Stauch cites benefits of Des Moines Kennel Club

8/6/2025

For 100 years, the Des Moines Kennel Club has hosted dog shows in the Des Mones metro. This year’s event features a celebrity dog, Bing, along with approximately 1,000 other dogs representing 150 breeds.

The DMKC show is open to the public and free to attend. The show takes place at the Iowa State Fairground’s Varied Industries Building Sept. 5-7. Attendees are encouraged to bring a canned food item for either pets or humans. 

American Kennel Club (AKC) judges will be on hand to judge dogs to see how closely they conform to their breed’s official standard. The judging is based on a point system for various breeds, factoring in traits, including the head, body and if they move properly. They also look at other factors, which determines if they get a conformation or an AKC championship. Winners of the breeds then go on to compete for the coveted Best of Breed competition.  

James Stauch has served as president of the DMKC for the past seven years. He became involved in the club after he joined the state boxer club and wanted to learn more about boxers and correct breeding. Staunch has owned purebred boxers for the past 35 years. Five of his last six boxers have been DMKC champions. 

“I love the breed. It’s striking and energetic,” he says.

Boxers come in two coat colors, a fawn and a brindle. They are mid-size, weighing about 75 pounds. Staunch likes that Kylo, his boxer, is energetic and a good family dog. 

“He’s been my jogging partner and kept me in shape throughout the years,” he says.

The AKC sets the standards as to how a boxer should look, which is difficult for the boxer breed. 

“Less than 10 percent of the boxers get a conformation title,” he says.

As club president, he assists with other dog-related events. DMKC has hosted yearly shows since 1925 with the exception of the Depression (1930 and 1931) and the COVID pandemic (2020).

In 1927, 80 dog breeds were represented with 266 entries. According to a flyer from 1954, judges attended a preshow banquet where puppies were given away as raffle prizes.

“Things are a different today,” he reflects.

During the show, a “Meet the Breed” exhibit showcases different breeds, so the public can become familiar with dog characteristics. More than 100 exhibitors are on hand. A special appearance by the celebrity great Dane, Bing, will greet visitors. Bing, along with the assistance of his handler, Bev Klingensmith of Newton, appeared in the movie “The Friend,” starring Naomi Watts and Bill Murray.

Stauch says the DMKC show is volunteer run and cites longevity of the club due to dedicated volunteers. 

“The leadership pool is so strong and committed that several members have gone on to serve national organizations of specific breed clubs and win at the Westminster Kennel Club,” he says. 

He adds, “Come out and see some dogs. It’s a great family event.” 

For more information or other events, visit www.desmoineskennelclub.com. ♦