Shows
The Conformation ConversationMaking the Decision to Place a Show ProspectShow Dog Prep School Founder and Lead Instructor Vicki Ronchette discusses making the decision to rehome a show prospect or retired show or breeding dog.
2026-02-1811 minThe Conformation ConversationShow Dog Prep School Pep Talk 3 - Listen on the Way to the Dog ShowSDPS Founder and Lead Instructor Vicki Ronchette gives you a pep talk for the ride to the dog show.
2026-02-0316 minThe Conformation ConversationSpecialing a Dog - There's a reason why they are called SpecialSDPS Founder and Lead Instructor Vicki Ronchette discusses specialing a dog, what it entails and how to decide to do it.
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2026-01-2515 minThe Conformation ConversationShow Dog Prep School Pep Talk 2 - Listen on the way to the dog showShow Dog Prep School Founder, Lead Instructor and Dog Show Coach gives a Dog Show Pep Talk!
2026-01-0513 minThe Conformation ConversationGoal Setting and ReflectingShow Dog Prep School Founder and Lead Instructor Vicki Ronchette discusses the importance of setting goals and reflecting on them to measure progress and success.
2025-12-2813 minThe Conformation ConversationGoal Setting for 2026 and Reflecting on 2025 GoalsVicki discusses the value of setting specific, detailed goals for manifesting and creating the things we want to accomplish.
2025-12-2313 minThe Conformation ConversationDog Show Pep Talk 1 - Listen on the Way to the Dog ShowPep Talk 1 - This is the first of several pep talk episodes where Vicki will give you a pep talk for on the way to the dog show. Listen to feel relaxed, inspired and encouraged.
2025-12-1619 minThe Conformation ConversationWhen your Dog has a bad experience in the RingVicki discusses what NOT to do when your dog backs away, sits down or tries to avoid the judge's exam.
2025-12-0210 minThe Conformation ConversationTalk with Vicki about new book, The Calm Before the Ring - Managing Performance Anxiety in Dog Shows and Sports with Chelsea MurrayVicki is interviewed by dog trainer and podcaster Chelsea Murray about her new book, The Calm Before the Ring - Managing Performance Anxiety in Dog Shows and Sports.
2025-11-0248 minThe Conformation ConversationReading the AKC Poodle StandardOfficial Standard of the Poodle
The Standard for the Poodle (Toy variety) is the same as for the Standard and Miniature varieties
except as regards heights.
General Appearance: Carriage and Condition - That of a very active, intelligent and elegant-
appearing dog, squarely built, well proportioned, moving soundly and carrying himself proudly.
Properly clipped in the traditional fashion and carefully groomed, the Poodle has about him an
air of distinction and dignity peculiar to himself.
Size, Proportion, Substance: Size - The Standard Poodle is over 15...
2025-10-0504 minThe Conformation ConversationIs it really positive reinforcement?Show Dog Prep School Founder and Lead Instructor Vicki Ronchette discusses positive reinforcement (+R) and the other quadrants of operant conditioning learning theory and how to be sure you are utilizing it.
2025-10-0108 minThe Conformation ConversationRaising a Singleton Puppy with Suzanne ClothierVicki talks to renowned dog trainer, author, international speaker and German Shepherd Dog breeder, Suzanne Clothier on raising a singleton puppy.
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www.suzanneclothier.com
2025-09-161h 19The Conformation ConversationBreeder of Influence Interview with Amy Issleib of Temerity German PinschersSDPS Founder and Lead Instructor, Vicki Ronchette interviews German Pinscher, Amy Issleib of Temerity German Pinschers.
2025-08-1040 minThe Conformation ConversationA Discussion on Grading Litters, Breeding and Figuring it all outDachshund Breeder/Owner/Handler, Vicki and Barbara Reisinger discuss evaluating litters, grading different breeds, breeding and figuring it all out.
2025-07-1843 minThe Conformation ConversationA Pro Trainer Discussion on Littermate SyndromeShow Dog Prep School Founder and Lead Instructor Vicki Ronchette talks with fellow pro trainer and SDPS Instructor Andrea Stone about Littermate Syndrome. Is this an actual thing? What does the term mean and where did it come from?
