Valerie Nunes-Atkinson

Best known for CJ and his Westminster win, Valerie is a 2nd generation breeder with the passion for handling, training, breeding, and conditioning show dogs.

Pay It Forward - Handling Seminars for Owner Handlers and Juniors

Valerie has a deep love for her dogs, and a deep love for her sport.  She is focused on a Pay-It-Forward future by training owner-handlers and juniors in international handling seminars.

Dispel the "Owner Handler Cannot Compete" Belief

For those who want to raise their game, for those ready to dispel the owner handler cannot compete belief, for those who will work to win on a consistent basis; Valerie is ready to help.

Professional Handlers do this 24 hours a day!

One of the drawbacks of the owner handler and frequent complaints from the judges is lack of conditioning.  The seminars are not just how to hold your lead, but how to condition, train, and prepare for the ring.

Puppy Training or How to Raise a Rock Star Show Dog

Puppy training starts at birth and the time, effort, dedication, and persistence required evolves from the time that they are puppies.  With a horse background, Valerie trains carriage and outline on her dogs.

Lead Breaking Tip

Train in circles, moving only to the right... Never lead break in a straight line.  The puppy should bend and flex around you.  After two or three circles, end with the dog facing straight towards you and looking at you.   Don't pull!!! Use treats or sounds to keep him engaged.

Breeders and Exhibitors

Dog shows are intended to evaluate breeding stock.  But today, not everyone that shows are interested in breeding.

Some just like to own and show and this group of exhibitors are both welcome and deserve respect.

But encouragement is needed to help interest exhibitors to become breeders.  For without our breeders, we will lose our dogs.