It seems that dogs love watching other dogs in the show ring.  I see it all the time.  They’re waiting on the sidelines for their turn in front of the judge.  In the meantime, they are checking out the action – their competition, their doggie friends, their human friends, whoever has a treat in their pocket, that little boy that walked past with french fries, the cool toys at the vendor booth, etc.  I often spend more time photographing what is going on OUTSIDE of the ring than I do photographing the judging INSIDE the ring.  I especially love seeing dogs watching dogs!   Secretly I know that they are cheering on all of their friends and hoping that they do well when it’s their turn!

One of the new American Kennel Club breeds introduced at The National Dog Show Presented by Purina in November was the Wirehaired Vizsla.  A member of the Sporting Group, the Wirehaired Vizsla is a medium sized hunting dog with a weather-resistant wire coat and recognizable beard and eyebrows.  They have an excellent nose for hunting and tracking both on land and in the water.  Pretty darn cute, I’d say!

As we say goodbye to 2014, I want to take this opportunity to thank everyone for the privilege of photographing your beautiful dogs and cats throughout this past year.  I find so much joy in capturing moments in time with my camera that can never be duplicated and sharing them with you.  I look forward to seeing everyone in 2015 and meeting many new furry friends along the way!

This German Shorthaired Pointer sure knows where handler Cliff Steele keeps his bait.  The minute Cliff looks away, she tries to chew through Cliff’s pocket for a snack during breed judging at the Lehigh Valley Kennel Club show in Allentown, Pa. earlier this month.  She’s one smart cookie!