Emmi winning BISS
© W Sharp

Louis winning Best Dog
© W Sharp

Taija winning Best Australian Bred in Show
© W Sharp

Emmi in the ring
© G Brassington

Today we had the excitement of the Finnish Lapphund Club of Victoria's Open Show, judget by D Parker (VIC). I was incredibly proud of how my babies went with Louis (Grand Ch C'est Louis Armstrong des Chevaloupsgreg CD RN PT (Imp USA)) going Best Dog, and Emmi (Grand Ch Lumiturpa Emmi CCD JD HT (Imp Fnl)) Best Bitch, following it up by being awarded Best in Show!

Taija (Ch Armahani Crystal Cuovgat) also had a great show, winning the Australian Bred Bitch class, and then being awarded Australia Bred in Show. And Lahti (Ch Armahani Amethyst Apina) was 1st place in the Neuter Sweepstakes.

While the showing was lots of fun, it was even more special to catch up with friends, and particularly to see two of my babies, Dolce and Mischa down from New South Wales. It was the first time we have managed to get some photos of Lahti, her daughter Mischa and son Ahti together, and what a handsome family they make (photos by G Brassington below).

Full results are below:

Minor Puppy Dog
1st Pakkanen av Vintervidda (Imp Nwy)
Puppy Dog
1st Taigakoira Cakca Gumpe
Junior Dog
1st Kalevi Danish Rasmus
2nd Kalevi Danish Atti Jnr
Aus Bred Dog
1st Ch Articmal Dynamic Illusion
2nd Ch Janoby Clear The Way
3rd Ch Janoby Because I Am
Open Dog
1st Grand Ch C'est Louis Armstrong des Chevaloupsgreg (Imp USA)

Best Dog - Grand Ch C'est Louis Armstrong des Chevaloupsgreg (Imp USA)
Runner Up Best Dog - Ch Articmal Dynamic Illusion

Minor Puppy Bitch
1st Taigakoira Cakca Nasttas
Puppy Bitch
1st Kalevi Danish Katrine
2nd Lecibsin Sametti (Imp UK)
3rd Taigakoira Bierdni Satu
Junior Bitch
1st Ch Janoby Frilly Nickers
Intermediate Bitch
1st Ch Taigakoira Aamutahti
Aus Bred Bitch
1st Ch Armahani Crystal Cuovgat
2nd Ch Janoby All About Aura
Open Bitch
1st Grand Ch Lumiturpa Emmi (Imp Fnl)

Best Bitch - Grand Ch Lumiturpa Emmi (Imp Fnl)
Runner Up Best Bitch - Ch Janoby Frilly Nickers

Best in Show - Grand Ch Lumiturpa Emmi (Imp Fnl)
Runner up Best in Show - Ch Janoby Frilly Nickers
Best Minor - Taigakoira Cakca Nasttas
Best Opp Minor - Pakkanen av Vintervidda (Imp Nwy)
Best Puppy - Kalevi Danish Katrine
Best Opp Puppy - Taigakoira Cakca Gumpe
Best Junior - Ch Janoby Frilly Nickers
Best Opp Junior - Kalevi Danish Rasmus
Best Interm - Ch Taigakoira Aamutahti
Best Aus Bred - Ch Armahani Crystal Cuovgat
Best Opp Aus Bred - Ch Articmal Dynamic Illusion
Best Open - Grand Ch Lumiturpa Emmi (Imp Fnl)
Best Opp Open - Grand Ch C'est Louis Armstrong des Chevaloupsgreg (Imp USA)

Neuter Sweepstakes
1st Ch Armahani Amethyst Apina
2nd Orical Secret Wish
3rd Kalevi Blessed in Dreams

Louis in the ring recently
© M Scriven

Very proud again today with Louis (Grand Ch C'est Louis Armstrong des Chevaloupsgreg CD RN PT (Imp USA)) gaining another Runner Up in Group as well as Open in Group.

This time was at the Kilmore A&P Society under Victorian judge Mr M Wilkinson.

Louis and I with Quinn and his owner/handler Mel
© O Langshaw

Wins are nice, but they are much better when shared! So we were thrilled today, showing at the Sovereign City Kennel Club, when judge Mrs A Collyer firstly shortlisted Louis (Grand Ch C'est Louis Armstrong des Chevaloupsgreg CD RN PT (Imp USA)) down to her final four for group, then awarded his daugher Quinn (Ch Kalevi Cheri Flora) Junior in Group, and followed it up by awarding Louis Open in Group.

Quinn is co-owned by breeders S & D Ewenson, and her handler Mel Scriven, and has been enjoying a number of class in group wins lately, so it was pretty special to get to share one of them today!

Then I returned home to hear the exciting news that Mischa (Ch Armahani Bloodstone Bilaidit) had earned her Neuter Championship! Well done to owners S Chouffot and G Brassington of Caleebra Kennels!

