The dog show magazine celebrating the Toy Group of dog breeds - featuring articles, tips, and information provided with help from breeders, owners, handlers, club members, and judges.
Ana CHAMPION MELITICA PRIMA BALLERINA ANA PAVLOVA
Ana 2017Westminster Best of Breed at fifteen months of age. THE FUTURE LOOKS BRIGHT FOR THIS SHINING NEW STAR. on the cover... MELITICA PRIMA BALLERINA ANA PAVLOVA group winning owned & bred by D R A G I C A ( D I N A ) H U N T E R M E L I T I C A M A LT E S E handled by T I M L E H M A N 2 • T op N otch T oys , A pril 2017
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A M S I L V E R G R A N D C H A M P I O N M B I S / M G C H / M U L T I C H A L W A Y S P E A R L
Pearl won BOS at the AKC National Championship under Judge Mr. Gareth Morgan-Jones as well as at Progressive Toy Dog Club under Judge Mrs. Elena Spector.
A huge thank you to my handlers and friends, Edgar Cruz Guevara and Tonia Holibaugh for all Pearl’s accomplishments. WE LOOK FORWARD TO GOING TO THE AMERICAN MALTESE ASSOCIATION NATIONAL SPECIALTY IN 2017.
OWNED BY CYNTHIA LEE | iLOVE MALTESE
BRED BY VERONICA & ALAN FAWCETT | ALWAYS MALTESE
HANDLED BY TONIA HOLIBAUGH | RHAPSODY MALTESE
HANDLED BY EDGAR CRUZ GUEVARA
ASSISTED BY VERNOR OVARES UGALDE | SAN JOSE, COSTA RICA
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i L O V E R H A P S O D Y A L W A Y S J O R D A N
Jordan was shown as a 9-12 month puppy at the 2016 American Maltese Specialty winning Best of Opposite Puppy in Sweepstakes under Judge Mrs. Angela Stanberry and 1st in the 9-12 Puppy Class on the day of Conformation judging. Thank you Tonia and Edgar and your team for all you do for iLove Maltese! WE LOOK FORWARD TO SEEING OUR BOY SHOWN AT THIS YEAR’S NATIONAL AS AN ADULT.
OWNED & BRED BY CYNTHIA LEE | iLOVE MALTESE
HANDLED BY TONIA HOLIBAUGH | RHAPSODY MALTESE
HANDLED BY EDGAR CRUZ GUEVARA
ASSISTED BY VERNOR OVARES UGALDE | SAN JOSE, COSTA RICA
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B R E D & OWN E D B Y: ANGELA M. SANDERS , SANDERLIN MINIATURE PINSCHERS E XC L U S I V E LY H A N D L E D B Y: KIM BYRD, PHA
G C H G C H S A N D E R L I N D A N C E L I K E A D I C K E N S 6 • T op N otch T oys , A pril 2017
C H S A N D E R L I N D A N C E S T H R U T H E G A L A X Y
WINNERS BITCH & BEST OF WINNERS EMPIRE MINIATURE PINSCHER CLUB OF GREATER NEW YORK
B R E D & OWN E D B Y: ANGELA M. SANDERS SANDERLIN MINIATURE PINSCHERS
E XC L U S I V E LY H A N D L E D B Y: KIM BYRD, PHA
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IF SOMEONE TOLD YOU THAT
OF THE TOP 100 * SHOW DOGS EAT THE SAME BRAND OF FOOD Would you ask what it is?
HELPS KEEP SKIN& COAT IN EXCELLENT CONDITION
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SUPPORTS IMMUNE SYSTEM DURING TRAVEL & COMPETITION
HELPS OPTIMIZE OXYGENMETABOLISM FOR INCREASED STAMINA
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proplansport.com SOLD EXCLUSIVELY AT PET SPECIALTY RETAILERS *AKC Top Dogs SM All Breed Competition through December 31, 2016.
The handler or owner of these champions may have received Pro Plan dog food as Purina ambassadors. Purina trademarks are owned by Société des Produits Nestlé S.A. Any other marks are property of their respective owners. Printed in USA.
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IN LOVING MEMORY
DUANE C. DOLL 1/17/39 – 7/19/16 Co-Founder, Publisher and CEO Since 1983
Executive Editor JOSEPH NEIL McGINNIS Editor BONNIE GUGGENHEIM Managing Editor CORTNY WHITE Ad and Editorial Design
JOE McGINNIS, DIANE GREENE-WALSH, CORTNY WHITE, ERIKA RUTHERFORD, EMILY GARNER AND KELLI LAW Advertising BONNIE GUGGENHEIM 863.738.8848 • bonnie@dmcg.com PRODUCTION OFFICES 8848 Beverly Hills, Lakeland, Fl 33809 Office Manager Subscriptions and Circulation MICHAEL VERAS 863.816.8848 • michael@dmcg.com Production Co-Ordinator Advertiser Relations SAMANTHA ADKINS 863.816.8848 • samantha@dmcg.com
Ana CHAMPION MELITICA PRIMA BALLERINA ANA PAVLOVA Lehman-Hunter Cover.indd 1 3/31/17 4:37 PM On the cover: CHAMPION MELITICA PRIMA BALLERINA ANA PAVLOVA Maltese, Owned by Dragica (Dina) Hunter
10 FROM THE EDITOR by JOE MCGINNIS 14 TOY TALK by BONNIE GUGGENHEIM 20 WESTMINSTER ‘17: THE TOY GROUP by JOE MCGINNIS
Director of Web Development National Distribution Manager DANIEL J. CARTIER 615.618.4797 • daniel@dmcg.com Production Manager DIANE GREENE-WALSH
26 AKC’S MEET THE BREEDS ® AT WESTMINSTER by JOE MCGINNIS 34 2017 WESTMINSTER KENNEL CLUB CANDIDS photos by KRISTA DROOP 38 2017 PROGRESSIVE DOG SHOW CANDIDS photos by KRISTA DROOP 59 FIRST TIME’S THE CHARM—A TRIP TO WESTMINSTER by SCOTT TONEY 64 RUSSIAN TOY MEET THE BREEDS ® CANDIDS photos by MARTHA GUIMOND 65 LIFE WITH JAPANESE CHIN by SUE ANN PIETROS 66 THE ESSENCE OF THE JAPANESE CHIN STANDARD by SUE ANN PIETROS 67 JAPANESE CHIN BREEDER’S FORUM with DALE MARTENSEN 68 ALL HYPE BUT WHERE’S THE TYPE? by LEE GORGAN 70 MALTESE BREEDER’S FORUM with BARBARA BERGQUIST AND MARY ANN PAUL 72 MALTESE WESTMINSTER TOY GROUP WINNERS: TIED TOGETHER IN A TAPESTRY by VICKI ABBOTT 74 SHIH TZU BREEDER’S FORUM with MARGE BROWN AND SUSAN KILGORE 76 THE SHIH TZU TOPKNOT by RICHARD PAQUETTE 78 WHATEVER YOU WANT TO KNOW ABOUT SHIH TZU, GO TO WWW.SHIHTZU.ORG by JO ANN WHITE 79 TNT TOYBOX 80 TNT TOP TWENTY 80 TNT ALL BREED SYSTEM 82 TNT BREED SYSTEM 84 TNT OWNER-HANDLER SYSTEM 86 ADVERTISING & SUBSCRIPTION RATES 87 TNT TOYBOX 88 THE AMERICAN KENNEL CLUB POSTHUMOUSLY HONORS LAST SURVIVING 9/11 DOG courtesy of the AKC 90 INDEX TO ADVERTISERS
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G C H L u f f e y l a n d ’ s C u r i o u s G e o r g e W i n s A R o s e t t e !
