We're not sure where to start to summarize a year which has been nothing short of wonderful.  Great times with treasured friends, new friendships, a number of new Champions and super wins in many disciplines, interesting visitors both foreign and domestic, happy travels, and most importantly, our dogs passing all health checks.

Our gratitude goes to the many who worked with us this year toward goals and aspirations on both sides of the fence.  Some were met, some were not but it certainly wasn't for a lack of trying and cooperation and we are ever so thankful.

While we mark the passing of too many old favorites this year, we have to be optomistic about a number of exciting youngsters starting to make their mark and some solid breedings planned.

Here's to another great New Year for all!

To all our friends around the world

Heading closer to Christmas, we're doing catch up on lots of interesting news.  It's been very cold and snowy in the Northeast lately and the photo of "Chip" (Kamgaard Knock On Wood) sent by Susan and John Franzis was entitled "You know it's COLD when Chip comes in"...

Don't blame him!!!

Marlene Schlichtig wrote to tell us that "Jack" recently got his very first UKC agility title at the K9 Konnection in Maryland under judge Suzanne White.  He is now UCD URO1 UAGI UCH CH Kamgaard Kodak Moment

CONGRATULATIONS!

Invitations were recently received by two more of our "performers"

"Rogue" (Kamgaard Katch The Wave RE MXP MJP) has been invited to compete in the AKC Rally National Championship in Georgia next March as well as "Grey" (Ch MACH Kamgaard Kovered In Grey MXS MJS OF) getting her invitation to compete in the AKC National Agility Championship there, too.

CONGRATULATIONS Christine and Cheryl!

A lovely Christmas visit with Nancy Swanson ("Norskogen") in New Jersey yesterday was both heartwarming and fun.  Nancy is the co-author of the breed book Your Norwegian Elkhound and a charter member of our Garden State Norwegian Elkhound Club.  We don't get to see Nancy as much as we would like, but she is still very interested in all things Elkhound.

Now home to finish wrapping presents and start baking!

We're not sure that anyone could script a better ending to what has been a spectacular year for us, but talk about pulling out all of the stops the last week-end of the year, well it did happen...

Where?  Orlando, Florida

Event?  The AKC Agility Invitational held in conjunction with the National Championship Dog Show

The players? Ch. MACH Kamgaard Kovered In Grey MXS MJS OF ("Grey") and Cheryl Cramer

The accomplishment?  FIVE clean runs with outstanding run times

The reward?  The title of #1 Norwegian Elkhound as well as #9 Hound overall along with the beautiful AKC medallion

To watch these two go from strength to strength since their partnership has been both amazing and totally gratifying.  From winning High in Trial at our National Specialty in June, to completing her MACH in September and now this honor, it has been one beautiful "trifecta."  As Grey's breeders and co-owners, we share in their joy of this tremendous accomplishment and are SO proud of them.

Our profound CONGRATULATIONS and THANKS go to "Grey" and Cheryl!

Here's the link to her five runs: https://youtu.be/Bt4DQ2k4JEA

While Grey was wowing 'em in Agility, her kennel-mate "Rune" (Ch. Kamgaard Kryptic Kharacter NA NAJ NF) was very busy schmoozing with the crowds at the Norwegian Elkhound Association of America's booth at Meet The Breeds.  She is a great "spokesdog" for the breed and a people magnet for sure!

Photo credits to Ken Walker

Closing out our personal show year this week-end at the Eastern Dog Club shows in Massachusetts, we were very pleased with the results turned in by three of our girls.

Judge on Saturday was Mr. Eddie Dziuk of Beagle fame who found his Winners Bitch and Best of Winners for a point in Kamgaard Knobody Does It Better of Elvemel ("Adele") owned and handled by Lisa Peterson.  Our single entry was Adele's litter sister, Ch. Kamgaard Kintyre ("Marnie") who was Best of Opposite Sex to Best of Breed as well as completing the requirements for her Grand Championship title.

The Sunday show was a supported entry of the Norwegian Elkhound Minuteman Association with judge Michael Faulkner officiating.  Our star of the day was puppy Kamgaard Kleared For Takeoff ("Polo") who we brought along to support the club.  She was not only Winners Bitch but Best of Opposite Sex to Best of Breed over all four Champion bitches to earn her second 5 point major at just 9 months of age--photo above.  Way to go Polo!  Select Bitch was Polo's half-sister, "Marnie" and Winners Dog and Best of Winners for 5 points to finish his title went to Graafin Zilveren Zwaard van Kharmageddon, a son of our Ch. Horizon Rock Solid.

Once home through a driving snowstorm, there was good news waiting from "across the pond" as England's last championship show of the year, the Ladies Kennel Association had taken place over the week-end and puppy Grasilva Cruggleton With Laakso owned and shown by Tanja Mortimer was Best Puppy in Breed as well as earning her first Reserve Challenge Certificate under judge Vivien Phillips ("Debucher").  "Mya" is a daughter of our SBIS American Grand/Canadian Ch. Kamgaard Kut Above.

CONGRATULATIONS, ALL!!!

As if gaining his Junior Warrant title last week wasn't enough, "Flint" (Grasilva Little Rock av Gilkaro) came through with a Reserve Best in Show today at the Hound Club of East Anglia Open show under judge Mike Ord!!!

CONGRATULATIONS once again Helen and Alan Tress!!!

A somewhat quiet Thanksgiving week-end but one which started with wonderful news from "across the pond."  Helen Tress sent us the welcome news that "Flint" (Grasilva Little Rock av Gilkaro by Ch. Horizon Rock Solid ex Ch. Kamgaard Kiamesha) had indeed completed the requirements and received his certificate from the Kennel Club (UK) for his Junior Warrant title.

A difficult title to obtain, it is bestowed upon youngsters who have had continued success in the show ring at both Open and Championship levels.  Apparently there has not been a claim for a male Junior Warrant title since 2008!

