Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast Pure Dog Talk

• The Spark of a Historic Partnership: Sandra shares the story of meeting Betty-Anne at a handling class, a chance encounter that led to Betty-Anne gifting Sandra her very first Dandie, "Kings Mountain Mousetrap," and cementing a 25-year breeding partnership.
• A Shared Vision for a Distinct Type: Working hand-in-hand, Sandra and Betty-Anne established an internationally recognized breed type. Sandra explains their 50-year joint commitment to never compromising on correct front assemblies, classic heads, athletic movement, and the signature long outline.
• Navigating the "Gene Puddle" Together: Sandra discusses managing a rare breed's limited gene pool (coined a "gene puddle" by Betty-Anne). By combining their expertise, they utilized tight line breeding, imported frozen semen from across the globe, and coordinated artificial inseminations to safely preserve the line.
• Honest Evaluation and Ruthless Selection: Mentorship requires tough, honest decisions. Sandra details how she and Betty-Anne evaluate slow-maturing puppies at 10 weeks and why maintaining breed integrity means placing dogs with significant faults into happy companion homes.
• Preserving the "Stand-Up" Terrier Temperament: Sandra emphasizes the importance of protecting the athletic, working drive of the Dandie Dinmont. She shares her dedication to keeping the "terrier in the terrier" through active socialization, barn hunt sports, and earthdog trials.
• Passing the Torch to the Next Generation: True partnership extends beyond a single lifetime. Sandra highlights how she is actively paying her mentorship forward by guiding two to three promising young breeders to ensure the King’s Mountain legacy continues to thrive.

One distinction between Sloughi and Azawakh is the Moroccan dogs will have no white markings, Wyatt said.[/caption] Host Laura Reeves is joined by Erika Wyatt to explore the AKC's least popular fully recognized breed: the fascinating and rare Sloughi. Called "the best-kept secret in the AKC," this ancient, intuitive breed has a rich history and an unparalleled devotion to its owners. Erika dives deep into the breed's origins in the North African Maghreb, where they were bred as hunting and guarding companions by nomadic Bedouins and Berbers. She explains what makes them distinct from Azawakhs and Salukis, what it's truly like to live with these sensitive and clean "telepathic" hounds, and their surprising versatility in dog sports. In this episode, you’ll learn:The Ancient History:How the Sloughi transitioned from a nomadic desert hunter to an AKC-recognized breed.

• Sloughi vs. Azawakh vs. Saluki:The crucial physical, structural, and temperamental differences between these three unique sighthounds.
• Living with a Sloughi:Their sensitive, clean natures, minimal grooming requirements, and why they excel with intuitive, thoughtful owners.
• Exercise & Training:Why they need daily opportunities to gallop but don't require you to be a marathon runner yourself.
• How to Find One:With only 12 litters in the US in the last decade, how you can connect with responsible code-of-ethics breeders.

If you've ever been curious about this elegant, loyal, and rare breed, this is the ultimate deep dive! More information from the Parent Club HERE.

Sandy Wolfskill showing a Dandie to Anne Katona.[/caption] Pure Dog Talk host Laura Reeves sits down with Elfwish Kennels' Sandy Wolfskill to explore the art of preservation breeding, global pedigree collaboration and what it truly takes to safeguard the historic Dandie Dinmont Terrier for the next generation.

• From Corgis to Dandies:Sandy shares how a ring-stewarding gig in Pennsylvania first introduced her to Dandie Dinmont Terriers, detailing how she fell in love with their "little person in a dog body" personality before acquiring her first Dandie bitch from Betty-Anne Stenmark in 2004.
• A Global Preservation Network:Sandy emphasizes the power of international breeding partnerships, highlighting her work with Emma Greenway in Australia and her decision to transfer the Elfwish Frozen Semen Bank to Harriet Buckley in England to empower the next generation of breeders.
• The Pillars of Breed Type:Drawing from author Richard Beauchamp, Sandy breaks down the five core pillars of breed type: character, silhouette, head and expression, a penciled double-coat, and free, smooth movement.
• Breeding Philosophy and Selection:From running "what-if" pedigrees on her computer to assessing wet puppies the second they are born, Sandy explains why line breeding beats constant outcrossing, and why breeders must be brutally honest about faults, especially when it comes to fronts.
• Defining Success in the Ring and Home:Sandy explains that preserving this historic Scottish farm dog is about finding a balance between maintaining physical breed standards, preserving correct, livable temperaments, and, above all, having fun.

[caption id="attachment_16944" align="alignleft" width="300"] Stacy Duncan and one of her Irish Water Spaniels.[/caption] Host Laura Reeves sits down with lifelong dog handler, breeder, and Westminster Best Junior winner Stacy Duncan to celebrate "Love the Breeds Month" with a captivating look at the rare and remarkable Irish Water Spaniel (IWS). Often described as a curly-haired powerhouse packed with personality, this ancient breed is one of the original eight recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC). Stacy shares what makes these dogs incredibly unique, from their physical adaptations to their legendary intellect and quirky sense of humor. Key Takeaways from this Episode:

• A Fearless Heritage Built for Bogs:Originally developed in Ireland to retrieve game from treacherous, shiftingpeat bogs, the IWS possesses incredible lung capacity and physical resilience. Stacey describes their relentless drive to hunt, detailing how they will fearlessly dive straight through thick blackberry brambles to retrieve a bird.
• The Practical Purpose Behind the Features:The breed’s unique anatomy is entirely functional. Their famous"rat tail" acts as a natural rudderin rough waters. Meanwhile, their tight, curly coat includes a thick ear-to-earbeard to protect their throatand atopknot to shield their eyesfrom sharp sticks and briars in the field.
• "With Great Intelligence Comes Great Responsibility":Stacy warns that these dogs are thinkers. They are brilliant enough to learn almost anything. Stacy even highlights an IWS service dog who learned to run a washing machine and insert coins. But if you don't challenge their minds, they will find creative (and often unauthorized) ways to entertain themselves.
• The Curly Coat Reality Check:Because they have hair rather than fur, they are highly hypoallergenic-ish and do not go through massive seasonal sheds. However, their tight curls will "pelt" if not properly maintained. Stacy advises owners to keep utility coats clipped to about two inches and emphasizes the absolute necessity of combing all the way down to the skin.
• Aloof Judges of Character:While they are incredibly snuggly and devoted to their "inner circle," the breed standard labels them"aloof with strangers". Stacy explains that this isn't shyness or fear, but rather a dignified observation period where the dog is actively judging your character before deciding if you're worth their time.

Whether you are looking for an elite sporting partner, a versatile obedience competitor, or just a goofy companion who thinks their own "dad jokes" are hilarious, the Irish Water Spaniel is a breed that is impossible to ignore.

Veteran breeder Kay Simpson of Tarwathie Dandies shares the precise combination of physical structure and gentle disposition that defines this rare, historic breed:

• Temperament First and Foremost:In a group known for fiery attitudes, the Dandie Dinmont stands out as a uniquelylaid-back, non-aggressive terrier. Kay ranks temperament as the absolutenumber one priorityin her breeding program.
• The Defining Head:Widely regarded as a "head breed," a correct Dandie must feature alarge, perfectly proportioned headwith expressive eyes, specific ear placement and strong jaw.
• The Curvaceous Topline:Unlike a flat-backed dachshund, a true Dandie requires adistinctive curved toplinerising from the shoulders, arching over the loins, and dropping gently to the tail. This curve is structurally vital to prevent back issues, according to Kay.
• Turned-Out Front Legs:In Kay's telling, true Dandies do not have perfectly straight front legs. Theirfront legs must be slightly turned outto allow them to push dirt to the side rather than under their bellies when going to ground.
• The "Tarwathie" Backstory:The mythical kennel name was chosen by Kay's late husband. He discovered it in a document describing amythical location on the outskirts of Scotland, right off the island. Because the place was entirely mythical, they knewno other breeder would ever have it, making it the perfect unique identity for their line.
• Strategic Breeding for Fertility:While the typical Dandie Dinmont litter is a small three to four puppies, Kay actively fought the breed's declining numbers byfavoring and selecting highly fertile bitch lines. Rather than spending time on bitches that only produced one or two puppies, she bred prolific mothers who consistently deliveredlitters of five to seven puppies. This strategic focus on maternal fertility has successfully helped to increase the breed's population and public visibility.

