Interview With Robin L. Stansell – 2024 AKC National Championship Toy Group Judge

Interview With Robin L. Stansell – 2024 AKC National Championship Toy Group Judge

I first exhibited Bulldogs in 1976. My Army career permitted me to exhibit in both the United States and in Europe. I have bred/co-bred champion Bulldogs, French Bulldogs, Siberian Huskies, and Finnish Spitz. Although I primarily competes in Conformation, dogs I have bred have also achieved Obedience, Agility, Tracking, and Sled Dog titles.

I was first approved to judge in 1990 and have judged throughout the United States as well as Canada, Mexico, Costa Rica, Columbia, Chile, Brazil, Venezuela, Sweden, France, Switzerland, Italy, Russia, Australia, New Zealand, China, South Korea, Hong Kong, and Japan. I am approved to judge all Non-Sporting, Toy, and Working Groups as well as Australian Shepherds, Dachshunds, and Juniors. I am a parent club approved Judges Education presenter and breed mentor for Bulldogs, French Bulldogs, and Finnish Spitz.

My experience includes 11 years as an AKC Executive Field Representative and AKC Vice President of Event Operations. I am currently an AKC Delegate and serve on the Parent Club Committee.

My wife, Cindy, and I currently share our lives with three Bulldogs, three Siberian Huskies, and an Anatolian Shepherd that is in many ways our favorite.

1. Can you describe your reaction to receiving an invitation to judge the Toy Group at the AKC National Championship Presented by Royal Canin?

Robin L. Stansell: Excitement!

2. What does it mean to judge a Group at the only all-breed show organized directly by the American Kennel Club?

Robin L. Stansell: It is an honor to be selected for this prestigious event.

3. In your opinion, how does this show differ from other AKC events?

Robin L. Stansell: This is the AKC showcase. It is the largest show in North America.

4. Was there a heightened energy coming from the dog and handler teams? Did you feel the energy of the spectators?

Robin L. Stansell: The final walk down the line was electric for the exhibitors, the dogs, and me.

5. How challenging was this assignment? Can you share your selection process?

Robin L. Stansell: Extremely challenging! Wonderful dogs. Some of the best Toy dogs were in the Group.

6. Do you have a word or two about your Group winner? About the dogs that placed?

Robin L. Stansell: The Miniature Pinscher was magnificent! All the dogs were at their best.

7. A dog show of this magnitude is a monumental undertaking. Is there anything you’d like to say to the AKC and the show’s sponsors?

Robin L. Stansell: Thank you to Royal Canin, AKC, and all the other sponsors for producing this event.

8. Are there specific ways in which this show furthers the cause of purebred dogs?

Robin L. Stansell: The show demonstrates the best of purebred dogs to the public. The televised events, with their commentary, give a quick synopsis along with video to the public. This stimulates interest in our breeds and provides links to AKC for them to investigate further.

9. Now that it’s over, what are your thoughts on the 2024 show year? Any thoughts on the year ahead?

Robin L. Stansell: It was a great year and I’m looking forward to a magnificent 2025!