Virpi Leppälä

Finland

I became a conformation judge in 2018, and at the moment I’m licensed to judge some breeds in Groups 2 and 9. Next on my list is expanding into Group 1. I’ve owned Great Danes since the early 2000s, and over the years my pack has also included Lhasa Apsos. Right now, I share my home with three Great Danes and one Lhasa Apso. I breed blue and black Great Danes on a small scale. In terms of education, I hold a Master’s degree in Environmental Technology (YAMK) and work as a Sustainability Manager for a municipal waste company. My passion for dogs has completely taken over—in addition to judging, I’ve spent many years working as a ring steward and I’m active in several show committees. I also belong to multiple dog hobby associations. With my Great Danes, I enjoy activities like nose work, blood tracking (mejä), and water rescue. The rest of my free time is usually spent hiking in nature—naturally, with the dogs at my side.