KimRo Miniature Pinschers | Kim Calvacca & Robin Greenslade – 2022 AKC Toy Group Honoree

Interview with Kim Calvacca and Robin Greenslade of KimRo Miniature Pinschers, 2022 AKC Toy Group Honoree

Thank you for including us in your publication, and what an honor it is to represent the Toy Group as the AKC Breeder of the Year—truly one of our biggest thrills outside of the little dogs themselves.

The Miniature Pinscher is a self-possessed breed with a spirited presence and a fearless animation. What is it about the breed that has sustained your interest for so long?

The Miniature Pinscher itself is what has sustained our interest for all these years. Aside from their spirited presence and fearless animation, they are extremely intelligent and have a wonderful sense of humor in this easy-to-carry package. They put a smile on our faces first thing every morning. What a way to start one’s day!

Breeding dogs requires the vision of an artist, the curiosity of a scientist, and the commitment of a philosopher. As a breeder, do you view yourself as an artist, a scientist or a philosopher? Maybe you’re a combination of all three?

We don’t think of ourselves as artists, scientists, or philosophers, but as committed and passionate to the breed and the Breed Standard. I think “passionate” is what best describes me as a breeder, and I certainly know Kim is equally as passionate.

In dogs, selection is key. How do you select your sire and dam combinations? How do you select which puppies will walk alongside you in the show ring?

When we plan our breeding we first look at what we are trying to improve on. We try to make solid a virtue and we try not to double-down on a fault. We are always planning ahead. Once a litter is on the ground and can be evaluated, we pretty much already know which direction we want to go with that puppy. Who gets to be our next star? We don’t always get to pick. Mostly they pick themselves with that little “I’m it” attitude.

The Breed Standard is the preservation breeder’s most essential tool. What are your thoughts on the importance of breeding to the Standard and presenting the breed in the ring accordingly?

The Breed Standard is the Breed Standard, and any deviation from that should be severely penalized. If you are not breeding, evaluating, presenting, or judging according to the Breed Standard, you are doing a grave injustice to purebred dogs and our sport in general.

Today’s breeders have found themselves on the defensive from public criticism and legislative proposals that would restrict breeding practices, including cropping and docking. In your opinion, what can preservation breeders do to counter the anti-purebred rhetoric that has taken hold in this country?

Education is the key to counter the anti-purebred rhetoric. The MPCA has a wonderful grant program in place for licensed veterinarians who want to learn about proper ear cropping. The Miniature Pinscher Standard addresses both the cropped and uncropped ear, and the docked tail. As breeders and exhibitors, respect the Breed Standard as written.

Restrictive breeding practices are becoming more and more invasive, and again, it is about education. The hobby and preservation breeder is being punished for the high-volume, mass-market breeding operations and/or the hoarder-type situations. Stay active in your community and pay attention to the legislation that gets proposed and/or passed. If your representative is anti-purebred, then support and vote for someone else. Make yourself heard.

Again, thank you for allowing us to be a part of your publication.

Are you looking for a Miniature Pinscher puppy?

The best way to ensure a long and happy relationship with a purebred dog is to purchase one from a responsible breeder. Not sure where to begin finding a breeder? Contact the National Parent Club’s Breeder Referral person, which you can find on the AKC Breeder Referral Contacts page.

Want to help rescue and re-home a Miniature Pinscher dog?

Did you know nearly every recognized AKC purebred has a dedicated rescue group? Find your new best friend on the AKC Rescue Network Listing.

Miniature Pinscher Dog Breed Magazine

Showsight Magazine is the only publication to offer dedicated Digital Breed Magazines for ALL recognized AKC Breeds.

Read and learn more about the fearless Miniature Pinscher dog breed with articles and information in our Miniature Pinscher Dog Breed Magazine.