and the city. This year in Fort Lauderdale we had two regionals ( judged by Jason Hoke and Kristy Mann) as well as the Na- tional ( judged by Luke Ehricht, with puppy sweepstakes judged by Diane Ehricht), plus two Obedience and Rally competitions ( judged by Ken- neth Kincaid). Complete results will be posted on www.shihtzu.org , but the top winners included the first black Shih Tzu to ever win the National and dogs from Canada, Brazil, and Peru as well as the United States. At Regional #1 BISS went to GCH CH Wenrick’s N’Palaquins They Call Me Mr. Bates, BOS to GCHS CH Ange- lina Ruby’s Heavenly Dream, BOW, WB, and Best BBEx to Wenrick’s N MrFoo’s Classic Vanity, and WD and Best in Puppy Classes to BR Pepper’s Adventure Lover. At Regional #2,

BISS again went toMr. Bates, BOS to Wenrick’s N MrFoo’s Classic Vanity, BOW, WB, and Best BBEx to Win- terholme’s This Kiss, and WD and Best in Puppy Classes to BR Pepper’s Adventure Lover. In the National Puppy Sweepstakes, Best in Sweep- stakes went to Winterholme Why Don’t U and I, and BOSSw to Desert’s VagabondWind. BISS at the National went to GCHG CH Wenshu in the Midnight Hour, BOS to GCHS CH Angelina’s Heavenly Dream, BOW and WD to Waldito De Maloso, and WB and Best BBEx toWinterholme’s This Kiss. For the first time, the ASTC also hosted two weekend all-breed agil- ity trials plus a Monday Shih Tzu only trial. These were held across the state the week before the Na- tional at the Bratty Paws Dog Plex in Punta Gorda, Florida’s only indoor

air-conditioned agility venue. The site was wonderful and thanks to chair Terri Jenkins, judge June Rob- ertson, and the many exhibitors who pitched in, the trials were a great suc- cess. They even held a Sunday morn- ing doggie Easter egg hunt! In Fort Lauderdale, the grooming and handling seminar organized by Kathy Garcia was well attended, as were the breeder and judges education semi- nars conducted by Joe Walton and Kristi Mann. Thanks to webmaster Mark Sprague and photographer/ videographer Robby Ferguson, we were able to take stills and videos and record interviews for the AKC Canine College course on Shih Tzu and record Joe Walton’s seminar on the breed. We also got lots of candid photos that appear here and on our website ( www.shihtzu.org ) and in the upcoming National Specialty issue

40 • T op N otch T oys , J une 2019

T op N otch T oys , J une 2019 • 41

of the ASTC Bulletin . A special thank you to Manuel Estevez Leal for the beautiful flower arrangements that made our ring so spectacular, and to Carlene Snyder for taking charge of the raffle. We had fabulous trophies, with sculptures by Yvonne Badoni for the top awards all three days, Dorothy Edge trophies for obedi- ence and rally, and pin brushes hand painted by Barbara Brem or featuring the “Let’s Flamingle” logo by Phyllis

show chair, I would like to thank ev- eryone who helped. We are trying to appeal to all of our members. In May 2020, we will be at another resort lo- cation, Myrtle Beach, South Caroli- na. As we plan for the future, it would be interesting to hear from other spe- cialty clubs about what kinds of sites and arrangements have worked best for them. Feel free to contact me at joawhite@juno.com . “IT REALLY DOES TAKE A VILLAGE TO PUT ON A NATIONAL, AND AS A FIRST-TIME NATIONAL SHOW CHAIR, I WOULD LIKE TO THANK EVERY- ONE WHO HELPED.”

