The Alaska Kennel Club was organized September 8,
1947 by a group of dog lovers with two purposes in
mind: first, to further the advancement of all
purebred dogs; second, to conduct sanctioned matches
and dog shows under the rules of the American Kennel
Club.
To conduct regular licensed dog shows in which dogs
receive points to their championship, the Alaska
Kennel held two sanctioned matches within one year
under the rules of the American Kennel Club.
The first sanctioned match was judged by Mrs.
Lillian Miller of Seattle WA on May 20th 1948. Eighty
six dogs were entered with twenty seven breeds being
represented. Best In Match was awarded to a black
cocker spaniel named Warrior Bold of Ahnest-Lee”,
owned by Major George T Young.
The second match was judged by Captain Will Judy,
former Dog World owner-editor, on November 28th,
1948. Ninety three dogs were entered with thirty
breeds being represented. Best In Match was awarded
to a Doberman Pinscher named “Moxee of Von Kay”,
owned by Frances L Wright.
Upon completing the American Kennel Club’s
requirement, the Alaska Kennel Club was ready to hold
its first licensed all breed dog show for
championship points. This show was held August 7,
1949 at the Anchorage High School gym, now the City
Hall Annex. Mr. William H Pym of Vancouver, B.C.
presided over the one hundred sixty-six entrants,
with twenty nine breeds being represented. Best In
Show was awarded to a Golden Retriever named
“Rockhaven Jack” owned by Haakon Christiansen.
The Alaska Kennel Club held one show annually until
1957 when the American Kennel Club granted the club
to hold two shows annually. Now, we hold four
licensed shows a year. We still hold the required
matches required by the American Kennel Club.
Through the 50 plus years, we have advanced a long
way and credit is due to the Founders of this club
and the ongoing dedication of club members and
voluntary workers.
