THE PRESENT AND FUTURE OF POMERANIANS

AS: What advice will you give a young person interested in exhibiting Pomeranians?

CP: Pomeranians have attracted a lot of interest among other dog fanciers. Many have managed to stay in the breed by just importing [over and over], producing only rubbish. I do not consider them genuine breeders, since they do not have a track record of homebred champions. Their boast is merely based on the accomplishments of other breeders. Very few have managed to breed and show with their own [lines]. This is the gauge of a true breeder: winning with their own homebreds.

[I would like to tell newbies that] firstly, I believe that [someone who has a genuine interest] has to first choose the style of Pomeranian he wants, since there are so many variations. Do research and go to dog shows to see what is available. If possible, go overseas to see competitions.

Is his selected breeder consistent in his breeding programs? That is, are his wins his own breeding or merely imports?

Secondly but just as important, research on the person whom you will be dealing with, not only in terms of the female dog [they’re offering], but also the support they can give you in the future. By support, I mean mentoring and the access to the breeding stock.

I cannot overemphasize the importance of mentoring, particularly for a beginner. Even now, I try to seek the opinions of others in my breeding efforts. Equally important is the “fountain”, or the choice of breeding stock, [with which] you can line-breed for [present and] future production.

AS: Did you have a mentor yourself?

CP: There is always something to learn and think about in the purebred sport. Over the years, I have met people whose wisdom I appreciate. Once in a while when opportunity warrants, I talk to them and try to pick their minds on some matters, even if they are [involved in] different breeds.

Many of these people have passed away, such as Keven Harris (Australian Judge), Michael Hughes Hall (South African Judge), Derek Hill (Pomeranian Breeder and Judge), Jerrie Freia (US Pomeranian breeder and my partner), and many others. Some of my more current ones are Dr. Raymundo Lo (Philippine Judge and Pekingese breeder), David and Carlene Gilstrap (US Breeder and my partners), and Gaurav Malik (Indian friend), among others.

AS: Given the current COVID-19 pandemic, how do you see the dog game in the years to come?

CP: We hardly have had any dog shows since March 2020. With regards to the future of the dog sport, I think it will become more challenging, unless dog clubs start using their influence to make it easier.

Governmental restrictions and interference is starting. Dog travel is getting to be more difficult, too. I believe these dog clubs are the guardians of pure dog sports, and they should do something to ensure an atmosphere where they can remain in the renaissance of growth and development.

AS: How has professional rivalry impacted breeding practices?

CP: I believe it is the responsibility of all breeders to share their bloodlines with others. I have leased a lot of foreign stud dogs and have even sent my bitches overseas to get new bloodlines. That is how I have produced some of my best dogs. I allow my dogs to be used for breeding, too. I believe global cooperation is the key.

AS: Are you affiliated with the Philippine Canine Club, Inc. (PCCI)?

CP: I am a lifetime member of the PCCI. I have been invited to be a director but have declined, because I want to avoid dog politics and just want to enjoy my dogs. I am a licensed Toy Dog judge.