Dr. John V. Ioia

John and his wife Barbara began their AKC activities when they acquired their first Shih Tzu in 1971, shortly after the breed was recognized. They were fortunate to get their first show pup, Sassy, which they owner-handled to her championship and her CD. Ch Kee-Lee’s Om Tzo Tza-Tzi CD became their foundation. She began Bar-Jon Shih Tzu. John and Barbara have had Shih Tzu, Lhasa Apso, and now Cavalier King Charles Spaniels.

The Ioia family obtained their first Cavalier in 2005 and have been active in Conformation, Rally, and Therapy. John is proud of his involvement in the AKC Canine College Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Course. He has served ACKCSC as a Director, Vice-President, and Judges Ed. He is a mentor for both Cavaliers and Shih-Tzu.

John began AKC judging in 1982 and now judges all Toys, Terriers, Non-Sporting, Best in Show, Junior Showmanship, CGC, and CGCA. He loves nothing more than to spend time training, grooming, and showing his dogs, but he enjoys Rally and Therapy work the most.

John earned a PhD in Biochemistry from SUNY Downstate Medical Center, the MD from Albany Medical College. He specialized in Orthopedics and Joint Replacement and resides in New York’s beautiful Hudson Valley. He and Barbara have been married since 1972 and have two children. His other hobbies include a form of Korean Karate, Tang Soo Do, in which he holds a 7th Degree Master Instructor’s rank, and he also enjoys playing guitar.