Pure Dog Talk
By: Laura Reeves
Language: en
Categories: Kids, Family, Pets, Animals, Leisure, Hobbies, Education
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.
Episodes
717 — Showing Dogs on a Shoestring Budget
Dec 15, 2025717 -- Showing Dogs on a Shoestring Budget
Smart Strategies for Budget-Friendly Success in the Conformation Ring
By Laura Reeves • Pure Dog Talk
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 th...
Duration: 00:41:33716 – Hunting for Raccoons and Ribbons with Border Terriers
Dec 08, 2025Hunting 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... Duration: 00:45:42715 – Whelping Box Foundations with Dr. Marty Greer
Dec 01, 2025Whelping Box Foundations with Dr. Marty Greer
Host Laura Reeves is joined by Dr. Marty Greer to discuss whelping box foundational elements. From heat sources to bedding to disinfecting, this is “must have” information for all breeders. “All whelping boxes will have a heat source and a surface that's easy to keep clean and disinfected,” Greer said. “We’ve used the whelping nest as a heat source. There's other companies now that make them and if you don't have electricity they make them propane powered. They make them powered on DC batteries so you can get alternative sources and it might... Duration: 00:31:25714 – “God Loves a Terrier” with Vandra Huber
Nov 24, 2025“God Loves a Terrier” with Vandra Huber
[caption id="attachment_14655" align="alignleft" width="523"] Dr. Vandra Huber, McVan Scottish Terriers.[/caption] Host Laura Reeves is joined by Terrier expert Vandra Huber for an overview of this plucky, feisty, fun group of dogs. Huber gave herself a Scottish Terrier as a college graduation present. Forty five years later her many claims to fame include co-ownership of Peggy Sue, Ch. Gaelforce Post Script, piloted by Maripi Wooldridge to Best in Show at Westminster Kennel Club in 1995. Ch. McVan's To Russia With Love, Knopa, won Best in Show at Crufts in 2015 handled by Rebec... Duration: 00:38:11713 – Westminster KC 150th Anniversary with Don Sturz
Nov 17, 2025Westminster KC 150th Anniversary with Don Sturz
Host Laura Reeves is joined by WKC president Don Sturz to discuss the upcoming 150th anniversary of the iconic dog show. “Last year, we all kind of looked at this return to New York City, going into a new venue, the Javits Center, coming back to Madison Square Garden with new teams of people and spaces, we really kind of viewed that as a dress rehearsal and we were very open to it being like a learning experience. And I think what happened was it actually ended up being opening night,” Stur... Duration: 00:32:25712 – Junior Showmanship Regional Events Starting in 2026
Nov 10, 2025Junior Showmanship Regional Events Starting in 2026
Host Laura Reeves is joined by Mari-Beth O’Neill, vice president of sports services at the American Kennel Club, to discuss the planned Junior Showmanship Regional events for 2026. “I've always had that sort of dream that there would be something happening in each part of the country for the juniors,” O’Neill said. “And especially for the ones who may not be able to make it to Orlando, to the AKC National Championship or to Westminster. So, let's do something that's more local." Junior Criteria for Entry: The Junior must reside in the region... Duration: 00:26:12711 – Identifying Split Cycles and Silent Seasons
Nov 03, 2025Identifying Split Cycles and Silent Seasons
Dr. Marty Greer joins host Laura Reeves to discuss split cycles and silent seasons in our bitches. Both are frustrating for breeders but they are not the same situation. “Silent heats and split seasons are not the same,” Greer said. “There are some bitches that fail to ovulate. They (likely) have a cystic ovary and that will cause them to have an initial indication that they look like they're in heat, but then they don't persist and they don't ovulate. “And then there are silent heats, which are kind of the opposite where th... Duration: 00:31:11710 – Harnessing Youth to Build New Clubs
Oct 27, 2025Harnessing Youth to Build New Clubs
[caption id="attachment_14619" align="alignleft" width="297"] Ellie Ovrom with her Drent and her All American dog.[/caption] Host Laura Reeves is joined by Ellie Ovrom, Drentsche Patrijshond enthusiast, who has helped found two brand new clubs with just five years involved in the sport. “As I got more interested in purebred dogs and in performance sports,” Ovrom said, “I got involved with existing clubs and organizations around me, or in the case of the breed club, the national club, and as I was getting involved, I started to realize that some of the wa... Duration: 00:30:36709 – Adam Levy’s Secrets to Success of Top-Level Dual Dogs
Oct 20, 2025Adam Levy’s Secrets to Success of Top-Level Dual Dogs
[caption id="attachment_14601" align="alignleft" width="322"] Adam Levy and Devon Kipp Levy work magic emphasizing the dual dog.[/caption] Host Laura Reeves is joined by Adam Levy, breeder of Chesapeake Bay Retrievers, to talk dual dogs, retriever tests and what it takes to be successful at the top. Levy started in Chessies 16 years ago. In that time he has bred five BIS winners, including two with MH titles and field trial points. Working with his business partner Andrew Barbouche, Levy operates Next Generation Gundog Training in Minnesota. “Just beca... Duration: 00:32:20708 – Veterinarian and Author Joins Fight to Support Responsible Breeders
Oct 13, 2025Veterinarian and Author Joins Fight to Support Responsible Breeders
[caption id="attachment_14594" align="alignleft" width="248"] Dr. Nancy Kay, veterinarian and author, encourages clients to source their new dog from responsible breeders.[/caption] Host Laura Reeves is joined by veterinarian and author Dr. Nancy Kay to discuss her fight to support responsible breeders. Kay said that when she’s talking to clients about how to find a responsible breeder, she advises them, “If you're speaking with a breeder over the phone or online, first and foremost, the breeder insists that you come visit. They want you there. It's not nece... Duration: 00:35:39707 — Breast Cancer Awareness for You AND Your Dog
