757 — Why Dog Show Exhibitors Need Another Hobby: Perspective, Sportsmanship and Purebred Hounds

Are Sunday night point rankings and ribbon chasing taking over your peace of mind? In this episode of Pure Dog Talk, host Laura Reeves sits down with 40-year hound veteran, AKC judge and K9 handler Bob Urban for a candid reality check on modern dog show culture. Bob breaks down why hyper-focusing on show results ruins the joy of the sport, how outside hobbies restore perspective, and why keeping the focus on the dogs changes everything. [caption id="attachment_17507" align="alignleft" width="300"] Bob Urban judging the The Chase National foxhound show in Lexington, Kentucky.[/caption] From the historic benches of Chase National to life-saving K9 search and rescue missions, Bob shares essential wisdom on functional movement, American Foxhound traditions, and the ruthless self-assessment required to breed great dogs. "Go fishing or something... Get another hobby. Do something else with your time besides focus on studying results every Sunday evening and losing your mind." — Bob Urban In This Episode, You’ll Discover: The "Get Another Hobby" Rule:Why obsessing over Sunday night results causes burnout and how having outside interests makes you a better handler and breeder.Working Conformation vs. Showmanship:Lessons from judging American Foxhounds at Chase National, focusing on feet, running gear, and structural soundness over theatrical presentation.Historic Pack Hound Traditions:A look into traditional pack hound gatherings, the Penn Marydell strain, and the functional heritage of scent hounds.Show Champion to Life-Saving K9:The inspiring story of Tori, a champion Black and Tan Coonhound who served nine years in law enforcement search and rescue.Honest Dog Breeding:Why successful breeders must be their own worst critics and evaluate their stock without making excuses.Restoring Ringside Sportsmanship:How exhibitors can bring camaraderie back to the fancy and celebrate the dogs above the ribbons. "At the end of the day, it has to be about the dogs. There is always another show tomorrow." — Bob Urban Enjoying the Show? Here’s How to Support Pure Dog Talk: Subscribe & Follow:Hit the follow button on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast app so you never miss an episode.Leave a Review:A quick 5-star rating and review helps other purebred enthusiasts find the show!Share This Episode:Know a handler or breeder who needs a fresh perspective? Send them a link to this episode!

Host Laura Reeves sits down with renowned professional handler Diego Garcia for an inspiring conversation on the dedication, philosophy and heart required to succeed in the purebred dog sport. [caption id="attachment_17302" align="alignleft" width="194"] Diego Garcia in the early days.[/caption] From his beginnings in Argentina to learning under legendary dog men in the United States, Diego shares invaluable wisdom on physical muscle conditioning, the importance of mental connection in the ring, maintaining integrity and supporting the next generation of exhibitors. "The secret to success is always the longer way. It is not going to be easy, but when you go to bed and you took the longer way, you can look at yourself in the mirror." Key Highlights and Discussion Points Early Influences and Mentorship:Diego shares his journey from Argentina, where his parents began breeding Boxers in the early 1980s, to working in the United States for Michael Shepherd. He discusses how Shepherd instilled in him a structured, rigorous approach to dog care that shaped his entire career.Treating Show Dogs Like Royalty:Because dogs do not choose to compete on their own, Diego emphasizes that they deserve to be treated like royalty 24/7, with their needs always coming before anything else.Physical Conditioning on Soft Surfaces:Building proper muscle tone requires dedication and hard work. Diego advises handlers to run and exercise dogs on grass rather than pavement to protect their movement, feet and joints.[caption id="attachment_17303" align="alignright" width="207"]Garcia is well known for his contagious smile and passion for his dogs.[/caption]Mental Connection and Communication:True ring presence comes from a deep mental bond. Diego talks about the power of talking to your dogs on the table and in the ring, praising them so they feel like the absolute best version of themselves.Taking the Longer Way:True success and peace of mind come from taking the longer path of hard work, integrity and ethical handling. Diego stresses the importance of being a good loser, staying grateful for every placement and leaving negative talk behind.Reminiscing on Legends of the Sport:Diego and Laura reflect on iconic judges and mentors who shaped the sport, including Michelle Billings, Frank Sabella, Alberto Berrios, Annie Clark, Jean Fournier, Asa Mays, and beloved handler Kaz Hosaka.Handler Well-Being and Dog Show Yoga:Navigating ring stress, anxiety and the physical demands of handling. Diego shares how yoga and meditation helped him manage burnout, advocating for post-show relaxation sessions to help handlers reset.Passing the Torch to Youth:A call to action for experienced handlers and breeders to mentor owner-handlers and junior exhibitors, share grooming and handling tips freely, and lift up the community. [video width="1280" height="720" mp4="https://puredogtalk.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Taking-the-Longer-Way_-Diego-Garcia-on-Integrity-and-Hard-Work.mp4"][/video]