Meanwhile at the Nordic Open show in the UK (a very popular show limited to Northern breeds), Flint's litter brother "Mason" (Grasilva Eric's Gift) won 1st place in the Post Graduate Stakes for his owner-handler Esther Eaves-Paull... and at the same show the Kobi son out of the lovely Ch. Grasilva Gwendoline Mary, Grasilva Garlieston at Thordell owned and handled by Jackie Hodkinson was Best Puppy in Breed.

The following day, "Mason" needed a day to chill out!:

...and on this side of the pond, new Ch. Kamgaard Kodak Moment RN RATS ("Jack") got to try out his new status by winning Best of Breed at all three of the Maryland Turkey Cluster shows and learning how to "run with the big dogs" in the group ring with owner/handler Marlene Schlichtig.  In addition, Jack was recently awarded his VNE title by the Norwegian Elkhound Association of America:

A new website for Christine Tilburg with plenty of photos of her Elkhounds in action -- check it out!:

http://www.godoggomaine.com/

CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL!!!

Wonderful news received today from a very excited Claudia Holst who finished her "Gibbs" -- now Ch. Kamgaard Kut To The Point at the Minneapolis Kennel Club show in Shakopee, Minnesota under judge Rita J. Biddle, Esq.  Gibbs was Winners Dog and Best of Winners for a major as well as Best of Breed Owner-Handled and Claudia has handled him to all of his points.

Off to work in Swedesboro, New Jersey for the Garden State Norwegian Elkhound's annual agility trial.  Hard work, good times and camaraderie combined and we got to watch some great performances by both "Rune (Ch. Kamgaard Kryptic Kharacter NA NAJ NF) and her buddy "Grey" (Ch. MACH Kamgaard Kovered In Grey MXS MJS OF) along with sharing in Grey's MACH celebration complete with a beautiful cake.

Awesome!

Home again after two plus weeks in the United Kingdom going first to the north Norfolk coast and visiting Holkam Hall and the Queen's residence, Sandringham, then down to Suffolk to visit with Sally's father and then over to Wales for a wonderful nine days.

(and yes, this really IS a town in Wales!)

While in Wales, we made our annual pilgrimage to Kestos to visit with Babs and Brian Stokes -- a great day out.  A trip back into England for a day to attend the Midland Counties Championship show and the Norwegian Elkhound Club of Great Britain's Open show.  Great to see so many friends both two and four-legged.  Maggie got pressed into handling and once again she and "Siri" (Ch. Kamgaard Kiamesha) came away with the Reserve Challenge Certificate at Midland Counties -- seems to be an annual thing!  So pleased with the progress of our exports and their offspring -- lots of plusses here!

Thanks, all for the wonderful hospitality... you know we'll be back!

Majors   Majors   Majors   !!!

Although currently at our "home away from home" in Wales, the jungle drums reach us here and we were happy to hear of some great wins over the week-end.

First up on the winners podium was Lisa and Ray Peterson's Kamgaard Knobody Does It Better at Elvemel ("Adele") winning her first major on Saturday at the Albany Kennel Club show under Australian judge Molly Rule-Steele ("Taejaan") going Winners Bitch and Best of Opposite Sex to Best of Breed.

A same day major was bestowed upon Kamgaard Kall Me Inkredible ("Violet") as Winners Bitch at the Norwegian Elkhound Association of Minnesota specialty under judge Lori Nelson ("Wildfire") for excited owner/handlers Toni Sibrel and Pete Bojan.  With a little help from friend Connie Schulte, Violet also achieved her Rally Novice title here on Sunday.  Thank you, Connie!

Happy to hear that Kristi Wehking was back in the ring at the Minnesota specialty winning Winners Dog and Best of Winners on Sunday with young Sangrud Thorbjorn Bodin ("Bodie" - a son of Ch. Sangrud Kamgaard Kolbjorn NA) who she co-owns with Brad and Cindy Wagner.  Judge on Sunday was Kathy Forbes ("Skyline").

CONGRATULATIONS all on some super wins!!!

Always an anticipated day on the yearly calendar, our Garden State Norwegian Elkhound Club's annual specialty was once again held with the Ramapo Kennel Club in Augusta, New Jersey.  Our judge elect was longtime breeder Karen Elvin ("Sangrud") doing the regular classes and Dorothea Garrett judging the Sweepstakes.

Lots of great wins throughout the day for us and many who have used our dogs in their breeding programs.  Best of Breed to the almost 10 year old Veteran Dog, Ch. Elvemel's Casino Royale CGC who is by Kriega ex a Kommander In Chief daughter.  BIG CONGRATULATIONS go to breeder/owner/handlers Lisa and Ray Peterson!  "Linx" also placed 2nd in the Owner-Handler Group later in the day.  Best of Opposite Sex to Best of Breed went to our Ch. Kamgaard Kintyre ("Marnie") while her litter brother Kamgaard Kodak Moment RN RATS was Winners Dog for his fourth major (three of them at specialties!) to finish his Championship for Bill and Marlene Schlichtig... CONGRATULATIONS!  Other littermate "Rune" (Ch. Kamgaard Kryptic Kharacter NA NAJ NF) was Select Bitch while half-sibling Kamgaard Kleared For Takeoff ("Polo") was Reserve Winners Bitch from the 6-9 month Puppy class and Best of Opposite Sex to Best in Sweepstakes as well.

One of the highlights of the day for us was bringing along "supermom" SBIS/MRBIS American Grand/Canadian/Bermudian Ch. Kamgaard Kase In Point ("Kasey") who at almost 9 years of age doesn't get to as many shows as she feels she should.  Shown by her longtime friend and admirer Sue Ratz (who started her on her illustrious career at this very specialty as a puppy winning her first Sweepstakes and 5 point major), she was Best of Opposite Sex to Best Veteran in Sweepstakes and won her regular Veteran class as well.  But the best part of the day was watching her proudly enter the Brood Bitch class with FIVE of her quality offspring to the cheers of the crowd and the admiration of the judge...

