Insights From Kathleen J. Ferris: 2025 AKC National Championship Breed Judge
Kathleen Ferris shares insights on judging at the 2025 AKC National Championship, reflecting on quality, competition, and sport’s future.
February 6, 2026
The American Kennel Club (AKC) is a registry of purebred dog pedigrees in the United States. In addition to maintaining its pedigree registry, this kennel club also promotes and sanctions events for purebred dogs, including the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show, an annual event which predates the official forming of the AKC, the National Dog Show and the AKC National Championship.
Kathleen Ferris shares insights on judging at the 2025 AKC National Championship, reflecting on quality, competition, and sport’s future.
Marie Ann Falconer reflects on judging Collies, Shetland Sheepdogs, Spanish Water Dogs and Swedish Vallhunds at the 2025 AKC Nat Championship.
Janina Laurin reflects on judging the Bred-By-Exhibitor Herding Group at the 2025 AKC National Championship.
Barbara Burns reflects on judging the Bred-By-Exhibitor Working Group at the 2025 AKC National Championship, highlighting dogs and breeders.
Richard Reynolds reflects on judging the Bred-By-Exhibitor Hound Group at the 2025 AKC National Championship and the breeders behind it.
Thomas Coen reflects on judging Bred-By-Exhibitor Best in Show at the 2025 AKC National Championship and today’s breeders.
Michael Canalizo on judging the Miscellaneous Classes at the 2025 AKC National Championship and the future of emerging breeds.
Carl Gene Liepmann on judging the Herding Group at the 2025 AKC Championship, with insight on dogs and his winner.