Meet Thomas Coen: 2025 AKC National Championship Bred-By-Exhibitor Best in Show Judge

Meet Thomas Coen: 2025 AKC National Championship Bred-By-Exhibitor Best in Show Judge

1. Can you describe your reaction to receiving an invitation to judge Best Bred-By-Exhibitor in Show at the AKC National Championship Presented by Royal Canin?

Thomas Coen: As a breeder for more than fifty years, this invitation meant a great deal to me. I was deeply honored and also aware of the responsibility that comes with this special assignment.

2. What does it mean to judge this event at the only all-breed show organized directly by the American Kennel Club?

Thomas Coen: To me, to be invited to judge at this special AKC show was a validation of my six decades as a breeder, handler, and judge.

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

Thomas Coen: First, the size of the show, with all its events, is mind-boggling, especially when you think of how many clubs are struggling with lower entries. Not only were the numbers incredible, but the quality was deep. Seeing dogs of such excellence is inspiring and an education in itself.

4. What were you thinking or feeling moments before you stepped into the center of the Best Bred-By-Exhibitor ring?

Thomas Coen: I was anxious to see the finalists make their first trip around the ring.

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

Thomas Coen: There definitely was a heightened energy coming from the dogs, their handlers, and the spectators. More than that, though, I felt the incredible sense of pride from the breeder/handlers and every dog rose to the occasion.

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

Thomas Coen: This was one of those rare assignments where the quality was so high and all the dogs were very deserving. Thank you to the BBE Group judges for sending me such outstanding dogs.

7. Do you have a word or two about your Best BBE winner? About the BBE Group winners?

Thomas Coen: My Best BBE winner, the Smooth Fox Terrier, possesses beautiful breed type and real quality both standing and in motion. He is very special and a credit to his breeder.

8. Breeders are fundamental to the health and welfare of the sport of dogs. Based on this assignment, are today’s breeders doing well by the sport and for their breeds?

Thomas Coen: Based on this assignment and these dogs, the breeders are doing a great job! That being said, there are too many assignments where the quality is disappointing and it makes me wonder if the breeders/exhibitors have done their homework and studied the Breed Standard for their own breed.

9. A dog show of this magnitude is a monumental undertaking. Is there anything you’d like to say to the AKC and the show’s sponsors?

Thomas Coen: It’s actually mind-boggling to think of how many details are involved in planning a show of this size with such a variety of events offered. “Thank you” to the AKC and Royal Canin definitely seems insufficient for a show of this magnitude. KUDOS FOR A GREAT JOB!

10. Now that it’s over, what are your thoughts on the 2025 show year? Any thoughts on the year ahead?

Thomas Coen: When I think about 2025, the shows that come to mind are The Garden, the Collie National Specialty, Morris and Essex, and the AKC National Championship. I would rather see fewer shows with higher attendance and deeper quality. Keeping the bar high should be a definite priority.