725 — Gut Health, Brain Health and the Science of Better Dogs
Gut Health, Brain Health and the Science of Better Dogs
Dr. Lobos with her own dogs Finn and Journey.
What if your dog’s digestion affects more than just stool quality—what if it influences immunity, stress responses and even behavior? Host Laura Reeves is joined by Dr. Ruth Ann Lobos, Senior Veterinarian with Purina Pro Plan, for a fascinating deep dive into the latest research on the canine microbiome and the gut-brain axis. From the real meaning of prebiotics, probiotics and postbiotics to the role of MCTs in fueling the aging brain, this conversation brings cutting-edge canine nutrition science down to earth for breeders and serious dog people.
Lobos explores how modern canine nutrition is evolving beyond “just feeding a dog” and into targeted, research-backed support for digestion, cognition and quality of life.
Dr. Lobos explains that Purina doesn’t bring new diets to market simply for trendy ingredients or marketing hype—these new formulas are the result of years of research and partnerships with respected institutions like the AKC Canine Health Foundation and the renowned GI research lab at Texas A&M. Their goal is simple: support foundational health through the digestive system, since gut health affects everything from immunity to stress resilience—especially for dogs who travel, compete, or experience lifestyle changes.
One of the biggest takeaways is the clear explanation of the difference between prebiotics, probiotics and postbiotics. Dr. Lobos breaks it down in a way every dog owner can understand, using a lawn analogy: prebiotics act like fertilizer, probiotics are the grass seed, and postbiotics are like compost—no longer alive, but still beneficial.
The new Digestive Support Plus formula builds on the success of Sensitive Skin & Stomach by adding a science-supported probiotic strain that is shelf-stable and effective for dogs who need “just a little more” digestive support—without jumping straight to a veterinary therapeutic diet.
The conversation also turns to senior dogs and brain health. Dr. Lobos shares the compelling research behind medium chain triglycerides (MCTs), which help provide an alternative fuel source for the aging brain. Dogs fed MCT-supported diets have shown improved learning, awareness, and cognitive function. Even more intriguing: related research has demonstrated seizure reduction in dogs with idiopathic epilepsy using higher-MCT therapeutic diets.
This episode is a must-listen for breeders, competitors and devoted dog owners who want to understand the real science behind feeding decisions—without the buzzword nonsense.
724 — Legendary Handler Andy Linton on Quality, Conditioning and Presentation
Legendary Handler Andy Linton on Quality, Conditioning and Presentation
Andy and Penny shine at the DPCA Top 20.
Host Laura Reeves sits down one-on-one with legendary professional handler Andy Linton for an in-depth conversation about a lifetime in the sport. From his beginnings as a Southern California teenager more interested in surfing than dog shows, to handling some of the most iconic Best in Show winners in history — including Indy winning BIS at Westminster Kennel Club — Andy shares the experiences, lessons and mindset that shaped his extraordinary career.
Andy walks listeners through his early days showing a Doberman in the 1970s, learning the ropes by working for top handlers and absorbing invaluable lessons from mentors like Clay Coady, Tim Brazier, Bob and Jane Forsyth, and others. He reflects on the importance of watching, learning and stealing the best ideas — not just how handlers move dogs, but why certain techniques change balance, expression and overall picture in the ring. For Andy, success has never been accidental. It’s the result of dreaming big, setting clear goals and backing those dreams with relentless effort and self-reflection.
Central to the conversation is Andy’s core philosophy of winning: quality, condition and presentation. He explains why even a modest dog can dramatically improve — or undermine — its chances depending on conditioning and handling, and why exhibitors should focus on improving their own skills rather than blaming judges or competition. Conditioning, Andy emphasizes, isn’t about one-size-fits-all roadwork, but tailoring fitness to each dog’s structure and needs while keeping them happy, healthy and enthusiastic about their job.
The discussion also dives into Andy’s trademark quiet hands and free-stacking style, emphasizing trust, simplicity and making the ring feel as relaxed as a dog waiting for a sandwich in the kitchen. He shares practical insight into situational awareness, reading judges, selling a dog’s strengths with integrity, and mastering the small details that can make all the difference at high-pressure events like Westminster.