My Backpack Went to Paris and Had a Better Vacation Than Me!What happens when you travel across the globe with a brand-new puppy, only to find yourself stranded without clothes, while your beloved backpack takes a solo two-week tour of France? In this hilarious and jam-packed episode, host Laura Reeves sits down with our favorite veterinarian, Dr. Marty Greer, for a special "back-to-school" edition of Veterinary Voice. Between moving houses and managing a hectic schedule of 14 flights before the end of the year, Dr. Marty is no stranger to travel chaos. From Sweden to Newark, and JFK to Paris, she has survived it all, and she is here to share her hard-won, practical (and highly entertaining) wisdom for navigating airports, gate changes, luggage nightmares, and international travel with purebred dogs. Whether you're heading to the National, Westminster, Crufts, or just bringing a new puppy home, this episode is your ultimate survival guide to turning travel chaos into a smooth, organized adventure. 🎧 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:The Lost Backpack Chronicles: How Dr. Marty’s infamous, frayed blue backpack ended up in Paris while she was stuck in Sweden with nothing but a new puppy, a leash, and a dog bowl.The "Bag-within-a-Bag" Strategy: The absolute essentials you must keep in your tiny emergency grab-bag (and why you should never let a gate agent check it).AirTag Secrets: Why hanging trackers on the outside of your bags is a rookie mistake, and how "nesting" them inside your luggage and passport pouch will save your sanity.Canine Crate Survival Kits: Step-by-step instructions on what to tape to the top of your dog's travel kennel to ensure their safety and comfort.Veterinary and Legal Nuances: Navigating the strict, ever-changing USDA accreditation rules, rabies requirements, and APHIS regulations for international and island travel.Puppy Flight Hacks: Using potty pads on the plane, selecting behaviorist-approved travel medications (and why Benadryl is not the answer), and handling carrier disputes with gate agents.The 3.3-Pound Math: Hilarious stories of repacking suitcases on the airport floor to hit that exact 49.5-pound limit.🧳 Ultimate Dog-Travel Tips & Tricks Checklist1. Master the Airport Gate & BoardingArrive early, but not too early: Avoid sitting at the gate so long that you miss unannounced gate changes.Set boarding alarms: Set a phone alarm for 15 minutes before boarding begins, and another for the scheduled boarding time. Don't rely on gate PAs, especially when traveling internationally!Make eye-to-eye contact: Always speak directly with the gate agents to verify flight capacity, check-in requirements, and make sure your paperwork is in order.2. Safeguard Your Luggage & EssentialsThe Mini-Emergency Bag: Always keep your passport, medication, toothbrush, car keys, and a spare change of underwear in a small inner bag that you can quickly yank out if your carry-on is gate-checked.Bury your AirTags: Don't hang trackers on the exterior of your luggage where they can be ripped off or stolen. Bury them deep inside zippered interior compartments.Track your passport: Paranoid about losing your passport overseas? Keep it in a dedicated neck pouch with its very own AirTag.Take photos of baggage tags: Photograph the paper baggage receipts the airline prints for you so you still have the tracking numbers if you lose the paper slips.Look "homeless chic": Ripped seams and ugly luggage might not look glamorous, but thieves are far less likely to target bags that look like they’ve been through a war zone! Avoid checking bendable, multi-handle duffel bags that can get caught in airport machinery.3. Setup Your Dog’s Crate for SuccessIf your dog or puppy is traveling in the cargo hold, tape a "survival kit" securely to the top of their kennel:A Ziploc bag containing a full day's worth of kibble.Lightweight, collapsible/flattening travel bowls.A spare slip leash (vets' giveaway leashes work perfectly).Extra physical copies of their rabies certificate, health certificates, and veterinary paperwork.4. Know the Vet Regulations (Plan Up to a Year in Advance!)The 6-Month Rule: No puppy can enter the United States until they are at least six months old and have a valid rabies vaccination.USDA Accreditation: Ensure your veterinarian is USDA-accredited (Level 1 or Level 2) and has their accreditation number on the rabies certificates. Regular state licensing is often not enough for international transport!Island & Rabies-Free Travel: Hawaii, Japan, England, and New Zealand have incredibly strict quarantine rules. Start your testing and paperwork preparation up to 12 months in advance. Use the official USDA APHIS website to verify current requirements.5. Puppy Comfort & Travel SnacksIn-Flight Restroom Breaks: Pack puppy potty pads in your carry-on. If your pup is restless, take them into the airplane restroom, lay down a pad, and let them relieve themselves safely.Behavioral Support: Skip acepromazine and Benadryl (which is not an anti-anxiety medication). Talk to your vet about gabapentin, trazodone, or alprazolam. Always test the dosage at home before travel day! For motion sickness, ask about Cerenia (maropitant).Snack Like a Professional: Pack highly motivating, smelly dog treats that double as human survival food in a pinch. String cheese, meat sticks, jerky, and even canned Vienna sausages are show-dog favorites!Check out our convo with airline employeeAliciaMorrisonJonesfor more travel insight!

