The American Kennel Club (AKC®), a not-for-profit organization that is the world’s largest registry of purebred dogs, and a leading voice for canine welfare and responsible ownership, is proud to announce the AKC Breeder of the Year by Sport honorees.
Consistent with its mission of promoting the breeding of purebred dogs for type and function, the AKC Breeder of the Year by Sport Award honors those exceptional breeders who have consistently worked to improve the health, temperament, and performance of dogs within their sport. These individuals embody the AKC’s mission to preserve, protect, and enhance their breeds.
The 2025 Breeder of the Year by Sport award recipients are:
Pointing Breed Field Events Rick Hopkins and Brenda Roe German Shorthaired Pointers
Retriever Field Events Mark Menzies Labradors
Spaniel Field Events Richard Paquin English Springer Spaniels
Hound Field Events Jill Chidlow Keim and Dachshunds
Bethany Chidlow Keim
Herding Dawna and Megan Sims Australian Shepherds
Lure Coursing Edward and Selma Kominek Afghan Hounds
Earthdog Maryellen Moehler Border Terriers
Coonhounds Mike Guthrie and Logan Ray Treeing Walker Coonhounds
Agility Michael and Pamela Korcek Shetland Sheepdogs
Obedience Kathryn Willis Golden Retrievers
Rally Nancy Ward German Shorthaired Pointers
Tracking Dee Dee and Billy Anderson Golden Retrievers
“Knowledgeable breeders are critical to maintaining the value of purebred dogs and the working skills they demonstrate in canine sports. These breeders have shown a long-term dedication to enhancing breed instincts and breeding sound dogs,” said Doug Ljungren, Executive Vice President for Sports and Events. “Their accomplishments represent the highest level of commitment to their breeds and sports.”
Each recipient received a Breeder of the Year rosette mounted in a shadow box.
The American Kennel Club salutes these individuals for their dedication and success in breeding purpose-bred dogs.