• Host Laura Reeves is joined by Yorkshire Terrier breed legends Gloria Lyon and Lorraine Hayes at the Yorkshire Terrier Club of America National Specialty as they share over 50 years each of hands-on experience, revealing the Yorkie’s fierce rat-hunting history, practical grooming hacks and essential training and health tips.The Yorkshire Terrier's Rich History: Though loved today as glamorous lapdogs, Yorkies originated in the 1800s as brave, independent rat and mouse hunters in mines and taverns. That fierce terrier prey instinct and big dog attitude are still alive and well in the breed today.
• Grooming and Coat Realities: Yorkies grow human-like hair instead of fur, which means they do not shed. However, maintaining a full show coat requires intense wrapping in tissue paper. For companion homes, these experts strongly recommend a cute, low-maintenance pet trim ("cutting them down").
• Color and Size Unpredictability: Puppies are born black and tan and gradually lighten into their signature steel blue and gold by age two or three. Because genetics are complex, size can be highly unpredictable, and oversized puppies often appear even in carefully planned litters.
• Training a Feisty Companion: While Yorkies love to follow you everywhere, they are independent thinkers. Successful potty training requires absolute consistency. The experts also emphasize crate training as a safe haven and an essential tool to prevent "door dashing".
• Essential Health and Longevity: Yorkies live an average of 12 to 14 years. To protect their knees and tracheas, owners *must* keep them at a healthy weight. Toy dog dental hygiene is also critical. When looking for a puppy, verified health tests should focus on the parent club'sCHIC program(eyes and patellas), rather than general genetic kits like Embark, which do not screen for specific Yorkie health risks.

Legendary preservation breeder and AKC judge Betty-Anne Stenmark joins host Laura Reeves to celebrate 50 years of King's Mountain Dandie Dinmonts, sharing invaluable insights on structure, puppy selection and what it takes to breed, select and judge a historically correct Dandie Dinmont Terrier. From navigating a "gene puddle" to her absolute, non-negotiable stance on front assemblies, this conversation is a masterclass for preservation breeders and dog enthusiasts alike.

1. Navigating the "Gene Puddle"

• The Endangered Breed Reality: Dandie Dinmonts are a very low-entry, endangered breed with an extremely limited gene pool. Betty-Anne famously notes, "We don't have a gene pool. We have a gene puddle."
• Phenotypic Breeding & Linebreeding: To maintain quality without genetic diversity, Betty-Anne focuses on breeding by phenotype. Her program utilizes highly line-bred lines and maintains a strict standard where an outcross is considered just 25% of the other dog is unrelated to their line.
• Reaching Into the Past: To introduce "the devil they know," Betty-Anne and her breeding partner, Sandra Pretari Hickson, utilize frozen semen from dogs they bred 20–25 years ago, reaching back six or seven generations.
• Hybrid Vigor: Betty-Anne recounts the dramatic revelation of finding unrelated stock in Australia and New Zealand in the late 1990s, which introduced crucial hybrid vigor back into her breeding lines.

1. The Uncompromising Standard: The Front Assembly

• Why the Front Matters: For Betty-Anne, the front assembly (a well-laid-back shoulder and a matching upper arm) is the single most important structural feature.
• No Compromises: If a puppy does not possess a correct front assembly, it is immediately altered and placed in a pet home. Betty-Anne warns that once a proper front assembly is lost in a line, it can haunt a breeding program forever and is incredibly difficult to reconstruct.
• The Judge's Perspective: As a breeder-judge, Betty-Anne explains how a correct front assembly dictates a dog's head carriage, reach, stride and overall presence.

1. Dandie Silhouette, Length and Top Line

• Proper Proportions: The Dandie Dinmont is the longest breed in the AKC, measured from the top of shoulders to the root of tail.
• The Unique Outline: The breed’s hallmark top line, featuring a gentle arch over the loin, does not fully develop until around four or five months of age.
• The Tail Set Red Flag: A poorly set or upright tail acts as a glaring red flag to judges and is highly heritable.

1. Selection at Ten Weeks

• The 10-to-11-Week Rule: Betty-Anne and Sandra avoid making final decisions before 10 or 11 weeks of age, noting that puppy structure changes too rapidly beforehand.
• The Non-Negotiables: Beyond the front assembly, critical early checks include ensuring the correct bite (which should look like a slightly overshot scissor bite) and ensuring males have both testicles.

1. Preservation Breeding and Mentorship

• The Next Generation: Modern dog breeding is challenging, with fewer people having the time or space for it. Betty-Anne actively looks for enthusiastic younger breeders to join the "King’s Mountain family".
• Fostering Trust:Newcomers are encouraged to attend national specialties, write letters or emails and seek out genuine mentorship. Betty-Anne notes that co-ownership is a wonderful way to start under the guidance of an experienced breeder.

.For more information about the Dandie Dinmont Terrier, visit the DDTCA website. For more information about Pure Dog Talk's Club Partner Program stop by HERE.

1. The Reality of the "Puppy Bust"

• The Shocking Data:New puppy vet visits have declined for four consecutive years, sitting at40% lower than they were in 2019. This baseline drop will affect veterinary canine visits for the lifetime of this generation of dogs.
• Contributing Factors:High inflation, a tough economy and the housing crisis are key drivers. Younger people are renting apartments rather than buying houses, leading many to opt for cats instead of dogs.
• The Silver Lining:Because the average canine lifespan is roughly 11 years, and millions of families obtained dogs simultaneously during the 2020–2021 COVID boom, Marty predicts a natural rebound in demand over the next few years as we reach the halfway mark of that cycle.

1. Has the Veterinary Industry "Killed the Golden Goose"?

• The Corporate Takeover:Around50% of all veterinary clinics(and nearly all mid-to-large-sized clinics in many regions) are now corporate-owned.
• Skyrocketing Fees:Corporate management has fundamentally shifted fee structures, resulting in veterinary care price hikes ranging from28% to 51%.
• Accessibility Issues:Due to staffing shortages and post-COVID inefficiencies, local 24/7 emergency clinics have dramatically scaled back their hours.

1. Smart Ways Owners Can Lower Vet Costs

• Prioritize Preventive Care:Keeping up with annual blood work, vaccines and heartworm/flea/tick preventives is far cheaper than treating preventable illnesses like Lyme disease, heartworm or leptospirosis.
• Utilize Patient Financing:Programs likeCare Credit(strictly for medical/veterinary use) andCherry Pay(which works like Klarna to split a large bill, such as a $600 wellness visit, into manageable $50 monthly payments) can make upfront care affordable.
• Buy Local and Build Relationships:Purchasing preventives and medications directly from your local vet's online store supports your local clinic. Maintaining an active, positive relationship with your vet ensures you won't get turned away to a costly emergency clinic when you need a last-minute appointment.
• Insure Early:Enrolling in pet insurance (likeTrupanion) at 8 weeks old is significantly cheaper than trying to insure an adult dog later on.

1. The Truth About Veterinary Telehealth

• A State-by-State Divide:Telehealth legality is entirely dependent on where you live. States like California have embraced it, while others like Wisconsin strictly prohibit remote veterinary prescriptions.
• The VCPR Hurdle:To receive remote care, you must have an established Veterinary Client-Patient Relationship (VCPR). You can check your state's specific laws by searching your state's name alongside"veterinary practice act"and"VCPR".
• Physical Limitations:While great for visual diagnoses (like skin lesions or an inflamed prostate), telehealth cannot replace a physical exam where a vet needs to listen to the heart, palpate the abdomen or check gum color.