"Kasey" with Sue, Marlene Schlichtig with new titleist Ch. Kamgaard Kodak Moment RN RATS, Maggie with Ch. Kamgaard Kintyre, Lisa Peterson with Kamgaard Knobody Does It Better at Elvemel, Diane Lange with Ch. Kamgaard Kryptic Kharacter NA NAJ NF, and Sally with baby Kamgaard Kleared For Takeoff.

...and that folks, is what it is all about!!!

Our thanks go to all for their efforts in making a very memorable day!

New title time for "Rune"!

Completing her Novice Jumpers title today at the American Eskimo Dog Club of America trial in Pitman, New Jersey under judge Paul Mount, she is now officially

Ch. Kamgaard Kryptic Kharacter NA NAJ NF

CONGRATULATIONS!!!

Another "dark o'clock" rising in order to get to Long Island for early morning judging at the Westbury Kennel Association.  Our judge for the day was Ms. JoAnne Buehler ("Sankhya") who in judging our "Polo" puppy remarked that she would like to put her in her suitcase (we've heard that before!)... and thus rewarded Kamgaard Kleared For Takeoff with Winners Bitch and Best of Winners for a big 5 point major at age 6 months (photo above).  Best of Opposite Sex to Best of Breed went to Polo's half-sister Ch. Kamgaard Kintyre ("Marnie") making it a successful day in somewhat dreary weather.

Once home, we had a happy message waiting from Toni Sibrel and Pete Bojan to say that their Kamgaard Kall Me Inkredible ("Violet") was also Winners Bitch and Best of Winners today at the Monroe Kennel Club in Michigan under Mr. Larry Terricone for her first two points (photo above).

And rounding the week-end out was news from a happy Christine Tilburg that "Rogue" finished his MXP agility title over the week-end at the Talcott Mountain Agility Club in Maine under judge Anne Riba.  He had TEN perfect runs in the Masters Excellent Class and thus came home with a title and a First place.  Looking pretty pleased with himself (above), he is now

Kamgaard Katch The Wave RE MXP MJP RI RN CGC VNE

Oh happy day!!!

We knew it would happen -- the "when" was the only variable!

ULTRA CONGRATULATIONS!!!

to Cheryl Cramer and now

CH. MACH Kamgaard Kovered In Grey MXS MJS OF

on the completion of your Master Agility Championship at the Delaware Valley German Shepherd Dog Club agility trial in Doylestown, PA under judges Ann and Mark Rudd.

We are both proud and thrilled for you!!!

Heading off to Cape Cod was Lisa Peterson with Kamgaard Knobody Does It Better at Elvemel CGC ("Adele") who was Reserve Winners Bitch at the Norwegian Elkhound Minuteman Association specialty on Saturday under Vincent Indeglia ("Tekdal") and Winners Bitch and Best of Winners on Sunday at the Cape Cod Kennel Club show under Karen Wilson for one point.

To the south at the Princeton Dog Training Club agility trial in New Jersey, Cheryl Cramer and Ch. Kamgaard Kovered In Grey MX MXJ OF ("Grey") earned her 19th QQ on Saturday... now just a heartbeat away from that BIG title.  Kennel mate "Rune" picked up her Novice FAST title on Sunday, so she is now Ch. Kamgaard Kryptic Kharacter NA NF.

CONGRATULATIONS   ladies... all FIVE of you!!!

Hot, hot, hot and hotter (we've been told it was 103 degrees F!) was the order of the day at the Garden State Norwegian Elkhound Club's supported entry at the Somerset Hills Kennel Club show on Saturday.  Even hotter was Kamgaard Kryptic Kharacter NA ("Rune") who flew through to her Championship by winning Winners Bitch, Best of Winners and Best of Breed (again!) for four points and thus finishing with three majors.  The judge was Ms. Kalen Dumke ("Nonsuch").

HUGE CONGRATULATIONS to Cheryl Cramer and many thanks to Mandy Armitage for presenting Rune beautifully!

Reserve Winners Bitch to Rune was her half-sister Kamgaard Kleared For Takeoff ("Polo") on her first spin around the ring at age six months and two days and Select Bitch was Rune's litter sister Ch. Kamgaard Kintyre ("Marnie").  Girl power!

The following day was the turn of Cheryl and our agility star, Ch. Kamgaard Kovered In Grey MX MXJ OF ("Grey") who brought home her EIGHTEENTH! QQ at the Skyline Agility Club trial in Middletown, New York.

EVEN MORE CONGRATULATIONS, Cheryl and "Grey" -- awesomeness continues!!!

In addition to "Rogue's success (below), this Labor Day week-end-end was a super one for all four of the Kobi X Kasey kids!

Showing all three days, Kamgaard Kryptic Kharacter NA ("Rune") clocked up the following wins

Saturday:  Newton Kennel Club - Augusta NJ.  Judge: Dr. Edna K. Martin - 1st place Open, WB, BOW - 2 points

Sunday: Sussex Hills Kennel Club - Morristown, NJ.  Judge: Mrs. Joan Goldstein - 1st place Open, WB, BOS - 2 points

Monday: Schooley's Mountain Kennel Club - Morristown, NJ.  Judge: Mr. Robert R. Frost - 1st place Open, WB, BOW, BOB (!!) - 2 points

She looks pretty pleased with herself!

CONGRATULATIONS to Cheryl Cramer and "Rune" and many thanks once again go to Sue Ratz for her outstanding handling.