"Georgio" Promises To Be Good... But It Is Easy For A Little Havanese To Forget!
On His First GROOVY Weekend Out As A Special, “GEORGIO” Is Awarded Toy GroupTwo - Judge Edward Wild
Toy Group Four - Judge Wanda Spediacci Toy Group Four - Judge Barbara Alderman
AndThen At His First Toy Dog Show Weekend, “GEORGIO” Is Awarded Toy GroupTwo - Judge Stephen Dainard Toy GroupTwo - Judge Jocelyne Gagne Our Gratitude To O’ Canada!
Bred & Owned By: Thomas & Margaret Luffey | Presented By: Harry Bennett & S. D. Rowan Jr.
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by BONNIE GUGGENHEIM TNT Advertising Director & Associate Editor BE A SMART EXHIBITOR ETCETERA
D o this every time you are entered and you will be more relaxed about what is requested of you. Observe the judge’s ring pattern and watch their style of going over the exhibits so you can concentrate on showing off the best points of your dog. When you are lined up and wait- ing for final instructions, carefully watch the judge, noticing at what he or she is looking. More than one person has missed a request to go to the front of the class and lost a ribbon for not paying attention. Respect judges’ time —if they take a few minutes to speak with you about
placements or specifics regarding your dog, know they are on a strict time schedule. AKC allows approximately two minutes per dog, so any time they offer to answer your question is a part of their time schedule for that ring on that day. The Field Reps do check times of judges and expect judging to be com- pleted on a timely basis so the Groups may proceed. A smart exhibitor will have done a bit of research so they know what the judge prefers. If he or she comes from a Sporting breed, obviously move- ment is very important; while those who come from a breed that requires extensive grooming, then beauty and
presentation are important. Those who come from one of the so-called head breeds will find the head to be a win- ning feature. Knowing before you enter will help you to enter smart. If you have questions, please be brief, specific and friendly in your approach. If you want to tell him or her what they did wrong on that day, walk away. The judges book is already marked and your comments accomplish nothing that will benefit you on that day or in the future. Exhibitors who verbal- ly accost judges should know the AKC Rep can be called ringside if necessary and is not a good situation. When talking with a judge and they are answering your questions, listen carefully. Some judges will give you a thoughtful and helpful answer that is important for you. Many of the specialty judges know their respec- tive breeds inside and out and have a wealth of information and knowl- edge which they would be happy to share at the right time. Generally, they will find time at the completion of their assignment. A final thought on judges, they all want to do the right thing and hope to find a fabulous dog. The last and most important thing: you cannot win if you don’t play! So take your best, enter smart, win lots and tell all of us about it in Top Notch Toys … where all the finest Toys are found. Email or call me with your exciting new puppies or wonderful win and remember, inquir- ing minds want to know!
Photo by Dale Martenson
Bonnie bonnie@dmcg.com 863.738.8848
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M atthew GCH TOUCHE’S ALRIGHT ALRIGHT ALRIGHT!!! This stylish young dog has the TYPE and SOUNDNESS to appeal to Breeder/Judges as well as All Rounders.
Our thanks to Dr. Wanda Spediacci and Christine Anderson Sawyers for awarding him back-to-back Group Placements his first weekend out.
Owners: Vicki Dovellos & Jane Martenson Breeders: Dale Martenson & Richard Wilson
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Fleur de Passy ™ Japanese Chin “A COMMITMENT TO EXCELLENCE LEADING FROM THE HEART ™ ” HOME OF THE TOP #1 JAPANESE CHIN IN THE US
“Xena”
FOUNDATION DAM:
FCI INT’L CH PR GCH CH PANAM CH LATINAM CH AKC GCH CH Tsunami Inagiku of Fleur de Passy ™ , ROM Double qualified for Crufts 2013-14 Permanent qualification for Crufts via her FCI International Championship title
Select at Eukanuba 2013 Registry of Merit 2016 Dam of Orion, L’Etoile and Valentino
Health Testing Perfect: Heart, Patellas, Eyes, GM2 - all clear
“Orion” CH Fleur de Passy ™ Orion Multiple Bred By Exhibitor Group One Wins
Westminster Winners Dog Qualified for Crufts 2016-17
Multiple Best of Breed Wins over Top Specials (one from the Classes) Health Testing Perfect: Heart, Patellas, Eyes, GM2—all clear
“L’Etoile” CH Fleur de Passy™ L’Etoile Noire
(one small major away from completing her GCh) Multiple Best of Opposite Sex Wins from the Classes over Top Specials Health Testing Perfect: Heart, Patellas, Eyes, GM2—all clear
THANK YOU JUDGES FOR AN ASTOUNDING 2016! WE FINISHED TWO MORE FLEUR DE PASSY ™ CHAMPIONS (FROM THE BBE CLASSES) AND TOOK RBIS BISS GCH VALENTINO TO TOP #1 CHIN! *
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MULTIPLE GROUP WINNING, RESERVE BEST IN SHOW WINNING & BEST IN SPECIALTY SHOW WINNING GOLD GRAND CHAMPION Fleur de Passy ™ Dauphin “Valentino”
AMERICA’S #4 CHIN * ALL-BREED IN LIMITED 2017 SHOWING
THANK YOU TO CHIN AUTHORITY JUDGE RICHARD CAMACHO FOR BEST OF BREED AND JUDGE ROBERT D. ENNIS FOR BEST BRED BY EXHIBITOR, ORLANDO 2016.
