Jacquelin DeAngelo of Top Gun Boykin Spaniels shares her journey, breed insights, and the future of purebred dog sports.
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Jacquelin DeAngelo
1. I was born in Brooklyn, New York, into a non-dog family that moved to Queens, New York. I’ve always loved animals, and wanted to be a veterinarian at a time when women were supposed to stay home and raise children. NOT FOR ME! I studied at St. John’s University, earned my Master of Education degree, and proudly became an elementary school teacher. Along the way, I began showing horses. It wasn’t until 1983 that I bought my first Labrador Retriever. I needed a show dog, not just any dog, and that is where it all began.
Turning 50 was a real eye opener for me. I realized that I may not be able to handle a big Labrador in the show ring in the years to come. I knew I had to find a smaller breed that would do all the AKC (American Kennel Club) sports that the Labrador could. The Boykin Spaniel was accepted into AKC in 2009, and I was delighted to start my breeding program with these little guys. Moving forward, I retired from teaching on Long Island, New York, and now reside in Tennessee with seven Boykin Spaniels. Our kennel name is Top Gun Boykin Spaniels. We are active in Conformation, Hunting, and other Performance events. The dog show world has been my passion for 40-plus years. I continue to strive for excellence in my breeding program, following the blueprint called a “STANDARD” while maintaining the breed’s original purpose.
2. I am the Education Coordinator for the parent club, Boykin Spaniel Club & Breeders Association of America (BSCBAA). In my opinion, the hallmark of the breed is very difficult to evaluate in the show ring. Obviously, you can look at form and compare it to function. Additionally, there’s the temperament. They are fabulous hunting dogs, from retrieving to flushing; one dog does it all. Our breed was founded in the United States and is comprised of a multitude of breeds. I would say “spaniel-like” is my best answer at
this time.
3. Yes, the AKC provides a lot of information for people seeking a new addition to their family. Smart people do their research. They use AKC.org to find out about which breed works for their family. They speak with owners of these breeds, and they contact breeders and wait long periods of time to get the right puppy. Good breeders have wait lists.
4. Yes! This includes methods such as DNA testing and surgical implants using frozen semen, among others. Again, the Internet offers a wide variety of information and research.
5. I now reside in rural Tennessee, and everywhere you go, people love their dogs. If you love dogs, this is the place. Manhattan, New York, has also transformed, accommodating owners with opportunities to experience what dogs can do for their healthy lives.
6. A positive trend is the ability to attend more events and to compete with your dog in a multitude of different sports.
Youth participation is a concern. Without our youth, our sport cannot move forward. Kennel clubs need to encourage and educate young people to participate. My club is collaborating with the local 4H program. It is all volunteer work, but it is important to put in the time.
7. There are lots of positive changes in this sport. Most importantly, GOOD SPORTSMANSHIP. As George Alston said, “This is the only sport that amateurs can compete with professionals.” I have seen exhibitors helping others with advice, handling, encouragement, problem-solving, and much more. The AKC has worked hard to ensure we can continue preserving our breeds and our sport.
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