A Westminster Story: Teddy
Teddy on the awards podiumwith his handler.
The dog show world caught the attention of the masses in 2000 with the viral popularity of the comedic film, “Best in Show.” But the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show has actually been a tradition for more than 130 years. In fact, it is the second-longest running sporting event in the United States behind only the Kentucky Derby. Hundreds of thousands of dogs have marched through the show ring to display the finest of pedigree and breeding throughout the show’s long history, and Teddy the Beagle is one of those many.
Teddy joined Richard Hilton and Diana Lipari’s family in May 2007. Diana, the President of the Southern California Beagle Club, had grown up with Beagles and wanted to bring another one into her life when her 14 and a half-year-old Beagle, Lionel B. Barrymore, passed away. Upon selecting a reputable breeder, Diana decided to take on her first show quality Beagle and chose Teddy from the litter. “Teddy is a natural show dog with a lot of charisma,” said Diana. “He comes from a long line of great dogs who had that extra something.”
It is that little “extra something” that has led GCH. Del Rey Roosevelt's Rough Rider (Teddy’s registered Grand Champion name) to several championship titles—101 wins in total—including the top dog in variety for 13" Beagles at Westminster and Best in Show at the Platte Valley Kennel Club show in Lincoln, Nebraska to name a few. “Not every purebred dog is capable of ‘performing’ in the ring,” said Diana. “You have to have the talent and then be open to the training.”
Teddy’s training began as a puppy. From leash training, to posing, Teddy perfected his show stance from an early age, even attending several mock shows starting at four months. But show dog training does not end there, often requiring refresher courses throughout the dogs’ career. “After Eukanuba in the beginning of December 2009, Teddy went home with his handler Heather Lindberg, to refine his training,” said Diana. “When we saw him at the beginning of January in Palm Springs, he was an even better performer in the ring.”
Not everything is so serious in the dog show realm, however. After his win this past January at the Palm Springs show, Teddy and family celebrated with a “Best in Show” decorated cake and champagne. “Other than that, Teddy just gets a lot of hugs, kisses and treats,” said Diana.
Now in retirement, Teddy spends his days hanging with his dog brother Marlowe, playing fetch, lounging on the couch and just enjoying the everyday dog life. He has also been requested to breed with several female Beagles from around the US. “I think people need to understand that show dogs are really just dogs and pets,” said Diana. “We show them strictly for the fun of it and we breed them so other people can enjoy these beautiful, wonderful dogs as well. They are great companions for us and we love them for the love they give in return.”
