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During show days, Clapton demonstrates his prowess in pointing.

The Standard Poodle champion is an experienced competitor, displaying when to move and when to stand still like a magnificent statue.

Outside of the ring, Clapton focuses on hunting birds in field competitions, where his skills have propelled him to the top level.

Clapton recently achieved the distinction of being the first and only conformation Grand Champion Poodle with a Master Hunter title.

“He has exceeded the goals we set for him,” said Angie Louter of Georgia, his owner and breeder. “He truly embodies the essence of a Standard Poodle.”

Handled by Jody Garcini, six-year-old Clapton completed his Grand Championship on Nov. 12, 2021, by earning Select Dog at the Poodle Club of Alabama specialty. He then qualified at a Masters Upland Game hunt test the following day.

Clapton holds a Master Hunter Upland Advanced title and is currently pursuing a Master Retriever title after attaining Senior Hunter.

“We began training Clapton at just 8 weeks old with puppy activities to instill drive and enthusiasm. We continue training them until they are handed off to their show handler to complete their championship,” Louter stated. “Upon their return, we resume field training daily, and they all excel.”

Louter and her husband, Rich, have been breeding Standard Poodles for 15 years, prioritizing both beauty and intelligence. They initially chose the breed for their family pet due to their daughter’s allergies.

“My husband had previously trained gundogs, and after researching Poodles’ history as original hunting dogs, he started engaging our puppy in retrieving bumpers and even brought back birds from a duck hunt. The puppy showed great interest, and the rest is history,” she explained.

Louter Creek Poodles excel in conformation, field trials, and other sports.

“Having proper structure is crucial, and participating in conformation shows validates our breeding program. All our dogs enjoy field work. As puppies, they learn confidence and develop strong muscle tone,” Louter added.

Poodles are renowned for their extensive grooming requirements to maintain their show coat, but the Louters have established a routine that allows their dogs to excel in all activities.

“During the hotter months, we train them in a shorter sporting trim. We let their hair grow longer around our national specialty to be styled in the Modified Continental Clip,” she elaborated. “This clip enables them to seamlessly transition from the show ring to the field.”

Clapton, who completed his championship at just 7 months old, claimed first place in the conformation Hunting Dog class at the 2021 and 2022 Poodle Club of America National Specialties.

The Louters ventured into hunt tests over a decade ago, where their Poodles garnered significant attention and even skepticism about their ability to compete.

“Initially, there were many curious looks and doubts regarding the ‘breed’ and their suitability for hunt tests,” she remarked. “Through years of educating and mentoring hunt test judges and the public, as well as presenting numerous Poodles on the field, we have laid the groundwork for future generations of Poodles in field events. Each year, we witness more Poodles participating.”

Clapton, formally known as GCH CH LouterCreek Wonderful Tonight SH MHU MHUA18 DN CA BCAT FDC WCX UWC, doesn’t only showcase his hunting skills at competitions.

“His favorite activity is going on wild bird hunts,” Louter shared. “Rich takes him along on hunting trips each year to South Dakota, Wisconsin, Arkansas, and various other locations.”

Despite their love for field work, Louter stated that they have never been tempted to add retrievers or spaniels to their kennel.

“Poodles are intelligent, loyal, and possess an excellent nose for locating and flushing birds,” she emphasized. “They bring immense joy into our lives… to the extent that we have mentored numerous individuals who own our puppies in various AKC activities, from hunt tests to conformation shows to other companion and performance events.”