Pure Dog Talk

40 Episodes
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By: Laura Reeves

Pure Dog Talk is the VOICE of Purebred Dogs. We talk to the legends of the sports and give you tips and tools to create an awesome life with your purebred dog. From dog shows to preservation breeding, from competitive obedience to field work, from agility to therapy dogs and all the fun in between; your passion is our purpose. Pure Dog Talk supports the American Kennel Club, our Parent, Specialty and All-Breed Clubs, Dog Sports, Therapy, Service and Preservation of our Canine Companions.

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Couture, Controversy and the Future of Purebred Dogs with Caroline Clegg
Couture, Controversy and the Future of Purebred Dogs with Caroline Clegg episode artwork
Last Monday at 4:00 PM

Couture, Controversy, and the Future of Purebred Dogs with Caroline Clegg

[caption id="attachment_17058" align="alignleft" width="300"] Caroline Clegg and Natasha, featured in the Elite Runway Experience.[/caption] Host Laura Reeves is joined by preservation breeder Caroline Clegg to pull back the curtain on the Elite Runway Experience currently rolling out on social media. Fusing the worlds of high fashion and purebred dogs, this groundbreaking project has sparked massive debate across the dog world. Is it a brilliant modern marketing move, or has the fancy lost its way? Laura and Caroline dive headfirst into the social...


04 — Clubhouse: Dandie Dinmont Terriers: Mentorship in Motion: The Power of Partnership
04 — Clubhouse: Dandie Dinmont Terriers: Mentorship in Motion: The Power of Partnership episode artwork
Last Thursday at 4:00 PM

Mentorship in Motion: The Power of Partnership

Sandra Pretari-Hickson joins host Laura Reeves to discuss her 25-year partnership with Betty-Anne Stenmark and how their shared devotion and collaborative mentorship have preserved the iconic King's Mountain Dandie Dinmont Terrier legacy. This episode of the Dandie Dinmont Terrier Diaries is part of Pure Dog Talk’s Clubhouse. The series features members of the Club Partnership Program who are working to preserve the knowledge of their legacy breeders. Episode Highlights The Spark of a Historic Partnership: Sandra shares the story of meeting Betty-Anne at a handling class, a chance encounter that le...


749 —The Sloughi: Inside the “Telepathic” World of the AKC’s Rarest Sighthound
749 —The Sloughi: Inside the “Telepathic” World of the AKC’s Rarest Sighthound episode artwork
07/27/2026

The Sloughi: Inside the "Telepathic" World of the AKC’s Rarest Sighthound

One distinction between Sloughi and Azawakh is the Moroccan dogs will have no white markings, Wyatt said.[/caption] Host Laura Reeves is joined by Erika Wyatt to explore the AKC's least popular fully recognized breed: the fascinating and rare Sloughi. Called "the best-kept secret in the AKC," this ancient, intuitive breed has a rich history and an unparalleled devotion to its owners. Erika dives deep into the breed's origins in the North African Maghreb, where they were bred as hunting and guarding companions by nomadic Be...


03 — Clubhouse: Dandie Dinmont Terriers: “A Little Person in a Dog’s Body
03 — Clubhouse: Dandie Dinmont Terriers: “A Little Person in a Dog’s Body episode artwork
07/23/2026

"A Little Person in a Dog Body": Inside the Whimsical World of the Dandie Dinmont Terrier

Sandy Wolfskill showing a Dandie to Anne Katona.[/caption] Pure Dog Talk host Laura Reeves sits down with Elfwish Kennels' Sandy Wolfskill to explore the art of preservation breeding, global pedigree collaboration and what it truly takes to safeguard the historic Dandie Dinmont Terrier for the next generation.

This episode of the Dandie Dinmont Terrier Diaries is part of Pure Dog Talk’s Clubhouse. The series features members of the Club Partnership Program who are working to preserve the knowledge of...


