Lithuanian Dogs Triumph at International Dog Shows Around the World
Latvia, Estonia, Germany, the United Kingdom, Italy, Ukraine, Malaysia, the Philippines, and many more countries—these are just some of the places where Tauro Kennel has proudly represented Lithuania, earning the highest awards with its Maltese, Bichon Frisés, and Pomeranians.
Throughout the year, Tauro Kennel successfully competed at numerous international dog shows, European Dog Shows, and World Dog Shows, bringing home some of the most prestigious titles in the canine world.
One of the year’s greatest achievements came at the World Dog Show, where 10 of the kennel’s 14 entered dogs earned championship titles or major awards.
Another outstanding success was achieved at one of the United Kingdom’s most prestigious dog shows, where five of seven entered dogs finished among the winners, with two becoming champions.
Among the highlights, Tauro Milano was awarded Best Junior and Best Opposite Sex, a result that brought great pride both to Tauro Kennel and to Lithuania.
“People often see the final victory in the ring, but they don’t see the years of work behind it. Preparing dogs for international competition requires not only physical conditioning but also tremendous mental focus—from both the dog and the handler.”
— Janita Januškauskaitė-Plungė
Competing internationally is physically and emotionally demanding. During major events, exhibitors often participate in multiple shows over just a few days while presenting different breeds.
One of the most memorable experiences of the year was competing in the Philippines, where the Tauro Kennel team completed a true marathon—12 international dog shows in just four days.
Each day began at 8:00 in the morning and often continued until midnight, requiring careful planning, endurance, and teamwork.
“Becoming the very best is never the work of a single show or even a single year. In my experience, it is often the result of decades of careful breeding, selection, and dedication. When you win a World Winner or European Winner title and walk into the main ring representing Lithuania, the feeling is impossible to describe. I always cry. They are tears of joy, pride, and gratitude.”
— Janita Januškauskaitė-Plungė
International competitions also bring unexpected challenges. Every country has its own regulations, paperwork, and exhibition procedures.
In some countries, exhibitors must carefully verify that every championship diploma is completed correctly. In others, especially outside Europe, completely different rules require careful preparation long before arrival.
One unforgettable experience occurred while traveling to the Philippines.
The team had purchased airline tickets for both themselves and their dogs, reserved cabin spaces, and prepared every required document. However, during a connection in Germany, they discovered that the airline operating the next flight to Singapore did not transport dogs at all.
Despite having confirmed reservations and valid documentation, they were forced to return to Lithuania and completely reorganize the journey through different countries using airlines that accepted animals.
“It was incredibly stressful. We had done everything correctly, but airline policies are different everywhere. International showing isn’t only about presenting dogs—it also means solving unexpected problems under pressure.”
Today, Tauro Kennel continues to represent Lithuania at the world’s most prestigious dog shows, demonstrating that a small country can successfully compete with the largest and most established kennels across the globe.