Beyond the ring, Andy reflects on his role advising breeding programs, watching generational changes in breeds, and helping create great dogs behind the scenes. He also speaks candidly about mentorship, gratitude, and the dog show community, sharing heartfelt thoughts on kindness, legacy and staying engaged in the sport he loves. This episode is packed with timeless wisdom for breeders, owner-handlers and professionals who want to elevate their dogs — and themselves — in the world of purebred dogs.
723 — From Pugs to the Green Carpet: Charlotte Patterson on Judging the Toy Group at Westminster
From Pugs to the Green Carpet: Charlotte Patterson on Judging the Toy Group at Westminster
Charlotte Patterson awarding David Fitzpatrick first in the Toy Group at Westminster Kennel Club in 2017 with “Chuckie.”
In this episode of Pure Dog Talk, host Laura Reeves sits down with one of the true legends of the sport, Charlotte Patterson, longtime Pug breeder, former president of the Pug Dog Club of America, successful professional handler and Westminster Kennel Club judge. With Charlotte set to judge the Toy Group at Westminster, this conversation is both timely and timeless, packed with history, insight and hard-earned wisdom.
Charlotte shares the unforgettable story of how she fell in love with Pugs in 1969, buying her first dog on a payment plan and unknowingly stepping into a world that would change her life forever. From borrowing money for a stud fee to producing top winners — including a Toy Group winner at Westminster — Charlotte’s journey perfectly illustrates how passion, mentorship and commitment shape successful preservation breeders.
The conversation dives deep into breeding philosophy, particularly in brachycephalic breeds like Pugs. Charlotte explains why breeders must be intentional, cautious, and forward-thinking, emphasizing the long-term consequences of breeding decisions. She speaks candidly about balance, movement, head type, breathing, and why “what you put in today will show up generations later.” Her message is clear: know your standard, know your pedigrees and never breed blindly.
As a judge with more than 35 years of experience and tens of thousands of dogs examined, Charlotte offers a rare look into Toy Group judging at the highest level. She discusses what she values when she steps onto the green carpet at Madison Square Garden — balance, breed type, soundness, and dogs that can confidently perform under pressure. She also explains why movement in toy breeds must reflect breed purpose, not exaggerated speed.
Beyond breeding and judging, Charlotte offers thoughtful guidance on breed clubs, mentorship and leadership, sharing lessons learned from over a decade as a national club president. Her advice for newcomers? Find the right mentor, get involved and understand that leadership is about work — not power.
This episode is a must-listen for dog breeders, exhibitors, judges, and purebred dog enthusiasts who care deeply about preserving breed history while moving the sport forward.
👉 Don’t miss this heartfelt, humorous, and deeply knowledgeable conversation with one of purebred dogs’ most respected voices.
722 — FIDO: Nancy Martin and the Power of Keeping Pets in Homes
FIDO: Nancy Martin and the Power of Keeping Pets in Homes
Host Laura Reeves is joined by longtime friend and icon of the dog world, Nancy Martin—legendary breeder, professional handler and now visionary founder of FIDO: Friends Involved Dog Outreach. This episode is a powerful reminder of what our community can accomplish when passion meets purpose.
After decades of success in the show ring, Nancy’s retirement from handling didn’t slow her down—it redirected her energy. What began as a simple act of compassion through a veterinary clinic grew into a groundbreaking mission: addressing pet food insecurity as a way to keep dogs out of shelters and in the homes that love them. From that idea, FIDO was born, along with the National Pet Assistance Network and No Pet Hungry America.
Nancy shares how food insecurity is a household issue that directly impacts pets, why “wraparound services” matter more than blame, and how keeping families fed can prevent surrender before crisis hits. The results are staggering: over 6,000 households supported and more than 1.2 million meals provided in a single year.
This conversation also dives into Nancy’s national recognition—including the Oregon Humane Society’s Diamond Collar Award and a Community Hero Award from the Oregon Ducks—and why those honors represent a shift in how purebred dog people can be seen as part of the solution.
From mentoring future veterinarians to challenging long-held narratives about breeders and rescue, Nancy Martin is redefining advocacy in dogs. This episode is a must-listen for anyone who cares about the future of purebred dogs, community responsibility and meaningful, practical change.
👉 Get involved! FIDO and No Pet Hungry America.
