Featured photo: Reagan Schwartzenberger and her Juniors dog “Bourbon,” CH Rumspringa’s Know When To Hold ‘Em, bred and finished by Reagan. (photo by Laura Wright of BellaClan Border Collies)
At the Juniors seminar titled “AKC Juniors, the Future, and You” that was held at Doswell, Virginia, in June 2026, many incredible and fundamental people from the AKC talked to us about several important and inspiring things. They talked to us about ways they could improve Juniors, the importance of safety at dog shows, and ways we could invite new people in.
When we talked about ways we could improve our clubs and Juniors, it definitely got our imaginations going. I think it would be incredible if more clubs had practice rings for Juniors and new dogs. I know that a reason these are less common is due to a lack of organization, but this could be solved by taking turns in the ring for five minutes each to ensure safety and order. I appreciated that they took the time to let us discuss these ideas, and come up with them.
I really appreciated that they talked to us about ensuring our safety, as I myself have been in uncomfortable situations with older men. When we started talking about this, it really assured me that they listen, and more importantly, act. I feel more confident knowing that I have sources like my mom, Show-Safe, and the AKC to make sure that me and other Juniors are safe. These things really do matter to us, and I am glad the adults care.
My highlight of this seminar was when they talked about introducing new people into our sport and educating them on our beautiful breeds and sports. When I went to private school, my classmates would say that we were forcing our dogs to have litters and that we do dog shows without knowing anything. It was deeply offensive when they said this, but it also made me realize how little the public knows about dog shows. Ever since 2024 when we started showing, there has been a noticeable decline in people and entries. It has been increasingly difficult to find majors, and I’ve been seeing less Juniors. I think it would really help if there was a well-promoted social media for the AKC so that dog sports could continue to thrive.
Even several weeks after the seminar, I still find myself thinking of ways this sport could be improved upon, and ways we can show other people how great this sport can be. I want people to know that they are welcome and safe, and that they have the potential to go far in showing. Me and my mom found great success even within the first year of showing in our breed, and we continue to reach our goals.
This was a great seminar and I am grateful to the kennel clubs that hosted, and to all of the people who came to organize and support our event. I anticipate there being more of these seminars to come, and the innovations that will follow
