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Articles by Dan Sayers
Measuring Progress: How Did We Get Here?
Measuring Progress: How Did We Get Here? There’s a saying that goes something like: If you want to know where you’re going, you have to know where you’ve been. Another way of putting it would be to say that in order to achieve success in the future, learning from past successes (and past failures) is essential. Equally important is avoiding the tendency to “live” in the past in ways that can prevent an objective evaluation of current circumstances.
Measuring Progress: All-Breed but Not Every Breed
Measuring Progress: All-Breed but Not Every Breed Few all-breed shows today are able to draw 2,000 individual entries, the targeted goal that had long been the gauge for determining an event’s success. Of course, Westminster and “Orlando” certainly come to mind for their ability to reach their entry limits, but it now seems that 1,000-dog shows have become the new benchmark.
American Kennel Club Celebrates USA 250!
American Kennel Club Celebrates USA 250! A three-day festival of canine sports and family-friendly fun took place at the Philadelphia Navy Yard on June 5-7, 2026. The Marine Parade Ground Field was transformed into an oasis of doggie activities, featuring the AKC Doghouse and a variety of Meet the Breed booths as well as Agility and Diving Dogs competitions which were filmed for the AKC on ESPN Sports Series.
Measuring Progress: Purebred Dogs and the (Shrinking) Middle Class
Measuring Progress: Purebred Dogs and the (Shrinking) Middle Class Within the fancy there’s a growing awareness of the need to bring greater attention to the fact that many recognized breeds of dogs lack the support necessary to ensure their survival. It’s not that purebred dogs don’t have their supporters. They do, and many of today’s serious breeders continue to do their part to protect, preserve, and promote.
Measuring Progress: Purebred Dogs Depend on a Unified Coalition
Measuring Progress: Purebred Dogs Depend on a Unified Coalition People today love their dogs every bit as much as they did 50, 100, 250 years ago. The affection shared between our two species is a constant aspect of our symbiotic relationship, though this has been expressed variously depending on place, time—and need. If you want to know who someone truly is, just look at the dog they choose to live with, or the breed they’ve developed and call their own.
Measuring Progress: A Moment of Good Sportsmanship Worth Remembering—And Emulating
Measuring Progress: A Moment of Good Sportsmanship Worth Remembering—And Emulating At this year’s 150th Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show, the display of good sportsmanship was on view in every ring, on every bench, and throughout the crowds that spontaneously erupted in cheers throughout the day. Congratulations were openly extended to innumerable winners at the Jacob K.
Establishing Priorities Leads to Better Outcomes
Establishing Priorities Leads to Better Outcomes For many dog people, the typical day revolves around managing a series of ever-changing demands. Feeding, training, grooming, and veterinary care require time that must be scheduled around work and family commitments—and all manner of interruptions that arrive by phone calls, text message, and social media posts.
Measuring Progress: Can Zoos Help to Save Purebred Dogs?
Measuring Progress: Can Zoos Help to Save Purebred Dogs? In 2026, breeders and exhibitors of purebred dogs often view their participation in the sport as similar to that of preservationists who advocate for threatened wildlife species. With roughly half of all fully recognized breeds now identified as “low entry” by the American Kennel Club, the survival of many purebreds is no longer guaranteed.
Measuring Progress: Are We Thinking About Our Social Fitness?
Measuring Progress: Are We Thinking About Our Social Fitness? I learned something new recently. It’s called “social fitness” and it refers to the ability to form, maintain, and optimize relationships based on things like communication, empathy, flexibility, and resilience. A person’s social fitness is determined by having meaningful connections with others, both personally and professionally, and just like physical fitness (and mental acuity), those connections can be strengthened through practice.
Miscellaneous & FSS: Varied & Versatile
Miscellaneous & FSS: Varied & Versatile The breeds of the Miscellaneous Class and Foundation Stock Service (FSS) are a diverse lot. Always have been. In fact, “miscellaneous” purebred dogs in America were on display in 1877 at the First Annual New York Bench Show of Dogs. Back then, only a handful of breeds were recorded in the AKC Stud Book, and each was classified in either the Sporting or Non-Sporting Group.
The National Dog Show: A Thanksgiving Feast for Everyone!
The National Dog Show: A Thanksgiving Feast for Everyone! The National Dog Show Presented by Purina and hosted by the Kennel Club of Philadelphia is a singular event on the dog show calendar. This acclaimed celebration of purebred dogs honors the traditions of the sport while it unabashedly promotes its many virtues to a city (and a nation) that adores dogs.
Measuring Progress: Science and the Dog
Measuring Progress: Science and the Dog Dog breeding in the 21st century remains rooted in the adherence to written “standards of perfection.” Although many breeders today view themselves as artists, breeding decisions are increasingly made with the help of information gathered through research and development. “Health testing” allows breeders to determine if potential sires and dams are likely to pass on disorders which are known to exist within a particular breed.
