Interview with David J. Kirkland – 2025 WKC Dog Show Terrier Group Judge

Interview with David J. Kirkland – 2025 WKC Dog Show Terrier Group Judge

Can you describe your reaction to receiving an invitation to judge the Terrier Group at this year’s Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show?

David J. Kirkland: It has always been a dream of mine to judge the Terrier Group at Westminster. Now it has become a reality and most certainly a high point in my career as an AKC judge. I started in the dog fancy with Miniature Schnauzers, so the Terrier Group was my first Group. I was beyond thrilled to receive the invitation.

What does it mean to judge a Group at this historic event?

David J. Kirkland: It is a distinct honor and privilege to judge at this prestigious show. I did a Group once before; the Toy Group in 2018. This time was equally exciting. Westminster is just simply magical, and it is wonderful that the evening events have returned to Madison Square Garden.

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

David J. Kirkland: One thing is the heightened media coverage. The television station here in Raleigh did a piece on the local people who were judging at Westminster this year. Folks stopped me at church, at the bank, and in the supermarket, congratulating me. Everyone knows Westminster!

What were you thinking or feeling moments before you stepped into the center of the Group ring?

David J. Kirkland: I arrived in NYC on Saturday. My Group was last on Tuesday, so there was nervous anticipation. Shortly after the Working Group started, the audio people retrieved me to set up my microphone. I was chatting with them until right before I entered the ring to do the Group. This really calmed any remaining nerves. Before the dogs entered the ring, I was sitting next to the ring table. I looked up, took in the wonder of it all, and felt incredibly grateful.

Was there a heightened energy coming from the dog and handler teams? Did you feel the energy of the spectators?

David J. Kirkland: The exhibitors in the ring had won the Breed at Westminster. It is a momentous accomplishment for them. You can feel their excitement as you examine their dog. Standing on that green carpet is electric while hearing all the clapping and cheering of the spectators for their favorite breed of dog.

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

David J. Kirkland: The Breed judges did an excellent job. It was a tough Terrier Group with a lovely group of dogs. There were dogs not pulled that I would be thrilled to have at other shows. I was particularly pleased with the eight dogs that made my shortlist. Other than those that placed, I pulled a Bedlington Terrier, a Border Terrier, a Welsh Terrier, and a West Highland White Terrier. All very worthy examples of their breed.

Do you have a word or two about your Group winner? About the dogs that placed?

David J. Kirkland: I had not seen this dog for a long time. I judged him once before, years ago, and I really admired him then. Now, at seven years of age, this Skye Terrier is even better! He totally captivated me, and the night belonged to him.

There is no other show quite like Westminster. Is there anything you’d like to say to the Officers of The Westminster Kennel Club?

David J. Kirkland: Thanks for the opportunity to judge the Terrier Group. I was deeply honored. Big thanks for all the efforts to return to MSG, which is where the evening events belong. The Javits Center is the perfect spot for daytime judging. All I heard was positive accolades.

Are there specific ways in which this show furthers the cause of purebred dogs?

David J. Kirkland: The show is televised, which draws significant attention to purebred dogs. The media coverage of Westminster engages and entertains the public, which is positive for the sport.

Now that your assignment is complete, what does Westminster mean to you personally?

David J. Kirkland: Westminster was the first dog show I ever attended back in the mid 1970s. I was in awe as I sat in the stands watching the Miniature Schnauzer judging. Today, I still experience that same excitement!