Oct 06, 2025Breast Cancer Awareness for You AND Your Dog
Host Laura Reeves is joined by Dr. Marty Greer for an important reminder about the risks of breast cancer in our dogs and how to prevent and treat it. October is Breast cancer awareness month: How does hearing the words “she’s got breast cancer” affect you? Bring tears to your eyes? Start a knot forming in the pit of your stomach? Make you want a second opinion? Create anger at being cheated? The diagnosis: We all know and have been affected by someone with this dreaded diagnosis. Maybe it is you... Duration: 00:30:29706 – Queen of Cords: Alice Lawrence on 55 Years of Corded Breeds
Sep 29, 2025Queen of Cords: Alice Lawrence on 55 Years of Corded Breeds
[caption id="attachment_14557" align="alignleft" width="373"] Alice Lawrence with BISS GRCHB Fuzzy Farm All Things Considered (aka Spaetzle, on the left) and YOLO (on the right) Moonshadow You Only Live Once At The Fuzzy Farm.[/caption] Host Laura Reeves is joined by Alice Lawrence, breeder-owner-handler of Komondorok, Puli and Havanese, to discuss her beloved corded breeds. Lawrence, along with her husband Steve, first owned an Old English Sheepdog. “We were brushing our arms off,” she said. “In 1972, we acquired our first Komondor and there's no looking back. And no, we... Duration: 00:43:34705 – Changing Hearts and Minds, One Livestream at a Time
Sep 22, 2025Changing Hearts and Minds, One Livestream at a Time
Host Laura Reeves is joined by friend of the pod Bobby Brian (BB) Lewis to talk about how he was able to change the minds of random members of the public using his YouTube channel. Lewis started his YouTube channel primarily to share with his puppy families and show how the puppies are raised. He said he was shocked by the amount of negative feedback and outright hate toward dog breeders that he received. “The easiest thing would have been to remove them from the channel. I mean, I do... Duration: 00:35:55704 – The New and Aspiring Judge’s Journey with Channing Sheets
Sep 15, 2025The New and Aspiring Judge’s Journey with Channing Sheets
“How you treat people is everything.” Host Laura Reeves is joined by German Shepherd Dog breeder and recently minted AKC judge Channing Sheets for a conversation about breeding dogs, the sport, judging and the honor of his first Westminster Kennel Club judging assignment. [caption id="attachment_14493" align="alignleft" width="550"] Channing Sheets with one of his GSD.[/caption] Sheets recounts his journey in dogs, starting with his dad’s bird dogs and hounds, through Keeshond and finally landing with his passion, the GSD. A member of the GSDCA Judges Educatio... Duration: 00:33:34703 – Hot Topic: New Rules for FSS Breeds
Sep 08, 2025[caption id="attachment_14468" align="alignleft" width="273"] Veronica Miller and a Portugese Podengo Medio.[/caption]
Hot Topic: New Rules for FSS Breeds
Host Laura Reeves is joined by Veronica Miller, Portugese Podengo Medio enthusiast, to discuss newly announced rules about FSS breeds. The August Board minutes launched a number of hot topics and discussions, including around limited registrations, but one of the hottest is taking place in the FSS community. The enthusiasts in this group are working with breeds progressing toward full AKC recognition. Many of these breeds are ancient and popular in other countries. “Since I came in in... Duration: 00:27:44702 – Diagnosing the Limping Puppy: Pano, HOD, OCD and more…
Sep 01, 2025Diagnosing the Limping Puppy: Pano, HOD, OCD and more…
Host Laura Reeves is joined by Dr. Marty Greer for a deep dive on all the causes of a limping puppy. They cover when to have the puppy seen by a vet and what differentials are in play for the diagnosis. Panosteitis. Hypertrophic osteodystrophy. Osteochondritis Dissecans. These are long, scary names of disorders that can adversely impact our puppies while they are growing. From the relatively benign Pano to the frequently surgical solution for OCD, every time we see a limping puppy, our stomachs clench. Greer walks listeners through al... Duration: 00:42:08701 – PennHIP for the Win on Reducing Incidence of Hip Dysplasia
Aug 25, 2025PennHIP for the Win on Reducing Incidence of Hip Dysplasia
[caption id="attachment_14411" align="alignleft" width="399"] Dr. Karen Potter showing one of her German Wirehaired Pointers.[/caption] Host Laura Reeves is joined by Dr. Karen Potter to discuss the value of PennHIP evaluations to reduce the incidence of hip dysplasia in a breeding program. “While yes, I do PennHIP my dogs,” Potter said, “I typically will go back and still get an OFA score on them. So I have both avenues to look at as I'm going through my breeding. With Penn Hip, we're able to have a number... Duration: 00:39:57700 — Laura On: Re-imagining Dog Shows and Dog Breeding
Aug 18, 2025Episode 700: Re-imagining Dog Shows and Dog Breeding
It’s become a tradition here at Pure Dog Talk to celebrate the important milestones. Episode 700 feels surreal to me! Since November of 2016, NINE years, I’ve been hopping in the van with you guys for your road trips, joining you on the treadmill and the lawnmower, at the grooming table and discussions around the dinner table. Crazy talk! But, here we are. This year we even kicked off a new adventure with the Marty and Laura Show, reaching out to the general public, your puppy buyers and your cousin’s uncle’... Duration: 00:20:00699 – Jake Bartells on NAVHDA, Epagneul Breton and Dog Clubs
Aug 11, 2025Jake Bartells on NAVHDA, Epagneul Breton and Dog Clubs
Host Laura Reeves is joined by Jake Bartells, a member of the North American Versatile Hunting Dog Association (NAVHDA) and breeder of Epagneul Breton. Their wide-ranging conversation about the inherent challenges of dog clubs is applicable to any club, of any type, anywhere.About NAVHDA