Emmi winning BOB at the Sunbury Canine Club
© Pedini Photography

And another!!!! Who would have guessed that just a week after Louis had done the same, we would be celebrating another Australian Grand Champion, this time with my beautiful Emmi (Ch Lumiturpa Emmi CCD JD PT (Imp Fnl)) earning the accolade!

It has literally been neck and neck between Louis and Emmi in recent months, with only a recent Best in Group nudging him ahead. I thought Emmi would be a few weeks away yet, but on Tuesday at the Sunbury Canine Club, she pulled out all of the stops and was an absolute star for me, earning a lovely 20 point best of breed.

That gave her just 6 points to earn which we thought she should earn today at the Echuca A&P Society, but she decided to really make sure, beating Louis for Best of Breed as well.

So incredibly proud and thankful for this very very stunning girl who has dominated the Lappie females in Australia for such a long time, and notably whose most significant wins have regularly been when under Finnish judges (including a runner up in group at Perth Royal, and a shortlisting in group at Melbourne Royal). I am truly so very lucky to have her!

Photo Coming
© ?

Today was a very special one with Louis (Ch C'est Louis Armstrong des Chevaloupsgreg CD RN HT (Imp USA)) finally earning those last few points to become an Australian Grand Champion!! We are very very proud of our beautiful boy and how well he has done in the show ring, and couldn't be more pleased to put this thoroughly deserved title on him.

He finished in nice style, yesterday being awarded Runner up in Group at the Albury Show Society Championship under NSW judge Mrs B Skilton.

It was a nice weekend all round, with Lahti (Ch Armahani Amethyst Apina) also earning Neuter in Group at both shows, and a lovely time spent with show friends enjoying the spring sunshine and the necessary glasses of champagne.

And then the news came through that on the same day Louis had earned his grand championship, his daughter Pink (Janoby Frilly Nickers) earned her championship with a nice large best of breed. This girl has done massively well, with a number of big wins making up her championship.

And from Queensland, where another daughter, our home bred Myrre (Armahani Crystal Ciegus JD) was in her first obedience trial, earning first place in her ring and her first CD pass with a score of 185. Well done to owners Anne and Janne!!

So it really was a special Louis weekend. We've lost track a little of his various kids' wins over the last few weeks but I know there have been multiple numbers of class in groups wins across the country for Pink, Ismo (Theldaroy French Encounter), Quinn (Ch Kalevi Cheri Flora), Anikka (Ch Kalevi Cheri Blossom) and Scandal (Theldaroy French Scandal).

Mischa sporting a pretty ribbon
© G Hunt

It isn't often we get to compete in shows where the neuter class is on offer, so it was a nice occasion to bring out Lahti (Ch Armahani Amethyst Apina) again. Lahti is the mother of our Bloodstone litter and now enjoys a life of retirement with the Field family, but we still get to bring her out on occasion and this weekend it was at the Southern Cross Kennel Club.

We were very proud on Friday night when she was awarded Best Neuter in Group under judge P Tjerkstra from Queensland.

But it was extra special to hear from NSW, where her daughter Mischa (Ch Armahani Bloodstone Bilaidit), proudly owned by S Chouffot and G Brassington of Caleebra Kennels also earned Neuter in Group, not once but twice over the weekend.

Go the neuter girls!

Shell and Veikko celebrating
© Skyforged Images

We had some really exciting news today from NSW, where out latest little girl Veikko (Armahani Diamond Dansut (AI)), proudly co-owned and handled by Shell Gurney, earned the final points she needed to become an Australian Champion.

The crazy Veikko, aka Squiggle, is the first of her litter to earn her conformation title, and for her it is hopefully the first of a few titles, with plans now underway to slow things down in the show ring and concentrating on her performance training.

Congratulations Shell and Veikko!!

Louis winning BIS with General Specials and Group judges
© The Northern Times

An absolutely thrilling day today with Louis (Ch C'est Louis Armstrong des Chevaloupsgreg CD RN HT (Imp USA)) taking out his first Best in Show!!! This is only the second time a Lapphund has won a BIS at an all breed championship show in Australia, so it was a significant day both for ourselves and the breed generally.

It happened at the Kerang A&P Society Championship Show, with Best in Group and Open in Group being awarded to Louis by Victorian judge Ms D Saltau, followed by Best in Show and Open in Show by NSW judge Miss B Daines.

We couldn't be more thrilled or proud of our handsome young man, and how amazingly well he has done over the last couple of years. He truly is a star, and I can't thank his breeder enough for letting him come to be my baby boy!

Louis' win was followed by a Minor Puppy in Group for Veikko (Armahani Diamond Dansut (AI)) and a Neuter in Group for Mischa (Ch Armahani Bloodstone Bilaidit) on Friday night in NSW - so it certainly was a special weekend for us here at Armahani!

Tahvo winning his first major
©

Overnight we had some exciting news with Tahvo (Armahani Diamond Davvenasti (AI)) being awarded his first “major” in the USA show ring. Under the American Kennel Club rules, the 15 points required to make up an American Champion must include two major wins of 3 points or more.