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2025-05-2738 minThe Conformation ConversationDon't feed me your sour grapesShow Dog Prep School Founder and Lead Instructor Vicki Ronchette discusses bad mouthing judging and other dogs at dog shows and online.
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2025-05-1314 minThe Conformation ConversationGet the Help You Need from the Right SourceSDPS Founder and Lead Instructor discusses finding the help you need from someone who can help rather than going to the same source for all your questions.
2025-04-2917 minThe Conformation ConversationTaking my Time with my Sensitive PuppySDPS Founder and Lead Instructor, Vicki Ronchette discusses waiting to show sensitive puppies as we help them grow more confident and outgoing.
2025-04-1516 minThe Conformation ConversationOn Showing a Dog that Only Needs MajorsSDPS Founder and Lead Instructor, Vicki Ronchette offers another viewpoint on people showing dogs who only need majors to finish.
2025-04-0112 minThe Conformation ConversationNaming Show DogsSDPS Founder and Lead Instructor Vicki Ronchette explains how people name show dogs and how kennel names and call names might be chosen and used.
2025-03-0416 minThe Conformation ConversationAttending Westminster (New York), the AKC National Championship (Orlando) and your National SpecialtySDPS Founder and Lead Instructor Vicki Ronchette discusses the importance and reason for making it a point to attend "the Big Three", Westminster, Orlando and your National Specialty shows.
2025-02-1816 minThe Conformation ConversationEnding the Blame Game - Supporting Puppy PeopleSDPS Founder and Lead Instructor, Vicki Ronchette discusses the importance of supporting our puppy people when an issue arises and avoiding blaming others.
2025-02-0214 minThe Conformation ConversationReading of the AKC standard for the SamoyedOfficial Standard of the Samoyed
General Conformation: (a) General Appearance-The Samoyed, being essentially a working
dog, should present a picture of beauty, alertness and strength, with agility, dignity and grace. As
his work lies in cold climates, his coat should be heavy and weather-resistant, well groomed, and
of good quality rather than quantity. The male carries more of a "ruff" than the female. He should
not be long in the back as a weak back would make him practically useless for his legitimate
work, but at the same time, a close-coupled body would...
2025-01-2110 minThe Conformation ConversationReading of the AKC Chinese Crested StandardOfficial Standard of the Chinese Crested
General Appearance: A toy dog, fine-boned, elegant and graceful. The distinct varieties are born in the same litter. The Hairless with hair only on the head, tail and feet and the Powderpuff, completely covered with hair. The breed serves as a loving companion, playful and entertaining.
Size, Proportion, Substance: Size - Ideally 11 to 13 inches. However, dogs that are slightly larger or smaller may be given full consideration. Proportion - rectangular-proportioned to allow for freedom of movement. Body length from withers to base of tail is slightly longer than the height...
2025-01-0805 minThe Conformation ConversationClosing out 2024 and Planning/Goal Setting for 2025In this episode, Vicki discusses the importance of reflecting on your previous goals and ways to effectively set goals for the upcoming year without it feeling daunting or overwhelming.
2024-12-2219 minThe Conformation ConversationReading of the AKC Basset Hound StandardOfficial Standard for the Basset Hound
General Appearance: The Basset Hound possesses in marked degree those characteristics
which equip it admirably to follow a trail over and through difficult terrain. It is a short-legged
dog, heavier in bone, size considered, than any other breed of dog, and while its movement is
deliberate, it is in no sense clumsy. In temperament it is mild, never sharp or timid. It is capable
of great endurance in the field and is extreme in its devotion.
Head: The head is large and well proportioned. Its length from...
2024-12-1005 minThe Conformation ConversationReading of the AKC Vizsla StandardOfficial Standard for the Vizsla
General Appearance: That of a medium-sized, short-coated, hunting dog of distinguishedappearance and bearing. Robust but rather lightly built, the coat is an attractive shaded goldenrust. Originating in Hungary, the Vizsla was bred to work in field, forest and water. Agile andenergetic, this is a versatile dog of power, drive and endurance in the field yet a tractable andaffectionate companion in the home. It is strongly emphasized that field conditioned coats, aswell as brawny or sinewy muscular condition and honorable scars indicating a working and hunting dog are never to be penalized in this...
