tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-70460134166290410092024-03-05T23:32:49.212-08:00Southern Lights Standard SchnauzersSouthern Lights Schnauzershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04202845760548772802noreply@blogger.comBlogger15125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7046013416629041009.post-50752908969887985942014-07-28T15:07:00.000-07:002014-08-06T18:41:10.915-07:00First litter planned!<h2>
Southern Lights Standard Schnauzers is pleased to announce the planned breeding of our first liter (pending remaining health clearances). Puppies are expected in Winter 2014.</h2>
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Dam: <b>GCH Stahlkrieger Comanches Dream Catcher</b> </h3>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b>"Remi"</b></span></div>
<span style="text-align: start;"> (CH Geistvoll Double Diamond x GCH Stahlkrieger's Red Red Rose)</span><br />
<span style="text-align: start;"><br /></span>CHIC#99102<br />
CHIC # SC-DNA- 441/S</div>
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OFA HIP# SC-4300E27F-VPI Excellent</div>
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OFA DCM # SC-DCM258/28F Negative</div>
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OFA Thyroid #TH108/27F-VPI: Normal </div>
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CERF# SC-EYE153/31F-VPI</div>
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Remi finished the year (2013) as the #19 Standard Schnauzer (#7 Bitch) in AKC Grand Champion points with only 6 months of showing last year. She is a large, eye catching bitch with high energy and a sweet temperament. - our Rally/Agility instructor (a nationally well known judge) often complements her intensity and her sharp skill execution. We have never entered competitive performance events but I do train both the dogs for fun.<br />
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Sire: CH Stahlkrieger's Southern Lights,CGC</h3>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b>"Kord"</b></span><br />
<span style="text-align: start;">(CH Stahlkrieger's Undefeatable x CH Stahlkrieger's Perfect Ten)</span><br />
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CHIC # SC-DNA- 440/S</div>
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OFA HIP# SC-4031G24M-VPI Good</div>
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OFA DCM # SC-DCM218/57M-VPI Negative</div>
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OFA Caridac# SC-CA38/12M/P-VPI: Normal </div>
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OFA Patella #SC-PA3/12M/P-VPI: Normal</div>
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CERF#SC-935/2010-13</div>
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Kord is a natural show dog. He loves attention, his tail never quits wagging and he just shines in the ring. He earned his CGC and his AKC Champion titles at under one year of age. I have not entered Kord in any competitive performance events but have trained him for obedience and Agility. Both instructors (nationally known) have complemented Kord's work ethic and desire to please. Kord has also been herding instinct tested and passed. A video of the actual test is included in an earlier blog post. Again the evaluator was very complementary of calmness around the sheep (this was his first and only exposure to them), and his natural circling action. She said that she thought he would do well as a herding dog with some training. Unfortunately the school is about 3 hours from my home and we were unable to continue training for that sport.<br />
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<br />Southern Lights Schnauzershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04202845760548772802noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7046013416629041009.post-88131604132022653162014-07-20T18:55:00.000-07:002014-07-20T18:55:07.329-07:00Houston World Series of Dog Shows 2014Although Remi will be breed soon, I decided to enter her in the Houston World Series of Dog Shows event this weekend for fun. I am so glad I did. She was entered only 3 days out of 5 and this was only the second time I have shown her myself.<br />
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She finished the weekend Best of Opposite Sex today for a major win and was also Select Bitch on Friday.<br />
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I am so proud of my girl. - stay tuned for pictures which will be added as an update as soon as they are received.Southern Lights Schnauzershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04202845760548772802noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7046013416629041009.post-57559795912140099202012-01-07T05:28:00.000-08:002012-01-07T05:39:01.691-08:00Multi-Drug Sensitivity in DogsI learned something really fascinating recently and thought that some of you might be interested in reading about it as well.<br />
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<div style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: transparent;">Apparently</span>, some dogs are know to have bad reactions to some commonly used veterinary medications including: ivermectin, loperamide, Imodium, and many chemotherapeutics. For many years, no one knew why this was happening and veterinarians were taught that if dogs had white feet, they "should not treat" them with these medicines. However, a few years ago researchers at Washington State University's College of Veterinary Medicine discovered that mutations in the mdr1 gene cause problems with coding of glycoprotein ultimately leading to difficulty metabolizing drugs effecting this protein. </div><div style="background-color: white;"><br />
</div><div style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: 'times new roman', 'new york', times, serif;">Dogs who have two copies of the faulty gene (one from each parent), who are then given normal doses of the drugs that contain the problem compound are also likely to experience a dysregulation of the HPA axis (Hypothalmic-pituitary- adrenal). They often appear to have a slightly irregular version of Addison's disease which is actually caused by dysfunction of the adrenal glands and often co-occurs with and can lead to thyroid dysfunction if left untreated.</span></div><div style="background-color: white; font-family: 'times new roman', 'new york', times, serif; font-size: 16px;"></div><div style="background-color: white; font-family: 'times new roman', 'new york', times, serif; font-size: 16px;">But normal dogs and dogs with only one copy of the gene are not susceptible to this problem so the drug could be used without concern in them and shouldn't be used at all in those who are homozygous (two copies of the gene).</div><div style="background-color: white;"><br />