#1 TOP CHIN OF 2016 **
#1 AKC GRAND CHAMPION *** JUST 3 YEARS OLD & BREEDER-OWNER-HANDLED QUALIFIED FOR CRUFTS: 2015-16, 2016-17 & 2017-18 HEALTH TESTING PERFECT: HEART, PATELLAS, EYES, GM2—ALL CLEAR
LOVINGLY WHELPED, TRAINED, CONDITIONED & HANDLED BY: DR. ANITA LOPKER
* TNT all breed stats as of 2/28/17 ** TNT breed stats 2016 *** GCH points 2016
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GOLD GCH H&H HOTROD at Chihuahua Speciality of Greater New York, New York Hotrod
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Gold Grand Champion
H&H Hotrod
strumming his way through the Chihuahua Club of Nashville
H&H Hotrod SIRE OF MULTIPLE CHAMPIONS! Head out on the Highway
Michelle Herod, Breeder/Owner/Handler & Todd Harris 928-445-9371 | See us on Facebook at H&H Chihuahuas Stud services available | www.chihuahuaacres.com
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Ana CH MELITICA PRIMA BALLERINA ANA PAVLOVA group winning 2017Westminster Best of Breed at fifteen months of age. on the cover...
THE FUTURE LOOKS BRIGHT FOR THIS SHINING NEW STAR.
owned & bred by D R A G I C A ( D I N A ) H U N T E R , M E T L I T I C A M A LT E S E handled by T I M L E H M A N
photo by © Miguel
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THANK YOU Judges
Group 2 (2nd Show): Dr. Dale Simmons
Group 2 (1st show): Dr. Steve Keating
Group 3: Mr. Don Sutton
NUMBER one
2016 # 1 H a v a n e s e B i t c h A l l S y s t e m s * * 2016 A K C N a t i o n a l C h a m p i o n s h i p B r e e d W i n n e r 201 7 W e s t m i n s t e r K C S e l e c t B i t c h HAVANESE BITCH ALL BREED*
* T N T a l l b r e e d s t a t s 2 / 2 8 / 1 7 * * A l l s y s t e m s 2 0 1 6
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G C H G Z o n a R o s a ’ s Brooklyn I’LL TAKE MANHATTAN
Presented to Standard by: DAVID & KRISTYN STOUT Breeder: MARIA ELENA PEREIRA | Owners: MARIA ELENA PEREIRA & SUZANNE PECK
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FOR YOU, THERE’S NO OTHER BREED. FOR US, NO BIGGER OBSESSION.
At Royal Canin, we obsess about purebred dogs—and the perfect nutrition for each of them. ROYAL CANIN ® BREED HEALTH NUTRITION ® YORKSHIRE TERRIER formulas feature high- quality protein sources, specialized nutrients and a uniquely shaped kibble. Because even the way your Yorkshire Terriers eat is something special. Enroll today in our Crown Partners ™ breeder program at my.royalcanin.com. Membership benefits include quarterly rewards, an average 20% discount versus in-store prices, free shipping, Yorkshire Terrier puppy kits and more.
For more information or questions, please contact: Sharon Lund National Breed Manager - Yorkshire Terrier P: 636.288.6736 E: sharon.lund @ royalcanin.com
STAY CONNECTED
www.royalcanin.com
© 2016 ROYAL CANIN SAS. All rights reserved. T op N otch T oys , A pril 2017 • 27
BISS GCH CH KNOCKOUT WHITE OWL
Unlike Any Other! NUMBER One SMOOTH COAT BITCH (BREED TOTALS)* NUMBER Seven SMOOTH COAT CHIHUAHUA (ALL BREED TOTALS)**
Toy Group 3 under Judge Mr. Fred C. Bassett in Phoenix, AZ! Flash!
*TNT breed stats as of 2/28/17 **TNT all breed stats as of 2/28/17
Bred by Knockout Chihuahuas | Passion for the WHOLE Dog RACHEL K. GREEN knockoutchis@gmail.com | www.knockoutchihuahuas.com All breeding stock OFA clear. Always breeder-owner-handled.
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Introducing BISS GCH CH KNOCKOUT BABE IN TOYLAND
IN THE SPOTLIGHT! Best of Opposite Sex Chihuahua Club of America Regional Speciality under Mr. Edd Bivin (December, 2016) SELECT BITCH AKC National Championship under Dr. Margaret Reed (December, 2016)
Thank you Breeder/Judge Mr. Bradley Jenkins for this memorable win at the Nashville Chihuahua Club Specialty!
Dearly loved, owned and exclusively handled by LYNDA NILGES-CHARLES | lyndacharles@bellsouth.net Bred by Knockout Chihuahuas
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CH Vaiden's Light My Fire At Halfway To Heaven
Amber
CH ULTRAS BLAME IT ON THE ROMANS SPARTACUS X CH VAIDENS INTO THE DARK Amber is well on her way to obtaining her Grand Championship title
Thank you to all the Judges who recognized this unusual & stunning beauty. How lucky I am
to have one of the most beautiful Black Masked Golds in my Shih Tzu lifetime!
Owned by Patricia Uthoff | halfwaytoheavenshihtzu.com Bred & Co-Owned by Deborah Vaiden | Vaidenshihtzu.tripod.com Expertly Handled by Angie Cooke | 812.987.6738
Judge Mrs. Barbara Dempsey Alderman
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GCH CH ULTRA'S MR KNOW IT ALL X CH VAIDEN'S JUST LIKE DADDY CH Vaiden's Just Because Shaina
N E W C H A M P I O N S
So proud of our girl!
Shaina finished undefeated in just 6 shows! Thank you to all the judges who recognized this very special girl and Eileen Nicholas for a beautiful presentation!
Bred & Owned by Deborah L. Vaiden | VAIDEN SHIH TZU vaidenshihtzu.tripod.com
GCH CH ULTRA'S MR KNOW IT ALL X CH VAIDEN 'S MUSICAL SCORE CH Vaiden's All That Matters Taylor finished with his third major (5 pt) going Best of Breed over two specials! Thank you Judge Toddy Clark for this exciting win! Thanks also to all the other Judges who recognized this special boy! Special thanks to Kristi Miller for his final points and majors!
