Judge • Connie Clark
Q: Can you walk us through your extensive involvement in the purebred dog world since 1976, encompassing various roles from breeder to AKC Judge?
Certainly, it’s been a journey, and an educational one at that. Each area has its own set of circumstances that prepare you for the next phase of development. Having “hands-on” experience enables you to make the proper decisions, whether it’s in serving clubs regionally and nationally, in the AKC Delegate role, and ultimately as an AKC Judge.
Q: You have judged all over the world, what have been some of your most memorable assignments both in and out of North America?
Most memorable outside of North America would be judging Wire Fox Terriers at the 2011 FCI World Show in Paris, Budapest Grand Prix and President Cup CACIB 2023, Am Staff National Specialty of Spain, 2017. And in North America, the 2023 Westminster Terrier Group, 2023 AKC National Championship show, 2018 K.C. Philadelphia Terrier Group, K.C. of Beverly Hills Terrier Group.
Q: What do you wish every judge knew about the Fox Terrier before assessing them in the ring?
That judges understand Breed Type. With two breeds, Smooth and Wire, this is very important! Proper coat and conditioning, keen expression with well-placed ears, squarely built, tail set, temperament, and sound movement coming and going. And all things in balance!
Q: What do you feel are some of the biggest differences in breeds shown outside of the USA, whether general or breed-specific?
Most shows outside of the USA are FCI shows, where breed standards differ from American standards. Additionally, there are many regional breeds shown that are not present in the USA today.
Q: What three dogs from the past do you wish you could have judged or owned?
- Torums Scarf Michael, Kerry Blue Terrier; CH Bardene Bingo, Scottish Terrier; CH Dersade Bobby’s Girl, Sealyham Terrier; and CH. Cede Higgins, Yorkshire Terrier.
Q: You have worn many ‘hats’ in the world of pedigree dogs — breeder, exhibitor, professional handler, AKC delegate, and judge. Which ‘hat’ has been the most fulfilling and most challenging?
As a breeder, it is most fulfilling when a puppy you planned for and whelped excels in the show ring and becomes a producer to carry on the line. However, breeding also comes with heartache, making it one of the most challenging roles. I would also add that judging can be very fulfilling when you discover that special exhibit who contributes significantly to the breed’s advancement. On the flip side, the most challenging aspect is the need to understand every detail of each breed’s standard to properly evaluate breeding stock, which requires continuous education.
Q: The purpose of dog showing was (and should still be) to evaluate and “show off” breeding stock. Do you think for some breeders/owners it is becoming more about ribbons and rankings? Sadly, in some cases, I am seeing this trend.
Q: Having judged various Terrier Breed/Group Specialties, including Montgomery County events, could you share some memorable experiences from these prestigious shows?
The 2023 Westminster Terrier Group assignment was particularly memorable, with numerous outstanding exhibits and only four placements to award. It’s always a privilege to judge National Specialties at Montgomery County, including events for the Airedale Club of America, American Fox Terrier Club, United States Kerry Blue Terrier Club, and Welsh Terrier Club of America. Judging the Best Bred By Exhibitor Group at Montgomery County is a highlight; it truly is the global Mecca for Terriers, showcasing exceptional quality. I would also like to mention the Australian Terrier Club of America’s National Specialty in North Carolina, which boasted exceptional depth of quality.
Q: How do you perceive the current status of Terrier breeds, with many being classified as “low entry”? What factors do you believe contribute to this trend?
It is disheartening to witness nearly half of Terrier breeds classified as “low entry” today. The coat work required in many Terrier breeds is labor-intensive, dissuading exhibitors who find it too difficult or time-consuming. Additionally, we are facing a decline in longtime breeders who have been foundational to many breeds, with few new breeders stepping up to take their place. The high competitiveness in Terrier rings may also intimidate new exhibitors, impacting participation. Cost considerations likely play a role as well.
Q: In your observation, are there specific regions in the world where Terriers exhibit exceptional quality and strength? The American Staffordshire Terrier, an American breed, shows strong quality and presence in many parts of the world, particularly in Serbia, Hungary, and Spain, where entries at World Dog Shows often reach 200-300. Cairn Terriers are notably strong in Sweden, while Bull Terriers enjoy popularity worldwide, highlighted by the annual Team Country Competition in the Netherlands, won recently by the USA team. Additionally, Scottish Terriers are prominent in the USA.
Q: Who are some judges that have significantly influenced your decision to judge and your approach to judging? What qualities do you admire most in their judging style? Anne Rogers Clark, Clay Coady, Roz Kramer, Desi Murphy, Alan Odom, Charlotte Patterson, and Polly Smith have all been influential. I admire their deep knowledge, decisiveness, confidence, calm demeanor, and their knack for recognizing exceptional dogs. In the mid-eighties, Alan Odom, then an AKC Rep, encouraged me to consider judging, but I felt I needed to achieve more with my breeding and exhibiting first. Desi Murphy has been pivotal in my understanding and appreciation of Bull Terriers, sharing invaluable articles by influential breeders.
Q: What do you like to do most to relax and unwind? I enjoy cruising the beautiful Gulf Islands and Inside Passage of British Columbia, Canada.
Q: What is your favorite meal to make and which one are you always excited to order in a restaurant? As a food enthusiast, I have many favorites, making it difficult to choose just one. When dining out, I often opt for dishes that I don’t typically prepare at home.
Q: Lastly, amidst your judging experiences, have there been any humorous or lighthearted moments that stand out and you’d be willing to share? During the open dog class of Wire Fox Terriers at the 2011 World Show in Paris, a cat unexpectedly ran through the lineup. Dogs that reacted appropriately demonstrated the true Wire Terrier spirit, creating a memorable and amusing judging moment.