Celmer for the national conformation placements. Madonna Holko, who has once again become editor of the ASTC Bulletin , also managed to get the latest issue of the Historical Re- cord Book (2016-2018) completed in time to be distributed at the National. Javier Diaz live streamed judging on his Facebook page every day so those unable to attend could watch. It really does take a village to put on a National, and as a first-time National

42 • T op N otch T oys , J une 2019

B E N D I L L T A I L W I N D GCH LAMPLIGHTER

*TNT BREED STATS AS OF 4/30/19 BISS GROUP 1 TOY DOG CLUB OF CENTRAL FLORIDA # 1 flash SILKY TERRIER *

THANK YOU JUDGE SHARON MASNICK

PRESENTED BY BARBARA BEISSEL | ASSISTED BY ROZALYNN MAY OWNED BY JIRI HALONEN, JANET ASLETT, BARBARA BEISSEL & MARK BENSON BRED BY BEISSEL-BENSON-DILLMAN

T op N otch T oys , J une 2019 • 43

THE MOST POPULAR TOY BREEDS

7 10 18 20 23 24 28 33 37 54 70

73 79 92 98 104 111 112 133 135 148

Poodle (Toy) Yorkshire Terrier Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

Italian Greyhound

Chinese Crested

Pekingese

Brussels Griffon

Shih Tzu

Japanese Chin

Pomeranian

Toy Fox Terrier

Havanese

Silky Terrier

Pug

Manchester Terrier English Toy Spaniel

Chihuahua

Maltese

Papillon

Affenpinscher

Miniature Pinscher

Courtesy of American Kennel Club, www.akc.org

44 • T op N otch T oys , J une 2019

FUN IN THE SUMMER!

COMING ATTRACTIONS:

Fabulous Italian Greyhounds and Terrific Toy Fox Terriers are featured in this National Specialty issue! Celebrate your wonderful youngsters and spectacular specials. Showcase your high flying performance dogs and the awesome “oldies but goodies” the foundation of todays success stories. This issue will be distributed at the National Specialties and many other shows.

Deadline June 21

TOP NOTCH TOYS IS THE NATIONAL, PREMIER, ALL TOY, BEST PLACE TO ADVERTISE!

CONTACT Bonnie Guggenheim 512.971.3280 bonnie@aramediagroup.com

T op N otch T oys , J une 2019 • 45

SURVEY says

IS THE NUMBER OF SHOWS YOU ENTER DETERMINED BY THE JUDGE, THE DISTANCE, THE VENUE? ON AVERAGE HOW MANY SHOWS DO YOU ENTER ON A MONTHLY BASIS?

Judges are the main factor. The venue is a factor, weather conditions for the area of outdoor shows and AC/Heat for the indoor shows. If the judges are good and the show site is good we do not mind driving 3-4 hours. —Anonymous Judge and distance. Don't care about venue...most impor- tantly, do they offer NOHS? If not, chances are I will not go. —Anonymous The number of shows I enter is determined by the judge (not the case when I started out and bigger show budget, haha). When I have something showworthy I try to make it to two weekends a month to cluster venues. —Anonymous

It’s a combination of all 3. Usually 2-3 days average amonth for the year. —Anonymous

The judge, 2-3 show per month. —Anonymous

Mostly by judge try to avoid judges who are not well versed in the breeds we show. Distance is also a consideration but will travel for more shows with good judges. Do about 8 shows a month. Average distance to shows 6 to 8 hours. Will travel to the nationals where ever they are. -John Rawleigh

The distance, the venue and judge. —Anonymous

Judges and distance. 3-4. —Anonymous

Primarily distance, but if I don’t like the judges I might skip and go to the next closest. The other thing you didn’t ask about is day of week. Recently I picked shows with three shows on the two day weekend over longer clusters that I would have had to use vacation days for. I prefer to use vacation days for Royal Canin, Westminster, and the Na- tional. I think distance (because driving time might mean days away from work) and days of the week affect a lot of owner handlers. —Anonymous

All three, 8-10. —Anonymous

46 • T op N otch T oys , J une 2019

CH WH I R LW I NDS CHAR LOT T E P R I NC E S S O F CAMB R I DG E CH WHI RLWINDS HE I R APPARENT (FRI TZ GREAT GRANDSON) X CH WHI RLWINDS A CHRISTMAS CARROLL (FRI TZ GRAND DAUGHTER)

JEWEL F INISHES HER AKC CHAMP IONSHI P IN STYLE AT 10 MONTHS OLD BACK-TO-BACK 5 POINT MAJORS AT THE CARI BE KENNEL CLUB SHOWS IN SAN JUAN, PUERTO RICO OWNER KIM BOOCHER CO-OWNER/BREEDER/HANDLER FRANKI E LARRI EU

T op N otch T oys , J une 2019 • 47

THE BIEWER TERRIER JOURNEY TO FULL RECOGNITION www.biewerterrierclubofamerica.org.