“NAVHDA is an organization of about 10,000 members,” Bartells said. “It's mainly a testing organization that gathers data in a registry and that's where it houses the data is through the registry. All of the tests are done per a standard. So you're judged... Duration: 00:29:55698 – Three Words That Strike Fear in Vets and Owners
Aug 04, 2025Three Words That Strike Fear in Vets and Owners
Host Laura Reeves is joined by Dr. Marty Greer talking about the three words that strike fear in both veterinarians and owners. “These three things are what can take a normal, easy, lovely day at the veterinary clinic and turn it upside down and cause clients to have to wait and then swear at their veterinary team because they don't understand why they have to wait because they had an appointment,” Greer said. Those three words, according to Greer, are GDV (bloat), Pyo (pyometra) and HBC (hit by car). Refr... Duration: 00:40:00697 – Dog Breeding as a Vision Quest
Jul 28, 2025Dog Breeding as a Vision Quest
Host Laura Reeves is joined by NYT best-selling author David Wroblewski discussing dog breeding as a vision quest. Wroblewski is the author of The Story of Edgar Sawtelle and Familiaris both based on the life and history of fictional dog breeder Edgar Sawtelle and his family. “This sort of primal connection that we have with dogs, to me fundamentally is about how to live a larger, better life in a really broad sense,” Wroblewski said. “One of the things that you mentioned, kind of like in the theme of the novels, is the im... Duration: 00:32:08696 – Swedish Lapphund and the Genetics of the Arctic Spitz Breeds
Jul 21, 2025Swedish Lapphund and the Genetics of the Arctic Spitz Breeds
[caption id="attachment_14251" align="alignleft" width="540"] Desiree Ramirez with one of her Swedish Lapphunds.[/caption] Host Laura Reeves is joined by Desiree Ramirez to discuss the Swedish Lapphund and the genetics of the arctic spitz “archetype” that developed into landrace dogs and then different breeds over centuries. Swedish Lapphunds are not Finnish Laphunds or Finnish Spitz or Norwegian Buhunds or Norwegian Elkhounds or Samoyeds or Karelian Bear Dogs. Currently registered by AKC in the FSS, there are only about 40 dogs in the US. They are their own unique bree... Duration: 00:37:00695 – The Tiny but Mighty Chihuahua with Kristi Green
Jul 14, 2025The Tiny but Mighty Chihuahua with Kristi Green
[caption id="attachment_14231" align="alignleft" width="416"] Kristi Green with BIS MBISS GCHG CH Knockout Pretty Little Liar.[/caption] Host Laura Reeves is joined by Kristi Green, talking about the tiny but mighty Chihuahua. From their slightly mysterious origins to best practices on finding and raising a well-bred dog, Green shares pro tips from her own successes and struggles. “I think that the biggest part about living with a Chihuahua is that they can be as good of a dog as you want them to be or as bad of a do... Duration: 00:41:19694 – What’s Your “Line in the Sand” for Breeding
Jul 07, 2025What’s Your “Line in the Sand” for Breeding
Host Laura Reeves is joined by Dr. Marty Greer for an important conversation about “what is YOUR line in the sand” when breeding dogs. This is a conversation around breeding ethics and having a “mission statement” for your breeding program. “I had a listener ask about a baby puppy with one testicle yoyoing and one maybe, maybe not there and what should they do? And Marty said, ‘Well, there's only a couple things and it won't take very long (to talk about), but I think that there's no reason not to breed that... Duration: 00:36:14693 – The Glen of Imaal Terrier’s Place in Ireland
Jun 30, 2025The Glen of Imaal Terrier’s Place in Ireland
We have friend of the pod Theresa Nesbitt back and you guys know how much I harp on the current dogs are living history, right? Like this is my jam. And that purebred dogs represent a specific place and a specific people in a specific time. Well, Theresa has taken that for the Glen of Imaal Terrier and done this huge deep dive on it. And her information and her stories are so fascinating. You know, in the green room off air we were talking about. How cool it is... Duration: 00:31:37692 — Pro Tips for Hot Dog Shows and When Safety Overrules Ribbons
Jun 23, 2025Pro Tips for Hot Dog Shows and When Safety Overrules Ribbons
Host Laura Reeves brings you Pure Dog Talk's LIVE@5 discussion of the hot summer dog shows and when safety is more important than ribbons. "Let's talk about what hot means. And everybody has their own understanding of it, right? So what is hot to someone like myself from the Northwest might be no big deal if you're from Phoenix. Understand that if you're hot, your dogs have similar acclimation and so it's really important to understand what your dog can tolerate. "I was doing my handling class... Duration: 00:34:55691 — Alaskan Klee Kai Move to Miscellaneous
Jun 16, 2025Alaskan Klee Kai Move to Miscellaneous
Host Laura Reeves is joined by Chelsea Watson for a discussion of the Alaskan Klee Kai moving to Miscellaneous this summer. [caption id="attachment_14178" align="alignleft" width="370"] Versatile, energetic and aloof, Alaskan Klee Kai join Miscellaneous.[/caption] According to Watson, the Klee Kai was developed in Alaska in the 1970s by one woman who wanted to create a “miniature Husky.” The breed was developed using Alaskan Huskies, with additions of Siberian Husky, American Eskimo Dog and Schipperke. The Klee Kai is 12-17 inches tall, with a variety of colors and coats available. Bred... Duration: 00:31:10690 — Conditioning for Canine Athletes
Jun 09, 2025Conditioning for Canine Athletes
Host Laura Reeves is joined by Dr. Ashley Nixon to discuss conditioning our canine athletes, whether for the show ring, dock diving, agility and more.
"Cardio's good for everybody," Nixon said, "but I think it's really important to consider the sport you're doing and what you're asking your dog to do. They can be cardiovascularly fit, but maybe they don't have the propulsion to do some dock diving or agility, right? So I think it's super important to kind of keep that in mind and not just say, hey, I walk...
