Mrs . Rosalind Kramer
2024 BEST IN SHOW
Judge Interview
What was your reaction when asked to judge Best in Show at Westminster ?
Stunned , Shocked and Overjoyed !
What do you think will be the most challenging aspect of this assignment ?
It ’ s not so much challenging , as it is professionally rewarding . To have the excitement of a collection of seven incredible dogs , all sent by peers in the sport whom I have the utmost respect for , is not only rewarding , but the greatest honor and assignment I have ever had .
How does your wealth of experience in the sport as a breeder , professional handler , judge , and AKC Executive Field Representative impact your decisions while judging ?
My lifetime experiences in dogs , combined with my passion for breed history , breed standards , and the wisdom provided by my mentors will guide the process .
What is it about the sport that attracts you he most ?
THE DOGS !
What advice would you offer those just starting their judging career ?
Do not be in a RUSH ! Learn not just the standards of each breed , but have the respect to learn and understand the history of the breed , the people , breeders , and dogs that have all influenced each breed . Never stop learning – even after you have been approved to judge each breed . NEVER have a closed mind .
Mrs . Rosalind Kramer
High Point , North Carolina
Rosalind brings a lifetime of experience as a preservation breeder , professional dog handler , American Kennel Club Executive Field Representative , and judge to the most prestigious assignment in the sport .
As a child , Rosalind started in the sport showing her Wire Fox Terriers . She later worked for a top Scottish Terrier breeder after school and on weekends , to learn animal husbandry , and gain more experience showing dogs . Later she apprenticed under a prominent professional dog handler and eventually became a highly successful top handler herself while continuing to be a preservation breeder . Rosalind has bred National Specialty and All-Breed Best in Show winners , and numerous top-ranked dogs . She handled top-winning Terriers and Toy dogs setting records that still stand today .
At the end of her career as a professional dog handler , Rosalind worked for the American Kennel Club ( AKC ) as an Executive Field Representative and Judges Education Chair . She retired from the AKC when she married Dr . Andrew Kramer , a fellow Terrier enthusiast , and began her judging career .
She is approved to judge the Terrier , Hound , and Toy Groups , as well as half the Sporting breeds and Best in Show . She has judged Best in Show at the prestigious Montgomery County Kennel Club , as well as Group competitions at the AKC National Championship Show . This will be Rosalind ’ s fifth assignment at Westminster . She judged the Terrier Group in 2018 , and the Toy Group in 2022 .
Tell us something people don ’ t know about you . I was born in Alaska – before it was a state !