An Interview with Marie Thorpe – Returning Crufts Judge at Crufts

In beginning of march, the international dog world will once again gather at the National Exhibition Centre for Crufts, one of the most prestigious dog show in the world. Among this year’s judges is Marie Thorpe from Ireland, a highly respected breeder and international judge who has previously had the honour of judging at Crufts, and who is already confirmed to return again in 2028.

With more than four decades devoted to dogs, Marie’s journey is one of dedication, consistency, and global recognition. She began showing in 1981, started breeding in 1988, and qualified as a judge in 1989. Under her kennel prefix ASHAKA, she has bred Long & Smooth Chihuahuas, Maltese, Japanese Chin, and English Bulldogs, producing an impressive 120 champions worldwide. Today, she is qualified to judge Groups 2, 3, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, as well as Best in Show, and has judged in 34 countries, with more to come.

The Unique Atmosphere of Crufts

Few shows compare to Crufts, and for Marie, each appointment there has been unforgettable:

"I have to be very lucky to have judged at crufts in 2023/25 and i also look forward to judging there this year again & 2028 . It was a very special experience for me each time as there is always great excitement in anticipation around the rings , the large number of overseas exibitors / spectators add to this and create a special atmosphere that I haven't felt at any other show . As a judge it's fantastic to have the uk & overseas dogs competing together in the ring ."

The energy, the scale, the international presence, Crufts creates a feeling that is difficult to replicate anywhere else in the world.

Recognising Greatness in the Ring

At a show of this calibre, excellence must be immediate and undeniable. Marie describes that special moment when a truly outstanding dog enters the ring:

"I think from the moment the dog walks into the ring & grabs your eye straight away & sometimes might give you goosebumps you know you have something exceptional & are praying when you go over the dog on the table it meets all your expectations.
They need to be a great showman, healthy, as close to the breed standard as possible, groomed & presented correctly for the breed with good movement and happy in themselves."

It is that rare combination of presence, breed type, health, movement and attitude that creates a winner, not only on paper, but in the heart of the judge.

Regardless of breed, her priorities remain constant:

"Instant recognition of Breed Type
Movement
Showmanship"

A Memory That Stands Out

Across decades in the sport, certain dogs leave an indelible mark. When asked about a particularly special memory from her career, Marie shares:

"When i was showing " ASHAKA KINKY BOOTS "
When she won Best in show at a breed speciality show for the 3rd consecutive year. It was a great moment and inspired me to breed even better dogs"

It was a defining moment, one that not only celebrated success in the ring, but strengthened her ambition as a breeder.

A Changing Landscape

The world of dog shows has evolved significantly over the years:

"I think Social Media has changed the world of dogs forever.
Now Before i judge i get so many face book requests & i feel nowadays exhibitors try to influence judges decisions."

While social media has connected the global dog community like never before, it has also introduced new challenges. For judges, maintaining independence and focus is essential.

What to not overlook regarding the handlers attire

When it comes to presentation, Marie is clear that the dog must always remain the centre of attention:

"The dog & its handling is much more important than the handlers attire, I think the simpler the better that the outfits never attract's away from the dog. Of course it's always respectful to a judge to be clean & tidy while handling, sensible shoes are a must, no floating dress/skirts that may blow across the dog. Always a Colour to compliment the colour of the dog, never the same colour as the dog, especially with black / brown dogs ..."

Simplicity. Respect. Practicality and dressed with respect for the judge that you take the presentation of your dog seriously.

As Crufts approaches once more, excitement builds around the rings in Birmingham. For Marie Thorpe, returning to judge at Crufts is both a privilege and a continuation of a lifelong passion.

And somewhere among the many outstanding exhibits that will enter her ring this year, perhaps another unforgettable moment awaits.

 

This picture is from the last time Marie Thorpe judged Best In Show in December 2025.