Interview With Richard Todd Jackson – 2025 National Dog Show Non-Sporting Group Judge

Interview With Richard Todd Jackson – 2025 National Dog Show Non-Sporting Group Judge

1. Can you describe your reaction to receiving an invitation to judge the Non-Sporting Group at this year’s National Dog Show Presented by Purina?

Richard Todd Jackson: When I received my invitation, my first thought was about all the years I had spent with my family watching this show on television—it was a staple year after year. The National Dog Show always served as a time for our family to come together before we sat down to give thanks for all the blessings we had received that year. For us, this dog show represented much more than just a television event; it had become part of our dinner celebration. Now, I would have the privilege of continuing that tradition in a much larger role. I was truly honored to be part of a distinguished panel and choose four outstanding representatives from the Non-Sporting Group.

2. What does it mean to judge a Group at this historic show?

Richard Todd Jackson: The excitement, the thrill, and the pure appreciation and gratitude—these are the thoughts that come to mind when I reflect on the significance of being a part of this kennel club’s long history of hosting purebred dog events. In our sport today, we have communities within communities, and I am so proud to say that I have contributed my own part to that history.

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

Richard Todd Jackson: In addition to being a bench show, the National Dog Show presents various breed Groups and the Best in Show award to a global audience. This event provides families around the world with the opportunity to see some of the finest representatives of each Breed and Variety. It also serves as a moment to showcase the sport of purebred dogs in a positive light.

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

Richard Todd Jackson: My judging day started at 8:00 AM, and I had a particularly large entry, including a significant number of Dachshunds. As some people have pointed out, I have a bad habit of giving each dog more than two minutes, which sometimes causes me to run over my time. However, on this day, I actually finished early, allowing me to get dressed in the dressing room in a reasonable amount of time before heading over to the Group ring.

Standing ringside, my first thought was that I was joining a long list of judges who had stood in the same spot for many years, and now it was my turn. I had a range of thoughts racing through my mind: Is my bow tie on straight? Don’t forget, you have a mic on you. Speak clearly. Ensure each dog receives the proper breed-specific examination. How would I choose from this beautiful lineup of Non-Sporting dogs?

Then the moment arrived. As I took my first step into the middle of the ring while the introduction was being announced over the PA system, I shook hands with my escorts and turned to face the dogs. It was like riding a bicycle. I began walking down the lineup, and the world around me disappeared. My focus was entirely on finding the best representative of each breed that day. I had a job to do, and I wanted to do it well.

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

Richard Todd Jackson: You could clearly hear the excitement in each exhibitor’s voice as I greeted them. The audience’s energy was immense, especially when their favorite exhibits were on display or when a dog did something funny or cute.

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

Richard Todd Jackson: My selection process remains consistent: I evaluate each dog individually, giving them the time that they deserve to present themselves to me. I compare each dog to its Breed Standard. The challenge I encountered was choosing just four to award, as each dog in the lineup represented its breed well.

7. Do you have a word or two about your Group winner? About the dogs that placed?

Richard Todd Jackson: I began by making a properly sized cut. The dogs I selected were outstanding and deserve further recognition. My final four included the Boston Terrier, which won Group 4, the Miniature Poodle, which took home Group 3, and the Bulldog, finishing with Group Second. The top honor, Group First, went to a handsome Bichon Frise. This dog was elegant, with such a beautiful carriage and a stunning expression, all in perfect white. It caught my eye immediately as I walked along the lineup. I also want to extend my gratitude to all the Non-Sporting Best of Breed winners. Thank you to the breeders, owners, and exhibitors for bringing me such beautiful, sound dogs.

8. This show has become a Thanksgiving Day tradition in America. Are there specific ways in which this show furthers the cause of purebred dogs?

Richard Todd Jackson: One of our country’s largest holidays is Thanksgiving, which I believe is second only to Christmas. The National Dog Show, which airs in the middle of the day, is the perfect gathering time for families just before sitting down to dinner. It’s a time when we can talk about the one thing we all love, one of the many times that brings us together: dogs, and how they have become such a huge part of our families. I think the strength of the National Dog Show lies in its ability to remind us, as a country, that we have more in common than we might think.

9. Is there anything you’d like to say to the members of the Kennel Club of Philadelphia and the show’s sponsors?

Richard Todd Jackson: Thank you sincerely for this opportunity and for inviting me to be part of your history; it means so much to me.

10. Now that your assignment is complete, what does this show mean to you personally?

Richard Todd Jackson: When I think about this assignment, I remind myself that I am not alone when I step into the ring. I carry with me my experiences, along with the conversations I’ve had with breeders, exhibitors, and fellow judges. I also bring my friends and family, as well as the memories of those who have passed on. They are the ones who have helped me reach this point in my journey. This is the foundation I stand on the moment I enter the ring.