Meet Blaine Crowder – 2025 National Dog Show Best Junior Handler

Meet Blaine Crowder – 2025 National Dog Show Best Junior Handler

1. Congratulations, Blaine, on your Best Junior Handler win at the 2025 Kennel Club of Philadelphia Dog Show! Is it a dream come true?

Blaine Crowder: Thank you! Yes, it truly is a dream come true!

2. How was the overall experience of being at the Philadelphia show for you? Were you busy all weekend?

Blaine Crowder: The experience was amazing! I enjoyed every part of this show. I met new people, made new friends, and made many memories. I also got to experience a new show site. The clubs did an amazing job with all the prizes and ribbons. It was such an amazing cluster!

Yes, I was very busy that weekend. The busiest I’ve ever been at any show.

3. Who was the first person you called or texted after you’d won?

Blaine Crowder: My mom! She has always been my biggest supporter. My mom can’t attend every show, but is supporting me from home. When I called her, it was very emotional for the both of us.

4. How have you celebrated your victory? Did you and your dog enjoy a special meal that night?

Blaine Crowder: Me and some friends went out to dinner… I may have brought back a little something for Phasma.

5. You’ve shown several different dogs in Juniors. How did you choose which dog to show this year?

Blaine Crowder: I try to show a different group of dogs every year, this year being the Working Group. I chose this Group because my grandma has been showing in it for 40-plus years.

Having shown Phasma for the past year, with the bond that we share, I knew she was the one I wanted to show.

6. What does your dog mean to you now that you share this win together?

Blaine Crowder: You know, win or lose, she will always be my best friend. I will love her no matter what. She always gives me 110 percent.

7. How has Junior Handling made a difference in your life? In your family’s life?

Blaine Crowder: It has definitely altered my life; being gone from home for months at a time, it isn’t always easy. To become successful in this sport, you have to be gone for months at a time. But, I have met many extraordinary people who have not only helped me grow as a handler but also as a person.

It’s sometimes hard to do family things, with me being on the road all the time, but when I’m home, we make every minute count.

8. Would you like to say a few words about this year’s judge? To your competitors?

Blaine Crowder: Yes, this Judge was very kind, pleasant, and patient. Her interactions with the Juniors and their dogs was great. I feel like she gave all the Juniors enough time to present their dogs to the fullest. You can tell she obviously loves what she does. It was an absolute pleasure to show to this judge!

Use every opportunity, win or lose, to learn and grow. The skills that you gain in the ring will serve you for a lifetime. Just enjoy every moment.

9. Can you offer any advice to Juniors looking to compete at next year’s National Dog Show?

Blaine Crowder: No matter what, have fun! Work hard and put in the effort. Just give it all you got.

10. What’s next for Blaine Crowder?

Blaine Crowder: Only time will tell. I have a lot of goals as a Junior that I would like to accomplish before aging out.