From Earthdog to Agility: Barbara Baese’ Guide to the Versatile Dandie Dinmont Terrier This episode of the Dandie Dinmont Terrier Diaries is part of Pure Dog Talk’s Clubhouse. The series features members of the Club Partnership Program who are working to preserve the knowledge of their legacy breeders. Can a rare, historic terrier thrive in modern high-speed dog sports while maintaining the precise conformation of its forebears? In this episode of Pure Dog Talk, host Laura Reeves sits down with legendary breeder Barbara Baese of Molly Bay Dandies. From her unexpected beginnings as a professional dancer who had never owned a dog to launching her kennel in 1989 with a "sight-unseen" puppy and a "Dandie or bust" attitude, Barbara shares her 36-year journey. Discover the secrets behind owning the all-time top agility Dandie Dinmont Terrier, the strict structural standards that define the breed’s iconic silhouette, and the fascinating (and rarely discussed) genetics behind breeding mustard and pepper coats. Whether you are a canine sports enthusiast, an aspiring breeder, or a judge seeking to understand the Illustrated Standard, this masterclass is packed with invaluable breed wisdom. What You’ll Learn in This Masterclass: The All-Around Performance Dog:Dandies are far more than companion dogs. Barbara shares her experience in Earthdog, Therapy work, and how she raised the #1 top agility Dandie Dinmont Terrier of all time.Decoding the Standard—"No Topline, No Dandie":Why the correct outline, a filled muzzle, dark round eyes, and a low tail set are non-negotiable for a true Dandie. Plus, the "teacup test" for smooth, effortless movement.The Complex Rules of Pepper & Mustard Genetics:Why you should never breed pepper-to-pepper (which dilutes furnishings) or mustard-to-mustard more than once, and how breeding the two colors together preserves the perfect coat texture and color depth.Behind the Name "Molly Bay":The heartwarming story of how Barbara and her husband blended their names to create a Celtic-sounding kennel name that is uniquely theirs.The Power of Mentorship:Lessons learned from breed giants like Christie Maxfield, Vern Wilson, Peggy Carr, and Kathy Nelson, and Barbara’s advice for the next generation of preservation breeders. Episode Highlights  The "Dandie or Bust" Beginnings:How a vet visit and a picture of a "Don King" dog led to a long-distance search and a sight-unseen puppy flying in from Pennsylvania.Immersion Into Conformation:Learning to groom with Vern Wilson and standing by the ring with mentor Christie Maxfield to study the breed standard.The 3 Golden Priorities of Breeding:Why temperament comes first (the true "gentleman's terrier"), followed by health preservation (combating glaucoma and lymphoma), and structural movement.The Teacup Movement Test:Ensuring a Dandie moves with a smooth, flowing reach and drive rather than jumping like a Bichon Frise.Coat Color & Genetic Dilution:The definitive guide to breeding mustard and pepper coats to avoid graying furnishings.Beyond the Show Ring:How the club promotes this rare breed to the public through Scottish heritage festivals, custom brochures, and their very own tartan. About Guest Barbara Baese Barbara Baese established Molly Bay Dandies in 1989. Over nearly four decades, she has been a tireless advocate for the preservation of the Dandie Dinmont Terrier, serving as president of the parent club and mentoring exhibitors across the country. Her kennel is renowned for producing dogs that excel in conformation, obedience, therapy, earthdog, and record-breaking agility.