Bred & Owned by Deborah L. Vaiden | VAIDEN SHIH TZU vaidenshihtzu.tripod.com
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PROUDLY PRESENTING ALL THE FIRE OF A C H I H U A H U A N A M E D GCH DRE S S C I RCLE S TEL LA BY S TARL I GHT Stella
E L
BREEDER OWNER HANDLER: SARAH DRESSER SCOTT DRESS CIRCLE EXCELLENCE SINCE 1964 • MEDINA, OHIO
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B-Boy Multi CH B-Boy of Angela White KR Bronze Grand Champion
# 2 Maltese All Systems * We are so proud of B-Boy being ranked
thank you Tonia & Edgar for making our boy shine! thank you Mr. Terry Stacy for this Group 3 win!
*all systems as of 2/28/17
Owned by Laurence Didier | France • Bred by So Hyang Kim | Angela White Maltese Handled By Tonia Holibaugh | Rhapsody Maltese • Handled by Edgar Cruz Guevara • Assisted by Vernor Ovares Ugalde
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GCH GOLD CAN CH RIGAIR UNIQUE LEO
BREED * * # 5
# 4
ALL BREED *
Select Dog at Progressive Dog Show Award of Merit Yorkshire Terrier
Club of Greater New York Award of Merit Yorkshire Terrier Club of America
PRESENTED IMPECCABLY BY: TONIA HOLIBAUGH GROOMED BEAUTIFULLY BY: EDGAR GUEVARA BRED BY: ILONA RODIONOVA OWNED BY: ROSANNE FETT & ILONA RODIONOVA www.rosemarkkennel.com | rfett@rosemarkkennel.com
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*TNT all breed stats as of 2/28/17 **TNT breed stats as of 2/28/17
l
t O
Y
S
H K U L E
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M B I S M B I S S A M / C A N G C H A M E R I C A ’ S N U M B E R O N E S H I H T Z U * & N U M B E R N I N E T O Y * * Winterholme Any Way U Want It
B R E D / O W N E D B Y : Wendy Anderson & Richard Paquette P R O F E S S I O N A L L Y H A N D L E D B Y : Mandy Carlson
C O - B R E D B Y : Sonya Barnes
*TNT breed & all breed stats as of 2/28/17 **TNT all breed stats as of 2/28/17
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B R E A K I N G A L L T H E R U L E S
GCH ZHEN’S THAT’S WHO WE ARE
WINNERS DOG 2015 ACCCC NATIONAL SELECT DOG EUKANUBA 2015 AOM ROYAL CANIN 2016 MULTIPLE GROUP PLACING
Breeders: Carol Clouse, Amy Thompson and Bill Thompson Owners: Norma Feldman, Carol Clouse and Kristina Karraker Handler: Tara Richardson Photo©Kathy Arnold
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RESERVE BEST IN SHOW, MULTIPLE BEST IN SPECIALTY SHOW
GCHG DARTAN DIAMONDS ARE FOREVER AT VIVA
NOHS SMOOTH COAT CHIHUAHUA * # 1 ALL BREED SMOOTH COAT CHIHUAHUA ** # 2
BEST IN SPECIALTY SHOW TEXAS CHIHUAHUA CLUB
THANK YOU JUDGE DR. ANTHONY DINARDO
BRED BY DARWIN DELANEY & KATHY SAWYER OWNED BY & EXCLUSIVELY HANDLED BY CECILIA BOZZO
THANK YOU JUDGE BRADLEY JENKINS
*AKC NOHS stats as of 3/9/17 **TNT all breed stats as of 2/28/17
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BEST OF BREED AND BEST BRED BY EXHIBITOR 2016 AKC NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS 2016 NATIONAL OWNER HANDLED SERIES CHAMPIONSHIP BEST OF BREED GCHS MARJA-TU CHU DREAM CATCHER Dreamer DREAMER IS CRUFTS QUALIFIED
2016 #2 ALL-BREED AKC NATIONAL OWNER HANDLED SERIES* 2015, 2016* & 2017** #1 NOHS SHIH TZU 2017 TOP TEN SHIH TZU*** MULTIPLE GROUP WINS & PLACEMENTS 10 NOHS BEST IN SHOW 9 NOHS RESERVE BEST IN SHOW
Flash GREATER LOWELL KC REGULAR GROUP 1 & NOHS BEST IN SHOW
*AKC NOHS STATS 2015 & 2016 **AKC NOHS STATS AS OF 1.31.17 ***TNT BREED & ALL BREED STATS AS OF 1.31.17
KM PHOTOGRAPHY
The “Dream Team” would like to thank all of the Judges who made 2016 such an exciting and memorable year. We also want to thank our NOHS family and all of our supporters for their encouragement. LOOK FOR DREAMER IN 2017 AS HE CONTINUES IN THE SHOW RING. DREAMER IS ALWAYS BREEDER/OWNER HANDLED BY MARK S. STEMPEL.
MARJA SHIH TZU MARK & JACKIE STEMPEL • BOHEMIA, NEW YORK
TU CHU SHIH TZU KATHY KWAIT • FAIRLAWN, NEW JERSEY
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O U R N E W S H O W H O P E F U L
P A R A S O L B E D A Z Z L E D B Y T H E J E W E L B O X
Bred by D O R O T H Y A N D E R S O N , P A R A S O L P A P I L L O N S Owned by D O R O T H Y A N D E R S O N A N D J U D Y T H O M P S O N
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C H I N E S E C R E S T E D S
A C C O M P L I S H E D & E X Q U I S I T E
CH G I NGERY ’ S MUDS L I DE MULTIPLE SPECIALTY SELECTS & 2015 NATIONAL RWD
THANK YOU TO THE JUDGES FOR YOUR RECOGNITION OF THIS “NATURAL” BEAUTY
OWNER Donna Sawyer
BREEDER/OWNER/HANDLER Arlene Butterklee
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T H A N K Y O U
T O T H E J U D G E S
F O R S E E I N G
T H E Q U A L I T Y
I N T H I S B O Y .
T H A N K Y O U J U D G E S M I C H A E L C A N A L I Z O & D O U G L A S A . J O H N S O N Thank You Breeder: Arlene Etzig | Owned & Handled by: Pamela Cunningham | Justamere Havanese We ’ ve only just begun ... PELUITO’S SHAKE RATTLE N ROLL
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Grand Champion
Wenrick’s N’ Palaquins They Call Me Mr. Bates
Thank you Lee Whittier for awarding Bates First Award of Merit at the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show.
