JAMES COVEY

He has extensive experience and has served as a judge in dog shows around the United States, and in Sweden as well. In addition to the Sporting Group, he is approved by the American Kennel Club to judge Norfolk Terriers, Norwich Terriers and Best in Show as well. The world of purebred dogs and dog shows, have long been a part of Mr. Covey’s life.

At the age of 12 he began working in a neighbor’s Irish Setter agility and conformation kennel in Selkirk, New York. There he learned about feeding, cleaning and grooming dogs. As time went on he gained knowledge about breeding and showing dogs as well. Determined to have his own show dog, James saved his allowance for three years, and at the age of 15, purchased an English Cocker Spaniel named “Ancram’s Jessica.” With Jessica he gained experience breeding purebred dogs. He developed champion producing breeding programs for English Cocker Spaniels, and later Norfolk Terriers. Eventually his enthusiasm and hard work led to his first experience as a dog show judge in 1980 at the Washington Avenue Armory in Albany, NY.  

After years of achievement working with purebred dogs and a career as a court recorder, James is enjoying retirement. As far as the future is concerned, he said he enjoys judging and plans to continue doing so occasionally.