721 — From Rescue to Responsible Breeding: Why Education Is the Future of Dog Breeding
From Rescue to Responsible Breeding: Why Education Is the Future of Dog Breeding
Rebecca Norton-Childs is the founder of Pupstarts breeder education program in the UK.
In this powerful international conversation, host Laura Reeves welcomes Rebecca Norton-Childs — a UK-based educator and founder of a nationally accredited dog breeder training program — to discuss why education, intention and responsibility are critical to the future of dog breeding.
Rebecca’s journey began on the front lines of rescue and animal control, where she witnessed firsthand the heartbreaking consequences of poor breeding practices, inadequate early socialization and uninformed ownership. Rather than adopting a “don’t breed dogs” mindset, Rebecca chose a different path: breed better dogs — and teach others how to do the same.
In this episode, we explore how her experiences in rescue shaped her belief that ethical, knowledgeable breeders are essential to improving canine welfare. Rebecca explains how breeder education in the UK has evolved into nationally accredited qualifications..
Listeners will gain insight into:
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Why early neurological stimulation and puppy socialization start with the breeder
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How education empowers breeders to confidently match puppies with the right homes
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The role of behavior science, epigenetics and modern husbandry in producing stable dogs
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Why breeding dogs should be viewed as a profession, not a hobby
Rebecca also shares how her programs foster a judgment-free, global community of breeders committed to learning, sharing knowledge, and putting dogs first — regardless of breed, discipline or purpose.
This episode is a must-listen for everyone who believes the future of purebred dogs depends on intentional breeding, informed decisions and lifelong learning.
720 — Stud Dog Marathon: How Often Is Too Often?
Stud Dog Marathon: How Often Is Too Often?
Laura Reeves is joined by canine reproduction expert Dr. Marty Greer to answer a listener’s question: how frequently can you breed a stud dog before semen quality starts to decline? Marty breaks down basic stud dog anatomy, what impacts semen production and why timing matters more than sheer frequency.
You’ll learn the ideal collection schedule for peak semen quality, how overuse can show up in a semen evaluation, and why progesterone timing is essential when multiple bitches are lined up. Marty also shares practical tips for supporting your stud dog through heavy breeding demand, plus smart strategies for semen collection, shipping, and long-term genetic preservation.
✅ 1) Feed for Fertility (and don’t unbalance it)
Heavy breeding demand is hard work metabolically, and Marty stresses that nutrition is the foundation of semen quality.
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Feed a proven, research-backed diet (she recommends Purina Pro Plan Sport 30/20 or Royal Canin HT-42D).
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Avoid “helpful” add-ins that actually disrupt hormones — especially flaxseed, because it contains phytoestrogens.
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Don’t over-supplement. Most fertility supplements have little science behind them, and people often unintentionally unbalance an already complete diet.
Bottom line: a balanced, consistent diet supports semen volume, motility, and longevity.
✅ 2) Manage stress + temperature + rest
Stud dogs working hard often experience:
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stress
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loss of appetite
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environmental impacts on sperm quality
Marty notes semen quality is affected by:
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being too hot or cold
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overexertion / too much stimulation
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stress from being surrounded by bitches in heat
So:
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keep him comfortable (climate control matters)
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make sure he’s sleeping
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if he won’t eat, tempt him (chicken in the bowl is fine — the goal is calories and nutrients)
Bottom line: a stud dog can’t produce quality semen if he’s not eating, resting and staying comfortable.
✅ 3) Use smart scheduling: timing beats frequency
Instead of multiple breedings “because she’s standing,” Marty recommends:
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Require progesterone timing so breedings are targeted
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Use one breeding (maybe two), at the correct time
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Avoid exhausting the dog with daily/every-other-day breedings before ovulation even happens
She emphasizes:
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ovulation typically around progesterone 4–10
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peak fertility is about two days after ovulation
Bottom line: progesterone timing protects the stud dog, improves pregnancy success, and prevents “emptying the tank.”
719 — Amy Rutherford on Smooths, Bred-By Success and Preservation Breeding
Amy Rutherford on Smooths, Bred-By Success and Preservation Breeding
Amy Rutherford winning Best Bred By Exhibitor at AKC National Championship with Wager.
