2026 MONTGOMERY COUNTY KENNEL CLUB - BEST IN SHOW: PAMELA BRUCE
What were you thinking or feeling moments before you stepped into the center of the BIS ring?
I was just so happy to share the weekend with friends I call family. Their support means the world to me. We watched several breeds that day and had great dog discussions. I did not want to overthink my BIS assignment—but rather to just enjoy the moment and moments as they unfolded. The experience was beyond what I could have dreamed!
photos provided by Pamela Bruce
Can you describe your reaction to receiving an invitation to judge Best in Show at the 2026 Montgomery County Kennel Club All-Terrier Show?
SURREAL. I was shocked and thrilled and absolutely honored. It was unbelievable to even be considered for this bucket list assignment!
What does it mean to head the judging panel at one of the most important Conformation shows in the world?
It was wonderful to be part of such an incredible panel at my most favorite dog show. The Breed judges are icons and I looked forward to seeing which dogs they would send into my Group for BIS! I was spoiled for choice.
In your opinion, how does this show differ from other AKC events?
This event is so specialized at every level: great breeders showcase their best breeding stock—judged by breed specialists who know every subtle nuance of breed type, and provide an expert interpretation of each Standard.
As I said in my BIS ring, THANK YOU FOR THE BEST DAY EVER! Carry on and TERRIER ON!”
Was there a heightened energy coming from the dog and handler teams? Did you feel any excitement from the spectators?
Montgomery is always electric! The dogs, for the most part, were at their best that day. The exhibitors were flawless with their dogs, and most were presented in excellent condition. To be honest, only after watching the AKC.tv coverage (https://www.youtube. com/watch?v=uyhUuDUSRzQ) did I hear or see the crowds. I commented to a friend that I did not even hear the cheering at all that day—I was so focused on the dogs.
How challenging was this assignment? Can you share your selection process?
I judged the Terrier Group at the AKC National Championship in Orlando a few years ago. Three of the four dogs I wanted to see did not get out of their breeds that day. It was a great judging lesson, as my Group was VERY different than I anticipated. So, for this assignment, I wanted to keep a clear mind and just look at each dog with fresh eyes on the day.
Do you have a word or two about your Best in Show winner? About the Best Brace in Show winners?
The BIS winner to me was the Breed Standard personified, and he showed his little heart out. My other three placements were wonderful as well—and my final decisions were not made lightly. EVERY SINGLE BRACE winner deserved that BIS ribbon! They made my job almost impossible to decide. The incredible breed type and mirror image of the two Glen of Imaal males was undeniable! The one on the inside of the brace I would have taken home!
A dog show of this magnitude is a monumental undertaking. Is there anything you’d like to say to Montgomery’s Officers and Members? To the Breeders and Exhibitors?
As I said in my BIS ring, THANK YOU FOR THE BEST DAY EVER! Carry on and TERRIER ON!
Are there specific ways in which this show furthers the cause of purebred dogs?
This event brings people from all over the world together. It provides an incredible opportunity for everyone to have an open, honest dialogue, to learn from the best, and to find potential breeding stock for the future.
In your opinion, what does the future hold for the Terrier Breeds in America and around the world?
The numbers may be smaller than in the past, but there are still wonderful caretakers of Terrier breeds around the world who will move these breeds forward. Terriers are not for the faint of heart. The dedication of breeding and presentation of Terriers is an art form. I truly hope younger generations are “groomed” to take up the challenge, and allow these incredible breeds to thrive.