</div><div style="background-color: white;">Many breeds are know to carry the gene and it is highly prevalent in herding breeds, especially Collies. I was unable to find any specific information on the rate of this mutation in Standard Schnauzers but expect the rate to be low as Standards are relatively unrelated to the herding breeds (genetically speaking) despite their use as herding dogs. </div><div style="background-color: white;"><br />
</div><div style="background-color: white;">If you are interested in learning more about this subject, please see: <a href="http://www.vetmed.wsu.edu/depts-vcpl/" style="background-color: transparent;">http://www.vetmed.wsu.edu/depts-vcpl/</a><br />
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A printable information sheet can be downloaded from : <a href="http://www.vetmed.wsu.edu/depts-VCPL/printable/VCPL-Flier.pdf" style="background-color: white;">http://www.vetmed.wsu.edu/depts-VCPL/printable/VCPL-Flier.pdf</a></div><div style="background-color: white;"><br />
</div><div style="background-color: white;">There are also a number of scholarly articles that can be obtained with a quick Google search for scholarly articles on Mutlidrug Sensitivity in Dogs or by referencing appropriate search terms in the veterinary literature databases. I have not listed them all here because there are too many and my list would quickly be out of date as this literature appears to be constantly evolving.</div><div style="background-color: white;"><br />
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</div>Southern Lights Schnauzershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04202845760548772802noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7046013416629041009.post-59575822190215892142012-01-07T04:41:00.000-08:002012-01-07T04:41:30.525-08:00New Puppy Coming Soon!<div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">I know that it has been several months since our last post but we are pleased to announce that a new puppy will be joining our family in 2012. We will co-own Stahlkrieger's Comanche Dreamcatcher with our good friend Cheryl Crompton. She is a beautiful, </span><span style="line-height: 20px;">spunky</span><span style="line-height: 115%;">, pepper & salt bitch, born the week before Christmas to Stahlkrieger's Red Red Rose (Richard and Ellen Mahoney). The sire is Geistvoll's Double Diamond (Jim and Renee Pope). This special girl will be our second show pup and the first we will attempt to show ourselves with continued help from our friend, Maxine Pettaway. We expect her to arrive in February/March and have high hopes for this little charmer. Stay tuned for photos and other updates. </span></span><o:p></o:p></div>Southern Lights Schnauzershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04202845760548772802noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7046013416629041009.post-83274310288901261462011-03-15T12:00:00.000-07:002011-03-15T12:00:04.981-07:00Interesting or Useful BooksI don't know how many others in the dog world are big readers, but I am a voracious reader myself. In addition to novels I read for entertainment and journals and texts I read for work, I think that I have read over 40 dog related books in the last year. So I thought that I would list a few of my favorites here. They are divided by topic. (I will try to update this list and the related reviews over time as I come across more good books).<br />
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<b><u>BREED SPECIFIC</u></b><br />
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<i><b>The Standard Schnauzer Source Books 1-5</b>.</i> These books are published by the Standard Schnauzer Club of American and available through their publications page. The contain photographs of past champions, lists of accomplishments and pedigrees for many of the great dogs in our breed's history. They also include updates on things relevant to the development and progress of the breed in other countries. I have found them very helpful learning resources.<br />
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<b><u>CONFORMATION</u></b><br />
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<i><b>The Absolute Beginners Guide to Showing Your Dog</b></i> by <b>Cheryl Smith</b>. I could not have survived without this book! It is an excellent overview of what dog show are about, explaining what happens before, after and during the shows from how to be a spectator to the skills you need to do it yourself, the required paperwork and set up, to what the judge is doing and why. I highly recommend this book for anyone new to the sport.<br />
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<b><i>Raising a Champion: A beginner's guide to showing dogs</i></b> by <b>Carole Richards</b>. This book is also "required reading" for first time show dog owners. While the book above is a good overview to help you understand the general concepts, this book is a "how to" manual you can not live without. The authors say that the idea for this book came about from all the puppy people they have worked with over the years who wished for an owners manual. So one day they finally decide to sit down and write one. Well, I think that they did an excellent job. They teach you everything from setting a goal, purchasing required equipment and basic puppy care to training skills, show craft, entering events and building points. One of the things I like best is the use of photographs to illustrate the effect of both correct and incorrect use of skills (for example, stacking) in the same dog. I found it very helpful to my understanding of WHY we are meant to do things in a particular way (and why NOT to do them in other ways). I hope you will find it as helpful as I did.<br />
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<i style="font-weight: bold;">Loose Lead: The Life and Dog-Training Secrets of Texas Legend Adelene Pardo </i> by <b>Nancy Francis</b>. This book is both instructional and biographical. Its is by far the funnies book I have read in years. I laughed so hard the first night I was reading it that my husband wanted in on the joke and from that point on I had to read the book aloud. I love that this very well known and respected woman demonstrates such grace and self confidence that she has learned through the years to laugh at herself and doesn't mind allowing us to join her. It makes me want to say: "when I grow old I too shall wear purple!"<br />
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<b><i>An Eye For a Dog: Illustrated guide to judging purebred dogs</i></b> by <b>Robert W. Cole</b>. This book is just what the title implies, an educational tool for learning about breed type, body structure and movement. The illustrator is clearly skilled and has the ability to visually depict subtle differences in form and structure in a way that helps the reader learn to look for these effects in his/her real life subjects. The book is intended for breeders and judges but is also useful for new people interested in learning about the sport of dogs if they are also ready to move beyond the mechanics of the event to better understand what's really happening and why.<br />