Duration: 00:32:15689 – Infertility Problem Solving Protocol
Jun 02, 2025Infertility Problem Solving Protocol
Host Laura Reeves is joined by Dr. Marty Greer for a conversation about the problem solving protocol for infertility using a case study submitted in the private Pure Dog Talk Patrons group. Greer’s first recommendation for fertility issues is to have a complete semen analysis on the stud dog. “There are six parameters that we should look at for semen quality. It should be volume, sperm count, the motility, the morphology, the longevity and speed of progression. …(I)t's much easier to analyze the fertility on a male dog that is a female.” Greer co... Duration: 00:47:25688 – Dual Dogs Serve Dual Purpose
May 26, 2025Dual Dogs Serve Dual Purpose
[caption id="attachment_14045" align="alignleft" width="496"] Brittany puppy with big dreams.[/caption] Host Laura Reeves is joined by Bobby Brian Lewis to talk guided quail hunts in Georgia and how his dual champion Brittanies help create goodwill for purebred dogs and dog breeders generally in this very old Southern tradition. Lewis has been guiding quail hunts since he was a teenager and his dad is still guiding in his 80s. The vast plantations and preserves of Georgia are a perfect backdrop for these hunts, Lewis said. “A lot of people we take, they've go... Duration: 00:38:51687 – Movie Star Great Dane’s Owner Helps Educate the Public
May 19, 2025Movie Star Great Dane’s Owner Helps Educate the Public
Host Laura Reeves is joined by Bev Klingensmith, breeder, owner and trainer of the canine star of the new movie, The Friend. [caption id="attachment_14029" align="alignleft" width="671"] Bev Klingensmith and Bing on set filming The Friend.[/caption] Klingensmith’s dog, Bing, CH Flighty Foto White Christmas CD RA CA DCAT TKI CGC TT, plays the part of the Harlequin Great Dane in the movie which stars Naomi Watts and Bill Murray, about a solitary writer who adopts and bonds with a Great Dane that belonged to a late... Duration: 00:35:35686 – How to Battle Anti Breeder Legislation Around the US
May 12, 2025How to Battle Anti Breeder Legislation Around the US
[caption id="attachment_14021" align="alignleft" width="446"] Jennifer Clark joins fanciers at an event in Washington DC.[/caption] Host Laura Reeves is joined by Jennifer Clark, AKC director of legislative outreach, to talk about legislation in Oregon and what's happening elsewhere in the country and why it matters that fanciers get involved. “For those who are not in Oregon, or may not have been following it,” Clark said, “what this bill basically said initially is that the state has to start regulating anyone who breeds and sells in the state. So if... Duration: 00:37:37685 – Mastitis is not Metritis is not Pyometra
May 05, 2025Mastitis is not Metritis is not Pyometra
Dr. Marty Greer joins host Laura Reeves to walk through the differentials in diagnosing possible infections in the breeding bitch, including mastitis, metritis and pyometra.
“There's a lot of reasons that postpartum bitches can run a fever. So I think it's a really good topic because when you go to the vet or if you know if you're calling for a vet appointment or you're getting to the vet, it can be a little more muddy than you think it should be.
<... Duration: 00:42:47684 – Purina Events Center Reopens
Apr 28, 2025Purina Events Center Reopens
Host Laura Reeves is joined by Angie Minges, Director of partnership marketing and events for Purina to discuss the rapid response that reopened the Purina Event Center in time for PCA. [caption id="attachment_13976" align="alignleft" width="563"] Tornado damage at Purina Farms has closed the Visitor Center, but the Events Center is open for business.[/caption] The Purina Farm and Events Center outside St. Louis, MO was hit by an EF2 tornado on March 14. The barn and visitor center were badly damaged. The events center and surrounding grounds sustained significant wind damage wiping out... Duration: 00:28:56683 – Own Your Digital Property with an Optimized Website
Apr 21, 2025Own Your Digital Property with an Optimized Website
[caption id="attachment_13813" align="alignleft" width="431"] Matt Stelter from Better Breeder Institute with one of his collie puppies.[/caption] Matt Stelter from Better Breeder Institute joins host Laura Reeves for a LIVE@5 live podcast about SEO and how to optimize your website. “Somewhere along the line, conservation dog breeders took on the mindset that they should not be marketing themselves, apparently because it's just something that for profit or commercial breeders do,” Stelter said. “However, nothing could be further from the truth. It is a limiting belief that harms our conser... Duration: 00:47:48682 – Akitas: Guardian Dogs of the Samurai
Apr 14, 2025Akitas: Guardian Dogs of the Samurai
[caption id="attachment_13805" align="alignleft" width="441"] Colleen Sullivan and one of her Sondaisa Akitas.[/caption] Colleen Sullivan joins host Laura Reeves for a Love the Breeds episodes on Akitas. The breed, one of six national monuments in Japan, was introduced to the US by Hellen Keller in 1937. Originally used as guard dogs and companions for the Samurai warriors, the breed is quiet, clean and very devoted to their owners. Sullivan notes that the breed is best for owners who are willing to be leaders in the relationship and that same sex aggression... Duration: 00:35:24681 – Tube Feeding: When, Why and How with Dr. Marty Greer
Apr 07, 2025Tube Feeding: When, Why and How with Dr. Marty Greer
Dr. Marty Greer joins host Laura Reeves for a run down of when, why and how to tube feed neonates. New born puppies who can’t or won’t nurse for whatever reason may be fed with a tube passed directly to the stomach. “I just want people to know that dying of starvation is not an option at my house,” Greer said. “Different people have different thresholds and that's my threshold, is you are not going to die of starvation.” Marty and Laura walk through the “why”s of tube feedin... Duration: 00:33:39680 – Canine Health Foundation Celebrates 30 years
Mar 31, 2025Canine Health Foundation Celebrates 30 years
Stephanie Montgomery, CEO of the AKC Canine Health Foundation, joins host Laura Reeves to catch up on what the powerful non-profit has done and continues to do for all dogs. Montgomery, an Airedale fancier, joined CHF as the CEO in 2023, but “I was able to kind of blend my passion for science and dogs and started volunteering for the Canine Health Foundation as a scientific reviewer. And then I always say I'm a failed volunteer because now I'm working here. “We are celebrating our 30th year anniversary this year, founded in 1995. And what I wa... Duration: 00:33:19679 – Black Russian Terrier: “The Black Pearl of Russia”
Mar 24, 2025Black Russian Terrier: "The Black Pearl of Russia"
[caption id="attachment_13770" align="alignright" width="354"] Emily Fagan showing one of her Black Russian Terriers.[/caption] Host Laura Reeves is joined by Emily Fagan, breeder of Black Russian Terriers, for a Love the Breeds episode talking about the “big black fluffy bearded beasts” that have become her “spirit animal.” “Like they are the Black Pearl of Russia and they really are like the hidden gem. Most people, they see them and they're like, ohh, boy, that's kind of this big black scary kind of looking dog. And they’re so stoic and re... Duration: 00:35:40678 – Resurrecting a Legendary Product
Mar 17, 2025Resurrecting a Legendary Product
Tasha Mesina, new owner of Cindra, joins host Laura Reeves to discuss resurrecting a legendary grooming product.
