AKC Eukanuba Dog Show 2011: The Next Generation

Since my arrival at the AKC Eukanuba Dog Show in Orlando -- which includes 54 juniors and will air on ABC TV February 4 -- I have seen expert agility competitors send 100 lb dogs flying up ramps and through hoops, with nothing but a subtle turn of the hip.

I’ve seen handlers get tiny toy breeds prancing with such panache that they became the biggest dogs in the arena.

And I’ve seen amped up teams of canines and humans pull off perfectly-timed dock dives in front of a roaring crowd.

Much of this, I’ve seen done by dog fanciers half my age. Junior competitors between the ages of 9 and 18 were invited to the show if they'd already won a number of smaller events.

Dog Show Junior with Senior Experience

Take KT Spencer, the only Junior in the country to qualify in obedience, agility and showmanship. This poised 17-year-old explained how she’s able to manage such success to a room full of reporters without a moment’s hesitation: Changing outfits between events helps her change her mentality. “It’s like taking on different characters; When I suit up, I know it’s time for showmanship.”

I certainly don’t remember having the self-awareness to recognize and accept the different roles I needed to play in life as a 17-year-old. I still don’t (writing about pets keeps me from having to fully accept that little slice of adulthood at all).

But my immaturity aside, KT's choice to compete permeates every part of her life. She competes in each event with a different dog--either a Papillon, an Australian Shepherd or a Pembroke Welsh Corgi--and she cares for, trains and grooms all three herself.

Dog Show Satisfaction

That’s on top of teaching other junior handlers, acting in school plays, showing cattle, goats and other animals… and being a kid.

When I asked her what it is about dog shows that gives her true satisfaction she said, “My mom might not be too happy I said this, but it’s not the ribbons.”

Than what?

“It’s the adrenaline rush of being in the ring with my dogs and doing well; the ribbons go in a plastic bag at the top of my closet.” I immediately thought of my personal display of shiny medals for running road races, the ones they give every finisher, and decided not to share. Clearly, KT was the one with her priorities in order.

But after seeing so many kids with such pride, spirit, and grace under pressure, my priority became clear too: Support the juniors. In maintaining the legacy of dog fanciers--those whose enthusiasm safeguards the sacred bond between human and dog--it’s good to know there will be people like KT around.