Matthew Stroud | The Owner Handler

Interview with Owner Handler, Matthew Stroud

I live in Tulsa, Oklahoma, with my two dogs, CH Stampede Safari Boone And Crockett (“Kermit”) and Remy, a Dutch Shepherd. I am grateful to share my life with dogs and the community of fellow dog lovers. I’m passionate about preserving the Schipperke breed and educating others on what it means to participate in dog sports.

1. How were you first introduced to the sport of purebred dogs? To your breed?

Matthew Stroud: I started in 4-H doing Obedience. A few of the other kids were showing in AKC Junior Showmanship and I was intrigued. Unfortunately, we didn’t have the AKC papers for my dog, so I continued in Obedience. My parents got me a subscription to Dog Fancy magazine (not to date myself too much!) and I began learning about other breeds. We eventually found an AKC registered Yorkshire Terrier that I began competing with in Junior Showmanship. One of my most memorable experiences was receiving a blue ribbon under Jon Cole. My parents snapped a photo that I recently discovered and sent to Jon to thank him. Fast forward to today and I am showing my Schipperke, CH Stampede Safari Boone And Crockett (“Kermit”), at Westminster in May!

2. How many years in dogs? In your breed?

Matthew Stroud: I returned to the sport of purebred dogs as an adult and fell for Schipperkes. I was intentional in my approach and took time to think about my lifestyle along with the type of breed that would be best suited. I decided on a smaller dog that would be easy to travel with, be adaptable for both Conformation and other dog sports, along with having a distinct look like no other—but without huge grooming requirements.

Prior to my Schip, and about nine years ago, I adopted a Dutch Shepherd. This is a very special breed that has taught me so much about the human-canine bond. The Schip is one of the few smaller breeds with a somewhat similar drive and temperament—the two have become good pals. A lot of Schip folks originated in Belgian breeds like Tervs and Groenendaels, or even German Shephard Dogs. It’s been about four years now from when I began attending shows as a spectator to finishing my Schip’s CH. Now I’m starting to imagine adding another Schip!

3. Do you attend show handling classes? Have you attended in-person handling seminars?

Matthew Stroud: Early on, I attended a range of handling classes locally. But, at times, it’s been important to focus on my individual skills as an Owner Handler, or specifics to my dog, so I’ve looked at individual or small group lessons. I also do a lot of work with a mentor who has taught me more than I could have imagined about the nuances of Conformation and what is so special about being an Owner Handler. More than anything, she’s given me confidence and taught me to cultivate the bond with my Schip so that he can excel in the ring. In preparation for Westminster, I’ve dedicated tremendous time to training; mornings before work and evenings too. And, I drive nearly two hours to the town of Shawnee, Oklahoma, for classes with an amazing teacher who is an Owner Handler.

4. Have you found virtual learning tools to be helpful? Videos? Websites? Social Media? AKC Canine College?

Matthew Stroud: Absolutely! There is a wealth of knowledge online, from training videos to courses. I watch AKC.tv quite a bit to see how others present their dogs in the ring. I’ve spent many a Friday night on YouTube searching for old videos of Westminster, the National Dog Show, or other events. I’ll look at every detail; from the free-stack, the down and back, the speed and the gait in the ring, or how the dog is placed on the table for an exam and the position or type of lead. I love seeing it all and continuing to learn.

Social media, particularly Facebook, has allowed me to connect with other “dog people” around the world. It truly is a global community! In fact, I recently created a Facebook page for my Schipperke, Kermit (Kermit the Dog), that gained nearly 5,000 followers in the first month! I’ve connected with folks for advice on Westminster (what to bring, what NOT to bring), for grooming tips, supplies—it’s been invaluable. I also recently discovered the podcast Pure Dog Talk and am a huge fan. Shoutout to Laura!

5. Do you compete in the National Owner-Handled Series? Are rankings important to you?

Matthew Stroud: I do and will continue to! In fact, we recently went OH BOB two days in a row, along with our first NOHS Group placement. It’s a fantastic opportunity for more time in the ring and exposure to other dogs. The Breed ring is one thing, but being in the Group presents a totally different set of skills (and challenges)!

6. In which class(es) are you most likely to enter your dog(s)?

Matthew Stroud: As a special, Kermit competes in Best of Breed.

7. Who have been your mentor(s) as an Owner Handler?

Matthew Stroud: Both of my breeders, without a doubt. Also, a good friend and fellow Schipperke Owner Handler, Tracy Sanders, who lives nearby, so we are often together at shows. She’s been an inspiration and has given me great advice! She’s another mentor who is also an Owner Handler and has taught me how the bond we share with our dogs can set us apart in the ring!

8. What are the benefits of competing with your breed(s) as an Owner Handler?

Matthew Stroud: For me, the biggest benefit is that my dog is my companion. We train together, go on adventures together, and he is an integral part of my life. He’s not “only” a show dog or always on the road. I’ve seen him grow and mature, which has given me tremendous insight into being a better handler.

The flip side is sometimes I’m not able to attend all the shows I’d like to because of work or other commitments. And, cultivating that bond in the ring is, in my opinion, different because as one of my mentors jokes, “He sees you all the time.” That means we focus on making the ring incredibly exciting, so he knows when we are at the show he “goes to work” and it’s fun. Taking that approach has led to slow and steady results. We get lots of compliments about how happy he is in the ring and his unique Schipperke personality shines.

9. How are you encouraging new exhibitors to participate in the sport?

Matthew Stroud: Great question! I think social media has been integral to encouraging others and making connections. I post a lot about what life is like with Kermit and how we prepare for shows. The response has been incredible. I regularly receive messages asking how to get involved. I would love to do more and find ways to inspire others—whether Juniors or adults like me who have an interest. Having mentors and people “in your corner” is what makes the difference when it comes to being new to the dog show world. Patience and knowledge take time and that’s where mentors are absolutely critical; keeping you encouraged during the good times and the challenges.

10. Are there any suggestions you’d like to pass along about the presentation of your breed(s).

Matthew Stroud: I’m still learning and discovering this aspect of my breed, so it’s not easy to suggest. I do like seeing how many people give their dog space on the table, or the free-stack, to really showcase. As a silhouette breed, you see so much. It’s beautiful.

11. What are your goals as an Owner Handler? Is there a victory that has eluded you?

Matthew Stroud: I would like to achieve more Group placements. There is still much to learn and accomplish in the Breed ring as an OH, but I hope to hone my skills in the Group more and more. There is so much to take in… it’s usually later in the day after an early morning, the dog (or OH) may be tired, and the larger double ring with so many diverse breeds (Non-Sporting) takes a particular focus and skill. Maybe one day, even a Group 1 or beyond! Eventually, I hope to add another Schip as well.

12. Is there a funny story that you can share about your experiences as an Owner Handler?

Matthew Stroud: Early on, I had quite a few bloopers, mainly due to being nervous. Instead of sharing a funny story, I’d simply reiterate the advice of a mentor who said, “Take a breath, it’s just a dog show.” It’s so important to have perspective, keep calm, and remember that it’s okay to make a mistake. It’s how we learn.