Ryan Horvath — Junior Showmanship

My parents surprised me with my first Dachshund, a dappled miniature smooth, at age 13 and dog shows have been a large part of my life ever since. One could then say, of course, the rest is history so to speak, but that isn’t the whole story. I started my show career in Junior Showmanship at that time. As part of my early learning in the sport, I worked for a professional handler while I went to high school and completed my Bachelor’s degree. Along with my parents we have bred under the HoMar Prefix for nearly 30 years. With very limited breeding we have enjoyed some success.

I began my involvement in clubs with the Dachshund Club of the Great Lakes where I served in various positions on the board, as well as show secretary. It proved to be a great learning experience and I recommend all members of the show community, including juniors, to join a club. I’m currently Show Chair for Del Valle Dog Club of Livermore after serving most recently as Asst Show Chair for the joint effort of the two clubs forming Harvest Moon Classic after serving as Skyline’s Show Chair for nearly a decade. In addition, I’m a member of the Dachshund Club of America, National Miniature Dachshund Club, Morris & Essex Kennel Club and Santa Barbara Kennel Club. I am permit or approved to judge 23 hound breeds, Dandie Dinmont Terriers and junior showmanship. Professionally, I have earned a Master’s Degree in Clinical Psychology and am currently working as a psychotherapist in private practice as well as in the public sector with Alameda County. I am honored and excited to officiate Junior Showmanship at BCCA 2024 and do my part to encourage the next generation in the sport of purebred dogs.