Tahvo now has 10 points toward his title, with the first of those majors under his collar. We are pretty astounded at just how well this little man is going, at only 7 months of age, against some seriously nice competition.

Congratulations to Kathy, Gene and Linda – hope the fun times with my precious boy just keep coming.

Ahti (Ch Armahani Bloodstone Bihci HT) in the ring
© N Toohey

Another Royal, this time in our home base, with the excitement of what used to be our biggest Lappie entry of the year, but now having to settle for second best now we have specialties to attend!

As well as Louis and Emmi, I had the cheeky Veikko (Armahani Diamond Dansut) down to show. I’m not sure I did such a good job with her, but we had a fun time catching up at least, and our judge seemed suitably amused with our attempts! So a happy experience all up. Also from Armahani were Ahti (Ch Armahani Bloodstone Bihci HT), shown by Mel, and Kyla (Armahani Crystal Cearpmat), making her Royal debut with Michelle.

It was again time for Louis and Emmi to continue the bridesmaid status, with them both being awarded the reserve challenges under Canadian judge Dr J Reeve-Newson. Congratulations this time to Cassie for DCC winner and BOB Ch Ausvarg Dragonvalcore, handled by Cam, and once again to puppy Janoby Frilly Nickers for the BCC and RUBOB, as always beautifully handled by Robyn. Just thrilled at how this youngster is doing.

My highlight would have to have been Ahti’s win in the Intermediate Dog Class against some stiff competition. There were definitely tears of pride and a big hug for Mel as she came out of the ring with this boy who is just maturing so beautifully at the moment.

It was a great day all round, catching up with friends, and also taking turns on the Finnish Lapphund Club of Victoria’s breed stand during the day. Certainly their turn on the stand being cuddled by an adoring public were Louis and Emmi’s highlight of the day.

Louis in the show ring at Adelaide Royal
© M Nyp

Emmi in the show ring at Adelaide Royal
© M Nyp

We took the long trek to Adelaide over the last few days to show at the Adelaide Royal yesterday. It’s a been a few years since we made the trip, and although the encouragement of a Finnish judge turned out not to be realised when there needed to be a last minute judge substitution, it was still a great opportunity to meet up with friends and family.

It was just Louis and Emmi on the trip with me, making it a lovely and relaxing Royal with just the two dogs to show. So I thought. Emmi timed her season really well to be finished just before Royal season, but Louis wasn’t convinced, and keeping him in the ring yesterday and not plunging through the barriers to her was a bit of a challenge!

It was also my first chance to see how the lovely Theldaroy French Encounter, Louis’ young son, currently campaigned in SA by Jeff Tassell and Jill Smith, who I hadn’t seen since our specialty in June.

In the ring, our showing wasn’t too shabby, with Louis and Emmi both taking their respective reserve challenges under Irish judge Mr J Muldoon. A big congratulations to Sarah with DCC winner and BOB Ch Articmal Dynamic Illusion HT “Taavi”, and to Robyn with BCC winner and RUBOB from the puppy class, Louis’ little girl Janoby Filly Nickers “Pink” who we are particularly proud of.

Before heading home today, we got to have a lovely visit at Finnesse Kennels and admire their gorgeous babies, before Kellie arrived with our beautiful Cookie (Armahani Crystal Ceahppi) for us to see for the first time since she left home at 8 weeks of age! What a stunner this little mistletoe has turned out to be, with a cheekiness that couldn’t possibly be inherited!!! We had a very interesting time trying to take a few photos of her with her parents Louis and Emmi!

Louis and Kulta with their stash from their Rally trial
© J Lincoln

Today we did something completely different, entering our first Rally-O trials at the Geelong Obedience Club's triple trial. Rally, although common in other parts of the world, is only a new sport in Australia this year, and this is the first opportunity we've had to compete. Louis and Emmi have had a few practice runs at our local club so their handler knows what to do!! But when Emmi came into season, and Kulta was here visiting while she is on holiday, I decided to enter him as well to see if the old man still has it!

I was thrilled to pieces with how both boys went. Louis improved throughout the day. His first trial I felt he was just a little bit too distracted and overwhelmed, but he did manage a nice score of 94/100. His second he was clearly warming up and got a score of 95/100 and a 3rd place in his ring. And then for the last trial of the day, and definitely the one that had me the most nervous that I was going to make mistakes for us, given it was more complex than the two before, he just shone! It felt beautiful all the way around and I knew coming out the ring he had done a great job, but I was thrilled to see his score of 98/100 which gave him 1st place in his ring.

Kulta was just amazing! He's never been my great performance dog, much preferring his position on the couch, but he just brought it today. He did nicely in his first trial with a score of 96/100 and a 3rd place. His second he seemed to be a bit over it, but still pulled it together for a nice 92/100. So I was a bit worried coming into the third trial that his short time of being prepared to work with me would be long over, but he seriously kicked it up another notch. I've never had such beautiful work from Kulta in any ring, and I had a huge grin on my face as we hit that last station. He ended with a 95/100 and another 3rd place.

