Interview With Morgan Miller: 2026 MCKC Junior Showmanship Judge

Can you describe your reaction to receiving an invitation to judge the Junior Showmanship Finals at the Montgomery County Kennel Club All-Terrier Show?

Morgan Miller: I was thrilled to receive the honor to judge. I remembered how special and prestigious Montgomery County Kennel Club was to exhibit at as a Junior who specialized in Terriers.

How did you prepare for this assignment? Any “day of” strategies?

Morgan Miller: Safety of Juniors and dogs is the number one priority in my ring. Closely followed by having fun and a positive ring experience. I made sure to keep my directions clear and concise, and remind the Juniors to enjoy the moment with their dogs.

Can you talk a bit about your typical process for judging Junior Showmanship?

Morgan Miller: I look for individuals with “quiet hands.” Terriers can be feisty, and being able to control and present those breeds to the Standard are key. I would trust any of my winners to handle my own dogs, which is the greatest compliment.

Was there a heightened energy in your ring? Did you feel any excitement from ringside?

Morgan Miller: Yes! Many former Juniors, and successful handlers in our sport, came to observe the future generations. The Best Junior selection was incredibly fierce and made me proud to stand in the ring amongst them. The sportsmanship of the Juniors cheering on their fellow competitors was amazing.

Did the Juniors in your ring seem especially focused? Any nerves on display?

Morgan Miller: In any prestigious high-stakes show, there will be nerves. With the crisp Fall air that morning, the dogs were also on their toes.

How evident was breed-specific presentation among the finalists?

Morgan Miller: All of my selected finalists exhibited each individual breed to the best of their ability. Knowing the nuances of each breed is part of the reason each Junior is at the level they are.

With so much talent in your ring, how challenging was this assignment?

Morgan Miller: Extremely challenging! It was a joy to have such a large entry of Juniors at this show compared to previous years. The future is bright!

Is there anything you’d like to say to this year’s Junior Handlers?

Morgan Miller: Making a final decision in each of my classes was challenging. The difference between first and second many times came down to tiny preferences. Dog showing is about finding something you love with your best friend by your side. Keep practicing, and enjoy each and every moment with your dog. Win or lose, you know you did the best you could.

Do you have any advice you’d like to offer to your winning Junior?

Morgan Miller: This young lady did an amazing job with her dog. I would trust her to show any of my difficult breeds in the future. Her poise and calm hands with a dog that challenged her made her stand out. Keep up the great work!

Based on this assignment, would you say the future of the Terrier Breeds is in capable hands?

Morgan Miller: I am confident that the future of our Terrier Breeds is in GREAT hands! I look forward to seeing what they all accomplish in the future!