T he Biewer Terrier is an elegant, long-haired, uniquely colored toy terrier with a breed signature ponytail neatly tied on top of its head. The coat parts down themiddle, hanging straight and evenly on both sides of the body as though a comb has been used to part it. The back is level, with height at shoulders being equal to height at the croup. Although the outline of the dog gives the appear- ance of a square, the body length is slightly longer than the overall height.

The tail is set high and carried well arched over the body, covered with a long luxurious plume. The Biewer Terrier has a lighthearted whimsical, childlike attitude and will keep you entertained for hours. Although mis- chievous at times, they are obedient and make a loyal companion. Biewer is pronounced “beaver” like the little dam building animals. Don’t be sur- prised if your Biewer Terrier greets you with a toy as they love to carry toys around all the time.

In the past many people referred to it as a mutt or a designer dog; a pass- ing fad that no one would ever accept. This would all change when the Biew- er Terrier entered an in-depth ge- netic study that would determine the Biewer Terrier was a breed of its own due to the combining of three or more breeds. As we continue to research and study the Biewer Terrier’s genetic makeup, we can achieve a better un- derstanding of any health issues that may be associated with our breed. We have come a long way since the formation of the Biewer Terrier Club of America, Inc. in 2006 to the Biew- er Terrier acceptance into the AKC/ FSS in April 2014. In June of 2018 the AKC Board voted to move the breed into the Miscellaneous Group com- mencing in July 2019. Mrs. Biewer, co-originator of the breed, joined the BTCA in 2007 as she believed strongly in the clubs core values and the direction they wanted to take the breed. With the information and records of the breed’s beginning years in the Fried- heck kennel, we were able to obtain a wealth of information on how the breed originated and progressed. To see the full history of the breed visit www.biewerterrierclubofamerica.org The Biewer Terrier’s popular- ity is rapidly gaining worldwide recognition. South Africa, Brazil, Bolivia, the Bahamas and Lithu- ania were among the first countries to recognize the Biewer Terrier.

48 • T op N otch T oys , J une 2019

Windsong BIEWER TERRIERS

B R E E D E R / OWN E R D E B A R A H B I L L I N G S

WWW . W I N D S O N G B I EWE R S . COM W I N D S O N G B I EWE R S @GMA I L . COM

Yogi

Sapphire

YOGI CM2 22 BIS • 2 BISS • 2 BOSS

SAPPHIRE CM A YOGI DAUGHTER 2 BIOS BOSS

Tenor

Emmie

WINDSONG’S LOVELY IN EMERALDS A YOGI DAUGHTER BIS, 4-6 PUPPY • 3 BOS • 2 BIS OPEN

SOMETHING ABOUT A TENOR 3 BEST IN OPEN SHOWS • 1 BOS EARNING CM IN ONE WEEKEND AT 5 MONTHS

T H E S TA R S O F W I N D S O N G

N EW TO T H E R I N G 2 0 1 9 : WINDSONG’S RISING STAR, WINDSONG’S CHARMER, WINDSONG’S I HOPE YOU DANCE, WINDSONG’S DOLLY & WINDSONG’S WHEN THE THUNDER ROLLS T op N otch T oys , J une 2019 • 49

At this time the BTCA, Inc. contin- ues to assist foreign Biewer Terrier breeders and fanciers in meeting the requirements for recognition in their perspective countries. The goal of the Biewer Terrier Club of America, Inc. has always been to gain full AKC recognition and we are quickly making that goal a reality. Since the acceptance of the Biewer Terrier into the AKC/FSS in April of 2014, we have worked closely with AKC tomeet the requirements neces- sary to advance. The Biewer Terrier is the first breed to be recognized as a purebred due to an in-depth ge- netic study that was conducted on the breed. The AKC accepted the breed eight years after first applying in 2006, it then moved into the Misc. Group in five short years. It is one of the only FSS clubs licensed to hold agility shows. Although the Biewer Terrier is not recognized by the FCI or in the country of origin, it has met all the requirements set by AKC to continue moving forward into full recognition in the Toy Group. The Biewer Terrier Club of America, Inc. has been named the parent club