748 — Beyond the Curls: Brains, Beauty and “Dad Jokes” of the Irish Water Spaniel
748 — Beyond the Curls: Brains, Beauty and “Dad Jokes” of the Irish Water Spaniel episode artwork
07/20/2026

Beyond the Curls: Brains, Beauty and "Dad Jokes" of the Irish Water Spaniel

[caption id="attachment_16944" align="alignleft" width="300"] Stacy Duncan and one of her Irish Water Spaniels.[/caption] Host Laura Reeves sits down with lifelong dog handler, breeder, and Westminster Best Junior winner Stacy Duncan to celebrate "Love the Breeds Month" with a captivating look at the rare and remarkable Irish Water Spaniel (IWS). Often described as a curly-haired powerhouse packed with personality, this ancient breed is one of the original eight recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC). Stacy shares what makes these dogs incredibly...


02 — Clubhouse: Dandie Dinmont Terriers: Curved Toplines and Hearts of Gold: Tarwathie
02 — Clubhouse: Dandie Dinmont Terriers: Curved Toplines and Hearts of Gold: Tarwathie episode artwork
07/16/2026

Curved Toplines and Hearts of Gold: Tarwathie Dandie Dinmont Terriers

Veteran breeder Kay Simpson of Tarwathie Dandies shares the precise combination of physical structure and gentle disposition that defines this rare, historic breed:

Dandie Dinmont Terrier Diaries are part of the Pure Dog Talk Clubhouse ... Shining a Spotlight on the Legends, History and Future of the Breed [caption id="attachment_16846" align="alignleft" width="300"] Several of Kay's recent Dandies.[/caption]Temperament First and Foremost:In a group known for fiery attitudes, the Dandie Dinmont stands out as a uniquelylaid-back, non-aggressive terrier. Kay ranks temperament as the absolutenumber...


747 — Tavern Ratters on the Velvet Couch: Decoding the Yorkshire Terrier
747 — Tavern Ratters on the Velvet Couch: Decoding the Yorkshire Terrier episode artwork
07/13/2026

Tavern Ratters on the Velvet Couch: Decoding the Yorkshire Terrier

Host Laura Reeves is joined by Yorkshire Terrier breed legends Gloria Lyon and Lorraine Hayes at the Yorkshire Terrier Club of America National Specialty as they share over 50 years each of hands-on experience, revealing the Yorkie’s fierce rat-hunting history, practical grooming hacks and essential training and health tips.The Yorkshire Terrier's Rich History: Though loved today as glamorous lapdogs, Yorkies originated in the 1800s as brave, independent rat and mouse hunters in mines and taverns. That fierce terrier prey instinct and big dog attitude are still alive an...


01 — Clubhouse: Dandie Dinmont Terriers: Breeding the Perfect Front: 50 Years of Preservation with Betty-Anne Stenmark
01 — Clubhouse: Dandie Dinmont Terriers: Breeding the Perfect Front: 50 Years of Preservation with Betty-Anne Stenmark episode artwork
07/09/2026

Breeding the Perfect Dandie Dinmont Front: 50 Years of Preservation with Betty-Anne Stenmark

Legendary preservation breeder and AKC judge Betty-Anne Stenmark joins host Laura Reeves to celebrate 50 years of King's Mountain Dandie Dinmonts, sharing invaluable insights on structure, puppy selection and what it takes to breed, select and judge a historically correct Dandie Dinmont Terrier. From navigating a "gene puddle" to her absolute, non-negotiable stance on front assemblies, this conversation is a masterclass for preservation breeders and dog enthusiasts alike.

This episode is brought to you by the Pure Dog Talk Club Partner Program in proud partnership...


746 — Surviving the “Pupocalypse”: How Preservation Breeders Can Adapt and Thrive in a Slow Market
746 — Surviving the “Pupocalypse”: How Preservation Breeders Can Adapt and Thrive in a Slow Market episode artwork
07/06/2026

Surviving the "Pupocalypse": How Preservation Breeders Can Adapt and Thrive in a Slow Market

Host Laura Reeves and Dr. Marty Greer dive deep into the sobering post-COVID "puppy bust" data, exploring how corporate veterinary pricing is pricing out everyday owners and sharing crucial survival strategies for both pet owners and preservation breeders. The post-COVID landscape has brought a dramatic shift to the canine world, colloquially dubbed the "pupocalypse" or "puppy bust." With new puppy veterinary visits down to just 62% of pre-COVID levels, the pet industry is facing a massive contraction. From skyrocketing veterinary costs driven by corporate consolidation...


