SHOWING

Balancing a full-time job with a passion for breeding and showing standard poodles can be challenging, especially when you work overtime to support your dogs’ careers. For me, competing in the United Kennel Club (UKC) provides that perfect middle ground of excitement, competition, and achievement—without the stress overload. It’s a setup that works perfectly, allowing me to earn Grand Champion titles in UKC with a manageable amount of prep time, before my dogs transition to the American Kennel Club (AKC) rings.

UKC shows let me teach my dogs the ropes, guiding them through their early conformation experiences in a less intense environment. I love building their confidence and seeing them mature through each experience. In AKC, however, I know it takes an entirely different level of time, focus, and expertise. That’s where my collaboration with Ann, a second-generation poodle breeder and professional handler, comes in. Her dedication and talent, alongside her team’s support, make all the difference in our AKC pursuits, and I couldn’t be more grateful.

Partnering with Ann has been a blessing. She does incredible work with my dogs, giving them the focused attention they deserve to reach their full potential in AKC. Working together this way lets me do what I love—showing in UKC, raising and developing dogs at home—and still see them thrive in both registries.