and is the only club sanctioned by the AKC to hold shows and events. It is one of the only FSS clubs licensed to hold agility shows. Currently there are no regional Biewer Terrier Clubs sanctioned by the AKC or the BTCA, Inc. The BTCA recognizes the fact that there are many dogs being regis- tered with other registries that may be purebred Biewer Terriers. For this reason they have made provi- sions for these dogs to be registered through the Biewer Terrier Registry of America (BTRA). The dedication and devotion of our members to adhere to the strict, ethi- cal guidelines it takes to develop a new breed is to be commended. It has not been an easy road, but the rewards have been monumental. By belonging to the parent club, they have taken the responsibility to preserve and protect the breed very seriously. If you find the Biewer Terrier is a breed you may be interested in, we would like to encourage you to visit the Biewer Terrier Club of America website to learn more about this wonderful breed. www.biewerterrierclubofamerica.org

“The Biewer Terrier is the first breed to be recognized AS A PUREBRED DUE TO AN IN- DEPTH GENETIC STUDY THAT WAS CONDUCTED ON THE BREED.”

50 • T op N otch T oys , J une 2019

HAS NOW MOVED INTO THE MISCELLANEOUS GROUP! Biewer Terrier

A S O F J U L Y 3 R D

P L E A S E V I S I T O U R N A T I O N A L S P E C I A L T Y A N D M E E T T H E B R E E D S B O O T H I N O R L A N D O A T R O Y A L C A N I N N A T I O N A L S I N D E C E M B E R .

www.biewerterrierclubofamerica.org

T op N otch T oys , J une 2019 • 51

ARE BREEDER-JUDGES GOOD FOR THE SPORT? by Michael and Cathy Dugan

By definition, the AKC demands breeding experience before a person can begin the process of becoming an AKC judge. There are different requirements for handlers. Over the years the road to becoming a judge was always, with some exceptions, been paved with breeding or handling experience. The premise was that these experiences ensured that the new judge had a pool of knowledge that would help them become a good judge. These judges understood their breed standards and what it takes to produce excellent dogs. WHERE’S THE RESPECT? Yet, today, we see more and more examples of exhibitors arguing with judges. Instead of talking to the judge to understand the results, many file complaints with AKC reps at shows, and showing little regard for judges when their dogs do not win. Judges

controversial. That criticism comes from owners or breeders who com- pete against dogs bred by breeder judges and felt the breeder judge somehow has an advantage. By defi- nition, breeders who become judges are experienced and established in their breed. They also have a lot to offer their respective fancy. A judge’s opinion should be looked upon as just that—their opinion. Wouldn’t you prefer the opinion of a judge who knows your breed from the whelping box to the Best In Show ring? Full disclosure. We are current Breeders of Merit, having bred since 1987, still actively breeding; Cathy is an AKC judge, Mike judges at match- es and works as a ring steward. Cathy used to handle our dogs, but for over a decade we’ve used terrific profes- sional handlers with great success. So, we are, therefore, biased at every level and impartial at none.

A s registrations of pure-bred dogs and participation at dog shows decline, recent trends have changed the game. More and more handlers have also become breeders. And many breeders have become AKC judges and then stop breeding. Finally, while some judges may not breed directly, many are still linked to downline breeders who are virtually co-breeders. The lines be- tween breeders, handlers and judges have always been delicately balanced but now are more and more blurred. To some in the fancy, breeders who become AKC judges have become

“A judge’s opinion should be looked upon as just that—their opinion. WOULDN’T YOU PREFER THE OPINION OF A JUDGE WHO KNOWS YOUR BREED FROM THE WHELPING BOX TO THE BEST IN SHOW RING?”