745 — How to Go From Novice to Group Winner: Owner-Handler Success Secrets with Karine Beaulieu
745 — How to Go From Novice to Group Winner: Owner-Handler Success Secrets with Karine Beaulieu episode artwork
#745
06/29/2026

How to Go From Novice to Group Winner: Owner-Handler Success Secrets with Karine Beaulieu

[caption id="attachment_16651" align="alignleft" width="300"] Karine Beaulieu presenting one of her Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers.[/caption] Host Laura Reeves sits down with Karine Beaulieu, a Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier owner-handler and preservation breeder from Sudbury, Canada. Karine discusses her rapid five-year rise in the sport, transitioning from a complete novice who had never picked up grooming scissors to breeding and handling group-winning terriers. Karine shares how her autism manifests as a "hyperfixation" and passion for dogs. Rather than viewing it as a barrier, she...


744 – Drop-Coated Dog Care: Grooming & Breeding Secrets with Pat Keen-Fernandes
744 – Drop-Coated Dog Care: Grooming & Breeding Secrets with Pat Keen-Fernandes episode artwork
06/22/2026

Drop-Coated Dog Care: Grooming & Breeding Secrets with Pat Keen-Fernandes

[caption id="attachment_16535" align="alignleft" width="183"] Pat Keen Fernandes judging the YTCA Top Twenty.[/caption] Host Laura Reeves sits down with legendary handler Pat Keen-Fernandes at the Yorkshire Terrier Club of America National Specialty to discuss the strict weekly bathing regimen required for drop-coated breeds, the genetics behind eliminating face staining and the crucial need for mentorship and pet trusts within the purebred dog community. Episode Highlights The Golden Rule of Drop Coats:Learn why a strict bathing regimenevery five to seven daysis the single most critical factor in...


743 — Protecting Dogs from the Dangerous Return of the New World Screwworm
743 — Protecting Dogs from the Dangerous Return of the New World Screwworm episode artwork
06/15/2026

Protecting Dogs from the Dangerous Return of the New World Screwworm

Host Laura Reeves and veterinarian Marty Greer discuss the alarming resurgence of the New World Screwworm, outlining vital travel precautions, key symptoms to watch for and the medications used to treat this invasive parasite. The Return of a Lethal Threat:After being successfully managed since 1966 using a sterile fly release program, the New World Screwworm has crossed back over the U.S. border. Confirmed cases have already appeared in livestock and dogs.How Screwworms Differ from Normal Maggots:Unlike typical fly larvae that only infest damaged or...


742 — Dog Show Tips for Beginners: Navigating the Learning Curve
742 — Dog Show Tips for Beginners: Navigating the Learning Curve episode artwork
06/08/2026

Dog Show Tips for Beginners: Navigating the Learning Curve

Host Laura Reeves welcomes Matt Stroud (known to some on Facebook as "Kermit the Dog"), an enthusiastic owner-handler of Schipperkes. Matt shares his journey from being a shy high schooler navigating 4-H with a poodle mix and a Yorkshire Terrier, to returning to the dog show world as an adult with his Schipperkes.

Navigating the Learning Curve Matt candidly discusses the fragmented and confusing realities for newcomers, noting that while the sport is more visible than ever, basic logistics—like navigating superintendent websites to enter shows—can be o...


741 — Understanding Puppy Heart Murmurs and Congenital Heart Disease
741 — Understanding Puppy Heart Murmurs and Congenital Heart Disease episode artwork
06/01/2026

Understanding Puppy Heart Murmurs and Congenital Heart Disease

In this episode of Pure Dog Talk's "Veterinary Voice," host Laura Reeves and Dr. Marty Greer explore the complexities of congenital heart disease in puppies, offering essential guidance for breeders on diagnosing, treating and navigating cardiac health in their litters. The Importance of the First Vet Visit & Puppy Murmurs Dr. Greer emphasizes the crucial need for a thorough veterinary exam before placing any puppies in their forever homes to protect the breeder's reputation and ensure the puppy's health. A heart murmur occurs when blood flows backward through the heart, creating...


