The Best Picture isn't Always the One with the Ribbon

Jul 28, 2026

A Siberian Husky nose-to-nose with a woman who is holding the sides of his head as they wait to run an agility course, Sandy Weaver, conformation training, dog training, conformation seminars, owner handler

If you've ever been to a dog show, you've seen them: the ringside photographers, capturing moments of glory and silliness, and the official show photographers, documenting the wins, whether it's Winners Dog, Best in Show, and all the milestones in between. I've been showing dogs for over 4 decades and have my share of pictures, and looking at a few of them made me think about what we choose to remember.

Some of my favorite dog photos aren't the big-win ones. They're the snapshots of the relationships we build and nurture in this sport:

The muddy puppy lolling on a pipe bed in the puppy yard, delighted with his Georgia-clay-covered paws.
The veteran sleeping upside-down in her crate after giving everything she had in the ring.
The junior handler daughter of a friend, hugging her first blue ribbon.
The dog looking back at you with absolute trust as you walk toward the ring together.

Those moments tell the real story. Years from now, you'll remember very few class placements. What you will remember is the journey.

So this month, take a few extra pictures—not just of your victories, but of the life you're building with your dog.

Those are the memories that become priceless.

The Best Picture isn't Always the One with the Ribbon

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