52 • T op N otch T oys , J une 2019

“WHEN A JUDGE STOPS BREEDING, all of us lose a huge reservoir of experience, knowledge, and advancement of their breed and the sport in general.”

reason to stop breeding. This does not advance the sport of pure bred dogs. Judges should keep breeding and by so doing stay current on changes in breeds and continue to mentor new exhibitors in the sport. When a judge stops breeding, all of us lose a huge reservoir of experience, knowledge, and advancement of their breed and the sport in general. THE AKC CAN HELP. The AKC should encourage judges to keep breeding and stay in the game as much as possible. While many judges were once breeders, times change and breed standards evolve. To become an AKC Breeder Of Merit, a breeder must have been involved with AKC events for five years, earned at least four conformation, performance or companion event titles, be a member of an AKC parent club, certify that application health screens are per- formed on their breeding stock and demonstrate a commitment to ensur- ing that 100%of the puppies produced are AKC registered. It is not enough to just be an AKC judge. We all need to mentor, develop and encourage newcomers to the sport if we expect to have a sport in ten years. We’re in the best position to do all of that as breeders; producing dogs that meet breed standards and placing great dogs with new owners who will be the life blood of our sport’s future.

used to be respected in the same way that teachers used to be respected. Many respected successful judges in the past continued to be top breeders. There was no question that they knew what they were doing as they judged in the ring. Most of these judges were also very generous with their time to explain why they judged the way they did when asked by an exhibitor. Why? Because they were also mentors and they respected the exhibitors just as they hoped they would be respected. BREEDERS AS MENTORS. Good breeders are also great men- tors for the people to whom they have sold a dog, whether a show dog or a pet. They stay in touch with their new owner families, recruit new show homes where possible and under- stand that there are no dumb ques- tions from new members to the fancy. They understand that the future of the sport is dependent upon a growing pool of new dog owners and exhibi- tors. As breeders we try to encourage new owners to become more involved beyond just having a dog. Where we used to concentrate on conformation competition, we now promote multi- ple avenues for training such as ther- apy, water trials, scent work, obedi- ence, agility and other activities. We know that an owner who participates in these areas is more likely to join a local dog club, go to dog shows and be- come an advocate for pure bred dogs.

WHERE ARE THE PURE BRED PUPPIES? Yet, the sport is struggling and breed- ers are disappearing. With over a half-million new registrations each year with the AKC, over 5,000 dog clubs with an estimated 150,000 members, there are less than 10,000 AKC Breeders Of Merit in the whole country. Where do we think the dogs are going to come from to support dog shows and registrations? At a recent AKC Legislative Confer- ence on the west coast, one of the pre- sentations dealt with “Professional Breeders, looking to the future—it is time to change the narrative”. The AKC’s relatively new program is to encourage and work with commercial breeders who breed in much larger numbers than the average Breeder of Merit. We get it—more dogs, more registrations. They estimated that of the ten million puppies born ev- ery year, commercial breeders pro- duce 30% of the total, while “hobby” breeders only provide 3%, 44% from rescues and shelters, 4% pet stores and the rest—who knows? Unfortunately, the trend has been that once a person becomes a judge, they tend to stop breeding. The AKC has rules that are designed to limit the perception of a conflict of interest for a judge, yet some judges use this as a WE NEED MORE BREEDER-JUDGES

T op N otch T oys , J une 2019 • 53

TOP NOTCH TOYS

TOYBOX

SUBMIT YOUR CUTE PHOTOS TO OUR TOYBOX DEPARTMENT. Any clear photo will do—black & white or color, regular photo or digital. (If sending digital images, send high resolution 300 DPI for best quality.) Please submit your name and the name of the dog. 54 • T op N otch T oys , J une 2019

FUN IN THE SUMMER!

COMING ATTRACTIONS:

Fabulous Italian Greyhounds and Terrific Toy Fox Terriers are featured in this National Specialty issue! Celebrate your wonderful youngsters and spectacular specials. Showcase your high flying performance dogs and the awesome “oldies but goodies” the foundation of todays success stories. This issue will be distributed at the National Specialties and many other shows.

Deadline June 21

TOP NOTCH TOYS IS THE NATIONAL, PREMIER, ALL TOY, BEST PLACE TO ADVERTISE!