“I had used the brand Cindra since the beginning of time on the Belgians and I loved it,” Mesina said. “Unfortunately, Cindra closed with COVID like many things did, supply chain issues, blah, blah, you know the story that everybody has. And I missed it. I really missed it.
“And I maybe didn't realize they had closed for a hot minute until I tried to find Super Coat and then it was like why...
Duration: 00:30:27677 – Overcoming Obstacles by Giving Grace
Mar 10, 2025Overcoming Obstacles by Giving Grace
[caption id="attachment_13611" align="alignleft" width="429"] Rebecca Fletcher with her Dogo Argentino.[/caption] Rebecca Fletcher joins host Laura Reeves to talk about her journey as a service dog trainer and breeder owner handler of Dogo Argentino, while overcoming extreme obstacles after losing her leg. Fletcher, a retired Marine, started her journey by training her own Dogo Argentino as her first service dog. “Don't give up, but give yourself grace,” Fletcher said. “Grace is absolutely vital. And I wasn't very good at it. I get mad myself. You know, I train service dogs for disabl... Duration: 00:33:09676 – Brucellosis or CHV? Deadly Diseases for Puppies
Mar 03, 2025Brucellosis or CHV? Deadly Diseases for Puppies
Dr. Marty Greer joins host Laura Reeves for a Veterinary Voice topic that can be devastating for breeders and deadly for puppies. Brucellosis and CHV (Canine Herpes Virus) can both decimate a litter. “If you lose even a single puppy in a litter, have testing done on that puppy,” Greer said. “Have a necropsy done of some form at your vet clinic or at a referral center or at a reference lab, so that you find out what happened because you can't learn from it if you bury your mistakes. You can't... Duration: 00:33:04675 – “Each puppy is another little sketch” – Liz Hansen and Sketchbook
Feb 24, 2025“Each puppy is another little sketch” – Liz Hansen and Sketchbook
[caption id="attachment_13591" align="alignleft" width="300"] Liz Hansen with Seasar at WKC.[/caption] Host Laura Reeves is joined by Liz Hansen, Sketchbook Standard Schnauzers, AKC’s Breeder of the Year nominee for the working group. With a degree from the University of Minnesota in scientific illustration, Hansen named her breeding program Sketchbook. “Sketchbook came just sort of naturally from that because these are little sketches I make. Each little puppy is another little sketch,” Hansen said. “Almost 26 years ago, another breeder and I ran into a problem. We had epilepsy s... Duration: 00:31:26674 – Irish Wolfhounds: Soulful Gentle Giants
Feb 17, 2025Irish Wolfhounds: Soulful Gentle Giants
Love the Breeds returns as host Laura Reeves talks with Jamie Souza Bartlett about Irish Wolfhounds, the gentle giants of the dog world. [caption id="attachment_13583" align="alignleft" width="318"] Jamie grew up with Irish Wolfhounds with her mom, Linda Souza.[/caption] “They're just, they're soulful, they're sweet. They're the gentle giants and I was very, very fortunate to grow up with them,” Jamie says. “Wolfhounds, much like a lot of breeds, were bred for a specific purpose, which was to hunt wolves in Ireland. Eventually, the wolves became extinct in Ireland, and consequently the wo... Duration: 00:27:40673 – Maripi Wooldridge on How to Make Your Dog a Winner
Feb 10, 2025Maripi Wooldridge on How to Make Your Dog a Winner
Host Laura Reeves is joined by Maripi Wooldridge, handler of the 1995 Westminster Kennel Club Best in Show winning Scottish Terrier, Ch. Gaelforce Postscript. More recently, Maripi’s Lakeland Terrier MM won the group here in 2022. Maripi takes us through how she thinks about making a dog a winner. [caption id="attachment_13576" align="alignleft" width="468"] Maripi Wooldridge judging the 2024 Wire Fox Terrier National Specialty show.[/caption] LR: If you want your dog to always be best in show ready? Any breed, what are your three top tips? MW: Conditioning bo... Duration: 00:29:09672 – Lumps and Bumps: From Benign to Bad
Feb 03, 2025Lumps and Bumps: From Benign to Bad
Dr. Marty Greer joins host Laura Reeves for a deep dive on the various lumps and bumps we see on our dogs, from benign to bad, from histiocytomas to osteosarcoma. “Histiocytomas are really, really common. And they are really scary looking because there are these pink bumps that show up on young dogs and they come seemingly out of nowhere. It's usually on the head, neck or on the feet, the front legs. You're gonna be afraid that it's something like a mast cell tumor. And mast cell tumors are bad, te... Duration: 00:35:46671 – Beagles! Phenomenal Little Hounds for Families
Jan 27, 2025Beagles! Phenomenal Little Hounds for Families
[caption id="attachment_13522" align="alignleft" width="421"] Lindsay Bryson showing her Beagle at Westminster Kennel Club.[/caption] Host Laura Reeves is joined by Beagle breeder Lindsay Bryson for a deep dive on Beagles as we ramp up the Love the Breeds specials again. Lindsay started her Beagle journey with an obedience dog and shares why that challenge helped her understand the breed better. “I decided to really jump into the dog world with the biggest challenge I could find,” Lindsay said. “He was not even supposed to be a show dog. I had no int... Duration: 00:29:47670 – Emergency Medicine Best Practices
Jan 20, 2025Emergency Medicine Best Practices
[caption id="attachment_13516" align="alignleft" width="515"] Dr. Callie Harris at her "day job" in emergency medicine.[/caption] Dr. Callie Harris joins host Laura Reeves for a deep dive on emergency medicine, urgent care and which is right for you and your dog. “I got bit by the emergency bug,” Dr. Callie said. “This is when the magic started to happen, where I recognize I was an adrenaline junkie. I loved working with really scary crazy cases and I also enjoyed being part of the entire team in my exam room. With very frantic scared pet pa... Duration: 00:40:41669 – How to Climb the Mountain to Owner Handled Success
