ARE BREEDER-JUDGES GOOD FOR THE SPORT? by Michael and Cathy Dugan
By definition, the AKC demands breeding experience before a person can begin the process of becoming an AKC judge. There are different requirements for handlers. Over the years the road to becoming a judge was always, with some exceptions, been paved with breeding or handling experience. The premise was that these experiences ensured that the new judge had a pool of knowledge that would help them become a good judge. These judges understood their breed standards and what it takes to produce excellent dogs. WHERE’S THE RESPECT? Yet, today, we see more and more examples of exhibitors arguing with judges. Instead of talking to the judge to understand the results, many file complaints with AKC reps at shows, and showing little regard for judges when their dogs do not win. Judges
controversial. That criticism comes from owners or breeders who com- pete against dogs bred by breeder judges and felt the breeder judge somehow has an advantage. By defi- nition, breeders who become judges are experienced and established in their breed. They also have a lot to offer their respective fancy. A judge’s opinion should be looked upon as just that—their opinion. Wouldn’t you prefer the opinion of a judge who knows your breed from the whelping box to the Best In Show ring? Full disclosure. We are current Breeders of Merit, having bred since 1987, still actively breeding; Cathy is an AKC judge, Mike judges at match- es and works as a ring steward. Cathy used to handle our dogs, but for over a decade we’ve used terrific profes- sional handlers with great success. So, we are, therefore, biased at every level and impartial at none.
A s registrations of pure-bred dogs and participation at dog shows decline, recent trends have changed the game. More and more handlers have also become breeders. And many breeders have become AKC judges and then stop breeding. Finally, while some judges may not breed directly, many are still linked to downline breeders who are virtually co-breeders. The lines be- tween breeders, handlers and judges have always been delicately balanced but now are more and more blurred. To some in the fancy, breeders who become AKC judges have become
“A judge’s opinion should be looked upon as just that—their opinion. WOULDN’T YOU PREFER THE OPINION OF A JUDGE WHO KNOWS YOUR BREED FROM THE WHELPING BOX TO THE BEST IN SHOW RING?”
52 • T op N otch T oys , J une 2019
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