What Dogs Teach Us About Love (And How to "People" Better) with Dr. Chris Blazina [caption id="attachment_17241" align="alignleft" width="300"] Good Dogs & Difficult People: What Dogs Teach Us About Love[/caption] Why is it that we can purely love our dogs but often struggle to show that same grace to other humans? In this deeply insightful episode of Pure Dog Talk, host Laura Reeves sits down with psychologist and author Dr. Chris Blazina to discuss his latest book, Good Dogs and Difficult People: What Dogs Teach Us About Love. They explore the psychology behind our canine connections, why Sigmund Freud was a massive "dog person," and how the stress we carry travels straight "down the leash" to our canine companions. From scientific phenomena like the Left Gaze Bias to actionable advice on how to "people better," this episode is a guide to letting your guard down, repairing relationships, and allowing dogs to "love us into being." [video width="1280" height="720" mp4="https://puredogtalk.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/Why-Is-It-We-Dont-Love-People-the-Way-We-Love-Our-Dogs_.mp4"][/video] 🔑 Key Takeaways & Discussion Highlights 1. The Psychology of the Canine Connection The "Pure Love" Difference: Drawing from Sigmund Freud’s observations, Dr. Blazina notes that while human relationships are often plagued by complex ambivalence, our love for dogs is straightforward and pure. Dogs draw out the "better angels" of our nature.Sigmund Freud’s Canine Assistant:Freud used his Chows to help screen his therapy patients and even relied on them as his clock, the dogs would stand up when the session hour was over. Freud famously noted that we can trust dogs because they are straightforward:"They love their friends and bite their enemies." 2. The Science of Empathy in Dogs The Left Gaze Bias: Science shows that dogs look at the left side of human faces when we tell stories—this is naturally the more emotionally honest side of our face. They are uniquely attuned to our actual emotional state.Empathic Attunement:Dogs don't just notice when we are emotionally disregulated or having a bad day—they actively respond in sync to help regulate our moods and make our days better. 3. Handler Stress Travels Down the Leash Agility Study & Cortisol Levels: A cited agility competition study shows that when handlers are agitated or grumpy, their dogs' cortisol stress levels rise to match theirs.The Reciprocal Bond: What we experience, our dogs feel. Being a great handler means remaining mindful of your dog's emotional state, rather than just focusing on the win or the ribbon. 4. How to "People" Better: Dr. Blazina's Action Items How do we take the lessons our dogs teach us and apply them to our human communities? Practice "Rupture and Repair": Humans are clumsy, awkward creatures, and relationships will have missteps. Instead of walking away, learn to re-engage and actively repair connections to build deeper closeness.Reciprocity: Move away from "me, me, me." Relationships are about mutual give-and-take, a concept dogs teach us through their constant willingness to connect.Do the "Happy Dance": Let your protective layers down. Celebrate the people you love with the same unbridled enthusiasm your dog shows when welcoming you home at the gate.

The Duke, the Tartan and the Terrier: Exploring Dandie History with Dick Yoho This episode of the Dandie Dinmont Terrier Diaries is part of Pure Dog Talk’s Clubhouse. The series features members of the Club Partnership Program who are working to preserve the knowledge of their legacy breeders. Host Laura Reeves sits down with veteran breeder Dick Yoho of Wind’s Edge Dandie Dinmont Terriers to celebrate a golden milestone. Marking his 50th anniversary as a member of the Dandie Dinmont Terrier Club of America, Dick takes listeners on a captivating journey through the art, heart and deep historical roots of this rare breed. With a master’s degree in printmaking and interior design, Dick brings a unique artist’s eye to preservation breeding. He shares how his design background helps him visualize the perfect Dandie silhouette, why he prioritizing the breed standard over show ring ribbons, and how he navigates the challenges of a global "gene puddle." But the true heart of this episode lies in the incredible, aristocratic history of the breed, from Sir Walter Scott to royal connections in Scotland. Did you know the official Dandie Dinmont Terrier tartan has direct royal ties? Dick shares the fascinating history behind this distinctive black and white pattern: Sir Walter Scott’s Personal Tartan:The official Dandie tartan is a black and white pattern that originally belonged to