Interview with a Toy Group Judge Ted Eubank
Where do I live? How many years in dogs? How many years as a judge?
Ted Eubank: I live in Dallas, Texas. I have owned Cavaliers for 30 years and have judged at point shows for 23 years.
What is my original breed? What is/was my kennel name?
Ted Eubank: My original breed is the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. My kennel name is Pinecrest Cavaliers.
Can I list a few of the notable dogs I’ve bred? Any performance or parent club titles?
Ted Eubank: Notable dogs include CH Pinecrest Rock The Boat, who won BOB at Westminster KC in 2007 at age 20 months, and again in 2008. That year, “Rocky” was Best in Show at two National Specialties, won eight all-breed BIS and 75 Group Ones, BOB at the National Dog Show and a Group One, and Best in Owner-Handled Group at the AKC National Championship. He was No. 1 Cavalier and No. 7 Toy in AKC in 2007, and Breed Winner and Group Two at the AKC National Championship in 2009.
CH Pinecrest Kiss Me Kate was the No. 1 Cavalier Bitch and No. 4 Cavalier in 1996 when AKC first recognized the breed; mother of 12 AKC children and many grands.
What are some of the qualities I most admire in the Toy Breeds?
Ted Eubank: Most of the breeds are tremendous family pets. They love being with their people.
Have I judged any Toy Breed Specialties?
Ted Eubank: Yes, Cavaliers, Pugs, Chihuahuas, Shih Tzu, Yorkshire Terriers, and Chinese Cresteds.
Can I offer any advice to exhibitors regarding the presentation of these “table” breeds?
Ted Eubank: Presentation is so different from breed to breed. My advice is to get a good mentor in each breed and follow the advice from someone who knows proper presentation.
Some longtime exhibitors have “downsized” to Toys. In my opinion, has this had an impact on quality?
Ted Eubank: Not that I can see.
Toy Breeds can require special care. Do I have any advice to offer breeders, exhibitors, and judges?
Ted Eubank: Because care differs from breed to breed (coats significantly differ in many), my answer about getting a good mentor and learning what is proper is the same here.
In my opinion, how do today’s exhibits compare with the Toy Dogs of the past?
Ted Eubank: I think they compare well, especially in my breed, Cavaliers.
Why do I think Toy Dogs can become outstanding Show Dogs?
Ted Eubank: Because most Toys bond strongly to their people, they tend to have a good time in the ring and enjoy the time with their person. This is so important to success in the show ring.
If I could share my life with only one Toy Breed, which would it be and why?
Ted Eubank: No question, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels.
Just for laughs, do I have a funny story that I can share about my experiences judging the Toy Group?
Better leave my stories out of print!
