Claire Smith, a Commercial Realtor for Kilbourne Group in Fargo, is raising a dog that might have received a bit of an ego boost this past year. That’s because her dog, Goose, received an award of merit while competing in the prestigious and nationally

We sat down with the proud owner to learn a little bit more!

HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN SHOWING DOGS?

I think my first time in the ring was probably around five years old! My Grandma raised English Setters and would bring me with as a baby in a car seat. We typically stick around the surrounding states and are gone 1-2 weekends per month for shows.

WAS THIS YOUR FIRST APPEARANCE AT THE BUG EVENT?

Yes, this was the first time I’ve been to Westminster. Typically the show is in February at Madison Square Garden in New York City. Not really friendly for someone driving from North Dakota. So when we heard the show was being moved in 2021 to June at the Lyndhurst Mansion in Tarrytown we decided this would be the perfect time to go!

WHAT IS YOUR DOG’S NAME?

His registered name is Grand Champion KaraJen Kizmar Let’s Get Lit – he goes by ‘Goose’.

WHAT IS ITS BREED?

Vizsla – they are a member of the Sporting Group which is made up of a variety of hunting dogs. Vizslas were first developed by the Magyars around 1,500 years ago, they originated from Hungary and were recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1960. They are a versatile hunting dog who will point, flush, and retrieve birds. Since they were originally bred to be a hunting companion who runs in the field all day, they are a very high energy breed requiring lots of exercise. Vizslas have a very soft temperament and enjoy cuddling with their humans – they are often described as Velcro Vizslas because they are always right next to you!

HOW DID YOU FEEL GOING INTO THE COMPETITION?

Excited! This is like making it to the Super Bowl for dog people. When we received the letter that his entry made it in we were over the moon happy. They only allow 2,500 dogs so the entry is by a drawing. Dogs from all 50 states and 10 different countries competed at this show – we were the only dog from North Dakota this year.

WHAT DID IT MEAN TO HAVE YOUR DOG PLACE SO HIGHLY?

It was like a dream come true! Especially for his breeders who were able to be there to watch as well. I’m so honored to have such a beautiful dog from them to show at a competition like this.

WHAT ARE YOUR DOG’S FAVORITE THINGS TO DO?

He loves birds and swimming! He was originally bred to be a hunting dog, so we train one night a week on birds from Spring to Fall. We also go out and hunt pheasant with both of our dogs in the Fall. He enjoys swimming at Rocket Dogs year round as well!

HOW DO YOU PREPARE FOR A COMPETITION LIKE THAT?

Vizsla’s are a high energy breed so exercise is a big part of our daily routine and it helps keep him in shape. Lots of free running, swimming, and walks. We also train at the Fargo Moorhead Kennel Club on a weekly basis. He has been attending dog shows on the weekends since he was six months old so he is pretty used to the routine (his favorite treat is chicken!).