740 — Patrick McManus on Harmony, History and Pugs
740 — Patrick McManus on Harmony, History and Pugs episode artwork
05/25/2026

Patrick McManus on Harmony, History and Pugs

[caption id="attachment_15774" align="alignleft" width="399"] Patrick McManus judging the Pug Dog Club of America National Specialty.[/caption] Host Laura Reeves sits down with pug breeder, AKC judge and artist Patrick McManus to explore the fascinating intersection of fine art, breed type and the living history of purebred dogs. The ultimate Renaissance man, McManus is known as a dedicated pug breeder and judge, as well as an incredible artist whose unique Cubist renderings of dogs are breathtaking. Purebred dogs serve as "living history," representing a specific place, people and time. As...


739 — New Purina Pro Plan Grant Program Levels the Playing Field for All Dog Clubs
739 — New Purina Pro Plan Grant Program Levels the Playing Field for All Dog Clubs episode artwork
05/18/2026

New Purina Pro Plan Grant Program Levels the Playing Field for All Dog Clubs

Host Laura Reeves is joined by Purina’s Heidi Hartman to discuss the exciting evolution of the Purina Parent Club Partnership (PPCP) into the brand new Pro Plan Grant Program. For years, the PPCP distributed funds based on Pro Club member receipt uploads, which unintentionally favored highly popular breeds with large club memberships, leaving smaller clubs with minimal funding. The new Pro Plan Grant Program is designed to level the playing field, ensuring that a small breed club with just a handful of members ha...


738 — Wheels Off, AirTags On: The Ultimate Survival Guide to Flying Your Dog
738 — Wheels Off, AirTags On: The Ultimate Survival Guide to Flying Your Dog episode artwork
05/11/2026

Wheels Off, AirTags On: The Ultimate Survival Guide to Flying Your Dog

Host Laura Reeves gets the ultimate intel from Alicia Morrison Jones—an Afghan Hound breeder who clocked roughly 200,000 miles flying her own dog before going behind the counter as an Alaska Airlines employee. Ditch the travel anxiety with this ultimate survival guide to flying your dog, featuring insider secrets on crate hacks, cargo hold myths and the non-negotiable rules you need to know before takeoff. The Truth About the Cargo Hold:Stop panicking about the baggage hold.It is fully pressurized and temperature-regulated, often running about 10 de...


737 — Syringomyelia in Cavaliers and Beyond: What Every Breeder Needs to Know
737 — Syringomyelia in Cavaliers and Beyond: What Every Breeder Needs to Know episode artwork
05/04/2026

Syringomyelia in Cavaliers and Beyond: What Every Breeder Needs to Know

Dr. Marty Greer joins Laura Reeves to answer a listener question and break down one of the most serious and underdiagnosed neurological conditions affecting small breed dogs. If you've never heard of syringomyelia, you're not alone — but if you breed Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, Brussels Griffons, Pomeranians or other small brachycephalic breeds, this episode could change how you think about your breeding program. Dr. Marty Greer walks Laura through the difference between Chiari-like malformation and syringomyelia (SM), two conditions that often get lumped together but aren't quite th...


736 — Navigating Dog Show Economics and Governance with Pam Mandeville
736 — Navigating Dog Show Economics and Governance with Pam Mandeville episode artwork
04/27/2026

Navigating Dog Show Economics and Governance with Pam Mandeville

[caption id="attachment_15667" align="alignleft" width="398"] Pam Mandeville showing one of her homebred Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers.[/caption] Host Laura Reeves is joined by corporate expert Pam Mandeville to discuss dog show economics, AKC reforms and why getting involved in kennel club governance is just as crucial as US politics for the future of purebred dogs. Pam Mandeville brings a deeply unique perspective to our sport. Pam is a Georgetown lawyer and MBA graduate who spent years as an AKC project manager and in corporate America, plus she's bred...