Today’s episode brings you a rare conversation with someone who does not say yes to interviews very often. Amy Rutherford joined host Laura Reeves for a holiday visit and the timing could not be better, fresh off her Best Bred-By Exhibitor win at the AKC National Championship with her Smooth Fox Terrier, Wager. For breeders, exhibitors, and dog show fans, this conversation delivers real insight into what it takes to build a program that lasts.
From a childhood dog show moment to a lifetime in terriers
Rutherford with one of her foundation Smooth Fox Terriers.
Amy’s path started early. Her parents were horse people who also kept Australian Shepherds before they were AKC recognized. A winter trip turned into a defining moment when the family got snowed in and visited an AKC dog show. From the stands, young Amy watched Smooth Fox Terriers in the ring and knew she wanted that life.
The journey was not immediate. Her first breed was Airedales, which taught hard lessons about grooming, structure, and realistic expectations. Eventually, she saved money and purchased Smooth Fox Terrier puppies that both finished quickly and became group winners. That early success did more than build confidence. It created a foundation and one of those early bitches still anchors the pedigree behind her dogs today.
The handler apprenticeship that built a career
Amy’s handling career developed the way the best ones often do, through years of real work. She spent summers helping professionals and then committed to a full apprenticeship with Eddie and Leslie Boyes. She stayed for nine years, learning the daily realities of conditioning, presentation, animal husbandry, trimming and the logistics that define show life.
Rutherford showing Dover, Ch. Aimhi Type Cast, at Westminster Kennel Club.
That apprenticeship is a major takeaway for anyone interested in becoming a professional handler. Amy explains that experience builds skill and it builds a network. When she went out on her own, she had the credibility and connections that make the difference between surviving and thriving.
Showing different breeds and winning with controversial dogs
One of the most valuable parts of this episode is Amy’s honest discussion about stepping into breeds that are not part of your original comfort zone. She moved from Smooth Fox
Rutherford showing Standard Poodle, Dino, GCH. Del Zarzoso Salvame From Afterglow
Terriers into coated breeds including a Portugese Water Dog and a Standard Poodle import. Her advice is clear. Learn from the best people you can find, ask for feedback, and keep training your eye.
She also talks about the reality of showing a dog that does not match the popular look of the moment. Her Standard Poodle, Dino, was impressive and successful but also controversial. Amy says the key is believing in your dog completely and choosing shows and judges who will appreciate the dog’s strengths.
Building a Smooth Fox Terrier program that produces winners
For preservation breeders, Amy’s success with Smooth Fox Terriers offers powerful lessons. She describes how she pursued the look she wanted, sought mentorship and bred to the best dogs available. The results include legendary dogs like Dover, a top-winning Smooth Fox Terrier who also became a major sire.
That legacy continues with Wager, the dog who earned Best Bred-By Exhibitor at the AKC National Championship. Amy shares the behind the scenes breeding decisions, the role of frozen semen and a few “miracle” moments that made Wager possible.
If you are serious about showing dogs, preservation breeding, or building a kennel name with meaning, this episode is required listening. Learn more and listen now at PureDogTalk.com.
718 — Purebred Dogs: Living History on Our Couch | A Year-End Reflection
Purebred Dogs: Living History on Our Couch | A Year-End Reflection
As we come to the close of another year — one that has been long, challenging, and filled with upheaval both globally and within the purebred dog fancy — it felt right to pause, reflect and remember why we do what we do.
One of the great comforts of purebred dogs is their reliability. No matter what else is happening in the world, somewhere nearby there is a dog event — a show, a trial, a hunt test, a training day. These gatherings give us a chosen family: people who console us when times are hard, celebrate with us when times are good, and understand the passion that binds us together.
On the Shoulders of Giants
In dog breeding, one of my favorite phrases is “on the shoulders of giants.” While famous handlers may get the television time, the true unsung heroes of purebred dogs are the breeders.
Breeders are the devoted advocates and curators of living history. Their imagination, vision, commitment, and endurance preserve breeds that represent centuries — sometimes millennia — of human partnership with dogs. And yet, too often, when master breeders pass, their hard-earned knowledge disappears with them.
Pure Dog Talk was created, in part, to save and share that irreplaceable wisdom.