Jan 13, 2025How to Climb the Mountain to Owner Handled Success
Antoinelle Vulpis joins host Laura Reeves to discuss how she climbed to the pinnacle of owner handled success, winning Best in Show at Montgomery Kennel Club with her Skye Terrier. Vulpis discussed the beginning of this journey in an episode with Laura five years ago. Today’s conversation brings the story full circle. “After our big win at Kennel Club of Philadelphia, I was thinking, we got some awesome momentum,” Vulpis said. “We got two more best in show after I spoke with you. I was like, this is incredib... Duration: 00:30:28668 – Pro Tips on Raising Orphaned Puppies
Jan 06, 2025Pro Tips on Raising Orphaned Puppies
Dr. Marty Greer joins host Laura Reeves to discuss how to raise orphaned puppies. How to help dams not reject their puppies, increase milk production and deal with mastitis are all covered. Pro tip number one is avoid having orphaned puppies, Greer notes. Increasing the dam’s calcium intake, using Adaptil collars and saving placental fluid after a Csection are on Greer’s list of ways to encourage the dam’s maternal instinct to kick in. Pro tip number two is helping dams increase their milk production. “I don't know what there is magic... Duration: 00:44:07667 — 2025 Kick Off and Looking for Potential
Dec 30, 20242025 Kick Off and Looking for Potential
As 2024 draws to a close, we’re left, as usual, staring into the abyss of a new year… upheaval nationally, internationally and even in our tadpole pond of purebred dogs has left all of us off balance at some level. Poised precariously here on my rickety soap box, I hope you’ll join me on a journey of retrospection, through a few glimmers of hope and on to a couple new year’s resolutions. Eight years ago this month, the first Pure Dog Talk episodes dropped just in time for the AKC National... Duration: 00:20:56665 – Research Shows How Dogs are Affected by Human Emotion
Dec 23, 2024Research Shows How Dogs are Affected by Human Emotion
[caption id="attachment_13446" align="alignleft" width="515"] Author Jennifer Holland with her dog.[/caption] Author Jennifer Holland joins host Laura Reeves to discuss her new book “Dog Smart: Life-Changing Lessons in Canine Intelligence.” This cutting-edge science narrative, chock-full of heartwarming case studies, is one woman’s quest to learn the true meaning of dog intelligence and how they are affected by human emotion. Holland interviews trainers and handlers of various working dogs doing their jobs. She was led by a seeing eye dog through the streets of Manhattan and took a slee... Duration: 00:33:44664 – No Ghoulish Green Monsters Here
Dec 16, 2024No Ghoulish Green Monsters Here
Author Dawn Secord joins host Laura Reeves to discuss the release of her new book “No Ghoulish Green Monsters Here.” Secord describes a lifetime in dogs, her time with Irish Setters and her childhood starting with Milk Bone snacks. “Combining my love of art and writing and looking back on being a child with so many kids not acclimated with dogs and not realizing what a wonderful opportunity it is to find companionship,” Secord said. “Find security and to use words to make the kids feel safe. And so in 1984 it was laid on my hear... Duration: 00:38:33663 – Show Safe Team Wants to Make a Difference
Dec 09, 2024Show Safe Team Wants to Make a Difference
Board members of the Show Safe organization join host Laura Reeves to discuss the grassroots development of an organization that supports a safe dog event environment. “I think there were several of us that felt, you know, we're just frustrated because you wanna do something, you know, everyone wants to do something to make a difference,” said Show Safe Secretary Lindsay Fetters. “I think it was very easy to throw blame and throw the responsibility on other parties. And you know, something needs to happen, but it's somebody else's problem. “I think... Duration: 00:35:03662 – Anxious Behaviors Linked to Gut Dysfunction in Dogs
Dec 02, 2024Anxious Behaviors Linked to Gut Dysfunction in Dogs
Dr. Jason Gagne, board certified veterinary nutritionist, joins host Laura Reeves for a deep dive into dog food feeding trials, anxious behaviors linked to gut dysfunction and more. “It's one thing to open up the AAFCO book,” Gagne said. “The Association of American Feed Control Officials who set this model bill, as it's termed and says you need this much zinc, you need this much selenium and so forth. Then pet food company XYZ, whoever that may be, goes ahead and puts that much in or hopefully a little bit more t... Duration: 00:39:35661 – GRRRL Power Team Carries Forward Longo Great Dane Legacy
Nov 25, 2024GRRRL Power Team Carries Forward Longo Great Dane Legacy
[caption id="attachment_13331" align="alignleft" width="602"] Carol Grossman became synonymous with black Great Danes and the Longo dogs.[/caption] Host Laura Reeves is joined by Carol Grossman, Jackie Van Delft and Tristen Lawrence with a tribute to Tootie Longo, who passed away in May of this year, and the Longo Great Dane legacy. Grossman, the "Queen of Great Danes," piloted dogs for Longo for decades, including legendary greats like the second Black in Breed history to win an All Breed Best In Show, BIS BISS Ch. Longo’s Chief Jo... Duration: 00:37:58660 – Peacock Feet and Finding Breed Type in Toy Dogs
Nov 18, 2024Peacock Feet and Finding Breed Type in Toy Dogs
Dale Martenson, breeder of Touche Japanese Chin, joins host Laura Reeves for an enlightening discussion of breed type in toy dogs. He encourages judges, exhibitors and breeders to focus on the critical details of beauty and not get hung up in fault judging. “I hear people talking about either how they judged a group of dogs or breeders when they're evaluating their puppies and all they’re talking about is the faults,” Martenson said, “and (all I can think is they’re looking at a) beautiful flock of Peacocks and all th... Duration: 00:34:01659 – When Sh*t Happens in Your Breeding Program