1. Crucial Advice for Breeders in a Slow Market

• Secure Commitments First:Breeders should establish their online presence (websites, Facebook, Instagram) well in advance, take secure deposits and use Zoom calls to build face-to-face trust with distant buyers.
• Stop Being Our Own Worst Enemy:The dog fancy has historically damaged its own reputation with elitist behavior. Breeders must return phone calls promptly, consider simplifying intimidating contracts down to one easily readable page and be welcoming to the public at dog shows.
• Be Flexible on Housing Requirements:Demanding a fully fenced yard when young, qualified buyers live in urban condos with excellent local dog parks is an outdated practice that drives buyers straight to "doodle" breeders.
• Consider Alternative Placement Models:Look into guardian home arrangements to preserve important genetics without overwhelming your own household kennel space.

1. Harnessing Deep-Dive Research & Standard Study

• Memorizing the Breed Standard:The very first thing Karine did was print out the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier breed standard, highlighting it and studying it inside and out.
• Pedigree and Database Deep-Dives: She spends hours in breed databases and analyzing historical books to understand pedigrees and breed evolution.
• Objective Self-Criticism: Rather than hiding her dogs' flaws, Karine is highly critical of her own dogs, knowing their specific faults so she can work to improve them in the next generation.

1. Mastering the Art of "Carving" a Coated Breed

• Overcoming the Scissors Curve: In 2020, Karine had never held grooming scissors. She printed the Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier Club of America grooming guidelines, hung them on her wall and simply started practicing, knowing her early efforts would look "rough."
• Befriending Professional Groomers: She established friendships with professional handlers and trusted mentors who could give her feedback and quick evaluations of her work.
• The "Carving" Philosophy: Karine learned that grooming a terrier is like "carving a dog out of the hair." She grooms strategically to highlight her dog's attributes while minimizing less desirable traits.
• Viewing Hair as a Renewable Resource: To overcome the fear of making mistakes, Karine reminds herself that "hair is a renewable resource" and will always grow back if she makes an error.

1. Proactive Mentorship & Continuous Learning

• Building Long-Term Breeder Connections: At age 13, Karine emailed local breeders to volunteer. Only one responded, and Karine spent the summer helping her. Years later, that same breeder provided her foundation bitch, "Ruby" and continues to serve as an invaluable mentor.
• Conformation Classes: Karine insists that taking local conformation classes is essential for success because beginners need experienced handlers to guide them and point out subtle presentation adjustments.
• Watching the Professionals: She spends hours sitting ringside, watching how professional handlers present their dogs on the ramp, during examinations and on the down-and-back. She also advocates arriving early to watch the judge’s patterns before entering the ring.

1. Meticulous, Data-Driven Judge Tracking

• The Excel Judge Spreadsheet: On the advice of her mentor, Karine maintains an Excel spreadsheet tracking every judge she shows under.
• What She Tracks: She logs the show name, date, judge, what she liked/disliked about the judge's style, whether they awarded her a ribbon, and most importantly, the specific style of dog they preferred.
• Studying Past History: Before entering a show under a new judge, Karine researches their past judging history to see what dog styles they tend to favor, allowing her to make strategic, calculated entry decisions.

1. Mental Conditioning & Ring Execution

• Controlling the Leash Energy: Karine realized early on that her nervous energy traveled "down the leash," causing her dog to act up. She learned to master her nerves so her dog remains calm and happy.
• Videotaping Runs: She recommends videotaping your ring performances year-round to review them with a trainer, allowing you to catch minor handling and presentation mistakes.
• Surviving the "Mean Girls" Club: Karine avoids online drama. She maintains a strong mental filter—keeping what resonates and discarding what doesn't and walks out of the ring proud, knowing that the dog is ultimately there to have a fun day and get treats.

• Autism as a Gift: Karine shares how her neurodivergence serves as a powerful motivator and tool for deep-dive breed research.
• Ethical Breeding and PLN Testing: A passionate advocate for ethical breeding, Karine emphasizes the importance of health testing for Protein Losing Nephropathy (PLN) in Wheaten Terriers, a gene that has only been testable since 2012.

• The Golden Rule of Drop Coats:Learn why a strict bathing regimenevery five to seven daysis the single most critical factor in achieving a beautiful, flowing coat.
• Choosing the Right Tools:Discover why a high-quality,forgiving pin brush with a flexible, squishy padis the ultimate tool for maintaining delicate coats without causing damage.
• Shih Tzu School & Mentorship:Pat shares how she is giving back to the sport by mentoring new exhibitors throughShih Tzu Schoolto help preserve the future of drop-coated breeds.
• Breeding for Health and Structure:Explore how selective breeding naturally prevents issues like tear-staining, and why evaluating dogs based on overall balance and proper shoulder placement is essential.
• Protecting Your Dogs with Pet Trusts:A sobering discussion on why every breeder and owner must establish written wills orpet truststo ensure their dogs are protected if they are left behind.

• The Return of a Lethal Threat:After being successfully managed since 1966 using a sterile fly release program, the New World Screwworm has crossed back over the U.S. border. Confirmed cases have already appeared in livestock and dogs.
• How Screwworms Differ from Normal Maggots:Unlike typical fly larvae that only infest damaged or dead tissue, New World Screwworm larvae aggressively penetrate and destroy healthy, normal tissue in dogs, cats, livestock and even humans.
• Fluid Travel Restrictions:State and international borders are experiencing rapidly shifting regulations. Dog owners are warned to avoid traveling across the Mexican border, remain highly cautious when traveling interstate and ensure they carry official health certificates.
• What to Do If You Find a Larva:This is a federally reportable disease. If you discover a larva in a wound, do not throw it on the ground where it can pupate. Instead, preserve it in alcohol or formalin and immediately contact your veterinarian to notify authorities.
• Treatment Options:Oral flea and tick medications in theisoxazolineclass (such as Cridelio, Nexgard, Brevecta, and Semperica) andnicotinamides(such as Capstar) are the primary medications utilized or suspected for emergency treatment, although their preventative capabilities are still being studied.
• Other Exotic Diseases on the Rise:The episode also flags other global health threats creeping into the U.S. due to warming temperatures, includingChagas disease(transmitted by the kissing bug and causing severe cardiac disease) and aliver flukeshowing up in the Colorado River Valley.

• Worms and Germs Blog(Infectious disease updates by veterinarian Dr. Scott Weese)
• CapcVet(veterinarian-authored parasite prevalence maps)

Host Laura Reeves welcomes Matt Stroud (known to some on Facebook as "Kermit the Dog"), an enthusiastic owner-handler of Schipperkes. Matt shares his journey from being a shy high schooler navigating 4-H with a poodle mix and a Yorkshire Terrier, to returning to the dog show world as an adult with his Schipperkes.

1. Filter the advice you receiveand consider whether it empowers you to improve.
2. Take personal responsibilityfor understanding ribbons, placements and ring procedures.
3. Never give up, because even through dry spells, your winning moment will come.

• Patent Ductus Arteriosus (PDA):A condition where a fetal blood vessel fails to close after birth. While serious, it is the only defect on this list that can be surgically corrected, often using a minimally invasive Amplatz catheter, allowing the dog to live a completely normal life.
• Ventricular Septal Defect (VSD):A hole between the heart's two ventricles. Depending on the size of the hole, dogs with a VSD can live normal lives as family pets, though they are usually not suited for high-endurance performance events.
• Subaortic Stenosis (SAS) & Pulmonic Stenosis:A narrowing of the blood vessels exiting the heart, known to be genetic in breeds like Newfoundlands. These dogs typically require lifelong medication and may face a shortened life expectancy.
• Tricuspid Valve Disease:A dysplasia or malformation of the valve on the right side of the heart. Currently, there is no surgical correction available in veterinary medicine and these dogs generally face a poor long-term prognosis.

