Annukka Paloheimo

Finland

My dog hobby began in my teenage years in the 1970s in Tapiola, Espoo. Over more than 40 years, I bred on a small scale and actively participated in dog shows with my dogs — from the very beginning also outside Finland. My breeds are the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and the King Charles Spaniel, and over the years I’ve had the privilege of breeding more than 60 champions, as well as receiving the Vuolasvirta Award for my breeding work.
I qualified as a conformation judge for my own breeds in 1986, and in 2010 I was granted the title of FCI All-Breed Judge — thanks to knowledgeable mentors and the Finnish Kennel Club’s excellent training program. My now-adult sons and my professional career in wealth management and research have made it possible for me to pursue this lifelong passion. I’m truly grateful for all these years.
I’ve had the opportunity to judge in more than 50 countries across all continents. Being a member of the Royal Kennel Club since 2002 and spending several years living in England have added an extra dimension to both my dog hobby and my judging work. Judging in England is always a pleasure, and it was a special honor to choose Best Toy Dog at Crufts in 2023. I have also judged four times at the FCI World Dog Shows — wonderful experiences all around. Another highlight was judging Best in Show at the Finnish Kennel Club Winner Show in 2016. These memories mean a lot to me.
When I judge, my goal is always the same: a healthy, typical, well-balanced dog with a good temperament. My heart skips a beat every time I meet such a dog.