Our Juniors: Showmanship and So Much More
Our Juniors: Showmanship and So Much More Two American Kennel Club institutions began in the year 1934.
Measuring Progress - Negativity, Social Media, and Doorbell Cameras
Measuring Progress – Negativity, Social Media, and Doorbell Cameras A few years ago, I joined an online service which I thought was going to allow me to stay connected with my neighbors in the small New Jersey borough I call home. By providing my legal name and street address, I’d expected to receive periodic notifications about yard sales, leaf collections, and services at the local church.
Showing (and Breeding) Runs in the Family
Showing (and Breeding) Runs in the Family “Do you remember when I said I was never going to get promoted again and we could just stay here?” asked Alysha Towell’s husband one day. “Oh, I knew what the next sentence was going to be,” she recalls thinking, knowing that she was going to be packing up her family and moving again, this time from Oklahoma to Colorado. But there was a dilemma.
Measuring Progress: Opportunities Abound for Breed Mentoring
Measuring Progress: Opportunities Abound for Breed Mentoring Many years ago, I found myself sitting ringside next to Ric Chashoudian at an all-breed dog show. The ring in question was filled with terriers doing what terriers do, and the retired handler of such legendary show dogs as Kerry Blue Ch. Melbee’s Chances Are, Lakeland Ch. Jo Ni’s Red Baron Of Crofton, and Smooth Fox Ch. Ttarb The Bratt was transfixed on the sparring that was taking place just a few yards away.
Measuring Progress: Is Current Dog Language Old-Fashioned?
Measuring Progress: Is Current Dog Language Old-Fashioned? Language is always evolving, despite its seeming permanence on the pages of dictionaries prepared by several well-known publishers.
Measuring Progress: Handling Classes Have Changed with the Times
Measuring Progress: Handling Classes Have Changed with the Times When I attended my first show handling class in 1985, things were done a little differently than they are today. Back then, the instructor was a rather elderly woman with a great deal of experience and very little patience. Ms. No-Nonsense ran her classroom the way many judges of the day ran their ring: imperiously.
Ancient Movers & Adventurous Workers!
If a pair of Salukis were the dogs on Noah’s ark, surely those sighthounds (and the aardvarks, armadillos, and anteaters) were safely ushered onboard by a reliable herding dog or two. Who better to lead all of Mother Nature’s creatures to safety than one of the supremely capable breeds of Herding Group?
Point, Set, Retrieve, Flush-and Splash!
Point, Set, Retrieve, Flush—and Splash! The sport of purebred dogs officially began in the 19th century when gentlemen hunters gathered together to see who had the better bird dog. Conformation, as a unique competition, came about when the breed-specific qualities of those early hunting dogs were evaluated, and recorded for posterity, by acknowledged experts of the day.
Measuring Progress: In the Age of Influencers
Measuring Progress: In the Age of Influencers When we think of the people who have had the greatest influence on our lives, we’re likely to consider many of our closest relationships. Parents and grandparents, friends and siblings, and spouses and partners will certainly come to mind, but so too will teachers, coaches, clergy, and breeder-mentors. The influence of these people, both positive and negative, cannot be underestimated.
The Hound Group - Hounds, Please!
The Hound Group – Hounds, Please! To introduce the 32 breeds of AKC’s Hound Group is to acknowledge that there are many recognized breeds of dogs—though hounds are truly in a league of their own. Of course, Canis familiaris (or Canis lupus familiaris) has been given many monikers through the ages, but the name bestowed upon this distinguished collection of purebreds is perhaps more revered than all others.
Measuring Progress: Make a Lasting Impression
Measuring Progress: Make a Lasting Impression In the sport of dogs, there are many ways to gauge success. Rating systems and records are the most obvious means, as are titles that appear before and after a dog’s registered name. But before any dog can climb to the top of the heap, it must be able to make a good first – and lasting – impression.
Measuring Progress: Are We Looking to the Past or Towards the Future?
Measuring Progress: Are We Looking to the Past or Towards the Future? “Those that fail to learn from history are doomed to repeat it.” —Winston Churchill In his 1948 speech to the British House of Commons, Prime Minister Churchill cautioned his fellow citizens by stating those who do not learn from the past are condemned to repeat it.
Measuring Progress When You’re Told the Sky Is Falling
Measuring Progress When You’re Told the Sky Is Falling Exhibitors who are familiar with the European folk tale Henny Penny (or the 2005 Disney feature animation Chicken Little) will remember the story of a wee bird who believes the world is coming to an end. As the story goes, an acorn strikes the protagonist’s head, causing her to see danger around every corner and hysterically proclaim, “The sky is falling!” to anyone within earshot.