Sir Walter Scott, who immortalized the breed in his writing.A Gift of Friendship:This historic tartan was originally gifted to Sir Walter Scott by his cousin, the Duke of Buccleuch.A Castle Room Dedicated to Dandies:Dick recounts meeting the modern-day Duke of Buccleuch (cousin to the King of England) during his travels to Scotland. The Duke and his wife have been active supporters of the breed, even dedicating an entire room in their historic castle to Dandie Dinmont Terrier archives. Key Highlights and Takeaways The Wind’s Edge Origin Story:How Dick and his partner, Steve, named their kennel after their windy Connecticut home, which sat high on a hill overlooking Katharine Hepburn’s estate.The Artist’s Eye in the Ring:How Dick's background in design helps him appreciate the breed's distinct hallmarks, including the soft, soulful expression of the eyes, the curved top line, and the elegant chest drop.Navigating the Gene Puddle:The realities of preservation breeding in a rare breed, using modern tools like TCI (Transcervical Insemination) and global collaboration to import fresh lines from Germany and England.Finding the Sparkle:Dick's unique puppy evaluation process, which involves watching them play, analyzing video footage and seeking guidance from trusted mentors.The Clever Singleton Puppy:A delightful story about Dick's clever singleton puppy (nicknamed "a lit") who inherited the "pizazz" of her ancestors, including a hilarious knack for opening her own crate latch with her nose. About the Guest Dick Yoho is a double past president and current AKC Delegate for the Dandie Dinmont Terrier Club of America. Through his Wind's Edge kennel, he has spent half a century dedicated to preservation breeding, mentorship, and introducing the world to this enchanting, historic Scottish breed.

Can't Afford Vet Bills or Stuck in Danger? These AKC Grants Help Pets and Survivors 🐕❤️   [video width="1280" height="720" mp4="https://puredogtalk.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/AKC-Humane-Fund_-No-Dog-Left-Behind.mp4"][/video]   Host Laura Reeves sits down with Brandi Munden, President of the AKC Humane Fund and VP of PR and Communications at the American Kennel Club. Together, they pull back the curtain on one of the most impactful philanthropic organizations in the canine community. To date, the AKC Humane Fund has distributed over $2 million in grants and donations. In this deep dive, Brandi shares how this 501(c)(3) nonprofit is dedicated to keeping all pets and their people together, especially during their most vulnerable moments. We shine a bright spotlight on two critical grant programs: 🐕 Veterinary Care Assistance Grants (New This Year!) Launched at the start of this year, this initiative is the Humane Fund's newest baby. As veterinary costs continue to rise and "vet deserts" make accessible treatment harder to find, too many owners face the heartbreaking choice of surrendering their beloved animals. To combat this crisis, the Humane Fund has provided low-cost veterinary funds directly to organizations like the VCA group, Blue Pearl and Banfield. Who it helps: Reputable organizations providing direct medical care and boarding for animals in need.Grant sizes: Average grants range from $5,000 to $15,000, with total funding of $60,000 to $70,000 distributed annually.Application details: The process is simple, fast, and accessible online, with a renewal cycle allowed every three years. 🏠 Domestic Violence Shelter Grants Statistically, pets are a frequent target of abusers. Tragically, many victims of domestic violence delay leaving or choose to remain in abusive situations simply because they cannot bear to abandon their pets. The AKC Humane Fund's Domestic Violence Shelter Grants are designed to break this cycle by helping shelters accommodate pets of all kinds, not just dogs. How the funding is used: Grants help domestic violence shelters construct pet-friendly housing spaces, purchase critical equipment, or coordinate secure off-site boarding where owners still have regular access to their pets.The impact: Shelters report that these grants have enabled them to help 25% to 35% more people, providing safety and peace of mind for survivors and their beloved animals. ❤️ Supporting All Pets and Their People The AKC Humane Fund operates under the firm belief that every pet owner should have the opportunity to live a safe, healthy life with their animals. From mixed breeds competing in the AKC Canine Partners program to support for breed-specific rescue networks, the AKC is actively evolving to serve as a modern, inclusive resource for every pet lover, no matter where they are on their journey.

