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Karrol Courtney shares her Westminster journey, from a love of Toy Poodles to competing with her first champion on the big stage.
Karrol Courtney (Provided by Margaret Foxmoore, Dogs Outside the Ring.)
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I watched the AKC National Championship and the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show growing up, and I loved to watch the Toy Groups. I was someone my family would ask, “What breed is that?” and I’d answer happily, feeling proud to know the name and each breed’s backstory.
I’ve always loved the Toy breeds, having a small companion to tote around and spoil. Naturally, Toy Poodles were my favorite. I chose Toy Poodles as my breed because of the maintenance and upkeep that comes with them. Knowing that it was a tough breed to show awakened my competitive spirit; to show that I can do it too.
If you would have asked me last year around this time, as I was preparing to bring “Shinobi” home, if I’d be in Westminster, I’d have laughed and said, “I WISH!” Well, dreams do come true!! I finished my boy at our first Poodle Specialty and won under some phenomenal judges: Lydia Coleman Hutchinson and Richard Todd Jackson.
Westminster, here we come!
I stepped into the ring with my head held high, proud to represent silver Poodles. As my heart raced, I admired the polished presentation of each professional handler and observed the judge’s careful evaluation of every dog.
Shinobi showed like a true champion, and standing at the end of his lead was an unforgettable experience. As an aspiring breeder, this moment marks the beginning of Silveon Toy Poodles.
After the show, my mentor, Joannie Clas, reached out to tell me how wonderful we looked, which made the experience even more meaningful. Being featured in The New York Times and Vogue was an extraordinary honor. I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to experience Westminster and present a dog I proudly championed myself.
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