The Bulldog Club of America Judge Education Committee is pleased to introduce a voluntary Approved Mentor Program designed to support the education of current and prospective judges through meaningful, hands-on mentorship.

This program is intended to recognize and connect individuals who are willing to actively engage in judge mentoring and to provide guidance rooted in the Bulldog standard, experience, and thoughtful discussion.

As part of this effort, the Club is placing increased emphasis on the quality and integrity of mentorship. Mentorship should reflect a genuine exchange of knowledge and must go beyond the completion of required forms. Approval of mentoring should only be given when a substantive educational interaction has taken place and the mentee has had a meaningful opportunity to learn and engage.

Approved Mentors are expected to take an active role in the learning process by encouraging discussion, evaluation, and a deeper understanding of the breed.

Mentorship may take a variety of forms, including:

• Ringside mentoring at dog shows
• Kennel visits (at shows or in-home settings)
• In-ring tutoring opportunities, where appropriate
• Online or remote mentoring discussions
• Long-term mentoring relationships involving continued guidance and documented interaction

Mentors should be willing to tailor their approach to the needs of the mentee while ensuring that each interaction reflects a thoughtful and educational experience.

In addition, Approved Mentors are asked to:

• Be reasonably available for ringside mentoring opportunities
• Support educational efforts at Bulldog Club of America National events and Judges Institutes, including ringside and workshop participation when possible
• Promote a consistent and accurate understanding of the Bulldog standard

Participation in this program is entirely voluntary. Those who choose to be included on the Approved Mentor List are agreeing to be available for mentorship and to uphold these expectations in support of judge education within the breed.

We recognize and appreciate the depth of experience within our community. This program is intended to support those who are willing to contribute to the ongoing development of current and future judges in a more intentional and engaged way, including participation in mentoring existing as well as the next generation of judges.

If you would like to be included on the Approved Mentor List, please review the Approved Mentor Program outline and confirm your interest by submitting this form.

Thank you for your continued support of the breed and for your consideration in serving as a mentor.

Sincerely, Bulldog Judges Education Committee

• You must meet the American Kennel Club’s 12-5-4 guideline, defined as:

• A minimum of 12 years’ experience in the breed
• Breeding at least 5 litters
• Producing at least 4 champions

• Meet or exceed the AKC Judge's 12-5-4 guideline:

• Minimum of 12 years’ experience in the breed
• Breeding at least 5 litters
• Producing at least 4 champions

• Demonstrate comparable depth of experience and involvement in Bulldogs through breeding, exhibiting, and long-term dedication to the breed