So very proud that Louis will now be Ch C'est Louis Armstrong des Chevaloupsgreg CD RN PT (Imp USA) and Kulta will now be Ch Theldaroy Best Treasure CCD RN HT!

Louis with his Best in Group ribbon
© J Lincoln

Well I suspect that Louis (Ch C'est Louis Armstrong des Chevaloupsgreg CD PT (Imp USA)) has decided enough is enough with all this attention on his kids during the weeks of late, and it is his turn for a bit of the accolades!

We spent the weekend showing at the Hamilton Kennel Club. Emmi is at my parent's place while in season, so Kulta came along to keep us company. Today Louis has his moment in the sunlight earning Best in Group and Open in Group under Queensland judge Mrs J McCann.

It had been a quiet few weeks for us so I was very thrilled with this win, and so thankful for all the congratulations from our fellow group 5 exhbitors!

Of course, his kids just can't give him a break! Because in another part of the State six month old Pink (Janoby Frilly Nickers) earned herself another three good sized Best of Breeds against competitive adult competition and followed it up with a Minor Puppy in Group today. Congratulations to Robyn, Wayne and Sue.

We also had some good health news over the week, with Blaez (Armahani Bloodstone Bajann) passing his eye exam.

Tahvo with handler Kathy earning his first Best of Winners and championship points
© T Brockmire

After the success of Lumi and Veikko last week, this time it was their brother Tahvo's (Armahani Diamond Davvenasti) turn to show them how it is done! Turning 6 months of age half way through the week he finally is eligible to have some fun with his owners in the American Kennel Club show ring!

On Friday he made me very proud earning Reserve Winner's Dog, and following that up with a Best of Breed and 2nd Puppy in Group in a fun match. But Saturday he did one better, with his first Best of Winners out of an entry of five for his first 2 points toward he championship, following it up with a 3rd Puppy in Group!

Today he did it again, with another Best of Winners!

I'm so very proud of this lovely boy and so pleased that he is adored so much by his owners Linda, Steven, Gene and Kathy! Even if that will make it rather tricky to steal him back :-D!

Louis' kid from Theldaroy Kennels continue their winning ways, with Scandal (Theldaroy French Scandal) earning the bitch challenge at the Queensland Royal Show over the week, and her brother Ismo (Theldaroy French Encounter) earning two Minor Puppy in Groups over the weekend! Congratulations to Ros and Col, Jeff and Jill.

Veikko with her sweeps ribbons
© M Gurney

Over the last week both Lumi and Veikko have had their final shows as baby puppies, and did they do it in style!

On Saturday Lumi (Armahani Diamond Davvir) showed at the Murray Valley Kennel Club, gaining third place in the Baby Puppy Sweepstakes under New Zealand judge Mr B Harris.

Then on Monday and Tuesday, Veikko (Armahani Diamond Dansut) was showing at the Tullamore PA & H Society, earning second place in the Baby Puppy Sweepstakes both days under New South Wales judges Mr L Butler and Mrs S McMahon.

She followed it up today with her first show in Minor Puppy, earning a Best of Breed and her first challenge points toward her championship title.

Happy 6 month birthday to our beautiful diamonds!

And more congratulations to Louis babies across the country, with Pink (Janoby Frilly Nickers) earning a very impressive BOB at her first show in minor puppy, and a Minor Puppy in Group here in Melbourne on the weekend (congratulations to Robyn, Wayne and Sue) and yesterday at the Queensland Royal Show, Scandal (Theldaroy French Scandal) being awarded the bitch challenge (congratulations Ros and Col).

Lumi and Bianca
© S Betts

Great news from New South Wales yesterday, with Lumi (Armahani Diamond Davvir) attending his first all breeds championship show at the Wagga Wagga All Breeds Kennel Club.

There he not only earned Best Baby Puppy in Group under judge Rev C Seymour, but also was placed second in a large baby puppy sweepstakes under Victorian judge Ms M Joyce.

We're very proud of both Lumi and co-owner/handler Bianca, and hope he continues to shine in both the show and obedience arena!

Today Lumi's sister Veikko (Armahani Diamond Dansut) was showing in Sydney under Swedish judge Mr D Ericsson. We were really pleased to hear that under a Scandinavian judge, she was one of three baby puppies who gained a second look for the baby puppy in group award, and although she didn't claim that award this time around, we were even more thrilled to hear Mr Ericsson's feedback afterward, noting her beautiful head and expression, nice front and great type, and labelling her as a "very promising" puppy.

It seems the special mention to Louis' kids continue, with last weekend Ismo (Theldaroy French Encounter) earning another Baby Puppy in Group in South Australia, and in Queensland this weekend his sister Scandal (Theldaroy French Scandal) earning two Minor Puppy in Groups and a Minor Puppy in Show in her first week up in the minor puppy class. Congratulations again to Jeff, Jill, Ros and Col.