Starting Over 3 Times: A Dandie Dinmont Breeder’s Story of Ultimate Perseverance 🐶This episode of the Dandie Dinmont Terrier Diaries is part of Pure Dog Talk’s Clubhouse. The series features members of the Club Partnership Program who are working to preserve the knowledge of their legacy breeders.How far would you go for the breed you love?Pure Dog Talk in partnership with the Dandie Dinmont Terrier Club of America dives deep with Laura Chapal Snyder of Dreamboat Dandies. Since 1980, Laura has dedicated her life to the rare and wonderful Dandie Dinmont Terrier—but her path has been anything but easy. In this episode, Laura shares her extraordinary journey of rebuilding her entire breeding program three separate times after facing heartbreaking health crises, including devastating battles with glaucoma and lymphoma. From the musical inspiration behind her kennel name (connected to the band Heart!) to her absolute insistence on prioritizing temperament and proper head structure, Laura offers a masterclass in preservation breeding. Discover why honesty and communication are vital when managing a "gene puddle", how she utilizes line breeding after careful outcrossing, her strict 12-week rule for puppy evaluation, and her powerful message of perseverance for the next generation of dog show exhibitors. 💡 Key Episode TakeawaysOvercoming Genetic Hurdles:Laura faced glaucoma in five out of six puppies in her first litter. Instead of quitting, she kept her blind dogs as beloved family pets and restarted her program.The "Dreamboat" Priorities:For Laura,Temperament is #1andHeads are #2("Dandies are a head breed").Breeder Transparency:With such a small gene pool in rare breeds, open communication about hereditary issues like glaucoma, lymphoma and Cushing’s is vital for breed preservation.Puppy Socialization:Laura advises against isolation. Puppies need to be handled, socialize with other people and play with other dogs to build confidence.The Reality of Show Success:Practice makes perfect. Laura spent her first 10 years in the show ring winning almost nothing, reminding new breeders that dedication pays off.🔗 Resources & ConnectDandie Dinmont Terrier Club of America (DDTCA)

The Digital Handoff: A New Tool for Dog BreedersLaura Reeves visits with Lianna Shepard, Senior Manager for New Business Models at Purina, to talk about how modern technology is reshaping the purebred dog community. At the center of this technological shift is the newly updated MyPurina app, which has evolved from a simple rewards program into a comprehensive, handheld digital assistant for both pet owners and preservation breeders. Designed to streamline the transition when puppies go to their new homes, the app acts as a digital handoff tool that replaces or complements traditional paper folders with instant, expert-backed support right in the new owner's pocket. By integrating personalized guidance, AI assistance and professional animal behavior enrichment, Purina leverages technology to build a supportive ecosystem that ensures a happy, healthy life for dogs and cats across all life stages.Bringing 24/7/365 Tech Support to RealityModernizing Go-Home Day:Traditionally, breeders sent new puppy buyers home with physical health folders and paper pamphlets. The MyPurina app serves as a modern digital alternative, making it far easier to transition a puppy to their new home by providing the buyer with an immediate, structured support system right on their phone.Confidence and Peace of Mind:By sending puppy buyers to the app, breeders can rest assured that new owners have a reliable, expert-backed resource to navigate the first weeks of puppy ownership. New buyers get immediate help, which mitigates anxiety and ensures the pet is cared for according to Purina's rigorous nutritional and behavior standards.Rewards Integration:Breeders who send puppies home on Pro Plan can confidently recommend the app knowing that buyers will earn rewards on all purchases, regardless of the retailer. New owners can even purchase directly inside the app to earn points automatically without needing to manually upload receipts.For Owners: Personalized, Handheld SupportTailored Pet Profiles:Owners can input specific details like age, breed, and dietary restrictions to build a custom profile. The app leverages this data to provide personalized recommendations on exactly what food and litter to buy, alongside dynamic feeding guides that adjust as the pet transitions from puppyhood to their senior years."Allie" Virtual Pet Assistant:To prevent search overload, the app features "Allie," an in-app virtual assistant powered by Purina's vast library of expert content. Owners can ask Allie quick, real-time questions about potty training, food specifications, or general care tips instead of scrolling through endless search engines."Happy" Enrichment Program:Designed by Purina behaviorist and enrichment specialist Alex Johnson, "Happy" is an exclusive, multi-week bonding program. It teaches owners how to engage in daily, 15-minute household activities to build a stronger connection with their dogs or cats, complete with instructional guides on reading animal body language and micro-challenges for new pets.https://puredogtalk.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/Send-puppy-owners-home-with-digital-support.mp4

