04/02/2026
Dogs First.
I titled Charles, my first Show Dog, to his UKC Grand, a Reserve Best In Show, I got his first major and every single point, he needs one major, total of 7 points.
Our last show in Louisville, this dog that gives me everything and rarely ever says no, even at 7 years old, stopped dead on our way to the ring. I told him okay, one more time and we’re done. I cut him down after that show. It broke my heart, but taught me so much. I have taken that forward with every dog.
He has a beautiful daughter out now doing wonderful things, and I have seen improvement in every dog I now take into the ring because of him.
I’m going to ask him for one final round this year as a Veteran. He’s been a Juniors Dog, he’s been my First Show Dog and First for so many things. Titles don’t make a dog, and titles don’t always tell us what can come of that dog. We have to take a leap of Faith, and love the dogs in front of us, and do what is right for them.
Vulnerable post. Our dogs come first. I’m sure you’ve noticed Azalea is championed in UKC and IABCA but not AKC. I showed her for almost 4 years consistently and she picked up a couple reserve placements but no points. I took her to handling class every week for 2 years. I sent her out with different handlers, specifically poodle handlers as well as all breed. She looked absolutely beautiful when we were in class, but when we would get to the show grounds it was obvious it wasn’t where she wanted to be. She loved working with me but it wasn’t where she shined. Her last AKC show was July 2024 and on the last day of the circuit as I was preparing her for the ring she was giving me a look as if to say “please mom, no more”. I shaved her before we left the show grounds. She had a litter of puppies that year and she was a truly amazing mother. She produced 8 beautiful standard poodles with 3 being deemed high enough quality to be show prospects. Azalea may not be an AKC champion and that’s ok. I’m happy I read her cues and took her out of the show ring because she’s so happy as a pet and now I have an exceptional puppy out of her who LOVES being in the show ring. Azalea 🌺 my girl, will always be the love I never knew I needed
