We just got back from an AKC show. This is the 4th show for Nikon (2 UKC, 1 AKC and now this another AKC). At every show there is always this same American line dog that is his age. Sometimes others here or there, but always this other dog has been in his class. Nikon beat him his first show which wasn't too surprising since it was UKC but in the AKC ring we mainly go for practice and socialization, don't feel we have a chance against the American line dogs (and usually don't). Today Nikon beat him fair and square in the AKC ring! I heard the judge explaining to the other owner why she got second (I think her dog is meant to be primarily a show dog so she's very interested in the judges opinions) and the judge said on the down and back her dog was loose and all over the place but Nikon was very clean considering their age. He also gaited well now that I've figured out how face to pace my steps. I was totally shocked to win, we just assumed the competition is between the American dogs and especially this dog, people seem to like him and he's quite a bit larger and more mature looking than Nikon at this age. Nikon's sister did good too and another dog from our breeder, the judge complemented their solid temperaments (many dogs were shying away from the judges and pulling backwards into their leads). Sadly, no pics since my camera didn't have a memory card in it, duh!