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<b><u>OBEDIENCE</u></b><br />
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<b><i>The Canine Good Citizen: Every dog can be one, 2nd edition</i></b> by <b>Jack and Wendy Volhard</b>. This is a new book from the AKC. It briefly describes the creation and development of the AKC's new Canine Good Citizen Program. It also provides a list of the required skills and instructions on how to teach your dog to achieve them. I was already enrolled in a CGC class when I read this book but I found it helpful to have a good overview of the training objectives and the reasons for them. Though I don't think that I would have been able to use the book to replace the course.<br />
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<b><i>Success is in the Proofing: A Guide for Creative and Effective Training</i></b> by <b>Debbie Quigley and Judy Ramsey</b>. This nice little book which is designed for people in obedience to take with them to events or to be handy for training. Its spiral bound with a laminated cover that makes it easy to use. The authors describe techniques similar to the ones they teach in their classes and seminars for proofing skills as your dog learns them. The focus primarily on the skills that are used for formal obedience but the principles could apply to any training situation.<br />
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<b><i>The Rally Course Book: A guide to AKC Rally Courses</i></b> by <b>Janice Dearth</b>. This is a very well designed book with a laminated cover and spiral binding. It describes the development of rally course and provides several examples. However, this is not a good book for a beginning who is primarily interested in learning about the sport and the various signs and procedures. You'll need a different book for that.<br />
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<b><u>AGILITY</u></b><br />
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<b><i>Success is in the Shaping: The education of an unlikely champion</i></b> by <b>Susan Garrett</b>. This book is based on a collection of articles Ms. Garrett has previously posted about her own experiences in training a boarder collie puppy who went on to be one of the most successful champions in the history of agility. I don't agree with her premise that this dog was an "unlikely" champion. He comes from amazing stock with multiple record holding family members. However, it is a very entertaining book, funny and well written. It conveyed a sense of hope to me for my own boy and helped me to laugh at my own follies as the author was clearly able to do for her own. I think its well worth reading and am glad that the publisher allowed me to keep it when they mistakenly shipped this in place of another item I had originally ordered.<br />
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<b><u>REPRODUCTION</u></b><br />
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<b><i>Canine Reproduction and Whelping: A breeders guide </i></b>by Myra Savant-Harris. This was a good basic primer written in understandable terms and covering a broad range of topics. Although the author purposely chose to write the book using laymen's terms where possible instead of medical jargon, the book still feels well research and appears to be based on a reasonably up to date reading of the literature. This is the best basic breeding guide I have read.<br />
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<b><i>Advanced Canine Reproduction and Puppy Care</i></b> by Myra Savant-Harris. This is a fabulous book. A friend and I were just discussing a couple of the topics raised in the first 4 chapters of this book. It is like the author read our minds. I am personally fascinated because the book touches on subjects that link my professional activities and my dog hobby. Though this may not be a book for everyone. Many of the suggestions coming out of the book are based on conjecture derived from the literature pertaining to reproduction in other species rather than on science specific to canines. However, the science to support these ideas is unlikely to be conducted if we don't start thinking about it and discussing among ourselves.<br />
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This author also has a book called Puppy Intensive Care. However, I haven't had the chance to read it yet and will not review it until the next update.<br />
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<b><u>GENERAL INTEREST</u></b><br />
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<i style="font-weight: bold;">The Dog's Mind: Understanding your dog's behavior </i>by <b>Bruce Fogle.</b> This is a great book. I believe that it is out of print now but you can still find used copies on Amazon from time to time. The book is a very well written and well researched volume that describes a scientific basis for understanding animal behavior (and dog behavior in particular). The author is a veterinarian and something of an authority on the subject. Some parts of the science are a little bit dated at this point as the book was written in the 1990's but only a scientist who works in this area or is very knowledgeable his/herself would notice those issues. The typical reader will find that this book is a priceless tool for making sense of what dogs do and why.<br />
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<b><i>The Other End of the Leash</i></b> by <b>Patricia McConnell</b>. Dr. McConnell is a well known academician and animal behavioralist. This book was published for the consumption of the general public and as such is both informative and accessible to the typical reader. Like the Dog's Mind, this book give great insight into the relationships between dogs and humans. However, it is not focused on the physiological explanation for that relationship so much as the behavioral cues we humans provide to our four legged companions and how our behavior impacts theirs. It is an excellent book and well worth your time to read.<br />
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<b><i>Dog's I've Nosed</i></b> by <b>Jack Kenner</b>. This is a photo essay book with some incredibly artistic images of our four legged friends.Southern Lights Schnauzershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04202845760548772802noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7046013416629041009.post-29895893704309139442011-03-01T05:02:00.000-08:002011-03-01T05:02:00.260-08:00WHAT IS A TITLE, REALLY by Sandy Mowery<div align="left" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; word-spacing: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 12px;">I found a copy of this on another website and thought that I would repost here in case some of you might be interested in reading it. I know I find it very moving.</span></div><div align="left" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; word-spacing: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 12px;"><br />
