Duke

Duke is a very special dog. While I have a bond with all my dogs, there are some dogs that come into our lives that we share a particularly deep connection with, Duke is a soul dog for me. He was my first show prospect, the first dog I stepped in a show ring with, and the first dog I championed. He is a really gentle soul, preferring the company of people over everything, and enjoys all the finer things in life. He is the cuddler in the pack and the most laid back. He has numerous sport titles which he enjoys doing, but his favorite activity is long naps flipped belly-up in comfy places nearby his humans.

Personality

Duke is often referred to as 'Goober' in our house. He has a very chill goofy personality. He seeks out the very best things in life and is a Conosur of beds, pillows, cheese, and spa days. Unlike the rest of the pack, he always likes to look his very best and is offended when mud touches him. He asks for baths, and likes to get on the grooming table for a pamper session. His favorite cheese is gouda. He can most often be found hanging out with 'his girls' or taking a snooze on top of the softest cushioning he can find. He is a very emotionally intuitive dog who likes to take care of and comfort his people, earning him the nickname 'Dr Duke' when anyone is sick or hurt in the house. We are convinced Duke is the reincarnation of royalty based on his posh preferences.

Achievements

Like his sisters, Duke partakes in FastCat, Rally, Trick Dog, and rat hunting venues. He has his senior and Crazy8 Silver title in BarnHunt, and FCAT in FastCat. His favorite venue though is the show ring, where he always has the famous sammy smile on his face. He championed after a single summer of showing at under a year old, no small feat with a first-time owner handler. He enjoyed success at the 2023 SCA National going 4th in both large and impressive classes in Working Dog Sweeps and Working Dog. He also went Best in Working Sweepstakes on both days of the weekend for Minuteman Samoyed Club's specialty in 2024. He has a really comforting personality, which has made him a hit during nursing home visits - something I hope to further pursue with him.