Interview With Bill Stebbins: 2025 AKC National Championship NOHS Working Group Judge

Interview With Bill Stebbins: 2025 AKC National Championship National Owner-Handled Series Working Group Judge

1. Can you describe your reaction to receiving an invitation to judge the National Owner-Handled Series Working Group at the AKC National Championship Presented by Royal Canin?

Bill Stebbins: An invitation to adjudicate the NOHS was a most-welcomed surprise.

2. What does it mean to judge this singular event at the only all-breed show organized directly by the American Kennel Club?

Bill Stebbins: Having this assignment being held in conjunction with the AKC National Championship made it doubly rewarding.

3. In your opinion, how does this show differ from other AKC events?

Bill Stebbins: I continue to be amazed at the sheer breadth and scope of this show. It is simply breathtaking.

4. What were you thinking or feeling moments before you stepped into the center of the NOHS Group ring?

Bill Stebbins: I could not wait until the Group was assembled in the ring. Excitement, anticipation, and joy would be the most appropriate terms.

5. Was there a heightened energy coming from the dog and owner-handled teams? Did you feel any excitement from the spectators?

Bill Stebbins: There was great support from the large audience. Many of the dogs/handlers were sharing in this environment.

6. How challenging was this assignment? Can you share your selection process?

Bill Stebbins: The selection process was the same as would have been used in any Group environment. However, due to the overall high quality of the competition, the final selections were not easily determined.

7. Do you have a word or two about your NOHS Group winner? About the dogs that placed?

Bill Stebbins: My selection for First place was a simply outstanding example of the Samoyed breed. I had sent this dog to the Group earlier in the day from the initial round of competition.

8. A show of this magnitude is a monumental undertaking. Is there anything you’d like to say to the AKC staff and the show’s sponsors?

Bill Stebbins: The revised format which was employed by the AKC was, in my opinion, well received by the judges, exhibitors, and audience. The AKC staff involved, headed up by Guy Fisher, were simply on top of their game… efficient, organized, and timely.

9. Now that it’s over, what are your thoughts on the 2025 show year? Any thoughts on the year ahead?

Bill Stebbins: One always hopes for a safe and healthy year for all of our dogs and participants in the world of dog shows. Here’s hoping for more outstanding specimens with whom we have yet to become aware.