Home Again! Westminster Returns to the Bright Lights of the Big City
Home Again! Westminster Returns to the Bright Lights of the Big City The Empire State Building and Madison Square Garden were once again lit up in purple and gold lights in celebration of the triumphant return of The Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show to Midtown Manhattan.
Measuring Progress by Using the Power of Observation
Measuring Progress by Using the Power of Observation Today’s exhibitors choose to show dogs for a variety of reasons. Most enjoy spending time with their two- and four-legged friends doing something that’s fun for everyone. Many have specific goals in mind and endeavor to achieve them as schedules and budgets allow, and some are serious competitors who collect points and chase ratings.
Measuring Progress - Treat Yourself to Impromptu Encounters
Measuring Progress – Treat Yourself to Impromptu Encounters Opportunities for promoting purebred dogs and their supporters abound. When it comes to measuring progress in terms of effective messaging, it’s important to consider all of the ways in which information can be shared. Even casual encounters can strengthen a breed’s broad base of support. This point was made clear to me recently during a visit to a commercial pet supply store.
The National Dog Show - Giving Thanks for Purebred Dogs & Their Breeders
The National Dog Show – Giving Thanks for Purebred Dogs & Their Breeders The National Dog Show Presented by Purina and hosted by the Kennel Club of Philadelphia is a singular event on the dog show calendar. This acclaimed celebration of purebred dogs honors the traditions of the sport while it unabashedly promotes its many virtues to a city (and a nation) that adores dogs.
Glorious Montgomery! Sparring… with Quality to Spare
Glorious Montgomery! Sparring… with Quality to Spare Since 1929, the Montgomery County Kennel Club has been showcasing the nation’s top terriers in a one-day spectacular that is unlike any other dog show in America.
The Herding Group: Herding Dogs Have All the Right Moves
Photo by Dianne Ferrer The Herding Group: Herding Dogs Have All the Right Moves What do you get when you introduce a Swedish Vallhund to a cow, a Spanish Water Dog to a flock of sheep, or a Shetland Sheepdog to an Agility course? Under the right circumstances, you get a dog that demonstrates grit, determination, and all the right moves. Ever since mankind domesticated livestock, the dogs of the Herding Group have been utilized to move the animals that made human civilizations possible.
DNA in Action - Form Follows Function for the 21st Century
DNA in Action – Form Follows Function for the 21st Century Most purebred dog breeders, judges, and exhibitors are familiar with the phrase, “Form Follows Function.” This often-repeated motto has long been associated with the purebred dog’s ability to perform the prescribed function(s) of its breed.
Celebrate National Dog Week
Celebrate National Dog Week This year’s National Dog Day was held on August 26, 2024, but if you forgot to acknowledge the one-day event you can make up for the oversight by setting aside time later this month to be with your favorite four-legged companion(s) during National Dog Week. Scheduled during the fourth week of September, National Dog Week takes place this year from the 24th to the 30th.
A Family of Dogs Unlike Any Other
Photo by Margaret Foxmoore A Family of Dogs Unlike Any Other In every large family, each member gets to play a specific character. (Or at least everyone is given a unique role by the other members of the family.) There’s the first-born favorite and the troublemaker (often the second-born). There’s the social bon vivant, the introspective worrywart, and the meandering misanthrope.
Are You Thinking For Your Dog?
Are You Thinking For Your Dog? Have you ever found yourself talking for your dog? Not talking to your dog but talking on your dog’s behalf? Maybe, for example, your Winners Dog is flirting in the ring with your friend’s Winners Bitch and you find yourself using a character voice to say, “Hey, you’re kinda cute.” And without missing a beat, your friend uses her signature girl-dog voice to reply, “Gee, thanks.
Tiny Tyrants with Extraordinary Appeal
Tiny Tyrants with Extraordinary Appeal For every Toy dog that thinks it has what it takes to run the world, there’s a giant dog somewhere with no concept of the limitations of a queen size bed. In either case, the dog’s devoted master or mistress has no choice but to accept the reality of the situation and make any and all accommodations necessary for peaceful cohabitation. For the Great Dane and Irish Wolfhound aficionado, this means nights of fitful sleep clinging to the edge of a mattress.
Showing Support by Showing Up
Showing Support by Showing Up “Will you be at the show tomorrow?” was the text message I received from a friend I hadn’t seen in a while. I replied that I’d be arriving in the morning and hoped we could spend some time catching up. The show’s location was situated midway between our homes and the site had become a convenient place for us to reconnect through the years. In fact, we’d once met up in a nearby town when I delivered my pick puppy to her—sight unseen.
English Springer Spaniel Archives
English Springer Spaniel Puppies The arrival of English Springer Spaniel puppies is an event filled with excitement and anticipation. These little bundles of joy, with their boundless energy and heart-melting expressions, are sure to bring delight to any household. However, it’s essential to remember that puppies are in their formative stages, and the environment and care they receive now will significantly influence their temperament and health as adults.
