Vicki Abbott reflects on judging 2025 Morris & Essex Toy Group, elegance of the show, and standout winners in a show for the ages ever
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Vicki Abbott: This was an extremely meaningful invitation to me, as the Toy Group is where my heart has been for most of my life. It was also such an honor to be asked to be a part of the judging panel of this elegant and prestigious event that is now put on every five years in remembrance of such a grand lady, Mrs. Dodge, who established the Morris & Essex Kennel Club and a dog show that is, as they say, truly a show for the ages!
Vicki Abbott: Morris & Essex was, and is, the largest outdoor dog show ever to be held. The elegance of this outdoor show is what set it apart originally, as Mrs. Dodge put on such a grand outdoor affair that could not be matched in the dog world. From the gentile hospitality to the beautiful trophies, manicured grounds, beautiful white tents, and all the exhibitors wearing their best outfits and hats, every detail made this the social event of the season. Thank you to Wayne Ferguson for truly reviving this elegance and prestige in the current Morris and Essex show.
Vicki Abbott: Before stepping into the Group ring, I just looked around at this spectacular show site and thought about how much I had enjoyed the day at Morris & Essex once again due to the many months of planning and efforts on the part of the M&E President Wayne Ferguson and his amazing officers and show committee. I thought about how Mrs. Dodge must have felt after a day so wonderful of her making in the sport of purebred dogs—she must have been very pleased to see so many exhibitors enjoying her grand show! I wondered if she had an inkling of how historic this show would become. Morris & Essex draws entries that are the best of the best. The energy from the dogs and exhibitors was what one would expect from a show of this caliber and I knew that I would have a Group full of exceptional Toy dogs. And I was not disappointed!
First Place in the Toy Group: The Maltese Bitch GCHB CH Ta-jon’s Made From Scratch
This bitch is a beautiful package—her correct silhouette, beautiful head and expression, striking black pigment in contrast to her lovely, single, silky white coat are a sight to behold. Her smooth, flowing gait, even in the outdoor grass, was impressive. I loved the fact that while being beautifully presented and looking very elegant, she still had that mischievous, lively, and playful attitude so loved about the breed.
Second Place in the Toy Group: The Shih Tzu Dog GCHP CH Hallmark Jolei Out Of This World
This dog is the epitome of the arrogant carriage so greatly desired in the breed. Viewing his silhouette with no exaggerated features, he was well-balanced with a lovely neck flowing smoothly into his well-laid-back shoulders. That, together with the big, round, dark eyes, correctly placed nose, and short, square muzzle, his warm, sweet expression was just beautiful. The icing on the cake was his luxurious double coat in beautiful condition.
Third Place in the Toy Group: The Papillon Dog GCHB CH Riesa N Passionpaps Locked And Loaded
Silhouette, ears, expression, and coat. These are just a few of the important things that give breed type to the Papillon that cannot be overlooked in judging this elegant breed. A Papillon should be light, dainty, and have lively action. This little dog has it all, including his dark, round eyes with black rims that always showed alertness and inquisitiveness—a joy to judge and watch go around the ring!
Fourth Place in the Toy Group: The Miniature Pinscher Bitch CH Rexroth Kimro Valentina
Vicki Abbott: This little Min Pin Bitch is everything that the Standard calls for. She is perfectly square, with striking carriage, and totally full of herself. Her side movement is what impressed me the most. This little bitch is a beautiful example of reach, lift, and proper bend in front, and good angulation and drive in the rear. Top that all off with a lovely headpiece, good depth of chest and spring of rib, good feet, fabulous tailset, and you have the total package.
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