Proudly Owned & Bred By: WENDY PEQUETTE Co-Bred By: BARBARA BREM Professionally Handled By: MICHELLE M. JONES yingsu@earthlink.net Assisted By: MACKENZIE S. JONES
Photo © Lino Viveiros
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Champion
K E E P E R OF T H E F L AME
CH SHAB R I ’ S MONTANYA DE OS I TO x GCH GENB ROOK ’ S P L AY I N ’ WI TH F I R E
O W N E D , B R E D & L O V E D B Y G A R Y & V I C K I S T I L E S
© PHOTO BY STEVEN ROSS
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After 20-plus years of showing and over 50 Champions, we knew you were the best! Thank you for being a special person in our life. Congratulations to SHARON SVOBODA AKC HANDLER OF THE YEAR
ZIEGFELD HARTEN ROCK ME AMADEUS
GCHB Ziegfeld Harten Classic Rock x CH Ziegfeld Harten Forever Friends
WATCH FOR ME AT PCA WITH SHARON
Breeders: Kathy and John Quandt | jkqtoys@gte.net Sharon Svoboda | sheripuff@gmail.com Owner: Suzanne Grande | Grande Style Poodles Poodlepenthouse.com | poodlepenthouse@gmail.com
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Justin CH LAMPLIGHTER BENDILL IT’S JUST A TAIL
BREEDERS/OWNERS: Barbara Beissel, Mark Benson & James Dillman HANDLER: Barbara Beissel, BarbaraBeissel@aol.com, BendillSilkyTerriers@juno.com
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Grand Champion Treasures P L AY I N G W I T H F I R E
Multiple B E S T O F B R E E D W I N N E R
Always Breeder / Owner handled by KAREN A . WARNCKE , R.V.T. Havanese Treasures | havanesetreasures.net Havanese Treasures
©Erika Venci Photography
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CH WILLOWBROOK’S LUNAR ECLIPSE
AKC & INTERNATIONAL MULTIPLE BEST OF BREED WINNER MULTIPLE OWNER HANDLER WINNER
Thank you TO ALL THE JUDGES WHO TOOK THE TIME TO SEE THE SOUND STRUCTURE AND BREED TYPE OF THIS BEAUTIFUL HAVANESE.
BRED, OWNED, LOVED & SHOWN BY: Nicole Rodriguez ALSO SHOWS WITH HIS FRIEND DEBBI FOUST
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A M E R I C A N C H A M P I O N
South Fork’s Key To My Heart
C O M I N G O R G O I N G Poetry in motion
Colby is always breeder, owner, handled by: MJ Held 1442 Orchard Park Road | West Seneca, New York 14224 | 716-675-4497
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FIRST TIME’S THE CHARM— A TRIP TO WESTMINSTER by SCOTT TONEY Midwood Japanese Chin
M ultiple visits to Crufts, English championship and open shows, nation- al specialties, regional specialties and all-breed shows across the country; how had I managed to visit and exhibit at so many dog shows yet had never shown at, much less attended, our most prestigious show, Westminster? It was most likely a com- bination of bad timing and a little bit of intimidation at the logistics of traveling to and showing in New York City. But with “Cash” in tow, co-owner Susan Link and I traveled to the big event. Our flight to New York was unevent- ful thanks to great seats and the help of my friend Clayton, who assisted with flight arrangements and all the extra gear. I have flown with Cash before, yet was surprised at all the attention he received on this flight. I was even more surprised how many people were on board with the sole intent to travel to New York for the show. They were surprisingly well-informed dog enthusi- asts; it was so nice that someone actual- ly knew what a Japanese Chin was, and didn’t ask if he was a Pekingese or a Shih Tzu! Once we landed, a driver from our hotel skillfully (if not daringly) wove his way through traffic and we checked into our rooms at The Wyndham. The accommodations were great and the hotel set up a very nice exercise/relief area in the basement complete with
tables, treadmill and lots of pine chips spread out for the dogs to use. After a fantastic meal at a Peruvian/ Chinese fusion restaurant (strange sounding combo, but it was amaz- ing!) we had a sound night’s sleep and checked in at the Piers the following morning. I was blown away by how accommodating and kind everyone was at the venue, from the drivers to the security team, to the ring stewards and superintendent; you couldn’t have asked for a better experience. Being new to Westminster, I had a few questions about times, transfers, travel, duplicate ribbons, etc. and the AKC Superinten- dent team were helpful, pleasant and enthusiastic about their job. A special thank you goes out to them. We were benched with a first row waterfront view on a glorious sunny, cold and windy day. We thoroughly enjoyed meeting members of the pub- lic who took the time to visit with us and Cash; it was so cool to take photos with them and share about our breed. I was surprised to see how many Japa- nese Chin pet owners took the time to visit us. I asked to see photos of their dogs and we swapped lots of fun Chin stories. Mrs. Jacqueline Stacy was our breed judge and at 1:45 pm it was finally time to enter the ring! Cash really seemed to enjoy the feel of the artificial turf under his feet and I could tell he was having
fun and was energetic. Although my friends tease me about my intense look in the ring, I was thoroughly enjoying myself despite feeling normal nerves and Cash and I were experiencing the usual click and sense of teamwork we always have in the ring. Having fun is the main part of the equation, but of course we wanted to win! I eyed the competition as Mrs. Stacy individually put them through their paces. Every Chin in the ring was a beauty and really moved out with freedom and precision. I knew we were up against tough com- petition. When the decisive moment arrived, Mrs. Stacy selected Cash as Best of Breed and a feeling of relief, euphoria and accomplishment swept over me. I thought back to his first group place- ment from the classes as a puppy dog and memories of his first Group One, specialty wins and other wins raced through my mind. I felt so proud that in his entire specials career no one ever handled him other than Susan and I. No ringside hand-offs to professional han- dlers, no sending off to be specialed despite several generous sponsor offers. Having bred and shared top-winning and producing Chin, I know what goes into the making of a great dog and it’s easy to forget what helps us gain any measure of success. So I made sure to
“IT WAS SO NICE THAT SOMEONE ACTUALLY KNEW WHAT A JAPANESE CHIN WAS,
AND DIDN’T ASK IF HE WAS A PEKINGESE OR A SHIH TZU!”
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“IT WAS UNREAL WHEN THE PUBLIC FILTERED THROUGH TO VIEW THE DOGS...”