2024-11-2607 minThe Conformation ConversationA Plea to Established BreedersShow Dog Prep School Founder and Lead Instructor, Vicki Ronchette discusses the need for established breeders to be open to talking to new people and being kind and welcoming to them.
2024-11-1211 minThe Conformation ConversationReading of the AKC German Shorthair Pointer StandardOfficial Standard for the German Shorthaired Pointer
General Appearance: The German Shorthaired Pointer is a versatile hunter, an all-purpose gun dog capable of high performance in field and water. The judgment of Shorthairs in the show ring reflects this basic characteristic. The overall picture which is created in the observer’s eye is that of an aristocratic, well balanced, symmetrical animal with conformation indicating power, endurance and agility and a look of intelligence and animation. The dog is neither unduly small nor conspicuously large. It gives the impression of medium size, but is like the proper hunter, “with a sh...
2024-10-2209 minThe Conformation ConversationLet's Normalize Advocating for our DogsAnyone who advocates for the well being of their dog deserves respect and grace and should never had to face pressure or judgement.
2024-10-0818 minThe Conformation ConversationReading of the AKC Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Breed StandardOfficial Standard of the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
General Appearance: The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is an active, graceful, well-balanced toy spaniel, very gay and free in action; fearless and sporting in character, yet at the same time gentle and affectionate. It is this typical gay temperament, combined with true elegance and royal appearance which are of paramount importance in the breed. Natural appearance with no trimming, sculpting or artificial alteration is essential to breed type.
Size, Proportion, Substance: Size- Height 12 to 13 inches at the withers; weight proportionate to height, between 13 and 18 pounds. A small, well balanced...
2024-09-2407 minThe Conformation ConversationWhelping a LitterVicki discusses ways to help prepare you for whelping a litter of puppies.
2024-09-1121 minThe Conformation ConversationWhy Don't I Win More?Vicki discusses reasons why a person may experience periods of not winning in the show ring.
2024-08-2718 minThe Conformation ConversationOther Sports During a Break with ConformationVicki discusses how dabbling in other sports can benefit a show dog during breaks in showing or along with being active in the show ring.
2024-08-1314 minThe Conformation ConversationFocusing on YOUR performance in the ringVicki talks about ways to improve your performance by adjusting your own body language and behavior in the ring.
2024-07-3008 minThe Conformation ConversationBreeding to Show or Showing to Breed Roundtable DiscussionSDPS Founder and Lead Instructor, Vicki Ronchette and several other breeders discuss their thoughts and reasons for breeding.
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2024-07-161h 14The Conformation ConversationConversational not ConfrontationalIn this episode of the podcast, SDPS Founder and Lead Instructor talks to Rebecca Lanier, LMFT about ways to approach difficult conversations. Learn about proven techniques used in marriage and family therapy to help communicate in a healthier way.
2024-03-0349 minThe Conformation ConversationRedefining Winning - A Discussion with Mindset Coach Rebecca LanierIn this discussion, Show Dog Prep School Founder and Lead Instructor, Vicki Ronchette talks with Mindset Coach, Rebecca Lanier, LMFT about how redefining winning in order to help people cope with performance anxiety and ring stress.
2024-02-0432 minThe Conformation ConversationReading of the AKC Official French Bulldog Standard
Official Standard of the French Bulldog
General Appearance: The French Bulldog has the appearance of an active, intelligent, muscular dog of heavy bone, smooth coat, compactly built, and of medium or small structure. The hallmarks of the breed are the square head with bat ears and the roach back. Expression alert, curious, and interested. Proportion and Symmetry - All points are well distributed and bear good relation one to the other; no feature being in such prominence from either excess or lack of quality that the animal appears poorly proportioned. Influence of Sex - In comparing specimens of...
2024-01-2607 minThe Conformation ConversationBreeder of Influence Interview with Karen Oglesby of Ka’Roo Silky TerriersShow Dog Prep School Founder and Lead Instructor, Vicki Ronchette interviews Silky Terrier breeder Karen Oglesby.