Myrre with ribbons from her first trial
© A Ahola

The excitement came from all over the country it seemed this weekend!

For ourselves, we spent a lovely time up in Wentworth, NSW, just out of Mildura, and the ground where I exhibited in my very first show almost 10 years ago now! It was wonderful to catch up with old friends, as well as spend time with others also up from Melbourne. Louis did me proud yet again, gaining back to back Runner Up Best in Groups, firstly on Saturday under judge Mrs L Black (Vic) and then on Sunday under judge Mr W Mooney (Vic).

While that was special enough, there was more excitement to come, when I got the message on Saturday that his and Emmi's daughter Myrre (Armahani Crystal Ciegus) had attended her first ANKC agility trial on the Gold Coast, and had come away having won first place in the Novice Jumping ring for two of her rounds, and second place for the other two, and most importantly had earned her Jumping Dog (JD) title! I couldn't be more thrilled! Myrre (the puppy previously known as "the nutter") has always been destined to do great things in the performance arena, and I am so proud of her and owner Anne Ahola. As a breeder who also trains for performance as well as enjoying the show ring, I know just how much work goes into those performance titles, and seeing my babies achieve such feats gives me the greatest buzz!! I'm sure more is to come for Myrre and Anne.

Of course, special mention also has to go to a couple of Louis' other daughters from other kennels doing wonderful things over the weekend, with Anikka (Kalevi Cheri Blossom) going Best Puppy in Group in Perth on Friday and Quinn (Kalevi Cheri Flora) doing the same in Melbourne on Saturday! Congratulations to breeders Sarah and David Ewenson as well as owners Lauren and Darren (Anikka) and Mel and James (Quinn).

Veikko with her pretty ribbon
© M Gurney

Some lovely news from interstate today. We've been taking a break from most activites over the last few weeks, but that hasn't stopped others out there and making us proud!

In NSW this morning, our precious baby girl Veikko (Armahani Diamond Dansut), who is co-owned, loved and handled by Shell Gurney, was awarded third place in a Baby Puppy Sweepstakes at the Moree Kennel Club Championship Show, under judge Mrs M Hickie (NSW).

Veikko is a rather naughty princess, just how Shell likes them :-), who is being prepared for a world of fun dogs sports, but who does struggle to keep all four paws on the ground while in the show ring, so we are very very proud of her achievements today.

I just can't wait to see all this little girl and Shell will achieve together!

And special mention must also go to Louis' young son, Ismo (Theldaroy French Encounter), showing in SA with Jeff Tassell aand Jill Smith, who today eaned Baby Puppy in Group. Congratulations to Jess, Jill and Ismo's breeders Ros and Col Seare. I'm so excited to see the Louis kids do so well!

Photo coming
© S Gurney

We had an incredible weekend, with the Finnish Lapphund Club of Victoria holding the inaugural Finnish Lapphund Specialty Championship show today. It was matched with a big weekend of events for all of our members and interstate visitors, with the Working Dog Club of Victoria Championship Show on Saturday followed by our club's trivia night. Then both our show and the Victorian Spitz Breeds Club's Championship today, followed by our award ceremony and dinner. It may take some time to catch up on sleep!

But what a fantastic time it was, with friends arriving from all over Australia to take part in this momentous occasion.

In the show ring, the performance of our own babies wasn't too shabby! First up at Saturday's show under Ms G Alexander (Vic) with a Lappie entry of 32, Louis (Ch C'est Louis Armstrong des Chevaloupsgreg CD PT (Imp USA)) was Best of Breed, and Emmi (Ch Lumiturpa Emmi (Imp Fnl)) Runner up of Breed. I was pretty stunned by Emmi's performance because she is still very bald after having the diamonds and normally wouldn't be shown except that it was such a special occasion. We were also thrilled to see little Lumi (Armahani Diamond Davvir) out for his first show and winning his class against two other spectacular baby boys, only losing to one of Louis' daughters, Janoby Frilly Nickers, for Baby of Breed.

At Monday's Spitz Show, under judge J Oates (Vic) with a Lappie entry of 65 Emmi again won Runner Up Best of Breed, to a lovely male from NSW, Ch Ausvarg Dragonvalcore. I was also very proud to handle Taija (Ch Armahani Crystal Cuovgat) to first in the Intermediate Bitch class of 9 lovely girls, and Kulta (Ch Theldaroy Best Treasure CCD HT) out of retirement for the day taking third place in the Australian Bred Dog class - behind the eventual BOB winner. But the star had to be Lahti (Ch Armahani Amethyst Apina) who won Neuter of Breed and then went on to win Best Neuter in Show!

