Terry M. DePietro – 2023 National Dog Show Herding Group Judge

Interview with Terry M. DePietro – 2023 National Dog Show Herding Group Judge

Can I describe my reaction to receiving an invitation to judge the Herding Group at this year’s National Dog Show Presented by Purina?

I was humbled and honored to be asked to judge the Kennel Club of Philadelphia and the National Dog Show.

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

To judge this show means that you will become a part of their history, which dates back to 1874. “Living the dream” has so much meaning for all those involved in the sport of dogs.

In my opinion, how does this show differ from other AKC events?

Philadelphia is the only benched show in the country at this time. Benched shows were the norm in the early days of recognized dog events.

What was I thinking or feeling moments before I stepped into the center of the Group ring?

I was excited and wanted to do my best. I was looking forward to judging wonderful dogs.

Was there a heightened energy coming from the dog and handler teams? Did I feel the energy of the spectators?

Winning a Best of Breed at Philadelphia is such a wonderful accomplishment for the handler. The dogs can sense the pride and energy from their handlers and it makes for a great performance in the Group ring.

The spectators cheer for their favorite and the whole arena is filled with that energetic mood.

How challenging was this assignment? Can I share my selection process?

When one has the top dog in each breed, of course, it is challenging. “The best of the best” is a matter of choosing which dogs absolutely exemplify their Breed Standard to a high degree and show the correct movement. The picture the dog makes with that performance is so important.

Do I have a word or two about my Group winner? About the dogs that placed?

The German Shepherd Dog was my Group 1. He is a strong, muscular dog, full of energy and self-confidence. Just like the commentator who said Secretariat moved like a “tremendous machine” in the Belmont Stakes, so did this GSD in a powerful and effortless stride. The Bouvier des Flandres (Group 2) fit the Standard with his powerful appearance and short-coupled body. He was light on his feet yet strong. Correct coat type was evident. The Australian Shepherd (Group 3) was the correct size, with a lovely head, right coat texture, and energetic. She was well balanced and moved with ease. The Pyrenean Shepherd (Group 4) was most lively and exuberant, with the correct triangular head and rectangular body. The movement was free and efficient.

The KC of Philadelphia Dog Show Chairman, Frank De Paulo, and his committees should be recognized for their hard work, for preserving the history of the show, and for their pursuit in making this show a premier event. The sponsors are to be complimented for hosting such a spectacular and historical event.

This show has become a Thanksgiving Day tradition in America. Is there anything I’d like to say on behalf of the Kennel Club of Philadelphia and the show’s sponsors?

The KC of Philadelphia Dog Show Chairman, Frank De Paulo, and his committees should be recognized for their hard work, for preserving the history of the show, and for their pursuit in making this show a premier event. The sponsors are to be complimented for hosting such a spectacular and historical event.

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

Breeders are the mainstay of correct breeding. The National Dog Show gives the spectator a chance to see the effort that all good breeders put into their breeding programs.

Now that my assignment is complete, what does this show mean to me personally?

This show was the highlight of my career in dog show judging, which began in 1986.