Litter sister "Marnie" (Ch. Kamgaard Kintyre) went to the Saturday show only scoring Best of Breed and her very first group placement

                    

...and meanwhile in Maryland, litter brother "Jack" (UKC Ch. Kamgaard Kodak Moment RN RATS) won FOUR Hound Group Firsts at a United Kennel Club show.

CONGRATULATIONS Marlene and "Jack"

ALL!!!

A recent message and photo from Christine Tilburg shows "Rogue" (Kamgaard Katch The Wave RE AXP AJP CGC CGCA) with the rewards of his first foray toward his Rally Advanced Title.  In two tries, he has two legs toward his title.

CONGRATULATIONS Christine and "Rogue"!

In extreme heat and traffic conditions, we drove to West Springfield, Massachusetts for the Northwestern Connecticut Dog Club show taking half-sisters "Marnie" and "Polo" for a day's outing.

Best of Breed over Chs. under Mr. John Wade went to Ch. Kamgaard Kintyre ("Marnie") and in the 4-6 month puppy competition, Kamgaard Kleared For Takeoff ("Polo") once again won the Puppy Hound Group, this time under Dr. Steve Herman.  "Polo" earned a new stuffed owl toy and is learning all kinds of new skills.  She thinks this dog show stuff is pretty cool and much like her mom and half-sister, shows her socks off!

Emails today from two of our Kamgaard family members today alerted us to some interesting internet postings.  Firstly an eBay listing for a new calendar with the "coverboy" being none other than our Ch. Kamgaard Kingfish ("Henry") in a photo which was taken back in the 1980's.

No permission to use this was sought or granted.

Secondly, a Facebook posting with a short story of our SBIS/UBIS American/Canadian/Bermudian Ch. Windy Cove Norgren Wild Pride ("BS")

https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=668190546668769&substory_index=0&id=378629252291568

Some great memories here...

From Marlene Schlichtig comes an update on "Jack's" agility escapades;

On August 20-21, Jack (Kamgaard Kodak Moment) attended his first weekend doing UKC agility.  Saturday he made sure that a good time was had and showed everyone how fast he can run!  However, on Sunday he qualified in Trial 1 and Trial 2!!!  Donna Gomer was the judge for the weekend and gave him scores of 185.57 (Trial 1) and 189.44 (Trial 2).  I am so proud of this little guy!

CONGRATULATIONS!!!

Hearing of the passing of SBIS American/Canadian/Bermudian Ch. Kamgaard Kommander In Chief from one of his fans was a source of great sadness.  In his fifteen plus years, he was a dog who stood the test of time while providing joy to many by his being and comic relief with his array of tricks.

For us, planning this special breeding and watching many littermates flourish as outstanding winners of both ring and hearts as well as produce onward has been a great source of pride.  Although we did not get to see "Jag" frequently, Maggie had some very special ring time with him winning four of his five Specialty Best in Shows, his Bermudian title, all of his GR1's and Best of Breed at the Eukanuba National Championship.

To Linda and Pam we offer our condolences.

In a photo taken earlier this year, Jag is pictured with his litter sister "Liza" (BIS American/Bermudian Ch. Kamgaard Klapham Junction) who no doubt was waiting for him at the Bridge.

A girl and her dog (along with her husband!) have to do what they have to do!  With a lack of competition in western Ontario, Lynda and Jim Tarnowski and (American) Ch. Kamgaard Kaministiquia of Wrathwood ("Tractor") hitched up their trailer and drove to the Winnipeg, Manitoba shows.  Results?

8/11 - Manitoba Canine Association - WD/BOS under Tempest Deptuch

8/12 - Manitoba Canine Association - WD/BOB over BIS competition (1 point) under Jose Becerra-Hernandez (Puerto Rico)

8/13 - Manitoba Hound Club - WD/BOW (2 points) under Mr. Jim Reynolds

8/13 - Manitoba Canine Association - WD/BOW (2 points) under Mr. Joe Lobb

to bring home a new Canadian Champion!!!

CONGRATULATIONS to Lynda, chauffeur Jim and American/Canadian Ch. Kamgaard Kaministiquia of Wrathwood!!!

WOW!!!  What a week-end!  Where to start?

Since the first win was made on Friday, we move first to Canfield, Ohio for the Columbiana County Kennel Club where UKC Ch. Kamgaard Kodak Moment RN RATS ("Jack") was Winners Dog for a 3 point major under Mr. Jon Cole.  The next day in Canfield was the specialty show of the Greater Cleveland Norwegian Elkhound Club held in conjunction with the Beaver County Kennel Club.  Sweepstakes judge was breeder Paul Woito of Canada ("Quiquen") and his Best in Veteran Sweepstakes went to Kamgaard Karisma Jamielee ("Jamie").  The regular classes were judged by breeder Kathy Carter ("Norelka") who found her Winners Dog for a 4 point major in Kamgaard Kodak Moment RN RATS ("Jack") while Winners Bitch and Best of Winners went to Kamgaard Kalistadora ("Dora") who finished her Championship in grand style.  Dora is the fifth of her litter of six by SBIS American/Canadian Ch. Kamgaard Kodiak Snowbear ex SBIS Ch. Kamgaard Kekekabic to finish their Championships!  On Sunday at the Mahoning-Shenango Kennel Club show, Winners Dog for a point once again went to "Jack" under Dr. John Reeve-Newson of Canada ("Kishniga").  The Friday and Sunday shows in Canfield were supported entries of the Cleveland club.

Meanwhile...back across the pond in the U.K. on Saturday the Hound Association Championship show was taking place with an excellent entry in the 50's with judge Leila Karkas of Finland officiating.  Besting all male entries, many of them top Champions in their own right was young Grasilva Little Rock av Gilkaro (by Ch. Horizon Rock Solid ex Ch. Kamgaard Kiamesha) coming from the Junior and Post Graduate classes.  So a BIG first Challenge Certificate for "Flint" in what we understand was a very popular win!