</span></div><div align="left" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; word-spacing: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 12px;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">"Not just a brag, not just a stepping stone to a higher title, not just an adjunct to competitive scores; a title is a tribute to the dog that bears it, a way to honor the dog, an ultimate memorial. It will remain in the record and in the memory, for about as long as anything in the world can remain. And though the dog herself doesn't know or care that her achievements have been noted, a title says many things in the world of humans, where such things count. A title says your dog was intelligent, adaptable, and good-natured. It says that your dog loved you enough to do the things that please you, however crazy they may have sometimes seemed."</span></i></span></div><div align="left" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; color: #333333; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; word-spacing: 0px;"><br />
</div><div align="left" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; color: #333333; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="font-size: 9pt;"><i> "In addition, a title says that you love your dog. That you loved to spend time with her because she was a good dog and that you believed in her enough to give her yet another chance when she (or you!) failed and in the end your faith was justified. A title proves that your dog inspired you to that special relationship enjoyed by so few. That in a world of disposable creatures, this dog with a title was greatly loved, and loved greatly in return."</i></span></span></div><div align="left" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; color: #333333; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; word-spacing: 0px;"><br />
</div><div align="left" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; color: #333333; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; word-spacing: 0px;"></div><div align="left" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; color: #333333; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="font-size: 9pt;"><i> "And when that dear short life is over, the title remains as a memorial of the finest kind, the best you can give to a deserving friend. Volumes of praise in one small set of initials after a name. An obedience (agility, flyball, herding, tracking, lure coursing, conformation) title is nothing less than the true love and respect, given and received and recorded permanently."</i></span></span></div>Southern Lights Schnauzershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04202845760548772802noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7046013416629041009.post-89575865661948267312011-02-20T07:08:00.000-08:002011-02-20T07:08:59.004-08:00Snips and snails, and puppy dog talesI have been reflecting a lot recently on the relationship between children and dogs. Dogs were a very important aspect of my own childhood, in part because my grandfather was a vet and there wasn't much I liked better than "helping" in the clinic on weekends and school holidays, and in part because my parents breed boxer's and my siblings and I were the official "puppy socialization" team.<br />
<br />
Although not all working group breeds are good with children, in their native Germany, our own breed is known as the kinderkeeper. The ability to shift from all around farm/guard duty to gentle affectionate playmate is a hallmark of both sexes. This doesn't mean that the temperament of our breed is "soft" rather it reflects the versatility of these intelligent and sensitive animals.<br />
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Our family made the decision to acquire our first standard when our son was less than a year old and just learning to walk. Naturally, there were some difficult moments teaching both boys how to respect and care for each other. Standard schnauzer puppies do not always realize their own strength, and for that matter, neither do little boys. However, having two rambunctious boys developing at about the same rate has provided endless hours of comic relief at our house and I just can't say enough about the companionship of a four legged friend for all the middle of the night calls, tantrums and other mischief toddlers get into.<br />
<br />
For us, having a dog has RELIEVED parenting stress, making it easier for us to meet the emotional needs of child and puppy alike. However, this may not be true for many other families. Puppies require a lot of work (especially standard schnauzer puppies), socialization, housebreaking, crate training, obedience, etc.<br />
<br />
Although it makes me sad that many breeders will not place a puppy in a home with small children, I understand that their reluctance is based on bad experiences in the past with just such placements.<br />
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Please be honest with yourself and your prospective breeder, not just about whether this is the right breed for you but also whether or not this is the right time in your life to make this commitment. Dogs are not disposable (or interchangeable). They are sentient beings with a personality and life all their own and they are such phenomenally loyal partners that they deserve no less than a lifetime commitment from us.Southern Lights Schnauzershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04202845760548772802noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7046013416629041009.post-20324900770986639802011-02-01T12:00:00.000-08:002011-02-01T12:00:06.425-08:00Health Certification updateI blogged about health certifications once last year and wont repeat myself here. However, there are some recent changes in the recommended health certifications for standard schnauzers as per the latest issue of the Pepper and Salt newsletter.<br />
<br />
The SSCA has recently joined together with CHIC (Canine Health Information Center) which is a joint project between the AKC and OFA. CHIC will be a cross referenced public database to help breeders and owners easily locate health data for their breed. SSCA is participating in this project and encouraging members to obtain CHIC certification for all standard schnauzers (pets, breeding stock, performance dogs, etc).<br />
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CHIC certification requires the following tests, all completed after the age of two:<br />
<br />
1) OFA Hip test<br />
2) CERF test<br />
<br />
and at least one of the following:<br />
<br />
1) Thyroid test by approved OFA lab<br />
2) Cardiac test read by boarded cardiologist and/or<br />
3) blood sample to CHIC DNA repository<br />
<br />
SSCA is also recommending re-testing for CERF and Thyroid after seven years of age for breeding stock.<br />
