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Gerardo Bernard shares his experience judging at the 2025 National Dog Show, reflecting on prestige, history, and excellence.
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(Saturday) Flat-Coated Retrievers, Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers, Irish Setters, Field Spaniels, Sussex Spaniels, Welsh Springer Spaniels, Wirehaired Pointing Griffons;
(Sunday) Best in Show
Gerardo Bernard: Being invited to judge at this year’s National Dog Show Presented by Purina was an extraordinary honor. This event is one of the most prestigious and widely recognized dog shows, with a long history of showcasing excellence in purebred dogs. To be selected as part of the judging panel reflects a high level of trust in my experience, and my dedication to the sport. It is both humbling and inspiring to participate in a show that reaches millions of viewers and helps educate the public about responsible breeding and the beauty of our purebred breeds.
Gerardo Bernard: I was especially delighted with my Breed assignments this year, as all of them were from the Sporting Group—the Group that has always been closest to my heart. The breeds I have owned and bred throughout my life, including the German Shorthaired Pointer, Labrador Retriever, German Wirehaired Pointer, Weimaraner, Vizsla, and American Cocker Spaniel, come from this Group. Having the opportunity to evaluate Sporting breeds on such a significant stage was both meaningful and personally fulfilling.
The entry numbers were impressive, and the overall quality of the dogs was truly outstanding. Several of the dogs I judged could easily represent their breeds at major events and be highly competitive at the highest levels. It was also a pleasure to see breeders handling their own dogs and succeeding in the ring—a testament to their dedication and deep understanding of their breeding programs.
Additionally, it was an honor to judge Best in Show on Sunday at such an important event. Any of the dogs representing their Groups in the Best in Show lineup could have won without hesitation; all of them displayed excellent quality and will undoubtedly achieve many accomplishments in future events. I am sincerely grateful for the trust placed in me to make the day’s most significant decision, and it is an experience I will always cherish.
Gerardo Bernard: Philadelphia has remained an essential show for breeders and exhibitors because it blends history, prestige, and media reach like no other event. Its long-standing tradition, combined with national television coverage, gives breeders an unparalleled platform to showcase their dogs to both experts and the general public. The show maintains high standards of organization and judging, attracting exceptional entries year after year.
As I prepared for this event, I took time to research its history and was impressed by how much I discovered—many initiatives and contributions from the club that I had never known about. Learning more about the depth of their work and their commitment to promoting purebred dogs only strengthened my respect for this show and its importance in our sport.
In the 21st century—an era where education about purebred dogs is more important than ever—the National Dog Show plays a key role in promoting responsible breeding, preserving heritage breeds, and celebrating the powerful connection between humans and dogs. Philadelphia continues to be a cornerstone of our sport because it honors tradition while reaching new generations of dog enthusiasts.
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