2024-01-0743 minThe Conformation ConversationThe Reading of the AKC Doberman Pinscher standard.Official Standard of the Doberman Pinscher
General Appearance: The appearance is that of a dog of medium size, with a body that is
square. Compactly built, muscular and powerful, for great endurance and speed. Elegant in
appearance, of proud carriage, reflecting great nobility and temperament. Energetic, watchful,
determined, alert, fearless, loyal and obedient.
Size, Proportion, Substance: Height at the withers: Dogs 26 to 28 inches, ideal about 27½
inches; Bitches 24 to 26 inches, ideal about 25½ inches. The height, measured vertically from the
ground to the highest point of the withers, equaling the length measured horizontally from th...
2023-12-2007 minThe Conformation ConversationBreeder of Influence Interview with Kay PeiserSDPS Founder and Lead Instructor interviews Kay Peiser of Kaylen's Chinese Cresteds, Standard Poodles and Boxers.
2023-10-2951 minThe Conformation ConversationA From Shy to Showy Interview with Kate ObitzSDPS Founder and Lead Instructor Vicki Ronchette interviews Kate Obitz on her progress and success with Vicki's From Shy to Showy program.
2023-10-0837 min
Pure Dog Talk600 – Mentors, Mentees and All the LoveMentors, Mentees and All the Love
Welcome to Pure Dog Talk. I am your host Laura Reeves, and today is episode 600. Like holy podcast palooza Batman. There has been an awful lot of water under the bridge since November of 2016. If you haven't, you should make a point to watch the Live@Five episode with Mary Albee from this month, where we talk about the creation of pure Dog talk. Everything from what to name it to her dragging me kicking and screaming into the role as host. It's pretty epic conversation.
And for everybody who's listening, just...
2023-09-2529 minThe Conformation ConversationHanding off the Torch to New Breeders with Laura ReevesSDPS Founder and Lead Instructor Vicki Ronchette discusses handing off the torch to new breeders with Laura Reeves.
2023-09-121h 06The Conformation ConversationWhat a Mentorship should be and what a Mentorship shouldn’t beVicki discusses what a healthy, mutually beneficial mentorship might look like.
2023-09-0519 minThe Conformation ConversationBreeder of Influence Interview with Sandra Pretari Hickson of King’s Mtn DandiesSDPS Founder and Lead Instructor interviews Dandie Dinmont Terrier breeder, Sandra Pretari Hicks of King's Mtn Dandies.
2023-08-2141 minThe Conformation ConversationThe Reading of the AKC Border Collie Breed Standard
Official Standard of the Border Collie
Preamble: The Border Collie originated in the Border country between Scotland and England where the shepherds' breeding selection was based on biddable stock sense and the ability to work long days on rugged terrain. As a result of this selective breeding, the Border Collie developed the unique working style of gathering and fetching the stock with wide sweeping outruns. The stock is then controlled with an intense gaze known as "eye", coupled with a stalking style of movement. This selective breeding over time developed the Border Collie's intensity, energy and trainability...
2023-08-1609 minThe Conformation ConversationThe Reading of the AKC Lowchen Standard
Official Standard of the Löwchen
General Appearance: A small, bright, and lively dog that originated as a companion breed in pre-Renaissance Europe where ladies of the court groomed it in the likeness of a little lion. Breed characteristics are a compact, balanced body; a relatively short, broad topskull and muzzle; and a proud, lively gait that accentuates the lion cut with a long flowing mane. These quintessential features, combined with an outgoing and positive attitude, result in a dog of great style.
Size, Proportion, Substance: Size - Ideally, mature dogs and bitches are between 11 to 13 inches a...
2023-08-0908 minThe Conformation ConversationA Reading of the AKC Dachshund Standard
Official Standard of the Dachshund
General Appearance: Low to ground, long in body and short of leg, with robust muscular development; the skin is elastic and pliable without excessive wrinkling. Appearing neither crippled, awkward, nor cramped in his capacity for movement, the Dachshund is well-balanced with bold and confident head carriage and intelligent, alert facial expression. His hunting spirit, good nose, loud tongue and distinctive build make him well-suited for below-ground work and for beating the bush. His keen nose gives him an advantage over most other breeds for trailing. NOTE: Inasmuch as the Dachshund is...
