Meet the Owner Handler: Randi Chylinski

Meet the Owner Handler: Randi Chylinski

I am a dedicated Borzoi Owner Handler and canine educator, splitting my time between Michigan and Los Angeles. As a first-time Borzoi owner, I’ve trained, groomed, and shown my dog, Ziggy, with care and commitment. Outside the ring, Ziggy and I inspire others as AKC Canine Ambassadors and a Therapy Dog team, traveling for shows and sharing the joy of dogs with youth groups nationwide.

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

Randi Chylinski: I was first introduced to the sport of purebred dogs as a child, attending the Detroit Kennel Club Dog Show as a spectator for as long as I can remember. I have always had a deep love for animals, especially dogs, from a young age.

My journey to Borzois happened by chance. My first dog was a Keeshond, and I used to follow the #keeshond hashtag on Instagram. One day, I stumbled across a page featuring both a Borzoi and a Keeshond, and their posts kept popping up in my feed. That discovery became a turning point for me—a reminder of the life I had with my Keeshond and this magical, almost otherworldly draw to Borzois after he was gone. I started learning more about the breed, and what started as curiosity turned into a passion.

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

Randi Chylinski: I have been part of the dog world and showing Borzois for four years. Borzois are my first purebred journey, and I’ve completely immersed myself in the breed and its wonderful community. It’s been an exciting and rewarding experience every step of the way!

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

Randi Chylinski: We began with Obedience classes at seven months old, and it turned out that our instructor, Miss Linda, had previously owned and shown Borzois herself. When I mentioned I wanted to try showing, she started a handling class just for us. Miss Linda has been such a huge part of our journey—I owe so much of where we are today to her guidance and support.

From there, I discovered the value of trying different handling classes with instructors who had experience with various breeds. Their unique techniques and perspectives helped me gain a broader understanding of the sport. For over a year and a half, Ziggy and I attended handling classes almost twice a week. I was determined to learn as much as I could and to succeed—after all, you can’t ace the test if you don’t do the homework!

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

Randi Chylinski: I’ve come across a few helpful videos on Facebook, along with the tips and tricks shared by Dog Show Prep School and the podcast Pure Dog Talk. Professional handlers like Janice Hayes and Valerie Nunes-Atkinson also offer prepaid virtual handling subscriptions that I’m eager to explore.

I’m particularly drawn to learning from experienced handlers who have successfully worked with a wide variety of breeds. Their depth of knowledge and insight is invaluable, and I’m excited to deepen my understanding of the sport by tapping into their expertise.

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

Randi Chylinski: Yes, I am a proud Owner Handler! I’ve only ever handled Ziggy, and I take great pride in that. Rankings are important to me, as they reflect the hard work and dedication we’ve put into the sport, but my main goal is simply to have a good time. While achieving a high ranking is always a nice bonus and something we strive for, at the end of the day, what matters most is that Ziggy and I are happy and enjoying the journey together.

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

Randi Chylinski: In Conformation, we now enter Best of Breed, though it’s been quite a journey to get there. As someone new to the sport, it took me a while to fully understand the ropes, and I definitely had to get knocked down a peg or two before finding my footing. But each time, I got back up and kept moving forward. We’ve also dabbled in Obedience, and Ziggy has earned her Beginner Novice title. However, that realm feels especially intimidating to me. Perhaps one day we’ll revisit it—when I’m feeling a bit more brave!

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

Randi Chylinski: Beth Horn of Metal Saint Bernards has been a huge inspiration and mentor for us. One of the most pivotal lessons I’ve learned from her is the importance of showing gratitude to the judges. Anytime we placed at a show, Beth encouraged us to take a photo with the judge and email it to them afterward with a note of thanks. This simple gesture has been invaluable—it’s something I wouldn’t have thought to do on my own, but it’s clear how much the judges appreciate the acknowledgement.

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

Randi Chylinski: Competing as an Owner Handler comes with many benefits. Each time you step into the ring, it strengthens the bond between you and your dog. It also deepens your understanding of Breed Standards, handling, and grooming. As an ambassador for your breed, you inspire others to join the sport, helping to secure its future while celebrating the joy of purebred dogs.

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

Randi Chylinski: I encourage new exhibitors by creating a welcoming and supportive environment. I share advice, tips, and resources to help them feel confident. By leading with my own experiences, I aim to inspire others to see how rewarding the sport can be.

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

Randi Chylinski: When presenting the Borzoi, it’s important to highlight their elegance and flowing movement. Handlers should focus on presenting a calm, confident demeanor, as this mirrors the Borzoi’s composed nature.

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

Randi Chylinski: As an Owner Handler, my main goal is to continue highlighting the beauty, elegance, and versatility of the Borzoi while deepening the bond I have with my dog. I also hope to inspire others to get involved and enjoy the excitement of competition. Our next big milestone is to achieve NOHS Silver!

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

Randi Chylinski: One time in the ring, I was setting up Ziggy for the judge and feeling pretty confident. As I reached over to fix her rear leg while holding her head up, I suddenly realized I’d completely lost control—I’d accidentally slipped the chain over her ears and down onto her snout! Ziggy didn’t flinch, though. I quickly slipped the chain back into place, and we carried on as if nothing had happened. The judge gave me a knowing smile, and I couldn’t help but laugh. Ziggy’s calm demeanor saved the moment and reminded me to stay cool and trust her, even when things go sideways!