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David Fitzpatrick discusses the prestige of judging at Progressive’s 100th show, standout Toy breeds, and the state of today’s competition.
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David Fitzpatrick: The Progressive Dog Club is a very special show. It has been holding shows since the 1930s and is an All-Breed Show that only offers classes for one Group. To my knowledge there are only two other clubs grandfathered in to do this:
Montgomery County and the Metro Mile Hi Kennel Clubs. Since they are classified as All-Breed events, the winner is awarded Group One and Best in Show, and the Group Two is also awarded Reserve Best in Show. This was Progressive’s 100th Dog Show, so I was honored to be judging Best in Show! I’ve attended PDC since I was a teenager and it holds a special place in my heart. We were delighted to be back in NYC and our host hotel, The New Yorker, proved to be a very glamorous and workable venue.
David Fitzpatrick: I judged the Group competition, with First going to an owner-handled Shih Tzu from Canada. I was very surprised by his wonderfully smooth, effortless movement, traveling at his own pace with natural carriage. He was a joy to watch, sound fore and aft, with good spring of rib and well-muscled. He did not disappoint on the exam. He has a lovely sized, round head with good width between his large, dark eyes, and correct muzzle and underjaw. All features were in harmony, with no exaggeration. Coat was correct and in great condition. It was my pleasure to award him Best in Show.
Reserve BIS and Group Two to the Yorkshire Terrier. A superb little dog; dark steel blue, rich tan colors with a great silky, light-reflecting coat. Well balanced and sound, with a level back, he moved well and carried himself confidently. I love his head, being neither too long nor too short, with lovely dark eyes with dark eye rims to enhance his keen expression. He has well-placed ears of good shape and carriage. A great example of a Yorkie.
Third place to the Chinese Crested bitch. A Powderpuff with the correct double, soft, and silky coat in great condition. She is a “show boat” and commands attention with her movement and demeanor. I found her correctly proportioned. She is fine-boned and very graceful on the go. She has a lovely head, ears, and eye, with correct dentition. What a lovely Crested.
Fourth to the Papillon dog. I find him a FINE-boned, elegant little dog with a beautiful head, correct round eyes of dark color, and lovely typical hallmark ears. Well balanced and in good condition with a straight, silky coat, I felt he was having a very good day and rewarded him for it.
David Fitzpatrick: I can only speak for the US, but I don’t feel the Toy Group is strong at this moment. It was strong at Progressive, but that is not the norm.
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