2023-07-3117 minThe Conformation ConversationA Discussion on Showing AKC FSS Foundation Stock Service Breeds with Michele GoriSDPS Founder Vicki Ronchette talks about all the ins and outs of showing an AKC FSS breed with Shikoku breeder Michele Gori.
2023-07-1944 minThe Conformation ConversationBreeder of Influence Interview with Dan Harrison - Boondox DachshundsVicki interviews Dachshund breeder Dan Harrison of Boondox Dachshunds.
2023-03-2149 minThe Conformation ConversationDachshund Rook’s From Shy to Showy Journey Part TwoThis is the audio from Vicki's free webinar on taking her Dachshund Rook From Shy to Showy Part Two.
2023-03-1729 minThe Conformation ConversationTraining Your Dog or Puppy for ConformationVicki Ronchette discusses the behaviors necessary for the show ring and gives an overview of how they are taught.
2023-03-0418 minThe Conformation ConversationBreeder of Influence Interview with Rèmy Smith Lewis of Rèmis Portuguese Water DogsVicki interviews Portuguese Water Dog breeder, Rèmy Smith Lewis of Rèmis Portuguese Water Dogs.
2023-02-2142 minThe Conformation ConversationBreeder of Influence Interview with Trina Taylor of Noble Standard Manchester TerriersVicki Ronchette interviews Standard Manchester Terrier breeder and professional handler, Trina Taylor.
2023-02-1834 minThe Conformation ConversationDog Show Basics - AKC Show ProcedureVicki Ronchette discusses how dog shows work and what a day at the dog show looks like.
2023-02-0415 minThe Conformation ConversationA Mentorship should NOT be a Dictatorship.Vicki Ronchette discusses how to be aware when choosing a breeder, entering in a co ownership and getting your first show dog.
2023-01-2222 minThe Conformation ConversationGetting Puppy Buyers to Good Breeders with Remy Smith-LewisSDPS Founder and Lead Instructor Vicki Ronchette talks to Portuguese Water Dog breeder Remy Smith-Lewis on how quality breeders can be more assessable to the good homes looking for them.
2022-11-1246 minThe Conformation ConversationCreating a ”home” at the Dog Show to Benefit You and Your DogHost Vicki Ronchette shares ideas on how to create a calm, comfortable and safe space at dog shows.
2022-11-0814 minThe Conformation ConversationThe Art of Placing PuppiesShow Dog Prep School Founder and Lead Instructor Vicki Ronchette discusses placing our puppies.
2022-08-0913 minThe Conformation ConversationReactivity in Dogs Q & A with Vicki RonchetteVicki invites viewers to ask questions about reactivity.
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2022-05-0658 minThe Conformation ConversationBreeder of Influence Interview with Jennifer and Betty Jo of Dun Roman Great DanesShow Dog Prep School Founder and Lead Instructor Vicki Ronchette interviews longtime Great Dane breeder Jennifer Constantinidis and her daughter professional handler Betty Jo Pyle.
2022-04-271h 04The Conformation ConversationInterview with Junior Handler Ava HataVicki interviews Junior Handler Ava Hata.
2022-04-0643 minThe Conformation ConversationWeight Pull DiscussionVicki interviews Bex Munson and Lisa Marino, both weight pull enthusiasts and competitors.
2022-03-2833 minThe Conformation ConversationDachshund Rook’s From Shy to Showy JourneyThis was done as a Facebook live presentation. Vicki discusses teaching her fearful show dog how to feel comfortable in the show ring. Full video available on Facebook page and on YouTube.
2022-01-2948 minThe Conformation ConversationReactivity Roundtable DiscussionVicki talks to professional trainers/behavior consultants Andrea Stone, Chelsea Murray, Paula Nowak and Hannah Pemberton about dealing with reactive dogs.
2021-12-251h 11The Conformation ConversationAKC Co-OwnershipsVicki discusses co-ownerships mean, why they exist and what to consider before entering into one.
2021-12-0520 minThe Conformation ConversationProfessional Dog Trainer/Behavior Consultant Roundtable DiscussionVicki talks with four other professional dog trainer/behavior consultants: Andrea Stone, Allie Lowry and Cherie Ekholm.
