Handler Keith McDonough
Interview with Professional Handler
Q: Please tell our readers how you got involved in the world of pedigree dogs and which people were the most important for your beginnings.
A: We owned Palm Desert Quarter Horses, where we trained and showed world-class AQHA all-around horses. We sold the business and retired in 2021. My husband, Mark, wanted another dog, but I was adamant about no more pets. I desired the freedom to travel the world easily. We compromised by agreeing to get a “dog with a purpose”: a show dog.
A: We attended the 2022 Palm Springs show to “look” at Norwich Terriers, as Mark was enamored with the breed. Everyone around the Norwich ring insisted we speak to Cary Trexler and Andrew Chen of Verdant Kennels. Over the following months, Cary and Andrew had litter after litter of puppies until six months had passed before they found the puppy that matched our goals. They informed us, “Your puppy is ready! …and Gabriel is expecting you.” We were puzzled and asked, “Who is Gabriel?” We were complete novices, knowing nothing and nobody in the world of dog showing.
Q: Please share with our readers some of your highlights in the show ring as OH, so far.
A: The entire experience has been amazing. It’s incredibly rewarding to embark on a journey as a complete beginner and learn something new every time I step into the ring. One of the most memorable moments was my first show last June in Merlin, Oregon. We were driving from Southern California to our property in Washington to oversee our home construction. I asked Gabriel if it would be okay if I tried showing my dog at a show along the way. He replied, “Absolutely! You’ll be fine! Just call if you have questions or need anything… and keep me posted.”
A: However, there was no cell reception at the show, so I couldn’t communicate with Gabriel at all. I just did my best to figure it out. We had a blast, made many new friends, and at the end of the three shows, we reported back to Gabriel and Ivonne that we went G1, G2, and G2 in the regular groups, as well as sweeping the NOHS Groups, along with a BIS and a RBIS.
Q: What makes you more excited – winning an all-breed Best in Show or a Specialty Best in Show?
A: I am immensely grateful to be recognized in either. It’s a huge honor to be considered. I often find myself in awe of the other dogs competing with us in the BIS ring.
Q: On the whole, do you believe there are too many all-rounder judges judging your breed and not enough breed or group specialists?
A: No, I don’t. As an All-Around judge in the horse world, I genuinely appreciate what it takes to become an all-around judge. I just hope they have undergone continuing education on standards.
Q: Westminster or Orlando? Also, how do you feel about not having Westminster in the Garden anymore?
A: I don’t have a strong opinion. I’m hoping we will be able to attend Westminster next year. Stanley just turned two in April, so he was too young to qualify for invites this year. We went to Orlando this past December but had to leave early due to a family emergency.
Q: What do you think, where in the world does your breed have the best quality?
A: I believe you will find amazing Norwich Terriers all over the world.
Q: How do you feel regarding the number of shows held weekly around the country?
A: I love it! I’d gladly hop on a plane across the country for four days of NOHS and a great panel of judges rather than show 20 minutes from home to “undesirable” judges or a show with limited NOHS days.
Q: Would you ever consider becoming a judge one day?
A: I would, if the day comes when those around me believe I have the eye and knowledge to contribute to the sport. Coming from horses, I have a strong eye for structure and movement.
Q: Is there any advice you would like to give to Professional Handlers, Owner/Handlers, and judges?
A: Oh boy… To the Pros out there, I would say: do not underestimate your knowledge and wealth. Don’t be afraid to fire clients – it is YOUR business, not the client’s. One bad apple will spoil the basket. To the Owner-Handlers, I would say: stop complaining about getting beat by pros and take a closer look at yourself, how you present yourself and your dogs, and the quality of your dogs.
A: Are you doing the best you can? I video almost every time I’m in the ring and watch it over and over. Gabriel watches every video and is very critical every time. Be open to criticism; it’s how we grow. To the judges, I say: perception is everything. If you’re going over the dogs, studying their movement, and actually examining every animal, you will be appreciated no matter your choices.
A: I have shown to judges who look out into the crowd while they’re supposed to be watching my dog. It is infuriating. I have lost to judges who give a thorough exam and felt appreciative for their professionalism.
Q: Your dedication to the equestrian world is evident. Could you share with us the remarkable achievements and experiences that have defined your journey within this sport?
A: My time in the dog show sport has been short but very rewarding thus far. We finished 2023 as #2 NOHS Norwich and are currently ranked #1. The most rewarding experiences have been the hundreds of new friends we’ve made along the way. There’s something about a personable Norwich that opens the door for people to chat with you.
Q: What is your favorite way to unwind on days off? Do you have hobbies outside of the dog world?
A: Days off?!? We fly from WA to CA on most Tuesdays for Stanley’s grooming, my continuing lessons from Gabe in grooming, handling in the show ring, etc., and just catching up over lunch. Otherwise, we love working on our property, developing our beach pathway, or other projects.
Q: You have the power to change dog showing for the better in your eyes, what would you change?
A: I think the most impactful efforts would be to introduce the sport to more kids and dog lovers to build the future. I had no idea what an amazing sport and world I was missing.
Q: Is there something that recently moved you?
A: Yes. I was leaving the ring in Orlando at one of the pre-shows when I noticed a good-sized group of other exhibitors all together, talking. Roxanne Sutton called me over and wanted to show the others Stanley. They were pointing out his skull, eyes, coat, etc. To be complimented by a group of respected breeders and handlers was the ultimate reward; way more than any ribbon. It was such a joy to tell Cary and Andrew that others recognized their efforts in breeding quality Norwich.