Nov 11, 2024When Sh*t Happens in Your Breeding Program
Host Laura Reeves is joined by Aimée Llewellyn-Zaidi, Project Director, IPFD Harmonization of Genetic Testing for Dogs, International Partnership for Dogs, for part two of a challenging and informative conversation about when sh*t happens in your breeding program. “If you have a stud dog,” Llewellyn-Zaidi said, “and I'm gonna use stud dogs because that's what tends to be the bigger contributor to a genetic breeding plan. If you have a stud dog or you're using a stud dog or you've used a stud dog and there is a problem... Duration: 00:35:30658 – Resources for Veterinary Medicine Practices and Staff
Nov 04, 2024Resources for Veterinary Medicine Practices and Staff
Dr. Marty Greer joins host Laura Reeves with advice for veterinary medicine practices, vets, techs, staff and clients alike. “The veterinary field is full of really, genuinely great people in a way that we don't see in a lot of other career choices. It's an amazing field to be in,” Greer said. There are, though, plenty of challenges for staff and clients both. “Most veterinarians come out of veterinary school without a lot of experience, they understand how to do the medicine, they don't know how to do the business part. I reme... Duration: 00:31:59657 – Dog Behavior Expert on Nature vs Nurture. BONUS Purple Leash
Oct 28, 2024Dog Behavior Expert on Nature vs Nurture. BONUS Purple Leash
[caption id="attachment_13263" align="alignleft" width="363"] Dr. Annie Valuska, Principal Scientist – Behavior, Global Pet Behavior for Nestle Purina.[/caption] Dr. Annie Valuska, Principal Scientist – Behavior, Global Pet Behavior for Nestle Purina joins host Laura Reeves for a deep dive on dog behavior. “I think even for any animal, (nature vs nurture) is a challenging question,” Valuska said, “but I think for dogs in particular, that might be the muddiest waters out there. Dogs have been domesticated for longer than any other species on earth. They have this long history of... Duration: 00:33:55656 — How Breeds Have Managed Population-wide Health Crises
Oct 21, 2024How Breeds Have Managed Population-wide Health Crises
Host Laura Reeves is joined again by Aimée Llewellyn-Zaidi, Project Director, IPFD Harmonization of Genetic Testing for Dogs at the International Partnership for Dogs. The wide-ranging conversation covers how different breeds have managed population-wide health crises. Llewellyn-Zaidi discusses specific issues with Irish Setters in the UK and Pointers in the US, as well as Cavalier King Charles Spaniels and French Bulldogs in Finland. She also uses knowledge of the inbreeding in dairy cattle to address some of our questions about the potential of "inbreeding depression" in dogs. "Education is us m... Duration: 00:28:45655 — Nancy Talbott on Dual Dogs and Breed Specific Judging
Oct 14, 2024Nancy Talbott on Dual Dogs and Breed Specific Judging
AKC judge Nancy Talbott joins host Laura Reeves for an in depth discussion on the philosophy of dual purpose dogs and breed specific judging. "I didn't really embrace or understand the significant division between show and field until I started showing more and conformation," Talbott said. "And then it started to really strike me, and increasingly, and continuing to strike me at just how extreme, not just conformation and conformation breeders, but also field and field breeders had become. The word extreme should never be in the vocabulary about... Duration: 00:53:59654 – Corporate Takeover of Veterinary Clinics
Oct 07, 2024Corporate Takeover of Veterinary Clinics
Dr. Marty Greer joins host Laura Reeves for a very current conversation about corporate takeover of veterinary clinics. “The trend to purchase veterinary clinics has been going on for probably about 12 to 15 years,” Greer said. “It started with just a couple of consolidators. It's now up to about 80 and some of the consolidators have consolidated. So we now see some of these groups recapitalizing and then moving on and being sold to another consolidator. “So it's been kind of interesting to watch and frankly pretty scary. Just before COVID, the prices of veterinary clinics... Duration: 00:31:42653 – Back to Basics: What to Wear at the Dog Show
Sep 30, 2024Back to Basics: What to Wear at the Dog Show
Veronica Wolfe from Best in Show Clothes joins host Laura Reeves to talk just basic what to wear at the dog show, how to be comfortable, how to live your own truth and still be respectful of the environment that we're in. They cover outfits for the fall weather's coming up and a little bit about good colors with your dogs and stand out versus blend in. “So, when my junior was becoming a teen and bucking the suits, I reminded her that this is a sport like an... Duration: 00:33:20652 – Breeding Dogs Around Diseases that Don’t Have a “Test”
Sep 23, 2024Breeding Dogs Around Diseases that Don’t Have a “Test”
Host Laura Reeves is joined for part two of her impactful conversation with Aimée Llewellyn-Zaidi, Project Director, IPFD Harmonization of Genetic Testing for Dogs at International Partnership for Dogs. Today’s conversation covers some of the biggest hot button diseases impacting all dogs – seizure disorders, cancer, bloat and other life-threatening issues. Llewellyn-Zaidi offers insight, information and details about new tests coming online and the ways we can minimize risk while working with small gene pools. “(S)ome cancers are just kind of part of dogs, just being a dog. Or some... Duration: 00:40:44651 – Bridging the Gap Between Art and Science of Dog Breeding
Sep 16, 2024Bridging the Gap Between Art and Science of Dog Breeding