Through our podcast archives, albums, and seminars, we aim to preserve the voices, stories, and experience of the best and brightest breeders worldwide — so that future generations don’t have to reinvent what has already been learned.
Purebred Dogs as Living History
Every one of the 200+ breeds recognized by the American Kennel Club — and many more worldwide — represents a specific time, place, and human culture. Purebred dogs are a living, breathing continuum of history.
Pedigrees bring that history directly into our homes. Some breeding records trace back thousands of years. Long before formal breed standards existed, early humans were selectively breeding dogs for climate adaptation, specialized diets, hunting ability, and companionship.
Recent research has even reshaped our understanding of ancient breeds:
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The Greenland Dog is now considered the oldest known dog breed, tracing back to the Pleistocene era.
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Basenjis, depicted in cave art dating to 6,000 BC, possess uniquely distinct DNA.
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Greyhounds described in a 15th-century poem still match the breed standard today — and every modern Greyhound traces back to a single dog whelped in England in 1839.
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Bedlington Terriers boast the oldest unbroken terrier pedigree, dating to 1782.
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Ancient breeds like the Chow Chow, Shar Pei, Pug, Pekingese, Peruvian Inca Orchid, and Nordic Spitz breeds tell stories of emperors, explorers, and civilizations long past.
That dog curled up on your couch? Their family tree may reach back centuries — even thousands of years.
Preserving the Future
This living history survives only because breeders care enough to protect it.
From documenting pedigrees to choosing the right homes for puppies, from studying genetics to honoring breed purpose, preservation breeding is both an art and a responsibility.
At Pure Dog Talk, we are committed to supporting that mission:
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Over 50 hours of breeder interviews available in the PDT Albums
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Pedigrees to Puppies seminars, offering hands-on, real-world education
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Breed-focused resources like the Love the Breeds album
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New projects and educational opportunities coming soon
Our website, PureDogTalk.com, has grown into a deep, rich resource — and there’s even more ahead in the coming year.
With Gratitude
As the year comes to a close, our tiny but mighty team at Pure Dog Talk thanks you — breeders, exhibitors, judges, trainers, puppy buyers and dog lovers — for being part of this community.
Your passion is our purpose.
Wishing you, your dogs, and your families a joyful holiday season and a prosperous New Year.
Peace and goodwill to all.
— Laura Reeves
Host, Pure Dog Talk
717 — Showing Dogs on a Shoestring Budget
717 — Showing Dogs on a Shoestring Budget
Smart Strategies for Budget-Friendly Success in the Conformation Ring
By Laura Reeves • Pure Dog Talk
Pure Dog Talk is the voice of purebred dogs. We bring you conversations with legends of the sport and offer practical, actionable guidance for creating an extraordinary life with your purebred dog. In this episode, host Laura Reeves dives into a timely and essential topic: how to show dogs effectively without breaking the bank.
Introduction: Making Dog Shows Work in Expensive Times
Dog shows are more plentiful than ever—but the costs are rising. Entry fees, fuel, lodging, grooming supplies, and time away from work or family can quickly turn a joyful hobby into a financial strain. Showing on a shoestring doesn’t mean cutting corners—it means strategizing, choosing wisely and investing where it matters most.
As Laura says, “Your passion is our purpose.”
These tips will help you maximize results while minimizing expenses.
1. Start With a Clear Goal
Before entering a single show, determine exactly what you want to accomplish:
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Finishing a Championship
You must attend shows with reliable breed entries. -
Earning a Grand Championship
Prioritize majors and competition. -
Ranking in Breed or Group Standings
Breed rankings require breed entries; group rankings require competitive groups.
“You can’t make a plan until you make a goal.”
Knowing your goal drives every decision—from which shows to attend to how far you should travel.
2. Research Shows and Judges Like a Pro
Not every show is equal, and not every judge appreciates the same breed style.
Tools to Use
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InfoDog — view historical entries in your breed and region
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AKC Judges Directory — review judges’ assignment histories and past results
Understanding which judges favor your dog’s strengths can save hundreds of dollars in wasted entries.
“Don’t write a judge off forever—just write them off for that particular dog.”
Make informed entries. Your wallet will thank you.
3. Build a Support Network
Showing is more affordable—and far more enjoyable—with a team.