• From "Pug Boy" to Judge:Patrick recounts his early entry into the dog world, starting with a childhood fascination for Pointers and Setters before buying his first Pug at age 15 and earning the affectionate nickname "Pug Boy".
• The Artist’s Eye in the Ring:Patrick explains how studying art and movement naturally translated to evaluating dogs. He discusses how the principles of Cubism and observing how pieces fit together help him assess whether a dog is moving in true harmony and balance.
• The Importance of Mentorship:Patrick shares his emotional gratitude for the icons of the dog show world, including "Mama" Charlotte Patterson, who took the time to mentor him when he was just a teenager starting with a pooper scooper.

• Equal Opportunity Funding:The David and Goliath dynamic is gone. Small and large clubs now have an equal shot at earning substantial funding for their initiatives.
• Application Timeline:The simple online application process opens onJune 1and closes onSeptember 30.
• Approval & Payouts:Grant applications will be reviewed by a diverse committee between October 1 and November 30. Winners will be announced in December, with funds dispersed in January.
• Purina Pro Club is NOT Going Away:While the PPCP donation matching is ending, you should absolutely keep uploading your receipts! The Pro Club and its redemption programs are still highly active.

• The Truth About the Cargo Hold:Stop panicking about the baggage hold.It is fully pressurized and temperature-regulated, often running about 10 degrees cooler than the passenger cabin. Your dog gets their own isolated, strapped-in section away from the regular luggage and they usually have more room down there than you do in economy.
• Crate Survival Rules & Fees:
  • Be prepared to pay the new pet fee of $200 each way.
  • Ditch the collapsible crates:Alaska Airlines no longer accepts them. You must use a solid, stationary crate.
  • Know your aircraft limits:The absolute maximum crate height for a 737 is 30 inches.
  • Wheels Off:Crates can no longer have wheels attached. Take them off and label them with your name and phone number.
  
  
• The Ultimate Travel Hacks:
  • AirTag Everything:Strap an Apple AirTag to your dog's collar or secure it to their crate for instant tracking and peace of mind.
  • The Zip-Tie Hack:Secure your water buckets to the crate door with zip-ties so the clips don't break off during heavy turbulence.
  • The 10/30 Health Certificate Rule:Your vet health certificatemustbe dated within 10 days of your initial departing flight, which then covers a 30-day travel window for your return trip.
  • Absorbent Material is Mandatory:Don't get left behind for a biohazard issue. Pad the bottom of your crate with secure, absorbent material.
  • Beat the Clock:Arrive a minimum of two hours early to survive TSA, complete the extensive paperwork and get your crate inspected.
  
  
• How to Get Denied Boarding (What NEVER to do):
  • Ban the Flexi Lead:Never walk your dog through the airport on a flexi lead—it is a massive safety hazard for other passengers and pets.
  • Keep it Quiet:If your dog is heavily stressed, banging on the crate door, or barking incessantly,the airline will deny you boardingfor safety reasons.
  
  
• Summer Embargo Warning: Watch the heat. Summer temperature embargoes officially drop on May 15, so start planning your travel carefully around the cool hours of the day.
• This year Alaska Airlines decided to set summer embargoes for select airports. Here is a breakdown of the embargoes for 2026: *Austin (AUS) Due to extreme temperature forecasts, animals traveling in the baggage compartment will not be accepted on flights May 15, 2026 through September 30, 2026 between 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM. *Baltimore (BWI) Due to extreme temperature forecasts, animals traveling in the baggage compartment will not be accepted on flights May 15, 2026 through September 30, 2026 between 12:00 PM – 8:00 PM. *Dallas Fort Worth International (DFW) Due to extreme temperature forecasts, animals traveling in the baggage compartment will not be accepted on flights May 15, 2026 through September 30, 2026 between 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM. *Detroit (DTW) Due to extreme temperature forecasts, animals traveling in the baggage compartment will not be accepted on flights May 15, 2026 through September 30, 2026 between 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM. *Dulles (IAD) Due to extreme temperature forecasts, animals traveling in the baggage compartment will not be accepted on flights May 15, 2026 through September 30, 2026 between 12:00 PM – 8:00 PM. *El Paso (ELP) Due to extreme temperature forecasts, animals traveling in the baggage compartment will not be accepted on flights May 15, 2026 through September 30, 2026 between 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM. *Houston (IAH) Due to extreme temperature forecasts, animals traveling in the baggage compartment will not be accepted on flights May 15, 2026 through September 30, 2026 between 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM. **Kansas City (MCI) Due to extreme temperature forecasts, animals traveling in the baggage compartment will not be accepted on flights May 15, 2026 through September 30, 2026. **Las Vegas (LAS) Due to extreme temperature forecasts, animals traveling in the baggage compartment will not be accepted on flights March 27, 2026 through October 15, 2026. *John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) Due to extreme temperature forecasts, animals traveling in the baggage compartment will not be accepted on flights May 15, 2026 through September 30, 2026 between 1:00 PM – 6:00 PM. **Oklahoma City (OKC) Due to extreme temperature forecasts, animals traveling in the baggage compartment will not be accepted on flights May 15, 2026 through September 30, 2026. *Palm Springs (PSP) Due to extreme temperature forecasts, animals traveling in the baggage compartment will not be accepted on flights May 1, 2026 through September 30, 2026 between 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM. *Philadelphia (PHL) Due to extreme temperature forecasts, animals traveling in the baggage compartment will not be accepted on flights May 15, 2026 through September 30, 2026 between 12:00 PM – 8:00 PM. *Phoenix (PHX) Due to extreme temperature forecasts, animals traveling in the baggage compartment will not be accepted on flights April 15, 2026 through September 30, 2026 between 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM. *Pittsburgh (PIT) Due to extreme temperature forecasts, animals traveling in the baggage compartment will not be accepted on flights May 15, 2026 through September 30, 2026 between 12:00 PM – 8:00 PM. *Sacramento (SMF) Due to extreme temperature forecasts, animals traveling in the baggage compartment will not be accepted on flights May 15, 2026 through September 30, 2026 between 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM. *San Antonio International (SAT) Due to extreme temperature forecasts, animals traveling in the baggage compartment will not be accepted on flights May 15, 2026 through September 30, 2026 between 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM. **St Louis (STL) Due to extreme temperature forecasts, animals traveling in the baggage compartment will not be accepted on flights May 15, 2026 through September 30, 2026. *Tucson (TUS) Due to extreme temperature forecasts, animals traveling in the baggage compartment will not be accepted on flights May 15, 2026 through September 30, 2026 between 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM. **Tulsa (TUL) Due to extreme temperature forecasts, animals traveling in the baggage compartment will not be accepted on flights May 15, 2026 through September 30, 2026. *Washington D.C. (DCA) Due to extreme temperature forecasts, animals traveling in the baggage compartment will not be accepted on flights May 15, 2026 through September 30, 2026 between 12:00 PM –...

• Semen Math: Dr. Greer walks through the core formula: ejaculate volume × sperm concentration × percent motile × percent morphologically normal (× post-thaw survival for frozen samples) to determine total usable sperm and number of breeding units. Use this to decide when to freeze, how many straws/pellets equal a true breeding unit, and when to be conservative with limited inventory.
• Six parameters of semen analysis: ejaculate volume, gross appearance, sperm count, morphology, motility (directional swimming vs. circular or backward movement), and longevity. Why each matters and what incomplete reports (e.g., “plenty here”) really mean.
• Fresh vs. frozen considerations: why you shouldn’t “clean out” a male the night before collection; why freezing early (when the dog is young and virile) is critical; how older dogs and fragile semen tolerate freeze-thaw poorly; and breed- and individual-level variability in freeze tolerance.
• Practical troubleshooting for failed frozen breedings: confirm historic fertility, review original collection age/count/post-thaw stats, check packaging (straws vs. pellets) and breeding-unit definition, and discuss TCI vs. surgical options with your repro clinic.
• iSperm and accessibility: overview of affordable, tablet-based semen analyzers as a community tool for clinics and breeders to get reliable counts.
• Small, actionable tips: warming slides for motility checks, thermal risks to sperm, timing for clean-out collections, and using anti-inflammatory protocols that some clinics employ with compromised breedings.