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As noted elsewhere, Kord passed his cardiac, petella luxation and eye exams at 12mths. He is registered with CERF and OFA for these tests and we will undertake the additional recommended tests when he attains the recommended age.<br />
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I personally believe that good health is one of the characteristics that sets standard schnauzers apart from all other dogs, making them desirable as both pets and performance animals. I am glad that our parent organization and the many concerned breeders in this fancy are all doing their part to ensure that good health continues to be a defining characteristic of our breed in the future!Southern Lights Schnauzershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04202845760548772802noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7046013416629041009.post-91175768863282517092011-01-16T11:54:00.000-08:002011-01-18T05:54:22.307-08:00Grooming<div style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">People familiar with our breed will already know but folks considering acquiring a standard schnauzer may not be aware of the grooming requirements. Standard schnauzers require a good deal of grooming whether they are kept in a pet or show coat. </div><br />
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Dogs who are kept as pets may be clippered on the jacket with scissoring of the head piece and furnishings (this can be done by a professional groomer every 6-8 weeks depending on the growth rate of your dog's coat) but also require brushing at least twice a week (to prevent mats) and bathing once a week or every other week depending on their living arrangements (dogs who spend more time out of doors require more frequent routine grooming). Those who are experienced in grooming or just feeling adventuresome may wish to address grooming on their own and there are a variety of tools that you will find helpful. For a detailed list of some of my favorites, please see below.<br />
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Dogs who are involved in conformation must be kept in what is referred to as a show coat. Show coats are "hand stripped" using stripping knives and other implements which can generally only be purchased from a show grooming pet supply vendor or an online pet supply source such as Pet Edge (see below for suggestions).<br />
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I work with a handler who usually manages the more difficult grooming tasks for me. But when Kord finished his championship last fall, I got brave and decided to try it myself (my friends are still laugh :-)). I have fully stripped him one time (am in the second round now) and have since done coat maintenance and clipper/scissor work. I took a weekend seminar style grooming course and have been working with a professional for several months before trying this. I would recommend that you do the same if you are trying to keep your dog in show coat without the assistance of a professional.<br />
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I believe hand stripping to be a labor intensive process regardless of coat type. After the initial stripping process, the jacket must be raked often with multiple sizes of stripping knives (this removes loose undercoat) then stoned to remove loose outer coat). The length of time between full stripping varies. Some dogs have coats that roll easily and may only require full stripping infrequently. Others do not roll easily and may require stripping every 4-6 months. If the stripping goes to the skin it may take 6-8 weeks for the jacket to grow out adequately for the dog to be shown after intensive grooming. Obviously dogs with coats that roll easily can be shown more often because they don't require "time off" between groomings to allow the coat to grow back to an acceptable length.<br />
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When I stripped Kord myself, I found that it took me approximately 8-9 hours to complete the job. I did it over two days. I stripped the body of the jacket and most of the legs on the first day (some areas are sensitive and you may need to go slowly or take breaks). Then stripped the head and rest of the legs on the second day. I saved clipper and scissor work for the following weekend (Kord and I were both to tired to do the job properly after the stripping exercise). I also found that I had several blisters on my fingers when I finished and have since learned that "secretary fingers" which can be bought at an office supply place will be helpful in preventing this in the future (you may need multiple sizes for different fingers).<br />
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I just completed round two now, which went a lot faster. I would estimate 4-6 hours for stripping, scissoring and clipping. However, I didn't take the jacket to the skin as I did the first time and I used blending shears on a couple of places where scissoring would not be allowed on a show coat. He definitely does not look as perfectly put together as when our friend grooms him. But I think that this is a coat I can live with between professional groomings until we decide whether he will return to the show ring in the future.<br />
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I'll try to post more details on the grooming process here in the future but for now, will suggest that you consider contacting the SSCA to request their grooming materials as a place to start.<br />
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<a href="http://www.standardschnauzer.org/">http://www.standardschnauzer.org/</a><br />
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Just look for the publications page and you will find several different resources for grooming.<br />
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Best wishes!<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><u><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">Suggested Supplies</span></b></u></div><u><b><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs487.snc3/26644_549404952904_199303372_32504267_1656557_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs487.snc3/26644_549404952904_199303372_32504267_1656557_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">B<i>asic</i></span><br />
<i></i>1) Mane and Tail shampoo and conditioner<br />
2) Pin brush (I have greyhound and like it alot but others may be less expensive)<br />
3) metal comb (with 2 widths of teeth)<br />
4) soft cat slicker brush (mine is from Safari and I LOVE it, very soft and super comfortable in my hand)<br />
<i><br />
</i><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.paragonpetschool.com/Colorimages%5CTblGrooming%20Table%202430-36.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://www.paragonpetschool.com/Colorimages%5CTblGrooming%20Table%202430-36.jpg" width="230" /></a></div><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Intermediate</span></i><br />
