2009 AKC National Obedience Invitational

Judges – Alvin W. Eng

Alvin Eng started obedience training out of necessity. In 1993, Alvin and his wife, Audrey, purchased their first show dog. The puppy was a sweet but ill-mannered English Springer Spaniel named Cruiser. In short, he was aptly named “Cruisin’ for a Bruisin’." Alvin was ready to drop him off with the breeder when he decided to enroll in an obedience class.

One thing led to the next, and soon Cruiser and Alvin were competing in obedience. Cruiser never became a great competitor, and most people didn't think of him as an exceedingly well trained dog. He barely squeaked out a CDX title, and he was more interested in marking his articles than scenting for them.

However, through training, Alvin fell in love with Cruiser and with the sport of dog obedience. Cruiser became a particularly close companion and went everywhere with Alvin. To Alvin, the special bond he forged with Cruiser and his other dogs is the best part of dog training and obedience.

Since Cruiser, Alvin has trained quite a number of English Springer Spaniels to obedience and rally titles. One was Cybil, OTCH Gold Mountain's Moonlighting UDX2 RE, who won the Pepperoni Western Regional Novice Division in 1997. Cybil also won the English Springer Spaniel Field Trial Association's Obedience Springer of the Year in 1999 and competed at the National Invitational in 2000 and 2001.

Alvin started judging in 2001 and enjoys judging obedience and rally at all dog events. He is active in English Springer Spaniel regional clubs and is currently the Awards Chairman for the English Springer Spaniel Field Trial Association (ESSFTA), the parent club of the breed. He also served on the Board of Governors of ESSFTA, and is a Past Vice President of Show and Obedience.

Alvin is honored to be invited to judge at the National Obedience Invitational. He wishes every competitor the very best and hopes everyone has a thrilling time!