Benching at the Piers
also say a silent prayer of thanks for Cash’s breeders, Tina Pearce and Sue Hann of Rakuchin in the UK, who so selflessly shared him with us as a puppy. After photos and a few minutes to receive the many nice congratulations, we headed off to Madison Square Gar- den to prepare for the group. What an awe-inspiring moment to be escorted to the lower level of this famous facil- ity where so many great events have been held. I left Cash with Susan and Clayton at our benching area and wan- dered off to walk into the arena. My first thought was, “Oh my gosh, this place is huge!”, and I had to catch my breath, but then I realized this was
an experience of a lifetime and from that moment until we left the Toy Group judging, I didn’t feel a flicker of nerves. In my mind, it was all icing on the cake at that point and I soaked in every moment. We were lucky in that our bench-mates to either side were funny, low-key and relaxed. We joked and looked out for each other before judging began. It was unreal when the public filtered through to view the dogs and I think all of us felt a little like we ourselves were on display as people jostled for position to take photos, ask questions and “ooh” and “ahh” over the dogs. The great actress, Sigourney Weaver, drew much attention when
she passed through and she took great interest in the beautiful little IG next to us, holding him and posing for photos. When it was time for the Toy Group to begin, we were given instructions on entry and exit and walked out into the light-bathed show ring. It was much warmer than I expected and in hindsight, I should have brought a fan. Our judge, Mrs. Charlotte Patterson, quickly and efficiently examined the dogs and made her choices. No luck for us that night but I was pleased to see my friend, David Fitzpatrick, take the group with his home-bred Peke, “Chuck”, and move on to compete for Best in Show honors. I took a shot of tequila that night to celebrate our win and indulged in way too much dinner and desserts— yes, plural, desserts. We had another smooth flight on our return to Charlotte. Susan and I had
The Westminster Kennel Club entry package.
our usual post-game analysis of the event and looked at photos and videos many times over. All of the joy in Cash’s many wins are amplified by pairing with a partner like Susan. We’ve worked together for years now and what a joy it is to be in a dog rela- tionship where both give and don’t take. We were both on such a high that we jokingly said we wouldn’t even care if the flight was canceled and we had to walk home, as we both were truly walking on air.
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T w o M o r e G r o u p P l a c e m e n t s
# 3 M i n i at u r e P i n s c h e r A l l B r e e d SIDD
M u l t i p l e G r o u p W i n n i n g
G C H A z t e x M a r c h - O n B u d d h a a n d t h e C h o c o l a t e B o x
Sidd & Larry are pictured above receiving a Group 3 from Judge Ms. Beverly Capstick at Baytown Kennel Club. Mrs. Sharon Newcomb awarded Sidd and Larry a Group 4 at Brazos Valley Kennel Club. Sincere thanks to each of these ladies for the awards. Own e d & Han d l e d by L arry & P e nny D ewe y | t e xa s • B r e d & Own e d by C . Sm i t h & Dan Bay l e s s
* T N T a l l b r e e d s tat s as o f 2 / 2 8 / 1 7
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RUSSIAN TOY MEET THE BREEDS ® NEW YORK , NY | FEBRUARY 11, 2017 | PHOTOS BY MARTHA GUIMOND
We are pleased that we received a Group 4 win for our booth and had a great response from the public to meeting our breed. We are also most pleased to have been informed by AKC we can apply for Miscellaneous status and will hopefully be the next addition to the Toy Group.
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LIFE WITH JAPANESE CHIN
by SUE ANN PIETROS
I have been “in dogs” practical- ly my whole life starting with showing a Doberman in Juniors at ten, breeding Salukis for fifty years and have been involved with Por- tuguese Water Dogs for forty years and along the way owning and showing many other breeds. As with many who age in this sport, I started to think about leaving my big dog breeds behind and search for my perfect “old age breed” and about twelve years ago I seriously began to look. I preferred to live with the laid back Sighthound temperament. I also never did “hair” well (just ask any of my Water Dog handlers). I also didn’t want a dog that would bark at anything or everything that moved. For some reason Japanese Chin were in the back of my mind from when I was a little girl showing in Juniors. I often saw Sari Tietjen showing her own Japanese Chin even in breed. I remi- nisced about a black and white bundle of fur, not imaging what it meant to deal with a Toy dog, no less one with a flat face! So I studied history, pedigrees and the standard, so as not to make a mis- take with my first purchase. I went to six National specialties to see what was being bred. Fast forward, and of course present- ly, I have a whole house full of Chin of all ages and sizes. Many are champions and some I bred. Neither my husband nor I ever imagined what they would add to our lives! Chin are so unique and endearing that we somehow fell into a new chapter in our love of dogs.
Chin are so quiet, laid back, pack oriented, athletic and clean—so much like our Salukis. As Toy dogs, they are so bonded to you and respond to your every emotion. The amazing fact about them as a breed is that they read your facial expressions and have total eye contact with you. From the time they can see you from their whelping box, they follow your face and read it, not your body language like most dogs. For us, these little charmers came at exactly the time in life that we needed them. The recession hit and my hus- band, who always worked seventy hour weeks, had no work. Instead of going into a deep depression, he put his efforts into the dogs. While he always liked the dogs, they weren’t exactly his main concern. Now the Chin are this grandchildren. He piles them on the bed with him. He cooks for them, takes them out for runs and they give back to him in total devotion. Like our Salukis, they understand everything you say. They have a vocab- ulary. My husband tests these verbal skills all the time trying to fool them with different intonations of speech. They are never fooled, but look at him with great pity and love for his being such a silly human. So while this magazine is basically for the most sophisticated in the dog world, this little article is from the most dedicated Japanese Chin “pet” person ever! They started for me a whole new view and episode in my life devoted to purebred dogs.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR Dogs have been a life long passion for Sue Ann Pietros who began showing Dobermans in 1957 as a Junior Han- dler. In 1969, while working in New York and obtaining degrees in both English and History from CW Post College, she obtained her first Saluki. Over the last five decades, 100 plus champion Salukis have been owned or produced under the Monab ken- nel name. In addition to Salukis, she has owned and shown several other breeds that include about 40 more champions including Whippets, Bor- zoi, Italian Greyhounds, Portuguese Water Dogs and Japanese Chin. As one of the founders of the PWD in the US, she helped define the breed standard that is used by the AKC. Mrs. Pietros has served as the AKC Gazette colum- nist for three breeds: Salukis, Portu- guese Water Dogs and Japanese Chin. She published her own breed maga- zines for a number of years including The Classic Saluki and The Navigator . Her articles on breed history, pedigree analysis, coat color, form and func- tion and the standards have been published in the English Saluki Club magazine The Saluki , the online mag- azine Saluki Insights , Dogs in Review, and The Sighthound Review. When not writing or researching, Sue Ann spends her time enjoying her latest passion—her Japanese Chin!
