NEW GLARUS — Taryn Preston would make a point to watch the Westminster Dog Show each year from the comfort of her home, but she never dreamed she would be there in person, watching her stand before judges and earning awards. 

It was tragedy that brought the Juda native to the realization of that dream when she lost her golden retriever to illness and old age. Preston’s longtime companion, who welcomed her home each day by laying at the top of the stairs wagging his tail, was gone and it left her heartbroken. 

It was then she began researching dog breeds that would suit her, and decided a smaller dog would fit her lifestyle best. After being raised on a dairy farm in Juda, Preston attended the University of Wisconsin-Madison.She now works from home for a computer company. 

Preston found the keeshond breed, a medium-sized dog with a black and silver fluffy coat. It was the perfect fit. She set out to find one. 

That proved difficult, but eventually Preston received a response from Kristen Dowd, a keeshond breeder from Woodstock, Illinois. Preston first adopted Burnie, but decided he needed a playmate. She brought Bob into her life to join them. Bob and Bernie can often be found at her feet as she works at her desk.

Burnie, a healthy and playful dog, doesn’t show typical characteristics of a show dog, like having a square body and rounded eyes instead of square. However, Bob holds qualities which perfectly fit the description of those who grace the stage of fancy shows each year.

“I just thought it would be a shame not to show him,” Dowd said. 

Preston attended Bob’s second dog show and sat far away so she wouldn’t distract him, observing as he worked with the skilled showperson. After watching more and more shows, she became fascinated with the process. 

Not long after, Bob became a champion and won best of breed.

Preston has now become more involved in the show process and bathes, blow-dries and brushes Bob’s hair to prepare him to be “show-ready.” She said Bob is well aware that if he gets a bath they’re going to a show the next day. 

“It’s like drinking from a fire hose, how much I’ve learned over the last year,” Preston said. “You feel like a mom a little bit, watching them from the ring. It’s fun to watch him do really well out there.”

While she hopes to eventually show Bob herself, Preston said Dowd is such a talented handler she’s happy to let her show him as long as she’s willing. 

Preston said she has learned a lot from Dowd and has started taking classes to learn how to show dogs. After just a few under her belt, she said the process is much harder than it looks. 

“I enjoy teaching people new and fun things to do with their pets,” Dowd said. “After all, they’re pets first and show dogs second.”

Bob has continued his success. He won an Award of Merit at the Westminster Dog Show. Now a silver grand champion, Bob needs about 25 more points and he’ll be a part of the Hall of Fame for his breed.