(as it appeared in the Golden Retriever Club of America's Golden Retriever News)
"Robin"
“Robin” has been a breeder's dream come true, completing both his American and Canadian Championships at less than two years of age.
During that period, he also found time to become certified as a working Police K-9 specializing in Human Remains Detection, Narcotics and Mantrailing. He is truly an exceptional combination of elegance and working ability, living up to his name as a 'Super Hero.'
"Mary and Robin on patrol"
Robin started his show career with a bang, by earning Reserve Winners Dog to a four point major from the 6-9 puppy class at the 2003 GRC of Western New York Specialty show. He followed this with three back-to-back major reserves from the puppy class at the Christmas classic shows in Cleveland, including the Cuyahoga Valley GRC Specialty Show. As a puppy he was always an over-achiever, earning many Best Puppy and Puppy Group placements.
By 11 months of age, Robin got serious about his show career, taking third place in both 9-12 sweeps and regular classes at the 2003 GRCA National Specialty Show. His first points came later that month at the competitive Wine Country Circuit in New York State. From that point on there was no looking back. He proved to be a true repeat offender, taking his second major win at the 2004 GRC of Western NY Specialty, and his third at the 2004 Wine Country Circuit. Robin is now a multiple group placing Golden, acquiring his first 7 Show Dog Hall Of Fame points in just 4 shows. Robin achieved his SDHF status by three years of age.
GRCA National Specialty Judges Award of Merit
Robin has been received equally as well in Canada. He completed his championship in only three shows, finishing with a BOB, and topping it off with a Group 2 the following day (his first as a move up!). Robin's wins in both the U.S. and Canada were always breeder-owner handled exclusively by Mary. Robin has also been shown at the prestigious WestminsterKennel Club Dog show where he was asked to do an appearance on NBC's Today Show. As you will soon see, both Robin and I were just a bit nervous about a national television debut!To view the video footage, click below:
With drive that won't quit, self-confidence, intelligence, and a willingness to please, Robin has proven to be an exceptional working K-9. Starting his scent detection work at seven weeks of age, he has built a strong foundation and true passion for search and detection work. He currently works as a full-time K-9 Officer with the Salamanca Police Department in New York State along with his "partner" and fellow
Officer Mary MacQueen.
"Robin at 10 weeks"
Standing 23 1/2 inches at the shoulder and weighing in at 70 pounds, Robin proves to be a nice size boy who is not overdone. He is short coupled and carries a nice amount of bone. He has a full, thick medium-gold wash-and-wear coat, along with coal black pigment year round. Robin has full dentition and a scissors bite.
Robin corners the market on movement. Seemingly riding on a magic carpet, he covers ground effortlessly, and is extremely light on his feet. With impressive reach and drive, his strong topline remains dead level even on the go. Robin is clean coming and going, has a lovely layback of shoulder, and correct angulation both front and rear.
"Robin in motion"
Temperament is by far Robin's strongest attribute. Any Golden fanciers who have had the pleasure of meeting Robin can attest to his utterly sweet disposition. Always willing to entertain the crowd, Robin has a real sense of humor, is reliable, trustworthy, and truly 'plays well with others!'
Robin is especially fond of small dogs. Whenever he befriends a new one, he looks at us as if to say “Mom and Dad, can we keep him, can we, PLEASE??”
"Birthday friends"
We are thrilled to report Robin's OFA (Orthopedic Foundation For Animals) results at 24 months, “Normal” elbows and a perfect hip evaluation of “Excellent.” Robin eyes are certified through CERF (Canine Eye Registration Foundation) annually, and his heart is OFA certified as well.
Robin stands at stud at Nitro Golden Retrievers, and has a 100% breeding success record to date. He has been proven with natural, fresh, fresh-chilled, and frozen semen breedings. We have the ability to ship Robin's fresh-chilled or frozen semen anywhere on request, and we live in fairly close proximity to Dr. Robert Hutchison (a top veterinary reproduction specialist), should his services be needed for breeding.
Breedings thus far have produced litters averaging 8-10 puppies, and Robin seems to have a knack for producing his amazing head, bone, and side gait. Many of his puppies have gone on to greatness in both the show and working arenas. Please feel free to call or E-mail if you have any questions regarding the use of Robin as the sire of your future champions, successful working dogs...
