About Oakhurst

Due to Dick’s extensive travel schedule and with two young children at home, the need for a protective breed led us to acquire our first Rhodesian Ridgeback in the late 60’s. After a few successes in the show ring, we were hooked both on the breed as a family companion and on the wonderful sport of showing dogs. In 1970, with the addition of a second quality specimen, the careful and selective breeding program of Oakhurst began.

The Oakhurst breeding program is noted for both outstanding conformation and temperament. Oakhurst has finished nearly 100dogs, with many achieving the highest of honors including nine All-Breed Best-In-Shows and number one Ridgeback in the country. Many Oakhurst dogs and bitches have also achieved "ROM" status (Register Of Merit). We currently share our home with several adult Ridgebacks, a Miniature Wire Dachshund and a Whippet.

On an average, Oakhurst produces two litters a year. All breeding stock has certified hips and elbows and is checked for other congenital abnormalities. All puppies, reared in a home atmosphere, are well socialized and temperament tested from an early age in order to assist in matching new owners with the right puppy. 

Both Dick and I are actively involved with breed clubs on the national and local level. AKC granted my judging license in 1985 and I am currently approved for all Hound Breeds, the Hound Group and Best-In-Show. I am currently Chair for the Standard & Elaboration Committee and continue as Chair of Education. Dick is approved for several of the Hound Breeds and both of us have judged Dog Shows around the world including Australia, Mainland China, Hong Kong, Russia, Italy, Canada, South Africa, Holland, France and throughout the United States. Dick was selected to judge the 2001 Australian National Specialty and I was asked to judge Rhodesian Ridgebacks at the year 2000 World Congress in the Netherlands, the National in France in 2004, and the Swedish National in 2010.

Dick and I were priviledged to adjudicate the Brazilian National Specialty in 2011.

I was honored to adjudicate at our National Specialty for a second time, this time in Florida in 2012.

Oakhurst is dedicated to producing Ridgebacks that are sound, compliant with the Standard and have great temperament. We insist on continuing their legacy without compromise.