Interview With Carl Liepmann – 2022 AKC National Championship Best Bred-By-Exhibitor Judge

Interview With Carl Liepmann – 2022 AKC National Championship Best Bred-By-Exhibitor Judge

Can you describe your reaction to receiving an invitation to judge Best Bred-By-Exhibitor at the AKC National Championship Presented by Royal Canin?

Carl Liepmann: When I received the letter of invitation I was pleasantly surprised to be offered one of the BIS assignments. Perhaps the most difficult part of my acceptance was the requirement that it be kept secret until the press release—over a year later.

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

Carl Liepmann: To me, it is always an honor to be invited to judge any part of this show. I have judged breeds many times and the Sporting Group, but Best Bred-By in Show was a highlight of my
42-year career.

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

Carl Liepmann: It is a world apart from other shows not only because of the size of the entry but also due to the venue and the first-class treatment of those who judge. Wouldn’t it be nice if our local shows were able to draw even one-tenth the number of majors and had facilities that supported rings of the size at the Orange County Convention Center?

What were you thinking or feeling moments before you stepped into the center of the Best Bred-By-Exhibitor ring?

Carl Liepmann: First, I hoped I would not stumble and fall on my face in front of the TV world, and secondly, very anxious to see which breeds I would be presented. I was not nervous, but certainly excided and ready for the challenge.

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

Carl Liepmann: The quality of the seven finalists was as good as any BIS that I have ever had the pleasure of judging. In fact, several of them were BIS winners in their own right. Typically, I am a movement judge when the quality before me is as good as it was that evening.

While all were good, I felt that the Bloodhound perfectly matched the Standard which calls for an elastic, free gait. He covered ground with wonderful reach and drive, with a “look at me” attitude that is the essence of a show dog.

The quality of the seven finalists was as good as any BIS that I have ever had the pleasure of judging.

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

Carl Liepmann: I had the pleasure of dining with several of the officials from Royal Canin at the judges’ dinner. They were enthusiastic supporters of the show and that, along with the enthusiasm and expertise of the AKC, bodes well for the future of the AKC National as well as our sport.

Now that it’s over, what are your thoughts on the 2022 show year? Any thoughts on the year ahead?

Carl Liepmann: The 2022 show year showed an increase in Conformation and Performance events, and one can only hope the trend continues in 2023.