Could it get any better?  Well... yes:

On Sunday at the JAG agility trial in New Jersey came Double Q #17 for Ch. Kamgaard Kovered In Grey ("Grey");

https://youtu.be/zhzJS-sWrAc

while junior understudy (not for long!) Kamgaard Kryptic Kharacter ("Rune") got her second Novice JWW leg with a score of 100 and a 1st place!  The standard course time was 37 seconds but she smoked it in 18.53 seconds!;

https://youtu.be/frBF8kSNtv8

CONGRATULATIONS

to

"Jack", "Jamie", "Dora", "Flint", "Grey" and "Rune"

and Marlene and Bill, Mary Jo and Tony, Helen/Alan/Kath, and Cheryl

We are so proud of all of you and thank you for your efforts!

CONGRATULATIONS to Claudia Holst and Kamgaard Kut To The Point ("Gibbs") on his 2nd in the Owner-Handled Hound Group today at the Burlington Wisconsin Kennel Club show.  Judge was Mr. Nat Horn ("Eastern Waters").

The latest Power Score agility stats for the second quarter of the year are in and we're still smiling!:

http://baddogagility.com/Norwegian-Elkhound-ranking-by-powerscore-for-2016-q2

Again, CONGRATULATIONS to Cheryl and "Grey" and Christine and "Rogue" -- you rock!

A big CONGRATULATIONS to Esther Eaves-Paul and Grasilva Eric's Gift ("Mason" by Ch. Horizon Rock Solid ex Ch. Kamgaard Kiamesha) for his Hound Group 4th today at the Minehead and District Canine Society open show in the U.K.

Way to go!!!

The week-end started in Madison, Ohio with Mary Jo Benedetti taking her girls "Jamie" and "Dora" for a short vacation along the shores of Lake Erie.  On Thursday at the Cuyahoga Valley Hound Association specialty, Kamgaard Karisma Jamie Lee was Best of Breed Veteran and 4th in the Veteran Hound Group under Mr. Cristian Stefanescu of Romania while Kamgaard Kalistadora was Winners Bitch and Best of Opposite Sex to Best of Breed.  The next three days at the Grand River and Ashtabula Kennel Club shows, "Dora" was Winners Bitch and Best of Opposite Sex to Best of Breed on two occasions but on Saturday was Best of Breed over a Champion under Ms. Linda More.

Meanwhile in New Jersey at the Twin Brooks Kennel Club, Ch. Kamgaard Kintyre ("Marnie") was Best of Opposite Sex to Best of Breed under Mrs. Sharon Lyons ("Erin") while her baby half-sister Kamgaard Kleared For Takeoff ("Polo") won the Puppy Hound Group in her first venture into the 4-6 month Puppy group.  A very long and hot day!

Home that evening to read the very nice published critique given to "Kobi" by judge Lorraine Bolton ("Rikarlo") after she awarded him the Dog CC and Best of Breed at the Border Union championship show in Scotland a few weeks ago.  It is as follows:

OPEN DOG (5,1):  1^st. Horner, Simmonds & Mott’s AM GR CH/CAN CH KAMGAARD KUT ABOVE (IMP USA).   Nice size dog epitomising the elusive balance between substance/strength and agility/athleticism, that is so much a part of the essence of an Elkhound and which is so difficult to get right.  Strong body, well ribbed back; good depth of brisket and deep, short and wide loin.  Spot on for top line and bottom line.  Excellent tail set and curl.  Not over angulated in rear, (the curse of the modern show dog), and this balances nicely with front.  I would like a tad more breadth of skull.  He appears to be a bit short in neck when standing, but I was reassured on further examination that this is not so, rather an extraordinarily thick ruff.  He was true moving front and rear and was nicely balanced in profile.  Very pleased to award him the CC and BOB.  Well done.

The above coupled with some more pleasing Genoscoper test results for Kobi's sire, SBIS American/Canadian Ch. Kamgaard Kover Your Tracks ("Trevor") and Ch. Powdermill Remember Me ("Poppy") made for a good week-end overall.

to Mary Jo Benedetti and Kamgaard Kalistadora on a successful trip to Monroe, Michigan this week-end for the Ann Arbor Kennel Club shows.  "Dora" was Winners Bitch on Saturday for a 3 point major under judge Daniel Smyth and Winners Bitch, Best of Winners, and Best of Opposite Sex to Best of Breed on Sunday for 2 points under Roz Kramer ("Albany").

That finish line is looming closer!

HAPPY CANADA DAY!!!

from that dashing dog of the north, Kamgaard Northern Silver Spirit ("Koda").  We just never know what outfit he will be celebrating with!

Home from Chicago but not totally unpacked, Craig and Maggie headed for the nearby Wallkill Kennel Club show in New Paltz, NY where Craig showed Ch. Kamgaard Kintyre ("Marnie") to Best of Breed under Mrs. Gayle Bontecou ("Gayleward").

Later in the day it was the turn of Marnie's half-sister, 3 month old Kamgaard Kleared For Takeoff ("Polo") who was Best of Breed and 2nd in the Hound Group at the Hudson Valley Hound club match under Sharon Symonds in her first outing.  She had a blast!!!

As we were packing in the morning to leave Chicago an email arrived with the best news from across the pond.  At the Border Union Agricultural Society show in Scotland, SBIS American Grand/Canadian Ch. Kamgaard Kut Above ("Kobi") won the Dog Challenge Certificate and Best of Breed under breeder-judge Mrs. Lorraine Bolton ("Rikarlo")!!!

A huge THANK YOU to co-owner/handler Stuart Horner for piloting our veteran guy to his second ticket!!!

We are thrilled beyond words!

National Specialty Week!!!