“THE AMAZING FACT ABOUT THEM AS A BREED IS THAT THEY READ YOUR FACIAL EXPRESSIONS AND HAVE TOTAL EYE CONTACT WITH YOU.”
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JAPANESE CHIN STANDARD
THE ESSENCE OF THE
by SUE ANN PIETROS
W hen studying a standard the most important aspect is to figure out the priorities that make breed type. These qualities that make a Chin, a Chin and no other breed. Here is a quick summary of the breed. The general appearance section is a good start: “The Japanese Chin is a small, well balanced, lively aristo- cratic toy dog with distinctive Orien- tal expression. It is light and stylish in action. The plumed tail is carried over the back, curving to either side. The coat is profuse, silky, soft and straight. The dog’s outline presents a square.” Let’s take apart the general appear- ance section and what it means: small is “ideal size is 8 inches to 11 inches at the highest point of the withers.” Notice it says “ideal”, not must be, not a DQ if you are bigger or smaller. It is your job as a judge to determine if the rest of the dog goes along with the size. Remem- ber a 3 inch difference on a tiny dog is a lot! And that also goes to the mass that goes along with the height. So in reality, an 11 inch dog can look about a third larger than the 8 inch dog, not only in height but also weight and substance. The dog is equal in height to length; this importantly is a square dog as most of its similar Toy dog breeds are not. The dog is “solidly built, compact and yet refined. Carrying good weight in proportion to height and body build.” This doesn’t mean it is tiny with no body! The body is “square, moderately wide in the chest with rounded ribs. Depth of rib extends to the elbow.” This means while a Toy dog, it still has a body under the coat. Not just a tiny dog with a lot of hair! The Oriental expression is explained in the standard: “eyes set wide apart, large, round, dark in color and lustrous. A small amount of white showing in the inner corners of the eyes is a breed characteristic that gives the dog a look of astonishment.” I think this is very
clearly stated! The dog is to have white in the inner corners of the eyes. It is to have the “look of astonishment.” Having no white or very little white does not present the correct expression. As this one quality makes it different than all other breeds it is crucial to type. How much is small amount is up to you the judge; remember the larger dog has a larger eye and possibly more white by proportion. Since the head is one-third of the standard, it is imperative to understand its proportions. “The distinctive Orien- tal expression is characterized by the large broad head, large wide-set eyes, short broad muzzle, ear feathering and the evenly patterned facial markings. The ears are v shaped, wide apart, set slightly below the crown of the skull. The skull is large, broad and slightly rounded with a prominent forehead, rounding toward the nose. Wide across the level of the eyes.” In profile, it is shaped like a number three. “The muzzle and nose are very much an indication of type.” Well cushioned cheeks and rounded upper lips make a smile. The nose is “very short with wide, open nostrils. Set on a level with the middle of the eyes and upturned.”
The open nostrils are very important to the health of the breed. The bite is “slightly undershot.” And the standard specifically states how to examine the bite as the Chin is very sensitive to oral examination. If the dog doesn’t like a stranger looking in its mouth, ask the handler to present the bite. “Missing or misaligned teeth should not be severely penalized.” The dog is “light and stylish in action” and should be expected to be sound moving. The neck and tail are carried up proudly. A tentative or unhappy Chin drops their tail in action. They then lose the proud carriage. The foot is important as it is “hare shaped with feathering on the ends of the toes in a mature dog. Point straight ahead or very slightly outward.” These features seemed to be ignored in the show ring. Handlers trim feet, a big no- no according to the standard. Also the dog should never toe in, whether stand- ing or on the move. The coat is actually hair, as it is “abundant, straight, single and silky.” Notice single, that means no undercoat! This is important as it is called for in our standard. The dog has the profuse hair on the “mane or ruff.” The “tail is
“THE DOG IS EQUAL IN HEIGHT TO LENGTH...”
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“‘RESPONSIVE AND AFFECTIONATE WITH THOSE IT KNOWS, BUT RESERVED WITH STRANGERS’...”
a plume.” The rump has “culottes or pants. Profuse feathering on the backs of the legs”, it says nowhere that it is to have long hair all over the body, abundant on the features stated. The coat does stand off from the body to different degrees depending on the texture. As it is basically hair as with people’s hair no dog’s coat is exactly the same. In my opinion, the legs should always be seen when moving. There is no reward for more coat other than described in the standard. More is not necessarily better. Color is black and white, red and white or black and white with tan
points. Red dogs with black pigment are actually sable. Red dogs can also have self-colored noses. The red shade includes “all shades of red, orange, lemon and sable. The only DQ in the breed is any color not listed. Among the allowed colors there shall be no prefer- ence when judging.” The standard says about the Chin’s head and color: “A clearly defined white muzzle and blaze are preferable to a sol- idly marked head. Symmetry of facial markings is preferable. The size, shape, or placement or number of body patch- es is not of great importance. The white is clear of excessive ticking.”
“Responsive and affectionate with those it knows, but reserved with strangers,” is a good thing to remember when examining a Chin. The Japanese Chin should be a square dog with a large head, wide open dark eyes with white in the cor- ner of the eye, lips in a wide smile with lovely coat and a cobby body while yet being refined and very Oriental in look with proud carriage. Remember they have lived as royalty for a very long time and their self-pos- sessed noble bearing should be respect- ed by strangers and admired by all those who behold them.
BREEDER’S FORUM JAPANESE CHIN
with DALE MARTENSEN
1. What breed characteristics are most important to you when you plan a mating? Complementary breed type is the basis for our breedings. 2. What dog that you bred have you been most excited about? Whichever one I am holding at any given moment is my favorite! “WE NEED THE NEXT GENERATION OF BREEDERS TO CONTINUE OUR BREED.”
