Interview with Frank Kane – 2024 AKC National Championship Bred-By-Exhibitor Herding Group Judge

Interview with Frank Kane – 2024 AKC National Championship Bred-By-Exhibitor Herding Group Judge

1. What does it mean to judge this event at the only all-breed show organized directly by the American Kennel Club?

Frank Kane: It was a great honor to be invited to judge a Bred-by Exhibitor Group at the AKC National Championship. As a breeder myself, it was an extra buzz to succeed with home-bred stock. And apart from meeting the dogs, I met their talented breeders.

2. What were you thinking or feeling moments before you stepped into the center of the BBE Group ring?

Frank Kane: I expected a high-quality Group and that is what I got. The night before, I reread all the Herding Breed Standards, checking on the differences between the UK and AKC Standards, which is the basis for my selections. Add to that comes movement and carriage and
ring presence.

3. How challenging was this assignment? Can you share your selection process?

Frank Kane: Such was the quality in the Group that I had a shortlist of 10 which I considered worthy of a placing, but finally, the top four just took the eye.

4. Do you have a word or two about your BBE Group winner? About the dogs that placed?

Frank Kane: The winner was the Old English Sheepdog who looked a picture of type, was in great coat, and so light on his feet for a substantial dog. His skilled handler showed off the breed-typical movement to perfection. Runner-up was the Finnish Lapphund. Again, lovely type and balance, and brisk movement. In great coat. Group 3 was the Beardie male; high quality with excellent head, good proportions, and with some daylight underneath him. Group 4 was the Australian Shepherd; great type and movement, and shown in superb condition. And there were other good ones nipping at their heels for a placement. A lovely ending for my three days of judging.

5. Breeders are fundamental to the health and welfare of the sport of dogs. Based on this assignment, are today’s breeders doing well by the sport and for their breeds?

Frank Kane: Over the three days, I had experienced exciting dogs in most of my breeds: GSPs and Vizslas, and Toy Manchesters where the BOB winner was really something to remember. Hot completion in Norwich, Westies, Sealyhams, and Cairns, and a special club show for the Mid-Florida Cavalier club where the specials were a real eyeful. I brought many happy memories home.

6. A dog show of this magnitude is a monumental undertaking. Is there anything you’d like to say to the AKC and the show’s sponsors?

Frank Kane: The AKC National Championship has an extra buzz and adrenaline to it. To win here is one of the glittering prizes on the canine calendar and that puts an extra edge to the judging. I love the patriotism, which starts every day with the singing of your national anthem, and the voice of the tenor in the main ring on the final night was amazing. Congratulations to the AKC, sponsored generously by Royal Canin, for staging a great show.

7. Now that it’s over, what are your thoughts on the 2024 show year? Any thoughts on the year ahead?

Frank Kane: It was a climactic ending to 2025. Thank you, all.