Then it was the big one. An entry of 81 Lappies under judge Ms M Martin (Vic). I am very proud that all five of my dogs that I handled won their class - Louis, Kulta, Taija, Emmi and Lahti. Louis went on to win Reserve Dog Challenge behind a lovely SA boy, Kalevi Blessed in Wonder (who went on to win Best in Show), and later was Runner Up Best in Show! Emmi was the Reserve Bitch Challenge behind one of Louis' beautiful daughters from the Puppy Class, Kalevi Cheri Blossom from WA, who had been reserve to her in the last two shows. Taija was 1st Intermediate Bitch in our largest class entry (11), and Best Opposite Intermediate in Show to the BIS winner. Kulta was Best Veteran in Show. Lahti was Best Opposite Neuter in Show in another large entry (6).

We were also very proud of how some of our other Armahani babies went with Lumi going Best Opposite Baby in Show, Ahti (Ch Armahani Bloodstone Bihci HT) winning 2nd place in the competitive State Bred Dog class, and Mischa (Ch Armahani Bloodstone Bilaidit) winning 3rd place in the Neuter Bitch class.

To finish things off in fine style, in the property classes, Emmi then went on to win Best Headed Bitch, under judge Ms C Evans.

Nik Boyd videoed our show for us, and segments can be viewed here:

Part 1 - Baby Puppy Dog, Puppy Dog, Junior Dog

Part 2 - Intermediate Dog

Part 3 - State Bred Dog

Part 4 - Australian Bred Dog

Part 5 - Open Dog

Part 6 - Veteran Dog

Part 7 - Dog Challenge

Part 8 - Baby Puppy Bitch

Part 9 - Puppy Bitch, Junior Bitch

Part 10 - Intermediate Bitch

Part 11 - State Bred Bitch, Australian Bred Bitch

Part 12 - Open Bitch, Veteran Bitch

Part 13 - Challenge Bitch

Part 14 - Best in Show

Part 15 - General Specials (Excluding Best in Show)

Part 16 - Best Neuter Dog, Best Neuter Bitch, Best Neuter in Show

New Australian Champion Armahani Crystal Cuovgat
© M Ruff

After a very long break , we were back in the show ring today, having a lovely day at the Seymour and District Kennel Club Championship show with a lovely group of Lappie enthusiasts.

Just the company of good friends would have made it a wonderful return in itself, but the first excitement of the day came when Taija (Armahani Crystal Cuovgat) earned the bitch challenge under NSW judge Mr A Hunt, and along with it the final points she needed to become an Australian Champion.

Not to be outdone by his daughter on his return to the ring, Louis (Ch C'est Louis Armstrong des Chevaloupsgreg CD PT (Imp USA)). who earned the Best of Breed, went on to be awarded Runner Up to Best in Group. Louis is having a cracker of a show year, even with the very few shows I've been able to get him to!

We have very special plans for Taija's first litter later in the year, but in the meantime her sister Kyla (Armahani Crystal Cearpmat) came into season yesterday, so we start the journey toward the Emerald litter very soon. See the Future Treasure page for more information.

Armahani Diamond Davvenasit (Tahvo) with part of his new family, being dropped off at Jetpets for his flight to his new home
© J Lincoln

Armahani Diamond Davvenasit (Tahvo) with part of his new family, arrived in Memphis
© K Knapp

With a great deal of tears, over the last few days we have said goodbye to our precious precious Tahvo - known as Winston while all of the diamonds were here. Tahvo has been staying a few extra weeks while he grew old enough to make an overseas trip. Of course, there is always the risk that having a puppy here that extra bit longer will make the tug on the heartstrings a little bit more painful. But I don't think I realised quite how much I would fall in love with this character. A stunning, beautiful boy, with the most cheeky, delightful temperament, I just absolutely adore him.

Tahvo has gone to Memphis, USA to be owned by Linda Marden of Sugarok Kennels, Kathy Knapp and Gene Haynes. Linda was here for almost a week, spending some time with Tahvo before taking him home, along with Alaska (Ch Teelikamentten Iiika) who has also gone to the USA to live.

Linda and I dropped off Tahvo and Alaska at Jetpets on Wednesday morning for their final vet clearances. Those goodbyes are always the very hardest, and it was certainly an emotional farewell. They stayed overnight before being dropped off at cargo for their flight yesterday morning, while Linda left via the normal method :-). It was overnight that we received the messages that they had arrived safely in LA and transited onto their flight home to Memphis.

By morning (early evening there) they had finished their journey, with Kathy and Gene there to meet them at the airport. I was so relieved and pleased to hear that Tahvo had traveled will, unfazed by such a long journey and his normal cheeky self.

We wish Kathy, Gene and Linda all the best with their new baby, and are so looking forward to hearing all his news and seeing photos of him as he grows.

There will now always be a special part of my heart in Memphis!

Armahani Diamond Davvir (Lumi) with his new family
© J Lincoln

More goodbyes! This time is was our big boy Cartier's turn, who is now known as Lumi. Clive and Bianca Ralphs, of Polarpaws Kennel, arrived from the Albury/Wodonga region about lunch time today to whisk my little boy away. Like Shell, they have been waiting a number of years for this litter, and Lumi goes to enjoy a life of showing and obedience with the Aussies and a Malamute friend.