735 — Secure Your Dog’s Future: The Lifesaving Benefits of Pet Trusts and Estate Planning
735 — Secure Your Dog’s Future: The Lifesaving Benefits of Pet Trusts and Estate Planning episode artwork
04/20/2026

Secure Your Dog's Future: The Lifesaving Benefits of Pet Trusts and Estate Planning

Laura is joined by estate planning attorney and author Cecilia Amo to discuss how to secure the future of your purebred dogs and avoid the expensive, time-consuming default government plan known as probate.

Why You Need More Than Just a Will

Many dog owners assume a simple will is enough to protect their pets, but the law views dogs as property. If you leave money to a friend in a will and ask them to care for your dog, there is absolutely no...


734 — Semen Viability & “Semen Math”: Maximize Success with Fresh, Chilled & Frozen
734 — Semen Viability & “Semen Math”: Maximize Success with Fresh, Chilled & Frozen episode artwork
04/13/2026

Semen Viability & “Semen Math”: Maximize Success with Fresh, Chilled & Frozen

Dr. Marty Greer returns to break down semen viability, the six parameters of semen analysis, practical “semen math,” and strategies for maximizing success with fresh-chilled and frozen semen. Marty joins Laura to demystify semen viability and the practical realities of breeding with fresh, chilled and frozen semen. Whether you’re a first-time breeder or seasoned pro, this conversation delivers veterinary-backed guidance on how to assess semen quality, plan collections and protect valuable genetic material. Key topics covered: Semen Math: Dr. Greer walks through the core formula: ejaculate volume × sperm conce...


733 — Dog Breeders Under Fire: the National Legislative Push Against Responsible Breeders
733 — Dog Breeders Under Fire: the National Legislative Push Against Responsible Breeders episode artwork
04/06/2026

Dog Breeders Under Fire: the National Legislative Push Against Responsible Breeders

A sweeping mandatory sterilization bill in Hawaii refuses to die. It's part of a coordinated national campaign targeting responsible breeders and dog sports. Responsible dog owners and breeders across the country are facing a coordinated legislative push that threatens the future of purebred dogs, working dog sports and preservation breeding. Host Laura Reeves breaks down the landscape and brings in Lynn Muramaru, board member of the Pacific Pet Alliance, to detail the fight happening in Hawaii right now.

Hawaii's Mandatory Spay-Neuter Legislation

The Hawaiian Humane...


732 — AKC Purebred Preservation Bank: Saving Dog Breeds from Extinction
732 — AKC Purebred Preservation Bank: Saving Dog Breeds from Extinction episode artwork
03/30/2026

AKC Purebred Preservation Bank: Saving Dog Breeds from Extinction

More than half of AKC-recognized breeds are now considered low-entry, and the number of breeds registering 10 or fewer litters per year doubled between 2022 and 2024. Host Laura Reeves sits down with Dr. Charlie Garvin—AKC Board of Directors member and chairman of the AKC Purebred Preservation Bank (PPB)—to unpack what that means for the future of purebred dogs and what breeders can do about it today.

Dr. Garvin traces the PPB's origins to the Otterhound Club's pioneering reproductive bank, established in 2017, and explains how the AKC step...


732 — AKC Purebred Preservation Bank: Saving Dog Breeds from Extinction
732 — AKC Purebred Preservation Bank: Saving Dog Breeds from Extinction episode artwork
#732
03/30/2026

AKC Purebred Preservation Bank: Saving Dog Breeds from Extinction

AKC Board member and PPB Chairman Dr. Charlie Garvin joins host Laura Reeves to explain how the AKC Purebred Preservation Bank is using frozen semen donations to protect low-entry breeds from genetic collapse and extinction.

More than half of AKC-recognized breeds are now considered low-entry, and the number of breeds registering 10 or fewer litters per year doubled between 2022 and 2024. Host Laura Reeves sits down with Dr. Charlie Garvin—AKC Board of Directors member and chairman of the AKC Purebred Preservation Bank (PPB)—to unpack what...


