Melissa Robison: My introduction to the sport of purebred dogs began in Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania, where I worked in a pet store alongside individuals who were actively involved in breeding and exhibiting their own dogs. It was an environment rich with knowledge, mentorship, and a shared passion for preservation breeding.
Through daily exposure to a variety of purebred dogs, I developed an early appreciation for correct type, structure, and the purpose behind thoughtful breeding programs. The conversations, guidance, and hands-on experiences I gained during that time were truly formative.
It was through this foundation that I found my way to the Maltese. The breed’s elegance, history, and unmistakable presence resonated deeply with me, ultimately shaping the direction of my program and my continued dedication to the sport.
Melissa Robison: I have been in dogs for 17 years as an owner, breeder, and handler of my own dogs—and still just getting started.
Melissa Robison: I have—and still do. You’re never too experienced to benefit from guidance, fresh perspective, and support from others. I have not yet attended seminars, but I’m always open to learning when the right opportunity comes along.
Melissa Robison: Absolutely—especially video. Watching other handlers, studying timing and presentation and refining technique, has been incredibly valuable to my growth.
Melissa Robison: I actively compete in the National Owner-Handled Series, and yes—rankings matter. They’re a testament to hard work, consistency, and the strength of my program. Rankings are also a measurement of success.
Melissa Robison: BBE is non-negotiable for me—I’ve entered it consistently since the beginning and take pride in every coin earned. It represents the core of preservation breeding.
Specialties are where the real comparisons happen. It’s my opportunity to see how my program stacks up globally and to refine my vision moving forward. It also provides an opportunity to assess the overall quality of the breed.
Melissa Robison: Yes—and that challenge is what drives me to be better every time I step in the ring.
Melissa Robison: As an Owner Handler, I began exhibiting at the very inception of the program. At that time, there were no established mentors, which required me to learn through experience, observation, and perseverance. That journey helped to shape my perspective and deepened my appreciation for the level of dedication required to compete successfully as an Owner Handler.
As a breeder, I have been fortunate to have the guidance of Eva Gillett of Unforgettable Maltese. Her patience, generosity, and willingness to share her knowledge have been instrumental in my development. She has always made herself available, offering guidance, sharing articles, and providing insight drawn from years of experience. Her mentorship continues to influence my program and who I am today as a breeder.
Melissa Robison: The Breeder/Owner Handler is essential to the future of our sport and to the preservation of our breed. As breeders, we are the foundation—without us, there are no dog shows, and without our dogs, there is no work for Professional Handlers.
Being an Owner Handler has given me a perspective that is invaluable. It allows me to evaluate my breeding program honestly, compete alongside my peers, and continuously strive for improvement. It pushes me to be better—not just in presentation but in the quality and purpose behind every dog I produce.
We are not just participants in the sport—we are its heart.
Melissa Robison: Purposeful breeding starts with education—history, pedigrees, and a solid understanding of structure. Learn, then do.
Melissa Robison: My goal is consistency—producing at least one champion each year, preserving and improving with every generation. COVID created a temporary setback, but we came back strong.
As for victories, I don’t focus on one elusive win. Being in the winning lineup, among respected competition, is something I value just as much.
Melissa Robison: Dog shows keep you humble… and entertained. From stealing an entire chicken tender right out of my hand and losing his mind (and his stack) in the National Owner-Handled Series Group ring… to taking his sweet time with those tiny legs on our entrance in the NOHS BIS ring—so much so that the judge turned around and missed us. The gracious (and slightly embarrassed) judge, upon realizing, gave us a closer look… and somehow—that same dog—pulled it together for our very first NOHS Best in Show.
Wouldn’t trade these moments for anything.