3. What are your thoughts on importing and exporting? Breeders working together interna- tionally only benefits the breed. 4. To date, what has been your high point as a breeder? Our sires hold the top producing records in the breed, but our girls are the key to our success! CH. Touche’s Scintilla has produced 17 champi- ons with All Breed BIS and Specialty winners. “Tilly” and her daughters are the backbone of our program. 5. What is your pet peeve in the show/breeding world? The irrelevance of the AKC parent clubs to the actual breed. 6. Is there a grooming secret you would like to share? Conditioning of your exhibit is of the utmost importance. 7. Do you inbreed, linebreed or outcross and why? While selective linebreeding will yield the most uniform puppies,
the breeder must know the dogs and pedigrees that are doubled on. 8. Do you think your current standard is adequate? If not, what changes would improve it? The standard is more than adequate, people understanding and applying it to their dogs can be improved upon. 9. Where do you house your dogs and whelp your bitches? Indoors, we live in a warm climate and the Chin does not do heat. 10. At what age do you determine a puppy to be show quality? When it has 15 points and 2 majors. 11. What is the greatest health concern for your breed today? The age of the people that raise them, we need the next generation of breeders to continue our breed. 12. If you were not involved with showing dogs, what would you do? Not sure, but would have money and time so the possibilities are endless!
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ALL HYPE BUT WHERE’S THE TYPE?
by LEE GORGAN
I n my 13 short years or so of show- ing dogs I have been very lucky to have travelled all over the world thanks to this wonderful hobby of mine. Along with seeing parts of the world I have also seen many dogs. No matter the show I’m attending, no mat- ter the country I am in you will always find me at the Japanese Chin ring. Whether I am showing, judging or just sitting, analyzing and taking everything in—that’s where I’ll be. Seeing my beloved breed in other countries has really helped to educate and train my eye both as a Japanese Chin aficionado and as a judge. I believe there is no better way to educate oneself than to travel to other countries and learn from others. While watching your breed and speaking with other Japanese Chin breeders, owners and handlers, one can learn a great deal of valuable knowledge and let’s face it, no one can—or will—know it all. We never stop learning, it is part of what makes life so exciting and interesting after all. The greatest difference I notice while on my travels is the great variance in type among the Japanese Chin in each country. Having had the great honor of judging the breed in three countries thus far, I have experi- enced this hands on and not just from ringside observation. Type, like people, differs from coun- try to country, not that this is a bad thing. How bored would we be to see the same type over and over again? The excitement of coming across a dog that oozes the type you believe in, the type of dog you hope to breed, own, show or incorporate into your breeding pro- gram, is what keeps us going, pushing us foreword striving for “perfection” in our minds. That excitement for me is what keeps me interested and my passion for this enchanting breed burn- ing bright. Wherever I am in the world, I always find at least one dog that gives me goosebumps.
WHY SO DIFFERENT? I feel the various different types I see are a result of the different standards used by each kennel club/organization around the world. Personally I find some standards describe the “perfect/ ideal” Japanese Chin specimen more clearly than others; although, I feel no standard has it perfected. Some stan- dards provide more detail than others when it comes to anatomy and breed characteristics. You judge to the stan- dard of the country you are judging in—that goes without question, but I ask you do you breed to the standard of the country in which you live?
SOME WORDS THAT ARE SYNONYMOUS IN ALL STANDARDS WHEN DESCRIBING THE “IDEAL” JAPANESE CHIN ARE:
• Dainty • Square • V-shaped ears • Feathered/feathering • Rounded skull • Profuse coat
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WE’RE NOT THAT DIFFERENT YOU AND “EYE”—OR ARE WE?
A SAMPLING OF DIFFERENCES AND SIMILARITIES IN A FEW SELECT STANDARDS FROM AROUND THE WORLD AMERICA UK FCI
CANADA
Moderately large, dark and set far apart. Size should be in proportion to size of skull. Small amount of white shows in the inner corners, giving characteristic look of astonishment. Eyes should be forward facing, not set on side of head.
Set wide apart, large, round, dark in color and lustrous. A small amount of white showing in the inner corners of the eyes is a breed characteristic that gives the dog a look of astonishment.
Large, without exaggeration, rounded, set wide apart and lustrous black in colour.
Eyes large, dark, lustrous, rather prominent and set wide apart.
EYES
In size they vary considerably, but
Daintier the better, provided type, quality and soundness are not sacrificed. Ideal weight 1.8–3.2 kgs (4–7 lbs.).
the smaller they are the better, provided type and quality are not sacrificed. When divided by weight, classes should be under and over 7 lb. (3 kg).
Height at the withers: males are approximately 25 cm (9 inches);
Ideal size is 8 inches to 11 inches at the highest point of the withers.
SIZE
females are slightly smaller than males.
The jaw is wide and slightly undershot. A dog with one or two missing or slightly misaligned teeth should not be severely penalized. The Japanese Chin is very sensitive to oral examination.
Bite preferably level or slightly undershot; wry mouth or tongue showing highly undesirable.
Teeth white and strong; level bite desirable, but scissor bite or undershot mouth permitted.
MOUTH/ JAWS/ TEETH
STANDARDIZED STANDARDS
I believe the power to change a breed resides with two groups of people—the judges and the breeders. Judges decid- ed which dogs become champions. Promoting representatives of the breed by sending them into group rings for a greater audience to view. As a judge by awarding a dog, you are saying it is a good representative of the breed (if you didn’t think so and just had nothing else on the day then you shouldn’t make the award)—you are giving it your stamp of approval. How often have you looked upon another breed and thought to yourself, ‘I know nothing about this breed but Judge XYZ put it up and I respect his or her opinion, so it must be a good repre- sentative’? I know I have. As for breed- ers changing a breed, not much expla-
nation is needed. When you breed you create; make sure you create something you believe in and not just something you think will win or is a current trend. What you breed is the next generation for the next generation to take in the ring and carry the breed further. BEAUTY IS IN THE EYE OF THE BEHOLDER What is correct to you may not be correct for me. As they say, what is nor- mal for the spider is chaos for the fly. We all have our opinions of how Japa- nese Chin should appear. What is important is that we must respect others ideas and opinions of correct type, especially if they are judg- ing at a show we entered at and paid for that opinion.
My dream is that one day every ken- nel club/organization around the world will use the same breed standard so that we can all “sing from the same hymn sheet”. Of course, it would have to be written by the most respected, expe- rienced and qualified Japanese Chin authorities around the world to make sure it includes everything one would wish to learn and know about what a Japanese Chin should be. When I read a standard of any breed I always ask this question of myself, ‘If I handed the standard to an artist who has never seen this breed in his/her life could he/she draw the ideal dog from the descriptions in the standard given alone?’
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