731 — Buddy the Beagle, Children’s Books and Dog Show Life with Will Alexander
731 — Buddy the Beagle, Children’s Books and Dog Show Life with Will Alexander episode artwork
03/23/2026

Buddy the Beagle, Children's Books and Dog Show Life with Will Alexander

Will Alexander joins host Laura Reeves to talk about his charming new children's book series starring Buddy the Beagle, plus judging, podcasting and the timeless chaos of navigating dog shows without GPS.

Longtime dog show handler and judge Will Alexander returns to Pure Dog Talk with something unexpected in his portfolio: a children's book series. Inspired by his real-life beagle — a 1992 American National winner nicknamed "Bud Man" — Will wrote the first book, What Is My Name? at his kitchen table on a whim. What followed was a...


730 — Hypnosis for Dog Handlers: Calm Your Mind, Free Your Dog
730 — Hypnosis for Dog Handlers: Calm Your Mind, Free Your Dog episode artwork
03/16/2026

Hypnosis for Dog Handlers: Calm Your Mind, Free Your Dog

In this fascinating episode, host Laura Reeves welcomes Radek Blažo, a dog show enthusiast and certified hypnotherapist from Slovakia, whose two passions — purebred dogs and cognitive behavioral hypnotherapy — have collided in a surprisingly powerful way.

Radek's dog journey began at age 15 in Slovakia, when his father took him to visit breeders and he fell in love with Lhasa Apsos. He eventually traveled to Italy to learn the craft of handling and later came to the United States, where mentors like Melissa Pepke and professional handl...


729 — Assembling the “Engine” in Canine Structure
729 — Assembling the “Engine” in Canine Structure episode artwork
03/09/2026

Assembling the "Engine" in Canine Structure

Veteran breeder and judge Stephanie Seabrook Hedgepath joins host Laura Reeves to break down the dog's "engine" -- rear construction from croup anatomy and tail set to hock length and bend of stifle — helping breeders and judges understand how structure drives movement and longevity.

The entire rear assembly in a dog is the engine that propels it forward. Stephanie and Laura unpack the anatomy and biomechanics behind a correct rear assembly, why balance matters more than any single piece, and how faults in the rear (or the front) can break a wo...


728 — Fenbendazole Side Effects in Dogs: What Breeders Need to Know About Rare Reactions
728 — Fenbendazole Side Effects in Dogs: What Breeders Need to Know About Rare Reactions episode artwork
03/02/2026

Fenbendazole Side Effects in Dogs: What Breeders Need to Know About Rare Reactions

Fenbendazole (Panacur) has been a go-to dewormer for veterinarians and breeders for over 40 years — but a rare, life-threatening blood disorder in a 10-month-old French Bulldog is prompting a closer look. Dr. Marty Greer joins host Laura Reeves to share what happened, what it means, and why being an informed consumer of veterinary drugs matters more than ever. Marty shares her experience with a young French Bulldog who developed severe pancytopenia — dangerously low white blood cells, platelets near zero, and declining red blood cells — after a 10-day c...


727 — WKC Toy Group Winning Handler Tim Lehman on Campaigning a Maltese
727 — WKC Toy Group Winning Handler Tim Lehman on Campaigning a Maltese episode artwork
02/23/2026

WKC Toy Group Winning Handler Tim Lehman on Campaigning a Maltese and Drop-Coat Excellence

Fresh off his Toy Group win at the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show, Tim Lehman joins Pure Dog Talk to share the story behind Cookie, the breathtaking Maltese who captured hearts at the Garden. From a childhood obsession sparked in a Minnesota library to standing in the Best in Show lineup under the spotlight at Madison Square Garden, Tim’s journey is a testament to mentorship, meticulous coat care, purposeful breeding and staying in the path of kindness.  


