JENNY HENRY THE BREEDER/OWNER HANDLER
1. How were you first introduced to the sport of purebred dogs? To your breed? When I was younger, my mother raised (American) Cock- er Spaniels. So, in 2005, I got a Chocolate Tri Roan Cock- er to learn how to show dogs. I learned the basics of show- ing and loved it. I had to stop because of life and family. I got my first German Shepherd Dog in 2016 and started to show in UKC and then AKC. My husband always wanted Redbone Coonhounds, so I looked for a puppy for him. We got my first Redbone, “Rebel,” in 2020 and have just fallen in love with the breed. 2. How many years in dogs? How many as an Owner Handler? As a Breeder? I always had dogs growing up. I’ve been showing German Shepherd Dogs, as an owner handler, for five years and Redbone Coonhounds for three years. I just recently pro- duced my first well-bred German Shepherd litter in Janu- ary 2023. 3. Do you attend show handling classes? Have you attended in- person handling seminars? I took handling classes when I had my Cockers. I have taken a few, here and there, at shows when offered. 4. Have you found virtual learning tools to be helpful? Videos? Websites? Social Media? AKC Canine College? I have found that some virtual tools can be helpful, and have taken multiple AKC Canine College classes. I have learned handling techniques from watching online videos of Breed and Group judging. I have also asked for opinions in online Conformation groups, and have learned that you had better be prepared if you want to succeed in the show ring. 5. Do you compete in the National Owner-Handled Series? Are rankings important to you? I do compete in the National Owner-Handled Series. I have done well with both of my boys that I’m showing this year and look forward to seeing their rankings. 6. How important is the Bred-By Class to you? How important are Specialties? I’ve only shown in the Bred-By Class a few times, as I am now showing my first bred-by German Shepherd Dog puppy, which we excitingly won Best Bred-By Exhibitor at the 2023 AKC National Championship! We will be entering him in his first GSD Specialties. Redbones do not have Breed Specialties, but we have participated in a few Group Specialties.
140 | SHOWSIGHT MAGAZINE, MARCH 2024
Powered by FlippingBook