Jason Hoke: To me, it is the pinnacle of the Top breeds to compete and win here. For those of us who have been coming to Progressive, it has always been the big sneak peek to what Toys will be at Westminster. It holds a great deal of prestige in that the show has such a long history.
Jason Hoke: I was fortunate to have some standouts in the breeds I judged. Especially in Pugs, Shih Tzu, Yorkies, and Cresteds. All four of the Breed winners had great type. The Shih Tzu was in impeccable condition, had large, expressive eyes, a nose placed well, and very straight front legs. It carried a beautiful high-set tail that arched gracefully over the back. To make it more impressive, its carriage on the go had the desired head carriage while not being strung up. It went on to be my OH BIS and ultimately got the nod from David Fitpatrick as well for BIS at Progressive.
All my Junior Handlers were so good this year. The winner was talented in that they did nothing with exaggeration in the ring. Showing the dog to them was utilizing the ideal that they were not to be noticed, which I loved. I never noticed a hurried movement or them staring at me. It was just a good honest presentation without any extra motions.
Jason Hoke: I think there were some up-and-coming dogs that will certainly make their mark. I judged a few young dogs that, I believe, if they mature how I think they should, can rival the best for the next few years. I had a strong international contingent showing under me; Canada, Japan, Mexico, etc. Toy dogs are strong everywhere. It is such a detail-oriented Group, and the breeders worldwide are always some of the best. The Toy Group is in good hands.
