Insigths From Edward Fojtik – 2025 Morris & Essex Kennel Club Breed Judge – Akitas, Giant Schnauzers, Newfoundlands
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?
Edward Fojtik: What else can you say, but to be invited to judge a show that only happens once every five years is an incredible honor.
2. Can you share your thoughts on your Breed assignment(s)? Please be specific.
Edward Fojtik: I did not have a large Akita entry. I felt my Newfoundland entry was of National quality. I had some class dogs that I could really look at and say that they would be contenders for the breed the next time Morris & Essex rolls around. My Giant Schnauzer entry was equal in quality, as it was a Specialty for them as well.
3. Why do you think M&E has remained relevant to preservation breeders and dog show exhibitors in the 21st century?
Edward Fojtik: I think it goes without saying that there’s a certain amount of pageantry that goes with dog shows, and all of the grooming that we do in an attempt to make our dogs look perfect. If you tell the entire dog fancy they can dress up like it was the 1930s and go to a show where there’s an entire tent dedicated to trophies, and classic cars scattered around the site and free lunch provided to everyone who entered, people will be there.



