Interview with Charles Olvis, Working Group AKC Judge
I live in Lake Wales, Florida. I have been in dogs since the early 1970s, judging for 33 years.
My original breed is the Old English Sheepdog; kennel name is Sunup.
Yes, too many through the years to list each one.
Yes, retaining the ability to do the jobs they are supposed to do.
Breed hallmarks are very important. Each breed has its own characteristics that set it apart.
In most cases, the breeds presented today are in good condition and are presented as the breed requires.
Sometimes I think it may be good, but then there are smaller shows where there wouldn’t be enough dogs in each Group. So, no easy answer.
Take into consideration: “Does the dog have the required breed characteristics? Does it have breed type? Does it appear to be able to do the job for which it is required? Form follows function.
Working Breed exhibits that are not trained to stand for examination, to see the bite or to gait properly, are a challenge to the judge. You are judging breeds where the bite must be examined and the dogs must move properly to be evaluated.
For me, that would be the Newfoundland. I’ve been around them before and lived with them, and I love the breed.
Today, this would be the Border Terrier; great temperament, easy to live with, a loving companion.
In my ring, a Mastiff once decided to lie down for a rest and would not get up. Everyone was laughing except for the handler who was embarrassed that she could not get the dog to budge. My response was for her to just relax… it’s only a dog show. Eventually, the dog decided to get up and continued his journey around the ring. You have to remember, dogs will be dogs.
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