Look beyond the television image of a focused man or woman awarding ribbons and learn what it’s really like to judge dogs! Chris Walkowicz, a successful exhibitor and one of the top AKC judges, explains with humor and warmth how she, and others as committed as she is, learn their craft. Find out how judges get started, build their skills, and acquire their judging credentials. And learn about all the other things a judge must master including travel hassles, finances, and record keeping.

While writing in a light-hearted vein, Chris answers important questions. What do judges want from exhibitors? What do exhibitors want from judges? Learn from the author how to make the dog showing experience more successful for all.

Haven’t you always wanted to know?
• How judges learn to make their decisions.
• The best way to navigate the AKC judge’s application process.
• How to run a ring efficiently and fairly while promoting good sportsmanship.
• Tips on judging Groups, Best in Show, and at overseas events.

What makes Dog Show Judging Best in Show
Chris Walkowicz’s enthusiasm for the sport of dogs is contagious. Her many contributions to our sport are well-known and much appreciated. As a judge she brings both knowledge and passion to America’s dog show rings. Her new work is a must read for the entire fancy!
Patricia Craige Trotter, author of Born to Win

A great look at the world of judging dog shows. Chris covers it all, from comfortable shoes to breed standards to rules and ring procedures. She reminds us about what the responsibility of a judging assignment means—for the dogs and for the hardworking breeders and owners and exhibitors. But most important, she also reminds you to bring to the ring your sense of humor, a smile, and the memory of how you once were handling dogs yourself.
David Frei, Co-host, Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show, USA Network

Easy to read, easy to understand book is for all of those ready or even thinking of jumping into the world of Dog Show Judges. Chris Walkowicz is the perfect person to write this as she has been on all sides of the ring and can explain it with humor from one of us who have fallen into all of the pits along the way.
Pat Hastings, AKC Judge, author of Tricks of the Trade and Another Piece of the Puzzle

Chris Walkowicz began showing and breeding German Shepherds in 1965, adding Bearded Collies in 1977. More than 50 Walkoway Beardies and Shepherds have finished their Championships and Register of Merits, and nearly 60 dogs have performance titles. Chris judges nationally and internationally and is an award-winning author of numerous books including Successful Dog Breeding and The Atlas of Dog Breeds of the World. She lives in Sherrard, Illinois with her husband, Ed, and her Beardies.

Click here to view an excerpt.

What reviewers are saying...

MIDWEST BOOK REVIEW
“How does one call a show parading the best of the canine species? "Dog Show Judging: The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly" discusses dog show judging and how would be judges can do their best to be unbiased, clear calling judges, including how to break into the business. A career path for those who truly love dogs, Chris Walkowicz draws on his own experience to create a solid and very recommended read. "Dog Show Judging" is a top pick that is a must for anyone who wants to pursue this career.” James A. Cox

DOGS IN CANADA
“Since 1995, award winning author Walkowicz has judged conformation shows across the U.S. and around the world. In this book, she guides readers through the steps of becoming an AKC judge, the commitment to ongoing education, keeping good records, and how to run a ring with efficiency and fairness. Prospective judges and exhibitors alike will appreciate her sense of humour- especially her “war stories” – as ell as her sounds tips “from judges to judges.” A must for anyone who spends time in the ring." Natalie Ann Comeau