Canada’s Top Dog 2023
Breeder/Owner Lindy Barrow Co-Owner Celso Mallo
In May of 2019, Skyehigh Kennel whelped a litter of six. From an early age it became evident that this was going to be an exciting litter. Five of the puppies went to show homes. The dam of the litter was a beautiful bitch, Skyehigh’s High Class and sire was a dog that was here from New Zealand, he being Whitebriar Just Google it. All of the puppies were given names relating to computers. I kept a male (Atari) and a bitc
Atari was shown as a puppy by my associate, Celso Mollo and also by myself. From his first show, we knew we had something special. He was a Westie of correct conformation and he had that special attitude to be a great show dog. Due to Covid, we were unable to show him much as a puppy.
From 2021, Atari was exhibited by professional handler David Gignac and they were an incredible team. In 2022, Atari was Canada’s #2 dog of all breeds with an impressive 68 Best in Shows and 36 RBIS. 2023 saw Atari take #1 All Breed position, and he was able to hold that position for the entire year. He added another 37 BIS and 35 RBIS. Over the 3 years, David piloted Atari to a total of 112 BIS and 74 RBS. Late in 2023, I showed Atari one weekend and added another RBIS and then on the last show day of the year, at the Elora Gorge Kennel club show Celso Mollo, Atari’s co-ower, and Atari were awarded BIS # 113.
Atari loves the sport of showing. He has never let us down and always gives his best. There were too many great wins to say there was a favorite, as every win was special.
At the shows, people saw a very strong, animated Westie. At home he is a soft snuggler who loves to sit on chairs where he can see out a window. And he loves a belly rub. I do believe he misses the shows, and he will be returning to the ring later this year before retiring. As his breeder, this little white dog has made me incredibly proud.
