Interview With Eddie Dziuk – 2025 National Dog Show Hound Group Judge

Interview With Eddie Dziuk – 2025 National Dog Show Hound Group Judge

1. Can you describe your reaction to receiving an invitation to judge the Hound Group at this year’s National Dog Show Presented by Purina? What does it mean to judge a Group at this historic show?

Eddie Dziuk: It was a true pleasure to judge the Hound Group at the Kennel Club of Philadelphia, aka the National Dog Show.

2. In your opinion, how does this show differ from other AKC events?

Eddie Dziuk: The club should be commended for all they do to promote purebred dogs.

3. Was there a heightened energy coming from the dog and handler teams? Did you feel any excitement from the spectators?

Eddie Dziuk: The crowds during the day led to standing room only at many rings. And the crowds stayed for the Group judging, adding excitement and electricity to the proceedings.

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

Eddie Dziuk: I was privileged to have a lovely Hound Group deep with quality.

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

Eddie Dziuk: The Basenji bitch that placed Second is just lovely, dead sound and dripping in type. I think she’s one of the best Basenji bitches I’ve seen. The Azawakh that placed Third has come a long way, and excels in all the unique characteristics of the breed, including temperament, movement, and outline. The Smooth Dachshund that placed Fourth was new to me, but he caught my eye with his beautiful and correct Dachshund front, rock-solid back, and purposeful movement. Finally, the American Foxhound… Foxhounds are a breed I’ve owned, admired, studied, and followed for many years. To me, the bitches have been superior to the dogs in the last decade or so, but this dog is undoubtedly the best male to come along in quite some time. Super typey, lovely head, correct outline, sound, and shown in rock-solid, perfect condition. I could absolutely envision him leading a pack in the field, and it was a pleasure to award him the Group and watch him go on to Reserve Best in Show.

6. Is there anything you’d like to say to the members of the Kennel Club of Philadelphia and the show’s sponsors?

Eddie Dziuk: My thanks to the club, the exhibitors, and all the dogs that made it such a special event.