Insights From David R. Miller – 2025 Morris & Essex Kennel Club Breed Judge

Insights From David Miller – 2025 Morris & Essex Kennel Club Breed Judge – Black and Tan Coonhounds, Ibizan Hounds

1. What does it mean to be invited to judge at the 2025 Morris & Essex Kennel Club All-Breed Dog Show, an unrivaled celebration of purebred dogs in America?

David Miller: It is always exhilarating to be invited to judge at an iconic event such as Morris and Essex. It is a sign of recognition in the sport of purebred dogs. Quite frankly, any form of participation, from stewards, show committee appointees, judges, hospitality agents, and others should be recognized as an honor to be a part of this historical social event for the staging of our canine friends, which occurs only once every five years.

2. Can you share your thoughts on your Breed assignment(s)? Please be specific.

David Miller: Whatever the Breed assignment attributed to a judge, the purpose of this event is to uphold tradition. Tradition is a conduit to the significantly purposeful reminder of the wealth of information, experience, and insight we have gained through our participation in purebred dogs. Tradition, as adorned by Morris and Essex, holds us together to a common cause.

3. Why do you think M&E has remained relevant to preservation breeders and dog show exhibitors in the 21st century?

David Miller: Reliving the past brings hope and guidance to the future. It is a tribute to those who have established tradition and insight which needs to be preserved. It is a welcoming thank you to those who created the event. Walking and observing the atmosphere of this event sends the observer to a bygone age, reawakening the past in a tribute to where we were and where we are as a sport. This provides us with a sense of purpose and substantiation as a sport.