Sharing a Passion & Maintaining a Focus
Sharing a Passion & Maintaining a Focus Purebred dog breeders and exhibitors are undeniably passionate about their interests. Whether planning a litter or competing in an event, most people who participate in the sport of dogs do so with gusto. Dedicated dog people typically demonstrate an unwavering commitment in all they do, and there’s never a shortage of lively conversation whenever and wherever they gather.
Sight, Scent & Sound
Sight, Scent & Sound In America, hounds have traditionally been divided into two categories: sighthounds and scenthounds. This neat division, balanced though it seemingly is, considers only two of the senses that hounds utilize when pursuing their prey. Breeds that chase after wolf or deer or gazelle, for example, are blessed with remarkable vision that allows them to locate game across mountainside or desert sand before giving chase at lightning speed.
Breed Mentors & Where to Find Them
Breed Mentors & Where to Find Them A mentor is a person who provides counsel and guidance—not just news and information. A mentor is a trusted advisor who volunteers their time to share knowledge that was gained through experience. A mentor is someone who cares enough to take on a leadership role, providing direction as well as support. A mentor is always consistent, staying on message until each lesson is learned. A mentor is understanding and patient, never pushing too hard too quickly.
Community Connections: Dog Show Tours Bring Local Students & Dog Clubs Together
The 2024 senior class of the Advanced Career Education (ACE) Center at Hermitage gathers together for a photo at the Langley Kennel Club all-breed dog show. Karen Bickett, sitting with sign; Nancy Fisk, kneeling with Akita. Photo by Bryan McNabb. Community Connections The American Kennel Club encourages all-breed dog clubs to become actively involved in their local communities.
The Junior Handlers | Dedication, Determination, Devotion
The Junior Handlers: Dedication, Determination, Devotion Today’s Junior Handlers are a remarkable collective of young people with a passion for dogs and a strong desire to compete and win. In this regard, they’re just like other generations of kids who’ve participated in Junior Showmanship ever since the program was known as Children’s Handling.
Spring Cleaning & Falling in Love - AGAIN
Spring Cleaning & Falling in Love – AGAIN Spring cleaning can be one of those cathartic experiences that shifts your state of mind and encourages you to plan that dinner party you’ve been contemplating all winter. It can also send you down a rabbit hole or two if the clean-up involves tackling long-neglected drawers or bins of forgotten memorabilia.
My First Westminster - Every Memory is ‘Catalogued’ for Posterity
My First Westminster – Every Memory is ‘Catalogued’ for Posterity Everyone remembers their first Westminster. Whether the initial experience was that of an exhibitor, handler’s assistant, or wide-eyed spectator, every dog lover’s first visit to “The Garden” elicits a sense of wonder at the extraordinary variety of dogs that are on display. To the genuine dog person, the illustrious event is equal parts Kentucky Derby, Superbowl, and Three-Ring Circus.
A Message From Dr. Donald Sturz, President - The Westminster Kennel Club
A Message From Dr. Donald Sturz, President – The Westminster Kennel Club As we eagerly anticipate the 148th Annual Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show in May, it is my distinct pleasure to extend a warm welcome to the dedicated readers of SHOWSIGHT. In the world of purebred dogs, where passion meets excellence, Westminster has long been a beacon of tradition, showcasing the finest in canine sportsmanship.
Curly-Coated Retriever Archives
Curly-Coated Retriever Puppies The puppy phase for the Curly-Coated Retriever is an enchanting time marked by boundless energy, a penchant for exploration, and of course, those characteristic curly coats beginning to take form. Puppies of this breed are vivacious, inquisitive, and filled with a youthful enthusiasm that’s hard to resist. From their earliest days, they display hints of the intelligence and independence for which the Curly-Coated Retriever is celebrated.
Hound Dog Breeds
Hound dog breeds are primarily used for hunting, which is a common ancestral trait. Some Hounds follow a trail using their ... keen sense of smell. Others, who continuously run down prey, exhibit a wonderful gift of endurance. Beyond this, however, it is difficult to make generalizations regarding Hound dog breeds because they come in such a wide range of species. Pharaoh Hounds, Norwegian Elkhounds, Afghans, and Beagles are just a few examples.
AKC National Championship Orlando 2023: Purebred Excellence
A Right ‘Royal’ Show – AKC Rolls Out the Red Carpet in Orlando For twenty-three years, the AKC National Championship Presented by Royal Canin has been the “exclamation mark” on the dog show year in America. All eyes are on Orlando, Florida, in December as the American Kennel Club and Royal Canin roll out the red carpet for everyone and anyone with an interest in purebred dogs and the ever-expanding array of companion and performance events that are on offer.
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