Host Laura Reeves is joined by Aimee Llewellyn Zaidi, project manager for the International Partnership for Dogs. Llewellyn Zaidi’s work is bridging the gap between art and science in dog breeding. They talk about inbreeding and genetic diversity, how those things go together and what you can do when there isn't a test for a health problem. [caption id="attachment_13097" align="alignleft" width="300"] Aimée Llewellyn-Zaidi and her Corgi.[/caption] “International Partnership for Dogs offers free resources for dog breeders and for vets to kind of give you s... Duration: 00:36:22650 — Breeding a “Star” requires depth of knowledge
Sep 09, 2024Breeding a "Star" requires depth of knowledge
Join host Laura Reeves for part two of her conversation with Cody Sickle, Cherokee Legend Bulldogs, breeder of Star, GCH Cherokee Legend Encore, BIS at the 2022 AKC National Championship. [caption id="attachment_13057" align="alignleft" width="442"] GCH Cherokee Legend Encore, “STAR”. Breeders-Cody T Sickle, Connie Chambers and Sherry HazelettOwners- Alaina Moulton, BJ Whitlow, and Kevin & Natalie MasonLe[/caption] "I think there's a lot of things to think about in breeding," Sickle said. "I think one of the things to really focus on in breeding is watch what everybody else is doin... Duration: 00:31:18
649 – Veterinary Advice on Free Whelping Following C-Section
Sep 02, 2024Veterinary Advice on Free Whelping Following C-Section
Dr. Marty Greer joins host Laura Reeves for a deep dive on the question of when your female has had a C-section and you breed her again. Is it safe to have the bitch whelp her puppies naturally? This question comes from a listener request. “The most important thing to ask is why did you have a C-section in the first place,” Greer said. “If you had a C-section in the first place, because she's a Bernese Mountain Dog or because she's a Bulldog or a Frenchie or maybe a Clumber or a C... Duration: 00:34:40648 — Cody Sickle: Knowledge is the Key to Success
Aug 26, 2024Famed Bulldog breeder-owner-handler Cody Sickle joins host Laura Reeves for the first of a two-part series on owner-handlers, dog shows, Bulldogs, breeding and camaraderie.
[caption id="attachment_13037" align="alignleft" width="399"] CHEROKEE LEGEND NOR’EASTER DEREK
Long Island Bulldog Club Specialty. Winners Dog & Best of Winners. Judge: Phoebe Booth[/caption]
Sickle's renowned Cherokee Bulldogs have quite a record. According to his records, he has bred or owned 256 Champions, more than any other Bulldog breeder ever in the USA. His dogs have won 99 All Breed Bests In Show and 591 Bests In Specialty Show, five National Specialty Bests Of Breed and 15 Westminster Ke...
647 – Building Blocks to Success in the Ring and the Whelping Box
Aug 19, 2024Building Blocks to Success in the Ring and the Whelping Box
Host Laura Reeves is joined by breeder-handler Christian Rutten in part two of a wide-ranging conversation touching on some of the critical building blocks to success in both the show ring and the whelping box.On Owner Handler vs Professional Handler
[caption id="attachment_13028" align="alignleft" width="358"] We all started somewhere. Christian reminds us we are all at a dog show for the same reason. To win and to have fun with our dogs.[/caption] “One of the things people say is ‘I just went to a... Duration: 00:31:08646 — The Conversation at the Top is Different: Finding a Mentor
Aug 12, 2024The Conversation at the Top is Different: Finding a Mentor
[caption id="attachment_13021" align="alignleft" width="482"] Christian Rutten with one of his top winning Golden Retrievers.[/caption] Breeder-handler Christian Rutten joins host Laura Reeves to encourage new exhibitors and breeders in finding a mentor. “I think the biggest mistake people make is they cut corners,” Rutten said. “They find the people who are sitting and just have a lot of downtime because they're easy to talk to. But what you need to do is go to the top. The conversation at the top is different. “Everybody's collaborating ‘who can do thi... Duration: 00:29:02645 – Puppies and Kids: Expert Insight on Best Practices
Aug 05, 2024Puppies and Kids: Expert Insight on Best Practices
Dr. Marty Greer, DVM and host Laura Reeves talk about bringing home your new puppy, introducing it to your children, how puppies and children interact appropriately, and how to make that be a really positive experience. “The first place I would start,” Greer said, “is if you don't already have a breed that you have selected and you have children, pick a breed that's good with kids. “You know, why start off with something that's likely to set you up for a failure when you could get, oh, let's say a Labrad... Duration: 00:28:31644 — Sheila Goffe On the CDC’s Importation Regulations
Jul 29, 2024Sheila Goffe On the CDC's Importation Regulations
Sheila Goffe, AKC Vice President of Government Relations, joins host Laura Reeves to discuss the CDC's soon to be implemented rule about importing dogs into the US. Goffe provides background on retail rescue as the impetus for CDC's regulations, the work AKC, NAIA and other stake holders have provided to the CDC and the most recent update to the rule. "CDC put out an announcement saying that they heard the concerns about the rabies certificate," Goffe said. "Remember they had (originally) required that you had not only a rabies certificate, but... Duration: 00:31:19643 — Bo Bengtson on Whippets and His Newest Book
Jul 22, 2024Host Laura Reeves is joined by Bo Bengtson, legendary breeder, judge and author of The Whippet: An Authoritative Look at the Breed’s Past, Present and Future. Questions for Bo: [caption id="attachment_12997" align="alignleft" width="490"] Bo Bengtson judging the American Whippet Club National Specialty.[/caption] 1) This is your fourth edition of the quintessential book, “The Whippet,” first published in 1985. What made you want to update it again? What will readers find that is new? I guess it's pretty unusual for a dog book that was published that long ago to be reprinted, but it was last p...
Duration: 00:27:39