Starting on June 8th we welcomed Craig Evans of Gundaroo, New South Wales, Australia to our home for almost three weeks.  Craig is the owner of American/Australian Ch. Kamgaard Kutting Edge ("Seth") and it was his wish to see American Elkhounds, so what better way to do that than to go to the National specialty and accompanying regional specialty?   Saturday, June 11th saw two vans, five dogs, masses of equipment and suitcases pushing off from Kamgaard along with Lisa Peterson, Linda Atcheson, Craig and Maggie en route to Chicago.  To say that it was a memorable week on so many counts would be an understatement with many Kamgaard dogs, their offspring and close relatives doing so well in many disciplines... overwhelming at times!

6/11 - Barn Hunt - UCD URO1, UCh. Kamgaard Kodak Moment, RN RATI RATN RATO and now RATS ("Jack") put in a great performance earning his last Senior leg and title, 1st place and High in Class.

6/12 - Rally Trial -- Making her Rally debut was Kamgaard Kall Me Inkredible ("Violet") who scored a 93 out of 100 in Novice B and placed 3rd in her class.

6/13 - Futurity and Maturity judged by Kimm McDowell ("Asgaard") - Littermates Sangrud Thorbjorn Birgit ("Birdie") and Sangrud Thorbjorn Bodin ("Bodie") were Best in Futurity and Best of Opposite Sex in Futurity.  Sired by Ch. Sangrud Kamgaard Kolbjorn NA ("Teddy") and doubling on Ch. Kamgaard Kan You Hear Me Now ("Katie"), these beautiful youngsters showed their hearts out for their first outing!  Best in Maturity went to GCh. Greyplume's Retrofit ("Sage"), a son of our Ch. Horizon Rock Solid ("Rock") and Best of Opposite Sex in Maturity to our Ch. Kamgaard Kintyre ("Marnie").

6/13 - Veteran Sweepstakes judged by Vincent Indeglia ("Tekdal") --  Class firsts to the bitches Ch. Horizon Raise The Roof NP NJP ("Summitt" by Kommander In Chief ex Kameo Appearance) and half-sister GCh. Graafin Klearly A Ms Chief Mkr ("Twinkle"), also sired by Kommander.

6/14 - Agility Trials --  Traveling off site to the trials, we were welcomed with the super news that Ch. Kamgaard Kovered In Grey MX MXJ OF ("Grey") had won High in Trial at the first of the two trials which was designated as the National one.  She went on to High in Trial at the second one as well with 4 First placements in Masters Standard and Jumpers.

As well, Kamgaard Kryptic Kharacter ("Rune") scored 2 First placements in Novice Standard which was her agility debut.  Hats off to Cheryl Cramer for all her hard work with these two!  Judge was Ronda Bermke.  Grey is pictured lounging on the couch with kennelmates Rune at the left and Casey at the right.  Happy trio!

6/15-16 - NEAA conformation judged by Mr. Espen Engh of Norway ("Jets")

1st Puppy Dogs 6-9 months - Sangrud Thorbjorn Bodin  ("Bodie")

2nd Open Dogs and Reserve Winners Dog for a 3 point major -- Kamgaard Kodak Moment ("Jack")

1st Puppy Bitches 6-9 months and Winners Bitch for a 5 point major -- Sangrud Thorborn Birgit  ("Birdie")

1st Amateur Owner Handled Bitches - Kamgaard Kalistadora  ("Dora")

2nd American-Bred Bitches - Kamgaard Kall Me Inkredible  ("Violet")

1st Open Bitches -  Kamgaard Knobody Does It Better at Elvemel ("Adele")

2nd Open Bitches - Kestos Yankee Dreamer ("Brecon") - our "Welsh wonder" doubling on Kriega

1st Veteran Dogs 7-10 years - Ch. Elvemel Casino Royale CGC ("Lynx")  -- Kriega ex Kommander daughter

2nd Veteran Bitches 7-10 years -- SBIS Ch. Kamgaard Kekekabic ("Kekka")

1st Veteran Bitches 10+ years -- GCh. Graafin Klearly A Ms Chief Mkr ("Twinkle")

Award of Merits (15 awarded)

Ch. Strom Jitterbug Jack ("Jack") - Kriega ex Ch. Kamgaard Kan You Hear Me Now 

and Best of Opposite Sex to Best of Breed - GCh. Greyplume's Retrofit ("Sage") and his sire,

Ch. Horizon Rock Solid ("Rock")

Ch. Elvemel Casino Royale CGC ("Lynx")

Ch. Kamgaard Kintyre ("Marnie")

Ch. Graafin Klearly A Ms Chief Mkr ("Twinkle")

6/17-18 - NEINEA conformation judged by John Smedbakken of Norway

3rd Open Dogs - Kamgaard Kodak Moment ("Jack")

4th Open Dogs - Kamgaard Kut To The Point ("Gibbs")

3rd Veteran Dogs 7-11 years - Ch. Elvemel Casino Royale CGC ("Lynx")

1st Amateur Owner Handled Bitches and Reserve Winners Bitch - Kamgaard Kalistadora ("Dora")

2nd American-Bred Bitches - Kamgaard Kall Me Inkredible ("Violet")

1st Open Bitches - Kamgaard Knobody Does It Better at Elvemel ("Adele")

Select Dog - Ch. Strom Jitterbug Jack ("Jack")

along with our many thanks for making this a stellar National week for us.  To those who entered, endured the week, helped in so many ways and celebrated the wins of relatives and friends, we say THANK YOU from the bottom of our hearts.

In addition to all of the above, one of the most beautiful surprises came at the NEAA banquet when Maggie was presented with the A. Wells and Catherine S. Peck Award.  Shock and pride combined!  This beautiful statue is "presented on even numbered years to the person or persons whose work and effort are deemed by the Association to have been of outstanding quality and benefit to the Norwegian Elkhound breed."

