WORKING GROUP Q&A
MARIE ANN FALCONER I live in Athens, Tennessee, and have been exhibiting for 48 years and judging for 15 years.
owner-handle that Newf, a Giant Schnauzer, and multiple Portu- guese Water Dogs to their championships. The Working Group, therefore, became of great interest. Have I bred any influential Working dogs or shown any notable dogs? That’s an interesting question posed to a breeder. When you have been fortunate enough to produce National Specialty winners and multiple BIS winners in your breed, you obviously feel that they were influential Working dogs. But most likely, they would not be considered “notable” to the general fancy. How important is the handler to the Working dog’s perfor- mance? Obviously, you would hope that the handler (whether own- er or professional) understands the nuances of the breed to present the best “picture.” But frankly, I am more interested in the quality of the dog than the talents of the handler. Can I speak a bit about breed-specific presentation? Hopeful- ly, every serious breeder has a desire to have their dogs presented in a breed-specific manner. However, at more times than we would like, the concept of “showing” becomes the ultimate goal. Examples might include color-enhancing, deceptive (sometimes overly-done) trims, and “racing” dogs not built for speed around the ring. What about breed character? How do you assess this in the Working breeds? I evaluate each dog in relationship to the work they were bred to do, which is ideally defined in the breed stan- dard, i.e., type, structure, and temperament. Often, the tempera- ment piece is overlooked because the appearance of the dog is what the judge wants to see. I believe that temperament is of the utmost importance when you have a breed that was developed to “work” with/for people. Aggression cannot be tolerated in any breed, but of equal non-tolerance is a shy/timid Working dog. They should exude confidence. Does size really matter? Bigger is NOT always better. Even though some breed standards in the Working Group speak to size being desirable, it should never be at the expense of type, structure, balance, and temperament, as long as the dog’s size is within the specified range. Do I have any advice to offer newer judges of the Working Group? As stated previously, do not disregard the desired tempera- ment of the breed. Pay close attention to the dog’s balance as they move. “Wide-open” trots, showy back kicks, extended necks, etc. are not conducive to effortless gait. And most importantly, put your hands on the dog. Of course, this sounds obvious for a coated breed (where a multitude of sins can be hidden), but even the short-coated breeds may “look” great. However, when you feel them, they may lack the muscling and con- ditioning needed to work. Which Working dogs from the past have had the greatest influ- ence on the sport? After 30 years, that would be quite a list and I prefer to let their outstanding records speak for them. However, I would like to take this opportunity to say that I have been pleased with most of the new breeds that have entered the Group over those years—with structure, type, and temperament. These breeders are doing a great job. What can judges of the other Groups learn from the Work- ing breeds? These dogs were developed and bred to work—show- ing is not their major job. Yes, there will always be those “showy” exceptions, but each dog needs to be judged against its standard, which relates to the work it was bred to do. Indeed, form should follow function. Is there a funny story I can share about experiences judging the Working breeds? Most of the funny (and it most cases, embarrass- ing) stories shall remain untold... LOL.
Do I have any hobbies or interests apart from purebred dogs? Traveling! Can I talk about my introduc- tion to the Working breeds? I always loved the Siberian Husky, but was not allowed to have them while living on a working farm. So, once I was on my own after college, it began.
Have I bred any influential Working dogs or shown any notable dogs? I have bred over 120 champions, mostly Siberians. But I’ve also had five generations of Rottweilers. One of my top bitches, Libby, produced eight Best in Show offspring and multiple top-producing get as well. The most notable show dog was the famous “Rocky,” Ch Seeon- nees Point Blank; the winingest Siberian of all time, defeating the most in breed history. Also, I handled his dam, Vanna, who had 17 champion get. Many more greats through the years. How important is the handler to the Working dog’s perfor- mance? I believe you need to make sure these dogs do not lose their type; for what they were originally bred for. Too much generics these days and not enough breed-specific qualities. Can I speak a bit about breed-specific presentation? Less “fluff and puff ” and better quality of coats is needed. What about breed character? How do you assess this in the Working breeds? I want form and function. Newfs need correct coats. Rottweilers need balance and muscle. Siberians need more leg and prosternum. Standards need to be square with good hard coat, and Portuguese need swimming capabilities. Does size really matter? For me, is there a height DQ? Then, yes. Danes should be regal and aristocratic—like years ago. Dobermans seem to be much finer in bone. I want a strong Working dog. Do I have any advice to offer newer judges of the Working Group? Please be respectful and study the breeds’ key points. Which Working dogs from the past have had the greatest influ- ence on the sport? LOL. A GSD from way back, and probably a good-moving type specimen. What can judges of the other Groups learn from the Working breeds? Their strengths and soundness. DR. LINDAM. FOWLER
I reside in Columbia, South Car- olina, and began showing at AKC events in 1976, as an owner-handler. I have been an AKC judge for approxi- mately 30 years. Do I have any hobbies or interests apart from purebred dogs? Since retir- ing from the healthcare arena, I have dabbled in some volunteer work. But quite frankly, even though I no lon- ger breed, I spend the majority of my
time in dog activities—assisting other breeders, mentoring, etc., as well as exercising and training my one and only dog in a number of venues. Can I talk about my introduction to the Working breeds? My first AKC registered dog was a Newfoundland, bought as pet com- panion. But once we tried showing, I was “hooked.” I went on to
182 | SHOWSIGHT MAGAZINE, APRIL 2021
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