Benefits of a “Dog Show Crew”
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Share travel and lodging costs
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Split grooming space
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Help hold dogs and support each other in the ring
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Enjoy camaraderie rather than showing alone
The Pure Dog Talk Patrons Group is an excellent place to build these relationships.
“Your enjoyment of dog shows increases when you have people to hang out with—and it saves you money.”
4. Train and Groom on a Schedule
Showing an untrained or poorly conditioned dog is one of the most expensive mistakes exhibitors make.
Create a grooming and conditioning routine—put it in your phone like any other appointment:
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Tuesday: full groom, brush-out, trim, or strip
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Weekly: training sessions
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Before shows: conditioning, coat checks, toenails, ring readiness
“If it’s not on your calendar, you probably won’t do it.”
A competitive dog is a cost-effective dog.
5. Travel Strategically for Better Returns
Sometimes the best show for your goals is not the closest one.
A single well-planned trip can be more effective—and cheaper—than several local shows with no results.
“One productive road trip is often less expensive than four local shows that get you nothing but indigestion.”
Avoid unreliable online judge-rating sites and seek guidance from trusted mentors or experienced breeders.
6. Consider a Professional Handler—Strategically
Hiring a handler does not mean outsourcing your dog’s entire career. Often, sending a dog with a professional for a single weekend or a short campaign can achieve goals that would otherwise take years.
Choose only handlers who are:
✔ Members of the Professional Handler Association
✔ Participants in the AKC Registered Handler Program
“Sometimes a handler can get things done that you simply can’t—and it pencils out.”
This can be the most cost-effective route when targeted wisely.
7. Start With a Good Dog—and Don’t Rush Puppies
Entering a dog that isn’t competitive wastes money and sets everyone up for frustration.
Laura’s advice for puppies:
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Show in 4–6 months for exposure
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Skip regular conformation until the dog is mature and competitive
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Use that time to do obedience, rally, scent work, or socialization
“Bring your dog out when it is competitive and ready to win.”
Waiting until two or three years old is often the smartest path—especially in breeds that mature slowly.
8. Trim the Extras: Save on Small Expenses
Small savings add up quickly:
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Skip expensive post-show dinners
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Bring food and supplies
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Share hotel rooms
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Use the superintendent’s direct entry option when possible to avoid online fees (save $4–$5 per entry)
“You can pay for multiple entries with the money you save by skipping one fancy dinner.”
9. Learn by Helping: Side Gigs With Handlers
Many handlers welcome help and are willing to teach exhibitors who show interest.
You might assist with:
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Holding dogs
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Walking dogs
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Setting up and tearing down
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Grooming prep
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Ring support
In return, you gain invaluable hands-on experience.
“Handlers will spend enormous time teaching you if you show interest—and they always need help.”
716 – Hunting for Raccoons and Ribbons with Border Terriers
Hunting for Raccoons and Ribbons with Border Terriers
Karen Fitzpatrick with one of her Meadowlake Border Terriers.
Host Laura Reeves is joined by Karen Fitzpatrick from Meadowlake Border Terriers to talk about hunting raccoons and ribbons.
“My background honestly was straight hunting,” Fitzpatrick said. “I hunted long before I ever bought a Border. I started here in the US and then started hunting in the UK, met people there. I just love the hunting aspect of Border Terriers.
“Border Terriers are still very high on the list for hunting instinct and actually are still made to do the job they were bred to do.
“In the middle of winter, we did a lot of barn hunting, and that was just literally clearing out haylofts of raccoons. In this deep, deep snow like today, you would hit a big barn, cut a few terriers loose in a loft and woo, come on. It was crazy.
“We did a lot of in ground hunting during the spring and fall, but we tried to not do too much in the spring, mostly because of a lot of groundhogs having babies. Fall is the better time because they’re big and fat and getting ready to hibernate and the holes are bigger.”
Fitzpatrick has produced 170 champions and 12 best in show winning Border Terriers, including the top winning bitch in the breed. She was named AKC’s Sport Breeder of the Year in 2014 and Terrier Breeder of the Year in 2018, one of a handful of breeders honored in both conformation and performance.
“They have to be able to function and do their job and my belief, back then as it is today, they can be beautiful and still do their job and that is what I have absolutely brought through and I will continue it.”