
Developing Mentorship in the Dog Show World: Why Mentorship Matters More Than Ever
Lee Whittier examines how mentorship preserves breeds, develops leaders, and passes essential knowledge to the next generation.
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Lee Whittier examines how mentorship preserves breeds, develops leaders, and passes essential knowledge to the next generation.

Ringside photos from the Nango Circuit Dog Shows, which were held on June 25-28, 2026, at the General Clinton Park in Bainbridge, New York.

Ringside photos from the Ladies’ Dog Club dog show, which was held on May 30-31, 2026, at the Crackerbarrel Fairgrounds in Wrentham, MA.

Tune in to the Lone Star State Classic as top dogs compete at the Greater Collin KC and Texas KC shows, streaming live on AKC.tv.

The AKC and Federación Canófila Mexicana invite exhibitors worldwide to enter the inaugural FCM Universal Dog Show, November 12-15, 2026.

Are judges evaluating dogs or following the crowd? Doug Johnson examines independent thinking and breed-specific evaluation in the show ring.

Pamela Brandau and Stacy Pagel discuss breeding, Owner Handling, and promoting the Saint Bernard in today’s sport of purebred dogs.

2025 AKC Herding Group Honorees Sylvia and David Calderwood of Kensil Shetland Sheepdogs discuss preservation breeding and more.

2025 AKC Terrier Group Honorees Todd and April Clyde share insights on breeding, temperament, and promoting the Airedale Terrier.

2025 AKC Working Group Honorees Wendy, Randy, and Jennifer Corr of Onak Kennel discuss preservation breeding and the Alaskan Malamute.

2025 AKC Hound Group Honoree Sarah Murphy shares insights on breeding, temperament, and presenting the Ibizan Hound.

2025 AKC Breeder of the Year Susan Giles discusses selection, preservation, and a lifelong commitment to the Lhasa Apso breed.

Judy Harrington reflects on judging at Westminster 2026, sharing insights on her assignments and the quality of the entries.

Edna González reflects on judging Non-Sporting breeds at Westminster 2026, sharing insights on her assignments and overall impressions.

Denise Flaim reflects on judging Hound breeds at Westminster 2026, noting overall quality, key winners, and breed type consistency.

José Miguel Doval Sánchez reflects on judging Labradors and Golden Retrievers at Westminster 2026, highlighting quality and top entries.

Thomas W. Coen reflects on judging Herding breeds at Westminster 2026, highlighting entry quality, Breed winners, and Group success.

Connie Clark reflects on judging Toy breeds at Westminster 2026, highlighting entry quality, assignments, and Group success.

Meet Samantha Niemeck, a Professional Handler from South Louisiana, sharing insights on dog showing and the importance of mentorship.

Interview with Emily Burdon: Third-generation dog handler shares insights on her career, the dog sport today, and its challenges.

Amber Becker Briscoe shares her journey as a professional handler, from early mentorship to her memorable wins and insights on the sport.

Discover the journey of Shane Hooper, AKC 2023 RHP Handler of the Year. From the beginnings to top-tier success in the show dog world.

Interview with Susan Larkin, a Professional Handler with over 30 years of experience. Gain insights on today’s dog show community.

Interview with professional handler Robin Stachon, discussing her journey in dog breeding, showing, and the challenges she faces.

AKC announces the 2025 Junior Versatility Scholarship winners, honoring top Juniors competing across multiple AKC sports.

Ava Silva shares her Junior Showmanship journey with Prancer, reflecting on mentorship, mindset, big goals, and a dream of Westminster.

Meet Junior Handler Scarlett Wells as she shares her journey with Dachshunds, Junior Showmanship goals, and dreams for the future.

Tatum Bartlett celebrates her 2025 AKC National Championship Best Junior Handler win and the journey behind the moment.

Addison Lancaster shares her Junior Showmanship journey, mentors, memorable wins, and life growing up in the world of purebred dogs.

Natalie Halfacre reflects on winning Best Junior Handler at the 2025 Kennel Club of Philadelphia and her journey in Juniors.

Lee Whittier explores how comparison shapes success in the ring, focusing on preparation, mindset, and using it as a tool for growth.

Robyn Salisbury shares her Westminster 2026 experience, stepping into the ring with her Cane Corso as an Owner-Handler.

Lee Whittier explores how true progress in the show ring comes from intentional learning, clear goals, and personal responsibility.

Tara Darling-Lyon of Tara Kennels reflects on nearly 50 years in dogs, mentorship, Bred-By pride, and chasing that elusive Best in Show.

Karen Park shares her journey as an Owner Handler, reflecting on mentorship, NOHS goals, and life with her Great Pyrenees, Nike.

Pamela Brandau and Stacy Pagel discuss breeding, Owner Handling, and promoting the Saint Bernard in today’s sport of purebred dogs.

Westminster crowns 2026 Masters Agility and Flyball champions at the Javits Center, honoring top dogs, teams, and All-American winners.

Learn how Parson Russell Terriers excel in performance sports through expert training, competition stories, and real exhibitor experience.

Small dogs can excel in Agility too! World Champion trainer Shauna Oliver shares her training tips and techniques. Read more here.

Celebrating the Mastiff’s strength, heart, and versatility! Learn how #MastiffsCan honors these gentle giants through training and teamwork.

Meet the Anvil Wires family where every German Wirehaired Pointer hunts, shows, and plays with purpose, proving true versatility in action.

A critical look at the AKC’s direction, show clustering, and the urgent need to rebuild the foundation of purebred dog sports.