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Glenda Stephenson shares insights on judging Australian Shepherds at the AKC National Championship and the growing quality of the breed.
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Glenda Stephenson: Without a doubt, receiving an invitation to judge the AKC National Championship Presented by Royal Canin is such an honor. The ANC attracts dogs from all over the world, not just the United States. Exhibitors want that ability to compete on the world stage. From a breeder-judge standpoint, I feel it’s important to be able to adjudicate over a breed that I hold near and dear to my heart. Therefore, from this standpoint, being able to judge the AKC National Championship is truly a jewel in one’s crown.
Glenda Stephenson: With my entry of over 100 Australian Shepherds, the quality of the exhibits was very impressive. My Best of Breed dog was everything that the Breed Standard calls for, with a truly masculine head and lovely expression. Structurally sound, his topline was level and strong. His side gait was easy and flowing, without excessive movement. His coat colors were rich and clear. In the end, when I observed him going around the ring, this is a dog that would be working with me all day long in the field. My Best of Opposite Sex was complementary to the attributes of the Best of Breed. She in herself had merits that made me turn my head and smile; her converging on the down and back is close to perfect. My Best of Winners is a lovely bitch that is presented well, has side gait that has correct foot timing, and her headpiece is feminine with a pleasing expression. The differences between my Selects and Awards of Merit were so minute. They were all exquisite and a joy to watch. In all my years of judging Australian Shepherds, it has been notable that the quality of the dogs has increased year after year. I look forward to the future of the Australian Shepherd breed.
Glenda Stephenson: In recapping the ANC, there is something to be said about the staging, management, scheduling, and hospitality of AKC. This is an event that gets better and better every year. As a working part of this week in the past, and future, I can attest to what goes into the production and planning of the show. Everyone strives to have exhibitors have an enjoyable experience.
American Kennel Club (AKC)
The AKC has released the judging panel for the 2026 AKC National Championship Presented by Royal Canin in Orlando this December.