<i>1) </i>Grooming table with adjustable arm and grooming noose<br />
2) Electric clippers (I have Andis Ultraedge and think that they work well but everybody has their favorites)<br />
3) #10 clipper blade (usually comes with the clippers but others prefer the #8.5 clipper blade)<br />
4) #40 clipper blade<br />
5) can of clipper cool<br />
6) jar of clipper cleaner<br />
7) container of clipper oil (usually comes with the clippers)<br />
8) 10 inch straight scissors (you can buy inexpensive scissor that work well enough for a pet from Amazon or Pet Edge)<br />
9) 8-10 curved scissors<br />
10) blending shears (worth investing some money in up front because they are more comfortable and last longer)<br />
11) medium and fine stripping knives (I started with Classic knives)<br />
12) grill stone<br />
13) ear powder (or rosin which may be less expensive/easier to find)<br />
14) hair drier (friends like Yellow Bird because the vents are on the sides and you can tuck the drier in a belt or apron for hands free operation but I am still using my personal travel dryer and it seems to work fine)<br />
15) grooming jacket or grooming apron (might like to have a couple different choices for different activities<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://s7d5.scene7.com/is/image/PetsUnited/T190363_G" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://s7d5.scene7.com/is/image/PetsUnited/T190363_G" width="224" /></a></div><br />
<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Advanced</span></i><br />
1) additional stripping knives <br />
2) grooming bag<br />
3) scissor case<br />
4) clipper case<br />
5) mat cutter<br />
6) whitening shampoo (for Pepper salt coat) or color safe<br />
shampoo (for black coats)<br />
7) cholesterol and chalk (for pepper salt coat)<br />
8) moose (for black coat)<br />
9) small soft bristle brush (for driving chalk)<br />
10) pan large enough to hold dog (when chalking)<br />
11) small pan and sponge (for sponge bathing)<br />
12) old towelsSouthern Lights Schnauzershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04202845760548772802noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7046013416629041009.post-58283445097266154552010-12-15T08:00:00.000-08:002010-12-15T08:00:01.351-08:00AgilityAgility is a newer sport to the dog fancy. Introduced at AKC events in the 1990's it has a strong history here in the state of Texas and Kord and I recently joined the ranks of agility enthusiasts.<br />
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As we have learned, agility capitalizes on the athletic ability and partnership skills of a team composed of one dog and one handler. Teams progress through an obstacle course composed of a combination of A-frames, dog walks, teeter-totters, crossovers, tunnels, shoots, weave poles and jumps, interspersed with tables or other marks for static exercises like sitting, lying or standing. The obstacles themselves are difficult enough but to increase the difficulty level they also throw in the element of time management with each team racing against a clock and the other competitors in their class. The dog with the highest score in the shortest amount of time is High In Trial. Though other dogs can also earn qualifying scores toward various agility titles by completing the course with few errors and good time.<br />
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Standard schnauzer owners are generally encouraged to wait until their dogs are at least two years of age before beginning agility training and as with anyone contemplating a truly athletic endeavor, should be examined by a veterinarian (or medical doctor ;-)) prior to initiation of a training regimen.<br />
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As our boy is a little under the recommended starting age, we will likely take it slow and work on agility as we have time between obedience courses for now. But stay tuned for photo's and videos of this and other dog sports in the coming year.Southern Lights Schnauzershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04202845760548772802noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7046013416629041009.post-31663453262601444552010-12-01T12:00:00.000-08:002010-12-01T12:00:01.397-08:00ObedienceObedience training is ESSENTIAL for standard schnauzers. Many will say that its strongly encouraged but in our house we believe that it is a requirement for happy co-habitation.<br />
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Standard schnauzer are very intelligent, high energy dogs who will make their own fun if you don't find a job for them to do.<br />
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We started Kord in a basic obedience class three days after he arrived in our home. He was 14 weeks old at the time. Although I grew up with lots of dogs, my husband's family re-homed their small dog shortly after he was born and didn't get another until he was in college. So we decided to take the basic obedience class together and get our small family off to a good start. We LOVED it. It was something that we did together and because we both went to class, we both learned the skills at the same time, in the same way, and were able to be consistent in teaching and reinforcing our dog. Kord graduated from that first class in about 6 weeks. Then he was off to a Cainine Good Citizenship class for another 6 weeks and earned his CGC certificate at about 7 months old.<br />
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Even though my husband no longer attends class with us, obedience is still very much an activity that we enjoy as a family. Kord and I have continued on in a series of courses designed to prepare us for obedience competition and my husband and son help with weekly homework and proofing practice (our two year old really excels at distraction :-)).<br />
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Kord and I wont enter our first obedience competition until sometime next year but this has been a great way for our whole family to enjoy spending time together.<br />