A little history about the original statue -- it was presented many years ago to the Pecks of the famous Pitch Road kennels by the Norsk Kennel Klub in recognition of their efforts in promoting the Norwegian Elkhound in America.  During the 1960's, Maggie saw the original wooden carving at Pitch Road and was in awe of its simplistic beauty.  The striations in the wood mimicked the coat patterns of the dog and its primitive form was copied as the NEAA logo.  Now reproduced in cold cast bronze, it has a place of honor in our home.  Thanks to all who felt me worthy of it.

CONGRATULATIONS!!!

to Esther Eaves-Paull in England on her Reserve Best in Show win at Exmoor today with Grasilva Eric's Gift.  "Mason" is a son of Ch. Horizon Rock Solid ex Ch. Kamgaard Kiamesha.

A celebratory bone was in order!

GREAT news to read first thing in the morning!!!  Thanks, Cheryl and Christine for all your efforts!

http://baddogagility.com/Norwegian-Elkhound-ranking-by-powerscore-for-2016-q1/

CONGRATULATIONS to "Team Rogue" -- Christine Tilburg and Kamgaard Katch The Wave RE AXP AJP CGC CGCA getting his second QQ, finishing his Master Jumpers Preferred title and snagging 49 PACH points in one week-end!

Way to go!!!

After almost a week of steady rain, Saturday morning we drove to our favorite show with trepidation wondering what the showgrounds would be like.  Upon arrival at beautiful Tinicum Park on the Delaware River, it appeared that the Bucks County show would go off without a hitch and by group time the sun even made a very welcome appearance!

A supported entry of the Garden State Norwegian Elkhound Club, our judge was Dr. Albert Bianchi who awarded our Ch. Kamgaard Kintyre ("Marnie") Best of Breed with litter sister Kamgaard Kryptic Kharacter ("Rune") right beside her as Winners Bitch and Best of Winners for her second major.  CONGRATULATIONS to owner Cheryl Cramer and handler Sue Ratz.  A very nice club picnic and meeting followed and after group judging we drove back across the Delaware in preparation for the Trenton Kennel Club show the following day.

It was truly Mother's Day on Sunday for "Kasey" (SBIS American Grand/Canadian/Bermudian Ch. Kamgaard Kase In Point) as three littermates from her second litter had a great day under judge Pat Laurans;

Best of Breed - Ch. Kamgaard Kintyre (Kamgaard)

Winners Dog/Best of Winners/Best of Opposite Sex to Best of Breed - Kamgaard Kodak Moment RN RATO (Schlichtig)

Winners Bitch - Kamgaard Knobody Does It Better at Elvemel (Peterson)

Sunny, windy and muddy but certainly NO complaints!!!

Thanks all, for a wonderful week-end!!!

A very nice week-end on both sides of the pond starting with exciting news on Saturday that "Flint" (Grasilva Little Rock avec Gilkaro - by Ch. Horizon Rock Solid ex Ch. Kamgaard Kiamesha) went

BEST PUPPY IN SHOW

at the Humberside Hound Club open show in England under Robin Field Spencer ("Talgavar").  What a fabulous win for Flint to usher out his puppy career!  HUGE congratulations to owners Helen and Alan Tress and Kath Gilluley and breeders Bryony Gray and Vanessa McHugh.

News on Sunday came first from Christine Tilburg that "Rogue" had gotten his second Rally Excellent leg on Saturday with a Second Place and finished his Rally Excellent title on Sunday with his third leg and a First Place.  His new "letters" read

Kamgaard Katch The Wave RE AXP AJP CGC CGCA

We then heard from Marlene Schlichtig that Rogue's baby brother "Jack" (UKC Ch. Kamgaard Kodak Moment RN RATO) to Best of Breed at the Mason and Dixon Kennel Club show, winning his first point under Dr. Robert Smith.

CONGRATULATIONS ALL  !!!

With a heavy heart we bid farewell to "Rugger" (Ch. Kamgaard Konscious Kontact) at age fifteen and a half.  After his move to Colorado from Connecticut several years ago, he made himself right at home in his new abode with owner Carol Watt and four-legged girlfriend "Ping."  Carol said that one of his favorite things was to ride up into the Rockies and watch all the various forms of wildlife there.  He lived a very long and fruitful life, always with dignity... his style!

Rest in peace, Rugger... we know you are keeping Jim company.

Great agility news from Christine Tilburg that "Rogue" (Kamgaard Katch The Wave RA AXP AJP RI RN VNE) took First place in JWW both days this past week-end and a First Place in Time To Beat at the Colonial Shetland Sheepdog Club trial under judge Mary Mullen.  Here's a video of one of his JWW runs:

https://youtu.be/op-XOAWUJME

Like kids with a snow day off from school, here are some photos from today's exercise time:

Spring???

Not necessarily "Good Friday" as Linda Atcheson helped our beloved pixie BIS American/Bermudian Ch. Kamgaard Klapham Junction ("Liza") over that well-worn Rainbow Bridge.  Rising fifteen, she was testament to the longevity of her line and she lived a full and wonderful life in homes in Bermuda, New Hampshire, New York and finally Maryland.  An all-breed Best in Show winner, she was the first Champion finished entirely by Sally.

Rest In Peace "Little Liza Jane"

HAPPY SAINT PATRICK'S DAY!

from that Canadian leprechaun Kamgaard Northern Silver Spirit ("Koda") who seems to celebrate every holiday in style!  

Elkhound Day at Crufts!

Getting messages all day while at a U.S. show was fun.  CONGRATULATIONS to the many who partially or totally flew the flag for us under breeder-judge Elspeth Wallace ("Elsken").  Placements for "Mason", "Toki", "Ren" (also Reserve CC), "Kobi" and "Siri" along with class wins for the Siri son Grasilva Little Rock avec Gilkaro ("Flint") and his sister Grasilva Silver Vine ("Tia") with the title of Best Puppy going to Flint:

CONGRATULATIONS once again Helen Tress and baby "Flint"!