CONTACT Bonnie Guggenheim 512.971.3280 bonnie@aramediagroup.com

T op N otch T oys , J une 2019 • 55

ON THE LINE: BREED STANDARDS ENSURE PRESERVATION by BJ Andrews

Y ou build a w i n n i n g bloodl ine only to see it diminished by those who would stop

of animals” over the rights of their adoring owners. How ironic that some animal lovers actually think they are protecting the animals by campaigning against the centuries of tradition that have insured the existence of purebred dogs. Ani- mal Rights activists have turned many horse breeds into only memories or the pride of wealthy breed preservationists. Budweiser brewery still honors and preserves the magnificent Clydesdales but other draft breeds that founded our country and pulled our artillery wagons are nearly extinct. Saint Bernard dogs no longer rescue people. Mastiffs, Great Danes and other “giant” breeds survive because breeders are motivated by ribbons and wins and there are still wealthy own- ers and breeders devoted to the breed. The same could be said for other giant breeds that/who have been replaced by technology or machines. But does that mean they should disappear? We buy a car because the style and size suits our needs. We buy a truck or SUV because it is functional but also stylish. We buy a Lamborghini that will never see a race course because we love the look and the statement it makes. Pointers and Setters, not because we hunt but because we are attracted to their functional beauty and style. Lap dogs are not a luxury in today stress- ful times. For many older people they are more comforting than pain meds. For the emotionally anguished, strok- ing a dog is better and sooo much less debilitating than tranquilizers! True it is that most mutts, mongrels or if you prefer, “mixed breeds” can and do fulfill all of those vital roles but the odds of “getting another like Trixie” are discouraging.

cropping ears and/or dock- ing tails in a breed whose Breed Stan- dard requires it. Has AKC has sold out breed club Stan- dards in exchange for the significant $$$ income generated by registering imported dogs and selling certified pedigrees? Just as troubling, can the American Kennel Club be influenced by “animal rights” supporters who are so insecure that they have to “make a statement” by showing an uncropped and/or undocked dog? There is nothing in the AKC charter or bylaws nor has any legal precedent been set decreeing that a long-tailed or drop- eared dog MUST be eligible to be shown and potentially awarded in contradiction to the AKC Breed Standard. To the contrary, those “natural” dogs would be disqualified or at the least, ig- nored under a breed standard that speci- fies docked tails or cropped ears. Many national/parent breed clubs are consider- ing or have already re-written portions of their breed standard to accommodate flop ears and/or long tails. Why? Be- cause “animal rights” activists proclaim cropping and docking is cruel. In their ignorance, newbies or animal rights ad- vocates ignore the health benefits, espe- cially in hunting and field breeds. There are 62 AKC docked breeds and over 20 breeds with cropped ears. This is not a “breed issue.” It is a politi- cal issue driven by the “animal rights” proponents who would put “the rights

For many older people, lap dogs are more comforting than pain meds.

Budweiser Clydesdales

Breed Standards define specific charac- teristics, size, coat type, and personal- ity. Purebred dogs developed because we needed particular, predictable qualities that enabled dogs to protect our livestock, to put food on the table, to keep robbers at bay, and most of all, to listen to us, and to give tangible love and support without regard to our so- cial status or even to our ability to care for them. When a certain “type” performed one of more of those duties better than an- other, we wrote it down and tried to preserve those qualities. Purebreds Are Predictable. That is exactly why Breed Standards exist and why we must preserve them. Most TNT readers are breed club mem- bers so take a minute to be sure that your Parent club is protecting the breed as is its charter. Let a political orga- nization deal with animal rights. The duty of your breed club and its mem- bers is to protect and uphold the AKC for the breed. Do your duty. Preserve the breed features you love!

56 • T op N otch T oys , J une 2019

Page 1 Page 2 Page 3 Page 4 Page 5 Page 6 Page 7 Page 8 Page 9 Page 10 Page 11 Page 12 Page 13 Page 14 Page 15 Page 16 Page 17 Page 18 Page 19 Page 20 Page 21 Page 22 Page 23 Page 24 Page 25 Page 26 Page 27 Page 28 Page 29 Page 30 Page 31 Page 32 Page 33 Page 34 Page 35 Page 36 Page 37 Page 38 Page 39 Page 40 Page 41 Page 42 Page 43 Page 44 Page 45 Page 46 Page 47 Page 48 Page 49 Page 50 Page 51 Page 52 Page 53 Page 54 Page 55 Page 56 Page 57 Page 58 Page 59 Page 60 Page 61 Page 62 Page 63 Page 64 Page 65 Page 66 Page 67 Page 68

topnotchtoys.com

Powered by