Lithuanian Triumph at the European Dog Show: Three European Champion Titles for Tauro Kennel Bichons
Tauro Kennel proudly represented Lithuania at the prestigious European Dog Show held in Poland, achieving outstanding international success. Competing against more than 30,000 dogs from across Europe, the kennel presented 15 Maltese and Bichon Frise dogs and returned home with an impressive six major titles—including three European Champion titles and three European Vice-Champion titles.
Among the Maltese, Tauro Thender won first place in the Champion Class, was named Best Male, and earned the title of European Champion. Tauro Morella claimed first place in the Champion Class for females and also became a European Champion. Tauro Salabria, Tauro Prabanga, and Grisia White Magic Jackpot each won first place in their respective classes, while Tauro Barsoti placed second in the Junior Class.
The kennel’s Bichon Frise team was equally successful. Tauro Milano won the Open Class and was crowned European Champion, while Tauro Misoko took first place in the Champion Class. Tauro Kennel also achieved first place in both the Maltese Breeders’ Competition and the Bichon Frise Breeders’ Competition, demonstrating the consistent quality of its breeding program.
According to Tauro Kennel founder Janita Januškauskaitė-Plungė, who has more than two decades of experience in canine breeding, success in the show ring is the result of years of careful planning and dedication.
“People who have never participated in dog shows often believe that all you need is a beautiful purebred dog to win. In reality, every title is earned through years of careful breeding, preparation, training, and teamwork.”
She emphasizes that the journey to becoming a champion begins long before entering the show ring. Selecting the right puppy from carefully planned bloodlines is only the first step. Early socialization, professional handling, regular training, and building confidence from a young age all play an essential role in preparing a future champion. Puppies are introduced to the show environment from as early as four to six months of age, allowing them to become comfortable with crowds, unfamiliar dogs, new scents, and the unique atmosphere of dog shows.
Nutrition is another key element of success. Tauro Kennel carefully tailors each dog’s diet according to its breed, coat color, size, and individual needs. For white-coated breeds such as the Maltese and Bichon Frise, maintaining a brilliant white coat is especially important. Tear staining is a common concern for many owners, but Janita explains that proper nutrition and specialized diets can significantly reduce or even eliminate the problem, helping dogs maintain the flawless appearance expected in the show ring.
For Tauro Kennel, participating in international exhibitions is about much more than winning trophies. Every success represents Lithuania on the international stage while contributing to the preservation and improvement of the breed through responsible breeding, education, and the exchange of knowledge with breeders around the world.
Earlier that same year, Tauro Kennel also celebrated remarkable achievements at the World Dog Show in Amsterdam. Tauro Misoko was awarded the World Winner title in the Open Class, Tauro Sakko became World Vice-Champion, Tauro Burė earned the title of World Junior Champion, and Tauro Thender was named World Vice-Champion, further strengthening Tauro Kennel’s reputation as one of Europe’s leading breeders of Maltese and Bichon Frise dogs.