Meanwhile this side of the pond, a first all-breed show as a newly-crowned Champion for "Marnie" (Ch. Kamgaard Kintyre) who was Best of Breed at the Monticello New York Kennel Club show under Joy Brewster ("Cassio").  She had a great day and got to learn how to run with the big dogs in the group!

The "Discover Dogs" event at England's premier show, Crufts, is a huge event for the public to learn about various breeds.  Someone outdid herself in the "meet and greet" department and at the end of a long day sank into someone's lap totally exhausted:

Ch. Kamgaard Kiamesha ("Siri")

Well, where to start?!  It seems as though things go along quietly for days and then it's full steam ahead!  Leaving early on Thursday morning for the two day drive to compete at the Greater Milwaukee Norwegian Elkhound Association specialties, Maggie was met by long-time friend and Elkhound enthusiast Cindy Bundy ("MSLF").  In addition to Cindy's help, it was great to catch up with one of our best friends for a few days.  THANK YOU ever so much, Cindy!!  The Milwaukee club was very welcoming and we enjoyed their dinners on Friday and Saturday evenings.

Judges for the two shows were breeders Sally and Rick Berger ("Galena Creek") from Nevada and Sally judged first on Saturday.  Starting the day out on a high was Kamgaard Kall Me Inkredible ("Violet") winning Best in Sweepstakes under Ms. Kylie Jo Hirschy-Sievert for owners Toni Sibrel and Peter Bojan.  Happy to see this lovely youngster again as at last sighting she was flying off to Chicago with Pete in a Sherpa bag at 10 weeks of age.  She is lovely and we wish you lots of success with her.  Winners Bitch for her THIRD 5 point major to finish in high style was Kamgaard Kintyre ("Marnie") from the Bred By Exhibitor class... our 165th Championship.  Not an easy feat to accomplish and two of these wins were earned at Elkhound specialties and the third at a supported entry.  Cindy then handled her to Best of Winners.

Reserve Winners Bitch to Marnie was half-sister Violet and winning the Open Bitch class at her first show ever was our "Welsh wonder" Kestos Yankee Dreamer ("Brecon").  To cap off the day,  SBIS Ch. Kamgaard Kekekabic ("Kekka") won the Veteran Bitch class and an Award of Merit.

Sunday was the turn of Rick and again we had excellent results.  Winning the Open Bitch class again was "Brecon" who went on to Reserve Winners Bitch.  Thanks to the handling skills of Kristi Wehking who raised "Kekka" from puppyhood, she again won the Veteran Bitch class and was judged Select Bitch.  "Marnie" (now moved up to Best of Breed competition) was awarded an Award of Merit.

"On the road news" came in several forms -- first from Christine Tilburg who reported that Kamgaard Katch The Wave RA AXP AJP RI RN VNE ("Rogue) got his first Excellent Rally leg and later got his first QQ over the week-end:

and secondly a link to a lovely story of the Kobi son, Ellahyde Fine N' Dandi ("Toki") in the United Kingdom and the road to Crufts for him and his owner Danni Medhurst:

http://edition.pagesuite-professional.co.uk/Launch.aspx?EID=79285a35-bc25-412c-8d7e-1b96d2a07827

It starts on page 36.

We wish them and all of our UK associates good luck this coming Sunday at the 125th Crufts anniversary show!

A supersonic drive home from Milwaukee and home in time to watch the next generation come into the world.  SBIS American Grand/Canadian/Bermudian Ch. Kamgaard Kase In Point ("Kasey") -- "Marnie" and "Rogue's" mom has blessed us with her final four gifts -- 2 boys, 2 girls decked out below in their pastel Easter collars:

Life is good!!!

Very sad but not unexpected news today from Mallory Golladay who helped her beloved "Kabbie" (Ch. Kamgaard Kaballero CD NA TDI VNEX) over the Rainbow Bridge.  He lived a very long life of almost 16 years, but as we all know, it's never long enough.  He was the last known son of our much loved SBIS/UBIS American/Canadian/Bermudian Ch. Windy Cove Norgren Wild Pride and the lovely American/Canadian Ch. Wrathwood's Alibi.  A recent photo of his happy face is above.

Rest in Peace, "Kabbie" -- we know you were one of the most adored dogs on the planet.

More CONGRATULATIONS to Marlene Schlichtig and UKC Ch. Kamgaard Kodak Moment RN RATO ("Jack") who competed at four United Kennel Club shows over the week-end and finished up with 3 Group Firsts and 1 Group Second!!!

Sending overseas CONGRATULATIONS to Helen and Alan Tress on their puppy Grasilva Little Rock Avec Gilkaro ("Flint") by Ch. Horizon Rock Solid ex Ch. Kamgaard Kiamesha after winning Best Puppy in breed at the Manchester Dog Show Society Championship show in the United Kingdom in an entry of ten under judge Per Iversen of Norway.  Photo courtesy of Wolfhound Photography.

CONGRATULATIONS to Ch. Kamgaard Kovered In Grey MX MXB MXJ MJB OF ("Grey") and Cheryl Cramer who will be the first Norwegian Elkhound to compete in agility at the Westminster Kennel Club trial next month.

CONGRATULATIONS also go to UKC Ch. Kamgaard Kodak Moment RN RATO ("Jack") who has been invited to compete at the American Kennel Club Rally National Championship in Oklahoma in March.

Happy New Year to all our Elkhound friends!  May 2016 bring all that you wish for!

We are pleased to start the New Year out by posting the new Avonside Norwegian Elkhound calendar above with none other than SBIS American/Canadian/Bermudian Ch. Kamgaard Kommander In Chief ("Jag") as the cover boy.