726 — Postpartum Complications in Dogs: Dr. Marty’s Whelping Survival Guide
726 — Postpartum Complications in Dogs: Dr. Marty’s Whelping Survival Guide episode artwork
#726
02/16/2026

Postpartum Complications in Dogs: Dr. Marty’s Whelping Survival Guide

Whelping doesn’t always end with a tidy pile of healthy puppies and a relaxed, glowing mama dog. Host Laura Reeves is joined by our favorite best friend in veterinary medicine, Dr. Marty Greer, to walk through the most common (and most dangerous) postpartum complications breeders face — from retained puppies and metritis to mastitis, eclampsia, and even the terrifying “SIPS” bleeding that shows up weeks later. If you’ve ever had a bitch crash after delivery… or you’re hoping you never will… this is the episode that helps you sta...


725 — Gut Health, Brain Health and the Science of Better Dogs
725 — Gut Health, Brain Health and the Science of Better Dogs episode artwork
#725
02/09/2026

Gut Health, Brain Health and the Science of Better Dogs

[caption id="attachment_15060" align="alignleft" width="363"] Dr. Lobos with her own dogs Finn and Journey.[/caption] 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 agin...


724 — Legendary Handler Andy Linton on Quality, Conditioning and Presentation
724 — Legendary Handler Andy Linton on Quality, Conditioning and Presentation episode artwork
#724
02/02/2026

Legendary Handler Andy Linton on Quality, Conditioning and Presentation

[caption id="attachment_15022" align="alignleft" width="338"] Andy and Penny shine at the DPCA Top 20.[/caption]

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 walk...


723 — From Pugs to the Green Carpet: Charlotte Patterson on Judging the Toy Group at Westminster
723 — From Pugs to the Green Carpet: Charlotte Patterson on Judging the Toy Group at Westminster episode artwork
#723
01/26/2026

From Pugs to the Green Carpet: Charlotte Patterson on Judging the Toy Group at Westminster

[caption id="attachment_15011" align="alignleft" width="491"] Charlotte Patterson awarding David Fitzpatrick first in the Toy Group at Westminster Kennel Club in 2017 with "Chuckie."[/caption]

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...


722 — FIDO: Nancy Martin and the Power of Keeping Pets in Homes
722 — FIDO: Nancy Martin and the Power of Keeping Pets in Homes episode artwork
#722
01/19/2026

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...


721 — From Rescue to Responsible Breeding: Why Education Is the Future of Dog Breeding
721 — From Rescue to Responsible Breeding: Why Education Is the Future of Dog Breeding episode artwork
#721
01/12/2026

From Rescue to Responsible Breeding: Why Education Is the Future of Dog Breeding

[caption id="attachment_14935" align="alignleft" width="448"] Rebecca Norton-Childs is the founder of Pupstarts breeder education program in the UK.[/caption]

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 practi...


720 — Stud Dog Marathon: How Often Is Too Often?
720 — Stud Dog Marathon: How Often Is Too Often? episode artwork
#720
01/05/2026

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...


719 — Amy Rutherford on Smooths, Bred-By Success and Preservation Breeding
719 — Amy Rutherford on Smooths, Bred-By Success and Preservation Breeding episode artwork
#719
12/29/2025

Amy Rutherford on Smooths, Bred-By Success and Preservation Breeding

[caption id="attachment_14897" align="alignleft" width="961"] Amy Rutherford winning Best Bred By Exhibitor at AKC National Championship with Wager.[/caption]

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...


718 — Purebred Dogs: Living History on Our Couch | A Year-End Reflection
718 — Purebred Dogs: Living History on Our Couch | A Year-End Reflection episode artwork
#718
12/22/2025

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...


717 — Showing Dogs on a Shoestring Budget
717 — Showing Dogs on a Shoestring Budget episode artwork
#717
12/15/2025

Showing Dogs on a Shoestring Budget

Smart Strategies for Budget-Friendly Success in the Conformation Ring

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, fu...


716 – Hunting for Raccoons and Ribbons with Border Terriers
716 – Hunting for Raccoons and Ribbons with Border Terriers episode artwork
12/08/2025

Hunting for Raccoons and Ribbons with Border Terriers

[caption id="attachment_14799" align="alignleft" width="376"] Karen Fitzpatrick with one of her Meadowlake Border Terriers.[/caption] 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...