One of the most decorated dogs in America lives here in Davis.

Magnum, a 6-year-old Canaan dog, already has many show achievements under his belt. His latest, and most prestigious award, was given at the June 5 Flatirons Kennel Club Show, where he was named America’s No. 1 Canaan Dog of 2011.

After winning best of breed, Magnum, who is co-owned by veterinarian Richard Vulliet of Davis and Pamela Rosman of Davis and New York, went on to win best of his group, herding dogs, where he competed against breeds such as the German shepherd and the border collie.

Finally, he competed against the seven other group winners for the best in show title.

“He exhibited magically. I felt he had the showmanship, the movement, the conformation, and I said, ‘He’s going to win,’ ” Rosman said. “When that judge pointed to Magnum, the one dog, it was absolute nirvana.”

For Rosman, the achievement was a gift — literally. June 5 also was her birthday.

“It was such a good birthday present,” Rosman said. “Richard and I were so thrilled.”

Just two days earlier, on June 3, Magnum had won the best of breed competition at the Canaan Dog Club of America National Specialty in Colorado.

“He is the only multiple award-winning Canaan dog,” Rosman said.

Magnum has won awards since puppyhood.

In 2005, Magnum completed his American Kennel Club conformation championship from the puppy class and was ranked No. 3 in the nation. In 2006, Magnum was ranked No. 1, with multiple group placement awards.

He returned to the show circuit in late 2009, regaining his top-ranked status within three months with multiple group placements on the West Coast. He also won Best of Breed awards at the 2009 AKC/Eukanuba show and the 2010 Westminster show. In 2010, he was ranked No. 1 in his breed.

When Magnum is not performing in shows, he lives in Stonegate.

“He knows every tree and every crack in the sidewalk,” Rosman said.

Magnum also serves as a canine ambassador for San Francisco philanthropic circles, such as American Friends of Hebrew University’s Tails of Love gala at the Ritz Carlton and the San Francisco Society of the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals’ annual fundraiser.

Magnum also enjoys several pastimes that are not necessarily canine, such as sailing. He is first mate aboard S/V-Paradesia, demonstrating boating safety to children by always wearing his life jacket while sailing.

Magnum is also a UC Davis tour guide who greets visiting academics and dignitaries. He joins Vulliet, who teaches at UCD, in the classroom by listening to Vulliet’s veterinary lectures.

It’s safe to say that Magnum lives the good life. Vulliet says Magnum has difficulty drinking Perrier because the bubbles tickle his sensitive nose, but the dog does wear sunglasses and enjoys rides in a Jaguar convertible.

— Reach Chloe Kim at [email protected]

Magnum1W

From left are AKC judge Monica Canestrini; AKC handler Bruce Schultz; Magnum’s owners, Pamela Rosman and Richard Vulliet, DVM; and club president Amanda Pough. Courtesy photo

Magnum2W

From left are AKC judge Carl Liepmann; AKC handler Colton Johnson; and Magnum’s owners, Pamela Rosman and Richard Vulliet, DVM. Courtesy photo

Comments

comments