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If you haven't thought of it before please consider enrolling in a class of some sort with your family dog. There are all sorts of programs, for all different levels of experience and you are sure to find something that you and your family will all enjoy... With the added benefit that training will help to make your family pet happier, healthier and even more pleasant to live with.Southern Lights Schnauzershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04202845760548772802noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7046013416629041009.post-189934051410550662010-11-15T08:00:00.000-08:002010-11-15T08:00:06.007-08:00Herding Instinct TestAlthough this is old news to some we decided to add it to our new blog anyway.<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">**</div>It was incredibly hot this Labor Day weekend and the weather report warned that storms were brewing but we packed up our little band and trekked out to the "wilds" of Hempstead, Texas for the Houston Herding Association's annual Labor Day Fun Day/Work Day. Joy Sebastian-Hall (Roux Crew) was nice enough to invite us and we looked forward to this event for weeks before the big day arrived.<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Despite the weather and the distraction of an overtired toddler, Kord didn't disappoint us. He passed his herding instinct test, chasing sheep till his little heart was content and looked like he was having a blast doing it.<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">**</div>I am attaching a link to the video we shot below. Please excuse the quality... it was the first time that we used the camera.<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><br />
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</div>Southern Lights Schnauzershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04202845760548772802noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7046013416629041009.post-50568635785566695112010-11-01T08:00:00.001-07:002010-11-01T08:00:10.778-07:00Health ChecksHealth checks are an interesting topic... but not one that is covered in any of the books or other websites that I have personally read.<br />
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Members of the SSCA and other reputable breeders will often elect to have the health of their breeding stock checked by a veterinarian with expertise in a particular area. Health certifications can cover most any organ system. However, standard schnauzers are most often tested for hip/joint health and vision. The two primary certification bodies for these are the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (among other things they maintain a registries for hip and elbow dysplasia, patellar luxation, cardiac diseases, thyroid disorders, and congenital deafness) and the Canine Eye Registration Foundation which maintains a registry of potentially inheritable eye diseases. Links to their websites can be found in our Favorite Links Section on the right hand side of this page.<br />
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The timing of these tests is very important. Preliminary examinations of hips may be conducted anytime after the age of one but a formally recorded exam may not be conducted until the dog is at least 2 years of age. Eye certifications may be completed any time after one year of age. All tests should be repeated annually if the animal is to be used as part of a breeding program.<br />
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These tests require special training and not all veterinarians will be able to conduct all tests. If your personal veterinarian is unable to conduct the test, there may be special certification clinics held through local kennel and breed clubs in your area. These events are often held in conjunction with major shows (we had some of Kord's testing done through a clinic offered by the Houston Boston Terrier club in conjunction with the Reliant World Series of Dog Shows event this summer).<br />
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Its important to know that even if you have the testing done through one of the special clinics, you are still personally responsible for mailing the exam form to the appropriate registry. The form will have to be submitted with the appropriate registration fee. (It took me a couple of months to realize that Kord's name hadn't yet appeared in the registry because I hadn't mailed the form :-) But I will know for next time.)<br />
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Whether you plan to show/breed your dog or not, I believe it is a good idea to have the animal tested and registered. The registries are an important tool for ensuring the health and longevity of our breeds but they don't work if we don't participate.Southern Lights Schnauzershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04202845760548772802noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7046013416629041009.post-82261136497424263942010-10-20T11:21:00.000-07:002010-10-23T04:00:38.477-07:00What is a Standard Schnauzer?There are many different ways to answer this question but I will start with the basics.<br />
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The standard schnauzer is the middle and oldest of the three breeds of schnauzer. All three originate from the areas in and around modern day Germany. While the exact origin of the breed is unknown, it appears most likely that the dogs were first developed in the 1400's, used for a variety of farming related tasks including herding and guarding live stock, hunting rodents, pulling small carts and serving as guard dogs to the farmers who owned them. Because of the diverse purposes that these dogs served, they had to be small and wiry, powerful enough to protect, but gentle enough to live peacefully with live stock and families. <br />
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Although our dogs may live and work in very different environments than the ones for which they were originally bred, they still serve many of the same purposes... guardian, partner, and friend. These dogs excel at obedience, agility, herding, tracking, therapy work and numerous other activities. They are true "working dogs" in every sense. <br />
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That's why the standard schnauzer as we know it today is a powerful, high energy, medium sized dog with a strong sense of independence and remarkable intelligence. <br />
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They are as different in temperament from their miniature and giant cousins as they are alike in looks. This is very different than other breeds where dogs sharing the same name are merely different sizes of the same breed and it can be quite confusing at first. Although all three Schnauzer breeds share the same name and certain physical qualities, they are actually three distinct breeds with very different genetic heritages. Each breed was intended to serve a different purpose and that breed heritage while difficult to describe in words is nonetheless very distinct on closer association. <br />
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Some of our friends have described miniature schnauzers as the "gateway" dog. Many standard schnauzer owners, including our family, have also owned minis. They are phenomenal little dogs with many wonderful qualities to recommend them. However, if that is the reason you are considering a standard, please reconsider. Standards are more similar in temperament to other working group dogs (German Shepard's, Rottweilers, Boxers, etc) than to miniature schnauzers. <br />