2021-10-231h 08The Conformation ConversationTrigger Stacking - Dogs and PeopleTrigger stacking is a common issue in dealing with fearful, reactive or over aroused dogs. Guess what? It affects people too.
2021-10-1311 minThe Conformation ConversationYour Mental Mindset for the Show RingVicki discusses your mental preparation and mindset for the show ring.
2021-10-0513 minThe Conformation ConversationLearn about Lure CoursingVicki talks to sighthound breeders and lure coursing enthusiasts Andrea Stone and Theresa Harper.
2021-10-051h 05The Conformation ConversationBreeder of Influence Interview with Alexia Rodriguez of Potrero Cane CorsosVicki interviews Alexia Rodriguez of Potrero Cane Corso for our Breeder of Influence interview series.
2021-09-0444 minThe Conformation ConversationBreeder of Influence Interview with Jacqueline Siotto of Sidels Miniature PinschersVicki interviews Jacqueline Siotto of Sidels Miniature Pinschers.
2021-08-2854 minThe Conformation ConversationChoosing the Right Show Dog for YouVicki discusses choosing the right show dog for you and the things that you should consider to ensure that you end up with the right dog for you.
2021-08-1812 minThe Conformation ConversationBreeder of Influence Interview with Laura Reeves Scotia German Wirehaired PointersVicki interviews podcaster, second generation breeder and professional handler Laura Reeves of Scotia German Wirehaired Pointers.
2021-08-1748 minThe Conformation ConversationInterview with Lara Joseph of the Animal Behavior CenterVicki interviews professional multi species animal trainer and speaker/lecturer Lara Joseph of the Animal Behavior Center in Ohio.
2021-08-171h 12The Conformation ConversationShy Show Dog RoundtableJoin Vicki for a roundtable discussion on shy show dogs with SDPS instructor and professional trainer Andrea Stone and shy show dog graduates Theresa Harper and Angie Stevenson.
2021-08-121h 06The Conformation ConversationBreeder of Influence Interview with Maggie Peat and Tom Sikora of Pramada Koradox KennelVicki interviews second generation longhair dachshund breeder Maggie Peat and her husband Tom Sikora of Pramada Koradox Standard Longhair Dachshunds.
2021-08-121h 39The Conformation ConversationBreeder of Influence Interview with Linda and Jamie of Limerick Irish WolfhoundsVicki talks to Linda Souza and Jamie Bartlett, longtime multi generation Irish Wolfhound kennel, Limerick Irish Wolfhounds. Along with Linda's late mother in law and Jamie's children, Limerick IW is a family affair.
2021-08-0349 minThe Conformation ConversationBreeder of Influence Interview with Patti Palmer of Rivercity Basset HoundsVicki talks to breeder/owner/handler Patti Palmer of Rivercity Basset Hounds.
2021-07-3146 minThe Conformation ConversationWELCOME TO THE CONFORMATION CONVERSATIONIn this episode Vicki shares her background and journey in the sport of conformation and explains what this podcast will be about.
2021-07-3104 minThe Conformation ConversationBreeder of Influence Interview with Suzanne Clothier of Hawks Hunt GSDIn this episode Vicki interviews renowned dog trainer, international lecturer, author and breeder of Hawks Hunt German Shepherds, Suzanne Clothier.
2021-07-301h 14The Conformation ConversationOwner Handler Roundtable DiscussionIn this episode, Vicki hosts a roundtable discussion with four owner handlers of varying experience levels. Guests include Patti Palmer, Jacqueline Siotto, Chelsea Murray and Hannah Pemberton.
2021-07-301h 15The Conformation ConversationBreeder of Influence - Bill Shelton, Coventry Pembroke Welsh CorgisVicki talks with Bill Shelton, breeder/owner/handler of Coventry Pembroke Welsh Corgis. Bill is also an akc judge, former professional handler and breeder spokesperson.
2021-07-301h 36
Elite Pet PodcastConformation with Vicki RonchetteConformation is a very popular dog sport, but there is a lot more to it than meets the eye. In today's episode, we will be talking with Vicki Ronchette about the sport of conformation.
2019-10-2800 min