Cartier, or Armahani Diamond Davvir (treasure), is quite the striking young man, with a playful and slightly naughty temperament. Very fun loving, and full of happiness, I'm sure he will bring his new owners plenty of joy. Like Veikko, Lumi remains co-owned with me, and given we make the occasional show up his way, I'm looking forward to being able to cheer him on in the ring.

That just leaves us with little Winston (now known as Tahvo), who will be here for a few more weeks before his new owner picks him up.

Armahani Diamond Dansut (Veikko) with her new family
© J Lincoln

The goodbye's started today with the first of our Diamonds heading to their new homes.

Little Tiffany, now to be known as Veikko, is heading off to Sydney to live with Shell Gurney and Zero the Siberian Husky. Shell has been waiting a very long time for this little girl, and Veikko will be hitting the show ring as well as training in a full range of different dog sports. She remains co-owned with me, and hopefully when she is old enough to have babies of her own she will come back to visit for a short while.

Veikko, or Armahani Diamond Dansut (to dance), is quite the gorgeous and feminine little girl, with the cheeky attitude of her mum. I think she is going to give Shell lots and lots of fun, and we can't wait to see her grow and develop and share in the excitement of all of her achievements.

Good luck little Veikko!

Ch Armahani Bloodstone Bihci HT
© S Donaldson

Some thrilling news today with our cream boy Ahti earning the final challenge he needed to become an Australian Champion! Soon Ahti will be known as Ch Armahani Bloodstone Bihci HT!

Ahti is also the first Armahani pup to have titles on either end of his name, having earning his Herding Tested title in 2011.

We are very proud of him, and of his co-owners (and handler) Mel Scriven and James Mauger, who could never have guessed the journey they were about to go on when they took their little puppy boy home a couple of years ago.

Ahti will be shown a bit more lightly now he is titled, and will be concentrating further on his herding endeavors!

Emmi with her baby diamonds
© J Lincoln

It is with a great deal of excitement that we welcome the birth of our Diamond litter today. Three little babies were born to Emmi (Ch Lumiturpa Emmi CCD JD HT (Imp Fnl)) this morning - two boys and one precious girl.

The sire of this litter is the late Ressi (Fin Ch and Fin Working Trial Ch Lecibsin Kultakuono), whose frozen semen we have had here for a while, waiting for the right moment for Emmi's final litter.

It has been quite an adventure getting here, and with such precious treasure on board, we weren't taking any chances, so when Emmi passed her due date, on veterinary advice we decided to take her in for an elective c-section. She has recovered well, and has taken to motherhood instantly again!

The Diamond litter can be seen on our Current Treasure page, or for more news and photos you can check out their blog HERE. At this stage they are all spoken for.

Louis being awarded RUBIG today
© D Hughes

Our last show for a little while, given we will be busy with babies of our own soon, and this one local at the Ballarat Dog Club Championship Show.

It was a very civilised start to the day, with the show commencing at lunch time, and with only Louis to be shown, it was nice and easy to just get ready at home, and nip across to Ballarat with only a few pieces of gear. Completely different to my normal very early starts with numerous dogs and pieces of equipment!!

But despite such a casual attitude, Louis still did me proud, picking up Runner Up Best in Group under judge Mrs J Campbell (Vic).

He just continues to do me proud!

Puppies with their mum Whisper at Theldaroy Kennels
© R Seare

Louis is a daddy again with the birth of five puppies at Theldaroy Kennels to the beautiful Whisper, aka Ch Theldaroy NVus Whispers (AI).

This turned out to be a similar pattern to his last litter, with five pups: one black and tan boy, two black and tan girls, and two girls of another colour, this time some beautiful brown and tan darlings.

It is always interesting to discover what recessive colours are hiding behind our Lappies, and while I knew Louis had a 50/50 chance of carrying brown, I was never sure until now. I'm looking forward to seeing photos of all of these babies as they grow and develop.

For information about this litter, please contact Theldaroy Kennels directly.

Taija with her ribbon on the weekend
© BiJu Photography

It was an enormous show weekend in Benalla, as well as a very very hot one, with Louis and his daughter Taija (Armahani Crystal Cuovgat) being shown from Friday through to Sunday. We camped out for the weekend, which is always fun, and braved the heat for three days of showing.

It started on Friday at the Benalla Kennel Club Championship Show with Taija going Intermediate in Group under NSW judge Mrs D Besoff. This was followed on Saturday, also at the Benalla Kennel Club Championship Show, with a Best in Group and Open in Group for Louis under NSW judge Mr R Besoff. Then on Sunday Louis did it again with Best in Group and Open in Group at the Yarrawonga/Mulwala & Border Kennel Club Championship Show under NSW judge Mr D Strachan.

A brilliant weekend!