• Oregon— A ballot initiative effort is currently underway
• The Federal Farm Bill— An amendment to the Greyhound Protection Act has been inserted into the Farm Bill's broadly supported legislation. As currently written, vague language could ban live lure training, open field coursing and controlled bird exposure used in training hunting and sporting breeds — affecting earth dog, barn hunt, lure coursing, Fast CAT, field trials and more

• Contact your member of Congressand ask them to oppose the Greyhound Protection Act language inserted into the Farm Bill
• Submit testimonyon Hawaii legislation at the Hawaii State Legislature website
• Monitor legislative alertsat theAKC Government Relationspage
• Engage your representativesat every level — federal, state and local — every session, every bill. Locate your representativesHERE.

More than half of AKC-recognized breeds are now considered low-entry, and the number of breeds registering 10 or fewer litters per year doubled between 2022 and 2024. Host Laura Reeves sits down with Dr. Charlie Garvin—AKC Board of Directors member and chairman of the AKC Purebred Preservation Bank (PPB)—to unpack what that means for the future of purebred dogs and what breeders can do about it today.

Dr. Garvin traces the PPB's origins to the Otterhound Club's pioneering reproductive bank, established in 2017, and explains how the AKC stepped in to create a scalable structure any parent club or breeder could use. Now a standalone 501(c)3 affiliate, the PPB is building a long-term safety net for breeds facing dwindling numbers and dangerously narrow genetic diversity.

The conversation gets real fast. Laura and Charlie tackle the elephant in the room—what happens to frozen semen when its owner passes away? Spoiler: in most cases, it gets thrown out. The PPB offers a solution, allowing breeders to donate stored semen now or via bequest, with the PPB assuming storage costs and ensuring the material is preserved under rigorous standards.

Dr. Garvin also addresses the "rival breeder" objection head-on: the PPB isn't competing with active breeders. Its mission is 25, 50, even 100 years out—when today's rivalries are ancient history and a breed may need to be reconstituted from whatever genetic material survives.

Parent clubs play a critical role too, and Charlie issues a direct call to action: submit your breed-specific parameters for both donor dogs and potential breeding bitches now, while your club is still active and your philosophy can guide future decisions—even if the club itself no longer exists.

To learn more or start the donation process, visit akcppb.org and connect with PPB Program Manager Susan Myers.

Longtime dog show handler and judge Will Alexander returns to Pure Dog Talk with something unexpected in his portfolio: a children's book series. Inspired by his real-life beagle — a 1992 American National winner nicknamed "Bud Man" — Will wrote the first book, What Is My Name? at his kitchen table on a whim. What followed was a growing series including Buddy Finds a Family and Buddy's First Christmas, with Buddy the Beagle and the Easter Egg Hunt coming soon.

The books target the five-to-six-year-old crowd and feature a real child, Savannah Bernardin, Katie and Adam's daughter, as Buddy's companion. Will used AI illustration tools to bring Buddy to life after early attempts with family members proved less than reliable. He also touches on his earlier novel For the Love of Dogs, a coming-of-age story about a boy who discovers the dog show world.

Beyond the books, Will and Laura cover plenty of ground familiar to longtime fanciers. They discuss the state of crop and dock legislation in Canada, where Ontario remains the last province permitting the practices. They celebrate the new AKC-CKC title recognition agreement that will finally show Canadian championships properly on pedigrees. And they reflect on the shrinking but still vibrant Canadian show scene, noting that Western Canadian shows maintain strong entries partly because they draw from multiple provinces.

The conversation winds down with a laugh-out-loud exchange about pre-GPS dog show navigation — road atlases, wrong exits, and dads who somehow just knew how to get places.

In this fascinating episode, host Laura Reeves welcomes Radek Blažo, a dog show enthusiast and certified hypnotherapist from Slovakia, whose two passions — purebred dogs and cognitive behavioral hypnotherapy — have collided in a surprisingly powerful way.

Radek's dog journey began at age 15 in Slovakia, when his father took him to visit breeders and he fell in love with Lhasa Apsos. He eventually traveled to Italy to learn the craft of handling and later came to the United States, where mentors like Melissa Pepke and professional handler Barbara Beisel shaped his understanding of the sport. He now works with Tibetan Terriers alongside close friends while maintaining deep roots in the Lhasa community.

After a career pivot into journalism and then into cognitive behavioral hypnotherapy — which he studied through a college in the UK — Radek had a lightbulb moment at a dog show. Watching a clearly skilled handler fall apart in the breed ring, with her anxiety visibly transferring to her dog, he realized he could bridge his two worlds.

The science backs him up. Research from the University of Bristol confirms that dogs can detect human emotions through scent and actually change their behavior in response to stress, fear or sadness. As Radek puts it, you can fake a smile but you can't fake your hormones — dogs smell adrenaline, sweat, and the full cocktail of anxiety whether you want them to or not. The result is a feedback loop Laura aptly calls a "death spiral": the handler gets nervous, the dog reacts, the handler gets more nervous and so on.

Radek's online course addresses this from multiple angles. He begins by teaching the psychology behind show-day triggers — being judged, time pressure, negative self-talk — and walks students through breathing techniques and cognitive tools to interrupt anxious thought patterns. Hypnosis then provides a practice environment where handlers can mentally rehearse calm, focused performances far more often than real show weekends allow.

Laura shares her own story of showing Spinone Italiano Adele at Madison Square Garden, describing the intense mental focus required to hold her sensitive dog together in that overwhelming environment — and how it worked. Radek connects this directly to the tunnel-vision technique he teaches in his course.

His program is available online and accessible worldwide, making it a resource for owner-handlers everywhere who know what to do in the ring but struggle to do it when it counts.

Whether you're a nervous novice or a seasoned exhibitor who still gets the jitters, this episode offers a genuinely new lens on one of the sport's most common — and least-discussed — challenges.

The entire rear assembly in a dog is the engine that propels it forward. Stephanie and Laura unpack the anatomy and biomechanics behind a correct rear assembly, why balance matters more than any single piece, and how faults in the rear (or the front) can break a working dog down over time.

The Rear as the Engine Stephanie describes the rear as a pole vault mechanism, driving the dog over its front assembly. The pelvis, sacral vertebrae (three fused bones), and hip joints form a solid, interconnected unit — and understanding how they work together is key to evaluating any breed.

Croup Angle and Tail Set The croup's angle determines tail set and follow-through. A steep croup lets a dog reach far under itself but limits follow-through — the dog picks its foot back up instead of pushing off completely. A high tail set (Stephanie's memorable test: can you see the dog's anus from behind?) produces a tail that curls over the back and signals a structural problem, not just a cosmetic one.

Hock Length: Short Isn't Always Better Not every breed needs a short hock. Whippets need length to generate speed. Corgis need enough leg to cover ground. The right hock length always comes back to the question: can this dog do the job it was bred to do?

Bend of Stifle and Sickle Hock Too much bend in the stifle often produces an overly long rear pastern and a sickle hock — the dog can't stand square and loses its ability to push off effectively. Handlers may be able to mask it on the stack, but the dog's movement tells the truth.

Why Balance Is Everything A dog that is straight both front and rear tires quickly but stays sound. A dog with a strong rear and a straight front is the most problematic combination — the front, held together only by muscle and ligament, will break down under the stress the rear generates. Movement is the proof of structure, and slowing a dog down in the ring often reveals problems that a fast gait conceals.

Breadth, Loin and Feet Stephanie and Laura also cover the importance of croup width (muscling and power), loin strength and length, and breed-appropriate feet — reminding listeners that every element of the standard exists because it helped a dog perform its original function.