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Because they are very independent and intelligent, standard schnauzers require a strong and assertive owner who is willing to spend time exercising, training and playing with their dog. If I make it sound like its a lot of work to own one of these guys, its because it is... but the rewards are totally worth the investment if this is the right kind of dog for you and your family. <br />
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Our own boy filled a void in our lives we hadn't even realized was there and now we can't imagine life without him. <br />
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For additional information about the development of standard schnauzers as a breed or about the modern accomplishments of these great dogs, please try the link for the Standard Schnauzer Club of America which can be found in the Favorite Links section on the right side of this page.Southern Lights Schnauzershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04202845760548772802noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7046013416629041009.post-74224277090071765762010-10-16T12:23:00.000-07:002010-10-29T04:37:19.520-07:00Our First Champion!<div style="text-align: left;"><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;">It was a lovely weekend at the Greater Humble Area Dog Show in Humble, Texas last weekend. Several of our Standard Schnauzer friends were in town for the event. The set up was organized and laid back, running like clock work, as we all learned our jobs and helped each other get the dogs ready. </div><div style="text-align: center;">**</div><div style="text-align: left;">Things were equally mellow on Sunday. Spirits were high as the gang sported little plastic cupcake rings, which were a momento of the occasion, and posed for the camera. Even the dogs were hamming it up for the camera.</div><div style="text-align: center;">**</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZsxyrJVTLxhFYBljSObr3b0fIR0MGKdcolTsdQVosuqgFOQHMDBPcAdM-KZ8J5xlGiT3u-1Sp3Pj_ff69X1QQEZIOpLALn0-mvTzboLNrPPcMShZa0LOLH9ECn8IdX32XrXIzdHc89Og/s1600/2smIMG_0279.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="308" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZsxyrJVTLxhFYBljSObr3b0fIR0MGKdcolTsdQVosuqgFOQHMDBPcAdM-KZ8J5xlGiT3u-1Sp3Pj_ff69X1QQEZIOpLALn0-mvTzboLNrPPcMShZa0LOLH9ECn8IdX32XrXIzdHc89Og/s320/2smIMG_0279.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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</div><div style="text-align: left;">And we are "pleased as punch" to report that Kord showed well. He went first in his class and reserve winners dog on Saturday. Then he finished the weekend with Best of Winners and a 5pt Major which was enough to carry him to his championship on Sunday.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia_c7lhFsp-UB1KbJPiF-Tm0de0tH-8lq140q5bsf0IymcszefUV0gEcEnsmTMvSqsusUsGVhZp-CljOasQwu0VMNra4689P-8Mq5Wx6QCtaHHbruArID6Tz2UVvdF3XvpqccZGyBz8zs/s1600/Kord+official+Licensed+Show+shot+Humble+2010.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia_c7lhFsp-UB1KbJPiF-Tm0de0tH-8lq140q5bsf0IymcszefUV0gEcEnsmTMvSqsusUsGVhZp-CljOasQwu0VMNra4689P-8Mq5Wx6QCtaHHbruArID6Tz2UVvdF3XvpqccZGyBz8zs/s400/Kord+official+Licensed+Show+shot+Humble+2010.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> Ch. Stahlkrieger's Southern Light, CGC - Greater Humble Dog Show: Oct. 10, 2010 <br />
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<div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">A little shout out to our friend and handler, Maxine Petteway (Von Schaden Standard Schnauzers) and to our breeder, Cheryl Crompton (Stahlkrieger's Schnauzers). We couldn't have done it without you!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">We got into conformation in a way that is a little different than what is usually recommended ... We wanted a nice puppy and knew that we wanted to do some performance sports with him (obedience and/or agility). We weren't originally looking for a show puppy, but we </span><u><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">were</span></u><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> curious about the sport. I had only been to one or two shows and my husband hadn't even done that.. but we thought that it "might be fun" to try. Cheryl said she thought our boy could be finished if we wanted to try it and suggested that we talk to Max. Max spent months working with us, helping us to learn how to train him and getting his coat into condition... and low and behold, he did good. :-) But more importantly, we had a good time spending time together as a family, with our dog, and making new friends.</span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Everyone in our little circle of dog show friends has been amazingly kind and generous with both their time and knowledge. They are excellent role models both for the sport and as people. We feel very blessed to have them in our lives.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">So, now we are hooked!</span></div></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHTEymxvZppDY1bYktnnA8n7W0sYnZAtGpbIN05bllYdU-h4rQuZos9r4raA5_9nnZqI3HVCnmGUVL2VNkOzIbfO0eIX8vt-ZBu9YXbNY8tWCVGu7awHod5rTw6OYA8t5RBJl5SvVWMJg/s1600/2smIMG_0347.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHTEymxvZppDY1bYktnnA8n7W0sYnZAtGpbIN05bllYdU-h4rQuZos9r4raA5_9nnZqI3HVCnmGUVL2VNkOzIbfO0eIX8vt-ZBu9YXbNY8tWCVGu7awHod5rTw6OYA8t5RBJl5SvVWMJg/s320/2smIMG_0347.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A little celebration as the judge chooses Kord!</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;">** ** ** ** ** ** ** ** ** ** ** ** ** ** ** ** ** ** ** ** ** ** ** ** ** ** </div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div></div><div><div style="text-align: left;">Although we have been attending handling classes and I have helped with other's dogs, I have been very anxious about getting into the ring with Kord myself. But after others did all the heavy lifting to get us to the major, I got brave and took my own dog in for Best of Breed judging. We <u>both</u> survived. Proof positive that "if I can do it... you can do it" :-)</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIdyECHGfuMvAaYbBB4P8nu9uKeFgH512YGUqZTTRW8DHZtFwdDDjUCM9NpmrTK6kDhkPTW-vvuWeIFQdRu9qEmJWlrVhMzl-HnMI2ifeawMXbJnLG2IzKtZrYLsRmKhPA0qrdAW66pMQ/s1600/2smIMG_0368.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIdyECHGfuMvAaYbBB4P8nu9uKeFgH512YGUqZTTRW8DHZtFwdDDjUCM9NpmrTK6kDhkPTW-vvuWeIFQdRu9qEmJWlrVhMzl-HnMI2ifeawMXbJnLG2IzKtZrYLsRmKhPA0qrdAW66pMQ/s320/2smIMG_0368.jpg" width="256" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kord and I, in the breed ring for the first time together. </td></tr>
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</div></div>Southern Lights Schnauzershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04202845760548772802noreply@blogger.com0