Interview with Dr. Alton J. Pertuit Jr. – 2023 MCKC Dog Show Breed Judge

Interview with Dr. Alton J. Pertuit Jr. – 2023 MCKC Dog Show Breed Judge

What does it mean to be invited to judge at one of the most important dog shows in the world—Montgomery?

I feel very honored to be asked by AFTC to judge Smooth Fox Terriers at MCKC. I love this breed, always have. THANK YOU!

Previously, I’ve judged Wires at MCKC a couple of times. It was exciting to see so many Smooths with breathtaking profiles—really. Many of these also had good substance (bone) combined with the ideal size, a combo hard to achieve when breeding—easier to get larger ones with substance. Some of the exhibits that excelled in profile and size/bone combo did not move correctly, which gave me quite a letdown when I sadly viewed this problem. Some forget that correct movement, a result correct construction, is addressed in the Smooth Standard under GAIT: “Movement, or action, is the crucial test of conformation.” The Best of Breed (GCH Mill Pond New Dynasty) and the BOS (GCH SpringHill Tickled Pink) winners are superior examples of this breed. I enjoy picturing them, as well as other exhibits, in my mind!

Can I share my thoughts on my Breed assignment?

Presently, I’m approved to judge all Terrier Breeds, the Terrier Group, and Junior Showmanship. I have judged Fox Terrier specialties in Georgia, Michigan, Minnesota, Pennsylvania, Texas, Virginia, and Washington. In 2007 and 2012, I was privileged to judge Wires at the AFTC Specialty at MCKC. I have also awarded Championship Certificates in the UK. It’s interesting to see the various breeds’ appearances in different US locations. MCKC has always been “The Show” that gets me most excited.

In my opinion, what does the future hold for the Terrier Breeds in America and around the world?

It’s unfortunate that the entries of some Terrier breeds are declining at shows. Lucky for me, this year’s Smooth entry (77) was up 40 percent. Coat grooming of many Terrier breeds is very time-consuming. Too often (IMO), placements are made on grooming and the exhibitor rather than how the exhibits reflects their Standards. Superior grooming requires talent as well as expert mentoring. We in the US (IMO) have dogs that can match (and often exceed) the breed quality of dogs in other countries. Often, breeders are overly impressed by dogs simply because they’re imported—can be a big mistake in a breeding program.