JUDGING

From Elite Handler to International Judge

Will Alexander (Kennel Name: Muckross) is a Canadian luminary in the world of purebred dogs, whose career spans four decades of handling, breeding, and now judging.

Will Alexander holding Miss P after winning best in show at westminster

Young Will Alexander and an Irish Setter

Early Passion & Family Roots

Born and raised in Millbrook, Ontario, Will grew up in a dog-loving household. At just six or seven, his family welcomed their first Irish Setter, and by age seven, he was already showing in junior competitions. Under the mentorship of Malcolm Fellows, Canada’s first Westminster winner, he scored his first major junior-level win in Ottawa at age ten.

Handling & Breeding Excellence

Adopting the kennel name Muckross, Will began breeding and showing English Cockers, Irish Setters, and Beagles. Over decades, he established himself as one of Canada’s leading professional handlers, with numerous top-tier wins across all seven AKC groups.

His crowning achievement came in 2015 when he expertly handled Miss P, a Beagle, to win Best in Show at the prestigious Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show, a true pinnacle of the sport

Will Alexander and Miss P winning best in show at westminster

Transition to Judging

In 2020, after decades of competing, Will earned his judging license through the Canadian Kennel Club. By early 2021, he was officially judging purebred dogs, focusing initially on Sporting Group assignments.

His debut at Westminster as a judge came at the 149th Annual Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show, where he served on the panel for the Sporting Group, a major milestone in his judging career

Judging Philosophy & Expertise

Will brings to judging the same exacting attention to detail that made him one of the top handlers in North America.

His judging scope includes licence for Groups 1 and 2 and on permit for the first half of Terriers. Click here to see a list of Breeds Will is approved to judge.

Beyond the Ring

Off the judge’s table and away from the show ring, Will is an entrepreneur and educator: he hosts grooming and handling seminars, designs grooming products, and contributes to dog show literature and digital content.