1. Idiosyncratic vs. idiopathic reactions— what the difference means and why it matters when a drug you trust causes an unexpected response
2. The fenbendazole case— a detailed walkthrough of diagnosis, the ruling-out process (parvo, tick-borne disease, vaccines, other drugs), and the treatment that turned it around within 24 hours
3. The FDA Dear Veterinarian letter— as of April 2024, pancytopenia had been reported in 12 dogs on fenbendazole; this case may make 13
4. How to report adverse drug reactions— and why that reporting matters for future label updates
5. MDR-1 gene mutations— which breeds are affected and what drugs to watch
6. Trimethoprim-sulfa (Bactrim/Albon)— breeds at higher risk for platelet drops, including Samoyeds, Dobermans, Goldens and Borzoi
7. Topical flea/tick products— the "heebie-jeebies" skin sensation and what to do if your dog reacts every month
8. Reading package inserts— a practical tip: search for the drug name + "package insert PDF" and use Ctrl+F to find terms like "pregnant," "breeding," or "male"

1. Search: "Dear Veterinarian letter fenbendazole" to find the FDA communication
2. Veterinary Information Network (VIN): vin.com
3. Pure Dog Talk Patron community: puredogtalk.com/patron
4. Pedigrees to Pups Seminar Weekend — Austin, TX (March 27–29) and Altoona, WI (April 10–12): puredogtalk.com/events

Whelping doesn’t always end with a tidy pile of healthy puppies and a relaxed, glowing mama dog. Host Laura Reeves is joined by our favorite best friend in veterinary medicine, Dr. Marty Greer, to walk through the most common (and most dangerous) postpartum complications breeders face — from retained puppies and metritis to mastitis, eclampsia, and even the terrifying “SIPS” bleeding that shows up weeks later. If you’ve ever had a bitch crash after delivery… or you’re hoping you never will… this is the episode that helps you stay calm, prepared and ready to act fast.

The conversation begins with one of the biggest preventable tragedies: retained puppies. Dr. Greer emphasizes the importance of a properly timed puppy-count x-ray (day 55–60) and shares practical tips for improving accuracy, including using digital x-ray equipment, taking two views, and ensuring the bitch has an empty stomach and colon before imaging. Her bottom line is simple: know your count — and don’t go to bed if you’re missing a puppy.

From there, Marty and Laura tackle early postpartum red flags, including aggression toward puppies, which can be linked to low calcium. They discuss proactive tools like calcium gel during labor (not before), pheromone support collars, and the surprisingly effective trick of saving placental fluids after a C-section to help “switch on” maternal behavior once puppies get home.

Next up: poor milk production, dehydration, and what to do when a bitch simply won’t lactate. Dr. Greer shares her go-to strategies — from metoclopramide and OxyMama to boosting fluid intake with creative options like starter mousse mixed into water. And yes… even bratwurst makes an appearance as a lactation hack that longtime breeders swear by.

The episode also dives into the “big three” postpartum medical complications: metritis, mastitis, and eclampsia. Dr. Greer explains what to watch for, why fever is never something to ignore, and why antibiotics should always be vet-directed — not pulled from leftover bottles in the cabinet.

Finally, Marty demystifies normal postpartum discharge (lochia) versus SIPS (sub-involution of placental sites), a dramatic but usually benign bleeding episode that can happen around eight weeks after delivery.

If you breed dogs, this episode gives you the tools to recognize problems early — and save lives when it matters most.

Lobos explores how modern canine nutrition is evolving beyond “just feeding a dog” and into targeted, research-backed support for digestion, cognition and quality of life.

Dr. Lobos explains that Purina doesn’t bring new diets to market simply for trendy ingredients or marketing hype—these new formulas are the result of years of research and partnerships with respected institutions like the AKC Canine Health Foundation and the renowned GI research lab at Texas A&M. Their goal is simple: support foundational health through the digestive system, since gut health affects everything from immunity to stress resilience—especially for dogs who travel, compete, or experience lifestyle changes.

One of the biggest takeaways is the clear explanation of the difference between prebiotics, probiotics and postbiotics. Dr. Lobos breaks it down in a way every dog owner can understand, using a lawn analogy: prebiotics act like fertilizer, probiotics are the grass seed, and postbiotics are like compost—no longer alive, but still beneficial.

The new Digestive Support Plus formula builds on the success of Sensitive Skin & Stomach by adding a science-supported probiotic strain that is shelf-stable and effective for dogs who need “just a little more” digestive support—without jumping straight to a veterinary therapeutic diet.

The conversation also turns to senior dogs and brain health. Dr. Lobos shares the compelling research behind medium chain triglycerides (MCTs), which help provide an alternative fuel source for the aging brain. Dogs fed MCT-supported diets have shown improved learning, awareness, and cognitive function. Even more intriguing: related research has demonstrated seizure reduction in dogs with idiopathic epilepsy using higher-MCT therapeutic diets.

This episode is a must-listen for breeders, competitors and devoted dog owners who want to understand the real science behind feeding decisions—without the buzzword nonsense.

Host Laura Reeves sits down one-on-one with legendary professional handler Andy Linton for an in-depth conversation about a lifetime in the sport. From his beginnings as a Southern California teenager more interested in surfing than dog shows, to handling some of the most iconic Best in Show winners in history — including Indy winning BIS at Westminster Kennel Club — Andy shares the experiences, lessons and mindset that shaped his extraordinary career.

Andy walks listeners through his early days showing a Doberman in the 1970s, learning the ropes by working for top handlers and absorbing invaluable lessons from mentors like Clay Coady, Tim Brazier, Bob and Jane Forsyth, and others. He reflects on the importance of watching, learning and stealing the best ideas — not just how handlers move dogs, but why certain techniques change balance, expression and overall picture in the ring. For Andy, success has never been accidental. It’s the result of dreaming big, setting clear goals and backing those dreams with relentless effort and self-reflection.

Central to the conversation is Andy’s core philosophy of winning: quality, condition and presentation. He explains why even a modest dog can dramatically improve — or undermine — its chances depending on conditioning and handling, and why exhibitors should focus on improving their own skills rather than blaming judges or competition. Conditioning, Andy emphasizes, isn’t about one-size-fits-all roadwork, but tailoring fitness to each dog’s structure and needs while keeping them happy, healthy and enthusiastic about their job.

The discussion also dives into Andy’s trademark quiet hands and free-stacking style, emphasizing trust, simplicity and making the ring feel as relaxed as a dog waiting for a sandwich in the kitchen. He shares practical insight into situational awareness, reading judges, selling a dog’s strengths with integrity, and mastering the small details that can make all the difference at high-pressure events like Westminster.

Beyond the ring, Andy reflects on his role advising breeding programs, watching generational changes in breeds, and helping create great dogs behind the scenes. He also speaks candidly about mentorship, gratitude, and the dog show community, sharing heartfelt thoughts on kindness, legacy and staying engaged in the sport he loves. This episode is packed with timeless wisdom for breeders, owner-handlers and professionals who want to elevate their dogs — and themselves — in the world of purebred dogs.

In this episode of Pure Dog Talk, host Laura Reeves sits down with one of the true legends of the sport, Charlotte Patterson, longtime Pug breeder, former president of the Pug Dog Club of America, successful professional handler and Westminster Kennel Club judge. With Charlotte set to judge the Toy Group at Westminster, this conversation is both timely and timeless, packed with history, insight and hard-earned wisdom.

Charlotte shares the unforgettable story of how she fell in love with Pugs in 1969, buying her first dog on a payment plan and unknowingly stepping into a world that would change her life forever. From borrowing money for a stud fee to producing top winners — including a Toy Group winner at Westminster — Charlotte’s journey perfectly illustrates how passion, mentorship and commitment shape successful preservation breeders.