Preserving the Dome and the Dip: Secrets to Mastering the Dandie Dinmont Standard This episode of the Dandie Dinmont Terrier Diaries is part of Pure Dog Talk’s Clubhouse. The series features members of the Club Partnership Program who are working to preserve the knowledge of their legacy breeders. [caption id="attachment_17179" align="alignleft" width="300"] Donna Francis with CH. Jollygaze Time Lord[/caption] Host Laura Reeves is joined by the legendary Donna Francis of Elfwish Kennels. With a storied career spanning decades as an AKC-licensed professional handler, skilled groomer and breeder, Donna shares her rich history in the sport. She recounts her evolution from early days with Beagles, Siberian Huskies, and Pembroke Welsh Corgis to her deep-dive into Dandie Dinmonts. Throughout the conversation, Donna provides master-class insights on the critical mechanics of canine structure, the realities of grooming a three-textured terrier coat, and why "type-to-type" line breeding remains the most reliable path to preserving the breed's authentic hallmarks. Whether you are a newcomer looking for mentorship, an aspiring judge or a seasoned breeder, Donna’s candid advice offers a rare and valuable masterclass in breed preservation. From a Sold Saddle to Siberian Huskies: Donna's Early Years The $35 Beagle: Donna shares how she sold her horse saddle at age 11 to buy her first purebred Beagle puppy, who went on to become a champion at her very first dog show.Becoming a Professional Handler: After breeding Siberian Huskies in Olmsted Falls, Ohio, Donna worked hard to earn her AKC handling license, committing to perfection and developing an expert "eye for a dog".The Birth of Elfwish: How a chance meeting with Sandy Wolfskill led to co-owning the number-one Pembroke Welsh Corgi bitch in the country and creating the "Elfwish" kennel name, inspired by a Corgi named Wishin and a small elf statue. Falling in Love with the Dandie Dinmont Meeting Elsbeth: Initially finding them "funny looking," Donna was won over by Elsbeth, a Dandie Dinmont breeder Betty-Anne Stenmark selected for them. Elsbeth went on to win the specialty that weekend and even charmed actor Orlando Bloom in first class on the flight home.Crufts Success with Kevin:Donna reflects on her "heart dog," Kevin, who won second at the Terrier Group at Crufts and became a cornerstone stud dog for their breeding program, siring national winners for years. Deep Dive into Structure, Type, and Movement The Danger of Over-Sizing: Donna warns that many modern Dandies are being bred too large, explaining that a head that is too big or a dog with incorrect proportions cannot properly enter and exit a burrow to do its historical job.The Anatomy of a Working Terrier:The Rib Cage: A long rib cage is vital to protect the dog's internal organs from badgers, paired with a slightly shorter loin.The Topline: Dandies have a highly specific, slight topline rise that is easily bred incorrectly, warning against "roached" backs or rear-high structures.Fronts and Feet: A correct front assembly requires a "wrap around" and strong, tight feet and toes so the dog can dig. Movement on the Go: Donna describes the ideal Dandie gate as a smooth, gliding reach and drive with a stable topline, cautioning against short, choppy steps that signal a flawed front assembly. The Art and Challenge of Grooming Three Coat Textures: Grooming a Dandie is notoriously difficult because of their three distinct textures (the harsh outer coat, soft medium coat, and inner coat).Stripping and Scissoring: Donna discusses the necessity of stripping dead hair weekly to prevent the dog’s proportions from looking distorted, emphasizing that a bad grooming job can obscure a great dog, while expert grooming can make a poor structure look passable to untrained eyes. Hard-Hitting Advice for Breed Preservation Type-to-Type Breeding: Donna strongly advocates for breeding "type-to-type" and line breeding, choosing pairs with highly similar physical styles rather than chasing superficial "all-breed winner" studs, which often results in a "mishmash" litter.The Value of Mentorship: Her primary advice for newcomers is to find a trusted mentor, stick with them, and ignore political gossip. She urges established breeders to open their arms and support new exhibitors rather than pushing them away.Temperament is Non-Negotiable: Donna explains that showmanship is "90% of it," requiring a bold, tail-wagging dog with a stable, friendly temperament. She urges socialization through puppy classes and cautions against placing unstable temperaments in companion homes.Dandie Reproduction: Insights on the difficulty of breeding Dandies, including Donna's success with side-by-side artificial insemination (AI) on a table, the necessity of pre-whelping x-rays and ultrasounds, and managing selective C-sections. For more information on Dandie Dinmont Terriers.