Handler Kim Calvacca

Interview with Professional Handlers

Please share with our readers how you got involved in the world of Pedigree Dogs.

The sport of purebred dogs has been a multi-generational family tradition. My grandfather began his journey with Boxers in the 1950s for his two daughters, Loretta and Lydia. My aunt was Best Junior Handler at Westminster in 1962 under Howard Tyler. My mom, Loretta, also competed and placed at Westminster in Juniors. So, I was born into the sport and have been at dog shows since day one. I continued through elementary school, high school, and college. I received my bachelor’s degree from C.W. Post College and chose showing dogs as my career and passion!

What handlers inspired you in the beginning, and who did you apprentice under?

I was first inspired by my grandfather and by watching Bob and Jane Forsyth, Terry Hundt, Ted Young, and Paul Edwards. I spent a lot of time hanging around, holding dogs, or going in for Reserve or BOW.

As a handler, are you more excited to win at an all-breed show or a breed specialty show?

Specialty.

The purpose of dog showing is to compare breeders’ future breeding stock against one another. Do you feel your clients have this in mind when they place a dog with you to show? And do you believe this is the mantra of those who show dogs in general?

I’ve been very fortunate in that all of my clients are exceptional breeders who are true stewards of their respective breeds. They place excellent dogs—breed representatives—with me to show. I believe most people in the sport approach it the same way.

Is there a particular breed or group of dogs you prefer to handle? If so, why?

I don’t have a preference. I just enjoy presenting a good dog.

What dog throughout history do you wish you had the opportunity to handle?

The Doberman Ch. Royal Tudor’s Wild As The Wind, “Indy.”

Do you have time to breed your own dogs? If yes, what breeds do you raise? If no, is this something you wish you had more time for in the future?

I am an active breeder of Miniature Pinschers under the KimRo kennel (Robin Greenslade being the “Ro” part). I also co-breed Boxers with Dr. Bill and Tina Truesdale of Hi-Tech fame.

How do you feel about the number of shows being held every weekend in the country and their entries? Do you prefer 2-day, 3-day, or 4-day (and longer) shows?

We should have fewer, but larger shows. Shows should only be held over 3- or 4-day weekends. This allows for more time to focus on conditioning, training, and exercising the dogs.

What are some of your favorite shows to show at, both in the USA and around the world?

Westminster and the AKC National Championship are definitely at the top. I also love Santa Barbara—it’s one of my all-time favorites.

Can you share some of your most memorable wins?

My two Working Group First wins at Westminster are unforgettable. All my breed wins at Westminster with my homebred Min Pins, as well as all my client breed wins, are incredibly meaningful to me. A very special win was my Best Bred-By in Show at the AKC National Championship in 2012. More recently, my Toy Group win at the 2024 AKC National Championship was a highlight. Over the course of my career, I’ve also won 9 Boxer National Best of Breeds. I was honored to be named AKC Toy Breeder of the Year in 2022, and I’m also proud of my approximately 250 All-Breed BIS wins.

Would you like to become a judge in the future? If so, which breeds/groups would you like to focus on?

Yes, I would love to become a judge in the future. I’d focus on the Working and Toy Groups.

If you had the power to change dog showing for the better, what would you change?

Fewer shows.

What is your favorite way to unwind on days off? Do you have hobbies outside of the dog world?

I love going out to dinner with my husband, and I enjoy going dancing. I’m also very interested in the arts—museums, theater, and culture. We love going to plays.

What is your favorite holiday destination?

I’m happiest relaxing at home for a staycation.

Why is red your color?

I think red is a pleasing contrast to the dogs I show, and it complements my complexion!