Reia Leikola-Walden

Finland

My doggy life began in 1980, when I got a blue-roan Cocker female. I jumped into the show world and in 1982 I became interested in Great Danes. In 1986 I got two dogs of my life, a Great Dane Helisain Alma Ata and from Sweden a Pomeranian male Pomeroy Thumbs Up. They were both International Champions and big winners of their breeds during many years. I bred a couple of Cocker litters, Pomeranians and even one litter of Smooth Collie. First litter of Great Danes was born in 1987 but as there were some health problems in litters, I stopped breeding Danes in 1996. I have also had some American Cockers, a Pug and a Standard Poodle. Between 1990’s and 2000’s I concentrated to my two daughters and doggy life was on a small break. In 2008 – after many years – I bought a blue-roan Cocker female and in 2010 another one from Sweden. Her name is Manaca’s Sara Smile and she was Junior Cocker of the Year in 2012 and next year Cocker of the Year. At the moment I have two 10-year-old Cockers at home. I became show judge in 2003 and at the moment I judge all breeds in FCI groups 4,7 and 8, some breeds in groups 2, 6 and I am starting to learn breeds of group 10. Besides dog hobby I have a Finnhorse Castellon Verneri, I am boating and having leisure time at our cottage. I also like travelling and different cultures.