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Denise Flaim reflects on judging Hound breeds at Westminster 2026, noting overall quality, key winners, and breed type consistency.
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Denise Flaim: This was my second Westminster appointment, and any time that envelope with the purple and gold ink arrives in your mailbox, it’s an indescribable honor. But to judge on such a significant anniversary? I am, uncharacteristically, without suitable words.
Denise Flaim: I had the privilege of judging a number of wonderful Hound breeds, including my own. All yielded worthy winners. Of note were my BOB Bloodhound bitch, who went on to a Group 3 under the discerning eye of one of my most valued mentors, Michael Canalizo; my winning Black and Tan Coonhound, whose correct type was only rivalled by his soundness, and my BOB Harrier bitch, who was truly a downsized English Foxhound. My winning Otterhound bitch, quietly owner-handled, was a lovely surprise.
As I will judge the Rhodesian Ridgeback National later this year, I do not think it appropriate to comment on individual dogs. But I was pleased to see such overall quality and an appreciable absence of extremes. Having judged Ridgebacks in 10 countries and on three continents has reinforced for me the importance of having a wide palate when adjudicating this breed—there are many correct styles within type.
Denise Flaim: We live in rapidly changing times with very little common ground, even in terms of base knowledge. For the fancy to have a show that follows an unbroken line right to the foundation of the sport, a show that predates even the American Kennel Club, is amazing in and of itself. But Westminster is also an incredibly modern phenomenon, as this year’s 150th edition proved so clearly. As an avid student of history, I think it’s a formula for success applicable to all aspects of our lives, whether in breed preservation or our own personal evolution: Adapt to the times, but above all remember who you are.
Meet the Judges
Sharon Ann Redmer reflects on judging Herding breeds at Westminster 2026, highlighting breed function, type, and standout winners.