The conversation dives deep into breeding philosophy, particularly in brachycephalic breeds like Pugs. Charlotte explains why breeders must be intentional, cautious, and forward-thinking, emphasizing the long-term consequences of breeding decisions. She speaks candidly about balance, movement, head type, breathing, and why “what you put in today will show up generations later.” Her message is clear: know your standard, know your pedigrees and never breed blindly.

As a judge with more than 35 years of experience and tens of thousands of dogs examined, Charlotte offers a rare look into Toy Group judging at the highest level. She discusses what she values when she steps onto the green carpet at Madison Square Garden — balance, breed type, soundness, and dogs that can confidently perform under pressure. She also explains why movement in toy breeds must reflect breed purpose, not exaggerated speed.

Beyond breeding and judging, Charlotte offers thoughtful guidance on breed clubs, mentorship and leadership, sharing lessons learned from over a decade as a national club president. Her advice for newcomers? Find the right mentor, get involved and understand that leadership is about work — not power.

This episode is a must-listen for dog breeders, exhibitors, judges, and purebred dog enthusiasts who care deeply about preserving breed history while moving the sport forward.

👉 Don’t miss this heartfelt, humorous, and deeply knowledgeable conversation with one of purebred dogs’ most respected voices.

Host Laura Reeves is joined by longtime friend and icon of the dog world, Nancy Martin—legendary breeder, professional handler and now visionary founder of FIDO: Friends Involved Dog Outreach. This episode is a powerful reminder of what our community can accomplish when passion meets purpose.

After decades of success in the show ring, Nancy’s retirement from handling didn’t slow her down—it redirected her energy. What began as a simple act of compassion through a veterinary clinic grew into a groundbreaking mission: addressing pet food insecurity as a way to keep dogs out of shelters and in the homes that love them. From that idea, FIDO was born, along with the National Pet Assistance Network and No Pet Hungry America.

Nancy shares how food insecurity is a household issue that directly impacts pets, why “wraparound services” matter more than blame, and how keeping families fed can prevent surrender before crisis hits. The results are staggering: over 6,000 households supported and more than 1.2 million meals provided in a single year.

This conversation also dives into Nancy’s national recognition—including the Oregon Humane Society’s Diamond Collar Award and a Community Hero Award from the Oregon Ducks—and why those honors represent a shift in how purebred dog people can be seen as part of the solution.

From mentoring future veterinarians to challenging long-held narratives about breeders and rescue, Nancy Martin is redefining advocacy in dogs. This episode is a must-listen for anyone who cares about the future of purebred dogs, community responsibility and meaningful, practical change.

👉 Get involved! FIDO and No Pet Hungry America.

In this powerful international conversation, host Laura Reeves welcomes Rebecca Norton-Childs — a UK-based educator and founder of a nationally accredited dog breeder training program — to discuss why education, intention and responsibility are critical to the future of dog breeding.

Rebecca’s journey began on the front lines of rescue and animal control, where she witnessed firsthand the heartbreaking consequences of poor breeding practices, inadequate early socialization and uninformed ownership. Rather than adopting a “don’t breed dogs” mindset, Rebecca chose a different path: breed better dogs — and teach others how to do the same.

In this episode, we explore how her experiences in rescue shaped her belief that ethical, knowledgeable breeders are essential to improving canine welfare. Rebecca explains how breeder education in the UK has evolved into nationally accredited qualifications..

Listeners will gain insight into:

• Why early neurological stimulation and puppy socialization start with the breeder

• How education empowers breeders to confidently match puppies with the right homes

• The role of behavior science, epigenetics and modern husbandry in producing stable dogs

• Why breeding dogs should be viewed as aprofession, not a hobby

Rebecca also shares how her programs foster a judgment-free, global community of breeders committed to learning, sharing knowledge, and putting dogs first — regardless of breed, discipline or purpose.

This episode is a must-listen for everyone who believes the future of purebred dogs depends on intentional breeding, informed decisions and lifelong learning.

Laura Reeves is joined by canine reproduction expert Dr. Marty Greer to answer a listener’s question: how frequently can you breed a stud dog before semen quality starts to decline? Marty breaks down basic stud dog anatomy, what impacts semen production and why timing matters more than sheer frequency.

You’ll learn the ideal collection schedule for peak semen quality, how overuse can show up in a semen evaluation, and why progesterone timing is essential when multiple bitches are lined up. Marty also shares practical tips for supporting your stud dog through heavy breeding demand, plus smart strategies for semen collection, shipping, and long-term genetic preservation.

Heavy breeding demand is hard work metabolically, and Marty stresses that nutrition is the foundation of semen quality.

• Feed a proven, research-backed diet (she recommendsPurina Pro Plan Sport 30/20orRoyal Canin HT-42D).

• Avoid “helpful” add-ins that actually disrupt hormones — especiallyflaxseed, because it containsphytoestrogens.

• Don’t over-supplement. Most fertility supplements havelittle science behind them, and people often unintentionally unbalance an already complete diet.

Bottom line: a balanced, consistent diet supports semen volume, motility, and longevity.

Stud dogs working hard often experience:

• stress

• loss of appetite

• environmental impacts on sperm quality

Marty notes semen quality is affected by:

• being toohot or cold

• overexertion / too much stimulation

• stress from being surrounded by bitches in heat

So:

• keep him comfortable (climate control matters)

• make sure he’ssleeping

• if he won’t eat,tempt him(chicken in the bowl is fine — the goal is calories and nutrients)

Bottom line: a stud dog can’t produce quality semen if he’s not eating, resting and staying comfortable.

Instead of multiple breedings “because she’s standing,” Marty recommends:

• Require progesterone timingso breedings are targeted

• Useone breeding(maybe two), at the correct time

• Avoid exhausting the dog with daily/every-other-day breedingsbefore ovulation even happens

She emphasizes:

• ovulation typically aroundprogesterone 4–10

• peak fertility is abouttwo days after ovulation

Bottom line: progesterone timing protects the stud dog, improves pregnancy success, and prevents “emptying the tank.”

Today’s episode brings you a rare conversation with someone who does not say yes to interviews very often. Amy Rutherford joined host Laura Reeves for a holiday visit and the timing could not be better, fresh off her Best Bred-By Exhibitor win at the AKC National Championship with her Smooth Fox Terrier, Wager. For breeders, exhibitors, and dog show fans, this conversation delivers real insight into what it takes to build a program that lasts.

Amy’s path started early. Her parents were horse people who also kept Australian Shepherds before they were AKC recognized. A winter trip turned into a defining moment when the family got snowed in and visited an AKC dog show. From the stands, young Amy watched Smooth Fox Terriers in the ring and knew she wanted that life.

The journey was not immediate. Her first breed was Airedales, which taught hard lessons about grooming, structure, and realistic expectations. Eventually, she saved money and purchased Smooth Fox Terrier puppies that both finished quickly and became group winners. That early success did more than build confidence. It created a foundation and one of those early bitches still anchors the pedigree behind her dogs today.

Amy’s handling career developed the way the best ones often do, through years of real work. She spent summers helping professionals and then committed to a full apprenticeship with Eddie and Leslie Boyes. She stayed for nine years, learning the daily realities of conditioning, presentation, animal husbandry, trimming and the logistics that define show life.

That apprenticeship is a major takeaway for anyone interested in becoming a professional handler. Amy explains that experience builds skill and it builds a network. When she went out on her own, she had the credibility and connections that make the difference between surviving and thriving.

One of the most valuable parts of this episode is Amy’s honest discussion about stepping into breeds that are not part of your original comfort zone. She moved from Smooth Fox

Terriers into coated breeds including a Portugese Water Dog and a Standard Poodle import. Her advice is clear. Learn from the best people you can find, ask for feedback, and keep training your eye.

She also talks about the reality of showing a dog that does not match the popular look of the moment. Her Standard Poodle, Dino, was impressive and successful but also controversial. Amy says the key is believing in your dog completely and choosing shows and judges who will appreciate the dog’s strengths.