Two pups at Janoby Kennels
© R Sharp

Louis is a daddy again with the birth of five precious puppies at Janoby Kennels to their girl Ch Janoby All About Aura.

In typical Louis style, there are more girls (four) than boys (just the one). And there are also more little cream Louis babies in the world with two of the girls being cream. The rest of the babies are black and tan like their parents.

Mum and bubs are all doing well. Can't wait to see them grow.

I believe there may be a couple of puppies unallocated at this stage, so if you are interested please contact Janoby Kennels directly

Louis in the show ring
© S Donaldson

We started our show year with a bang today at the Central Gippsland Kennel Club Championship Show, despite the rather dubious looking weather. I was showing Louis (Ch C'est Louis Armstrong des Chevaloupsgreg CD PT (Imp USA)), Taija (Armahani Crystal Cuovgot) and Lahti (Ch Armahani Amethyst Apina) today, and all did me proud.

Louis was Dog Challenge and Best of Breed, Taija earned the Bitch Challenge, getting her a step closer to her title, and Lahti earned more points toward her Neuter Championship. But it was Louis' day, then going Runner Up to Best in Group (Group 2nd) and Open in Group under judge Mr R Bridgeford (Vic).

A lovely start for our first show of the year!

Louis - thrilled to be back herding again
© Double K Herding Training

Louis - getting a bit close to check out the cattle
© Double K Herding Training

A very happy new year from all of us at Armahani! Louis and I spent a fabulous start to the new year, camping out at Double K Herding for a couple of days of herding fun. He hasn't been out herding since earning his PT title in September, so it was good to see he wasn't too rusty and had an absolute ball back with the sheep again. To add to the fun, we had our first go with the cattle, which was fairly nerve wracking for me, but something we hope to do more of in 2012. I was pretty thrilled with how Louis went with them - a bit tentative (although that might have been those annoying flies!) but managing to remain calm as he worked them (although, again that might have been because of the flies LOL).

2011 was an amazing year for us, with a whirlwind of achievements!

It was definitely Louis' (Ch C'est Louis Armstrong des Chevaloupsgreg CD HT (Imp USA)) year. In the show ring he earned five Runner Up in Groups (Group 2nds), five Best in Groups (Group 1sts) and two RUNNER UP IN SHOWS (BIS 2). Although the final tally is still to be done, he ends the year on the DOL Pointscore as the National Breed Leader for both the Best of Breed and All Breeds competitions, and in 5th place for the Working Dog Group in our State of Victoria.

But just to show he is not a one dimensional achiever, he shone in other arenas as well. In the herding ring he earned his HT and then his PT titles. And in obedience he earned his CCD title with a 2nd place and a 3rd place in ring, and then his CD title with a 1st, 2nd and 4th place in ring. He has only just started trialing in agility, but we hope to do more in 2012. He also took a momentary pause to sire a litter for Kalevi Kennels, with little baby girl Kalevi Cheri Blossom being an amazing ambassador in Western Australia with five Best Baby in Group awards and a Best Baby in Show at her first five shows in late 2011.

Not to be outdone, Emmi (Ch Lumiturpa Emmi CCD JD HT (Imp Fnl)) has also has a huge year. In the show ring she also earned a Best in Group, and was the Best of Breed winner at both the Melbourne and Perth Royals this year, including being one of the shortlisted group finalists at the Melbourne Royal under a Finnish/Swedish judge. She ends the year on the DOL Pointscore as the highest scoring bitch (and 3rd overall) on the Best of Breed competition, and would have come very close to piping Louis off his post if it hasn't been for sharing a few points with her daughter over the year.

In the herding ring she earned her HT title. In obedience she earned her CCD with two 1st places and a 4th place. And she hit the agility ring, earning her JD title all with 2nd places in ring. What a star my beautiful girl is!

For those who don't get out as much as they used to, it was also a successful year, with Alaska (Ch Teelikamentten Iikka (Imp Fnl)) earning Dog Challenge and Runner Up Best of Breed at the Melbourne Royal, and our beautiful "old boy" Kulta (Ch Theldaroy Best Treasure CCD HT), who normally lives our his retirement on my parents' couch, winning his class (Australian Bred Dog) at both of his two outings for the year, the Melbourne Royal, where he was also Reserve Dog Challenge, and the FLCV Open Show.

We are also very proud of the Armahani babies. Mischa (Ch Armahani Bloodsone Bilaidit) earned her conformation championship, while her brother Ahti (Armahani Bloodstone Bihci HT) earned his HT title in the herding ring. Classes in group were earned by Taija (Armahani Crystal Cuovgat) and Lahti (Ch Armahani Amethyst Apina). While Kyla (Armahani Crystal Cearpmat) qualified as a Delta Therapy Dog. We can't wait to see what our babies do in 2012 and with three of them close to their conformation championships, the race is on!

While we have lots of hopes and dreams for 2012, we are hopeful that there will also be the pitter patter of tiny paws during the year. Stay tuned!