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61 published articles
As the founder of Dog Show Mentor, Lee Whittier helps owner handlers become more knowledgeable, confident, and competitive through education, mentorship, and a strategic approach to showing dogs. Her work encourages exhibitors to look beyond the ribbon, better understand their dogs and the judging process, and continually improve their skills both inside and outside the ring. Lee brings more than three decades of experience in purebred dogs to her mentoring, writing, and judging. An experienced Best in Show breeder and exhibitor, former AKC Executive Field Representative, and internationally respected judge, she now judges multiple Groups at prestigious dog shows throughout the United States and internationally. A regular contributor to SHOWSIGHT, Lee received the 2026 Dog Writers Association of America Award for Op-Ed or Commentary, taking top honors in the category for her SHOWSIGHT article. Lee lives in Vancouver, Washington, where she enjoys her Tibetan Terriers, gardening, and hiking. To learn more about expanding your dog show horizons, contact Lee at: Lee@DogShowMentor.com.
Meet the Owner Handlers
Discover how to embody professionalism as an owner handler and elevate your dog show journey to new heights of excellence.
Canine Health
Exploring ethical dilemmas in dog shows, from rule interpretation to integrity, health, and fairness in the sport.
Meet the Owner Handlers
Discover essential strategies for breed promotion, from mastering the Breed Standard to crafting impactful talks, for exhibitors and judges.
Dog Show Community
Learn how to promote sportsmanship and kindness in dog shows, combating online bullying to foster a positive and supportive community
Dog Show Community
Master the National Owner-Handled Series (NOHS) with our guide for success in dog shows, tailored for both owners and handlers.
All About Judging
Explore the Terrier enthusiast’s paradise at Montgomery County Kennel club. Discover top-quality dogs and camaraderie like never before.
Dog Show Community
Elevate women in dog shows: Updating AKC code for recognition and equality. Discover the impact of remarkable women in our canine community.
Dog Show Community
Redefining dog show attire can attract new exhibitors and foster inclusivity. Explore the intersection of style and comfort.
American Kennel Club (AKC)
The American Kennel Club levels the playing field for AKC owner handlers in dog shows, allowing exhibitors to learn from judges. Read more.
Dog Show Community
Discover the core values for success in dog shows – Excellence, Community, Kindness, and Respect. Boost your win rate in the dog show ring.
Dog Clubs
Learn about the concerns that owner handlers face when competing in Conformation, specifically the safety of their dogs. Find out what to do!
Dog Clubs
Lee Whittier, the Dog Show Mentor, discusses the eight most common ring errors and how to easily correct them.
The Weekly Brief
The best of SHOWSIGHT editorials, weekly wins, and breeder commentary — delivered to your inbox every Sunday morning.