For preservation breeders, Amy’s success with Smooth Fox Terriers offers powerful lessons. She describes how she pursued the look she wanted, sought mentorship and bred to the best dogs available. The results include legendary dogs like Dover, a top-winning Smooth Fox Terrier who also became a major sire.

That legacy continues with Wager, the dog who earned Best Bred-By Exhibitor at the AKC National Championship. Amy shares the behind the scenes breeding decisions, the role of frozen semen and a few “miracle” moments that made Wager possible.

If you are serious about showing dogs, preservation breeding, or building a kennel name with meaning, this episode is required listening. Learn more and listen now at puredogtalk.com.

As we come to the close of another year — one that has been long, challenging, and filled with upheaval both globally and within the purebred dog fancy — it felt right to pause, reflect and remember why we do what we do.

One of the great comforts of purebred dogs is their reliability. No matter what else is happening in the world, somewhere nearby there is a dog event — a show, a trial, a hunt test, a training day. These gatherings give us a chosen family: people who console us when times are hard, celebrate with us when times are good, and understand the passion that binds us together.

In dog breeding, one of my favorite phrases is “on the shoulders of giants.” While famous handlers may get the television time, the true unsung heroes of purebred dogs are the breeders.

Breeders are the devoted advocates and curators of living history. Their imagination, vision, commitment, and endurance preserve breeds that represent centuries — sometimes millennia — of human partnership with dogs. And yet, too often, when master breeders pass, their hard-earned knowledge disappears with them.

Pure Dog Talk was created, in part, to save and share that irreplaceable wisdom.

Through our podcast archives, albums, and seminars, we aim to preserve the voices, stories, and experience of the best and brightest breeders worldwide — so that future generations don’t have to reinvent what has already been learned.

Every one of the 200+ breeds recognized by the American Kennel Club — and many more worldwide — represents a specific time, place, and human culture. Purebred dogs are a living, breathing continuum of history.

Pedigrees bring that history directly into our homes. Some breeding records trace back thousands of years. Long before formal breed standards existed, early humans were selectively breeding dogs for climate adaptation, specialized diets, hunting ability, and companionship.

Recent research has even reshaped our understanding of ancient breeds:

• TheGreenland Dogis now considered the oldest known dog breed, tracing back to the Pleistocene era.

• Basenjis, depicted in cave art dating to 6,000 BC, possess uniquely distinct DNA.

• Greyhoundsdescribed in a 15th-century poem still match the breed standard today — and every modern Greyhound traces back to a single dog whelped in England in 1839.

• Bedlington Terriersboast the oldest unbroken terrier pedigree, dating to 1782.

• Ancient breeds like theChow Chow,Shar Pei,Pug,Pekingese,Peruvian Inca Orchid, and Nordic Spitz breeds tell stories of emperors, explorers, and civilizations long past.

That dog curled up on your couch? Their family tree may reach back centuries — even thousands of years.

This living history survives only because breeders care enough to protect it.

From documenting pedigrees to choosing the right homes for puppies, from studying genetics to honoring breed purpose, preservation breeding is both an art and a responsibility.

At Pure Dog Talk, we are committed to supporting that mission:

• Over50 hours of breeder interviewsavailable in the PDT Albums

• Pedigrees to Puppies seminars, offering hands-on, real-world education

• Breed-focused resources like theLove the Breedsalbum

• New projects and educational opportunities coming soon

Our website, puredogtalk.com, has grown into a deep, rich resource — and there’s even more ahead in the coming year.

As the year comes to a close, our tiny but mighty team at Pure Dog Talk thanks you — breeders, exhibitors, judges, trainers, puppy buyers and dog lovers — for being part of this community.

Your passion is our purpose.

Wishing you, your dogs, and your families a joyful holiday season and a prosperous New Year.

Peace and goodwill to all.

— Laura Reeves
Host, Pure Dog Talk

Pure Dog Talk is the voice of purebred dogs. We bring you conversations with legends of the sport and offer practical, actionable guidance for creating an extraordinary life with your purebred dog. In this episode, host Laura Reeves dives into a timely and essential topic: how to show dogs effectively without breaking the bank.

Dog shows are more plentiful than ever—but the costs are rising. Entry fees, fuel, lodging, grooming supplies, and time away from work or family can quickly turn a joyful hobby into a financial strain. Showing on a shoestring doesn’t mean cutting corners—it means strategizing, choosing wisely and investing where it matters most.

As Laura says, “Your passion is our purpose.”
These tips will help you maximize results while minimizing expenses.

Before entering a single show, determine exactly what you want to accomplish:

• Finishing a Championship
  You must attend shows with reliable breed entries.

• Earning a Grand Championship
  Prioritize majors and competition.

• Ranking in Breed or Group Standings
  Breed rankings require breed entries; group rankings require competitive groups.

“You can’t make a plan until you make a goal.”

Knowing your goal drives every decision—from which shows to attend to how far you should travel.

Not every show is equal, and not every judge appreciates the same breed style.

• InfoDog— view historical entries in your breed and region

• AKC Judges Directory— review judges’ assignment histories and past results

Understanding which judges favor your dog’s strengths can save hundreds of dollars in wasted entries.

“Don’t write a judge off forever—just write them off for that particular dog.”

Make informed entries. Your wallet will thank you.

Showing is more affordable—and far more enjoyable—with a team.

• Share travel and lodging costs

• Split grooming space

• Help hold dogs and support each other in the ring

• Enjoy camaraderie rather than showing alone

The Pure Dog Talk Patrons Group is an excellent place to build these relationships.

“Your enjoyment of dog shows increases when you have people to hang out with—and it saves you money.”

Showing an untrained or poorly conditioned dog is one of the most expensive mistakes exhibitors make.

Create a grooming and conditioning routine—put it in your phone like any other appointment:

• Tuesday:full groom, brush-out, trim, or strip

• Weekly:training sessions

• Before shows:conditioning, coat checks, toenails, ring readiness

“If it’s not on your calendar, you probably won’t do it.”

A competitive dog is a cost-effective dog.

Sometimes the best show for your goals is not the closest one.

A single well-planned trip can be more effective—and cheaper—than several local shows with no results.

“One productive road trip is often less expensive than four local shows that get you nothing but indigestion.”

Avoid unreliable online judge-rating sites and seek guidance from trusted mentors or experienced breeders.

Hiring a handler does not mean outsourcing your dog’s entire career. Often, sending a dog with a professional for a single weekend or a short campaign can achieve goals that would otherwise take years.

Choose only handlers who are:
✔ Members of the Professional Handler Association
✔ Participants in the AKC Registered Handler Program

“Sometimes a handler can get things done that you simply can’t—and it pencils out.”

This can be the most cost-effective route when targeted wisely.

Entering a dog that isn’t competitive wastes money and sets everyone up for frustration.

Laura’s advice for puppies:

• Show in4–6 monthsfor exposure

• Skip regular conformation until the dog is mature and competitive

• Use that time to do obedience, rally, scent work, or socialization

• The Junior must reside in the region
• The Junior will have earned three first place wins in an Open Class with competition in the prior 12 months ending 3 months prior to the date of the event

• Use of a Superintendent
• Should there be an entry fee, it should not exceed the regular event fee
• The Junior Regional must be held in conjunction with an all-breed event
• AKC will offer $1,000 in Scholarship funds for Best Junior to be matched by the club

More information on the scientific literature that supports this can be found at:

• http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.1474-9726.2009.00513.x/full

• www.naiaonline.org/pdfs/longtermhealtheffectsofspayneuterindogs.pdf

• https://www.ucdavis.edu/news/neutering-health-effects-more-severe-golden-retrievers-labradors

• https://www.ucdavis.edu/news/early-neutering-poses-health-risks-german-shepherd-dogs-study-finds

• http://www.akcchf.org/educational-resources/library/articles/an-update-on-the-health.html