Interview With Michael Faulkner – 2025 Morris & Essex Kennel Club Herding Group Judge

Interview With Michael Faulkner – 2025 Morris & Essex Kennel Club Herding Group Judge

1. Can you describe your reaction to receiving an invitation to judge the Group at the 2025 Morris & Essex Kennel Club All-Breed Dog Show?

Michael Faulkner: My reaction was filled with gratitude, respect, and honor.

2. What does it mean to judge a Group at the only all-breed show to take place once every five years?

Michael Faulkner: It means that I was lucky enough from a long list of qualified judges to be selected, and I treasured the moment.

3. In your opinion, how does this show differ from other AKC events?

Michael Faulkner: It differs from the perspective of the show’s documented history and tradition.

4. What were you thinking or feeling moments before you stepped into the center of the Group ring?

Michael Faulkner: Efficiency, focus, and finding the dogs on the day that deserved to be in the final four. Although I did not make a cut, there were numerous dogs worthy of the win and placements who were not ribbon winners.

5. Was there a heightened energy coming from the dog and handler teams? Did you feel any excitement from the spectators?

Michael Faulkner: I was too focused on the task at hand to be aware.

6. How challenging was this assignment? Can you share your selection process?

Michael Faulkner: The assignment was more rewarding than challenging. It’s a pleasure to judge good dogs, and the ring was full of them.

7. Do you have a word or two about your Group winner?

Michael Faulkner: My placements speak for themselves and I would rather not get into the nuance, as these dogs are actively being campaigned and, like I stated before, there were many that I did not place who were of extreme quality.

8. A dog show of this magnitude is a monumental undertaking. Is there anything you’d like to say to the M&E Show Chair, and the club’s Officers and Committee Members?

Michael Faulkner: THANK YOU! It was an honor to part of the 2025 Morris & Essex Kennel Club All-Breed Dog Show and to celebrate purebred dogs in a tradition the sport deserves.

9. Are there specific ways in which this show furthers the cause of purebred dogs?

Michael Faulkner: When one honors the rich history of the sport and educates the fancy at the same time, it will always further the cause.

10. Do you have any thoughts on the next iteration of Morris & Essex?

Michael Faulkner: Keep up the great work!