Page 29 - Chow LIfe - 2019 Summer

Remembering . . . . Judy Webb, Masterpiece Chows

Judy Webb fell in love with chows as a small child when new neighbors introduced her to their “bears.”
She began showing basenjis in the early 1960’s and in 1963 she acquired her first chows. She was
mentored in the breed by Betty Mae Sewards of Ky-Lin Chows. She established the kennel name
Masterpiece, taking it from the breed standard at the time, “The Chow is a masterpiece of beauty, dignity,
and untouched naturalness.” This was also quite fitting since she was a very talented artist. She loved
introducing new chowists to the breed and the world of dog shows. Although, a thick skin was required
to be mentored by her. She wasn’t known for being subtle, feeling the truth now would stave off deeper
hurt later. In the 1980’s she acquired her first smooth chow and became driven to seeing this portion
of the breed not be overlooked. She was a very active member of The Society For The Preservation Of
The Smooth Chow. When the smooth chow was written back into the revised standard of 1986 the
cork was popped on the champagne and the celebration at Masterpiece was like the 4th of July. She
enjoyed some successful breedings in the late 80’s and early 90’s. She was breeder of the dam of the
1987 CCCI National winner, and breeder of 1995’s National WD/BOW. During those years most weekends
would find her in the show ring. The love of her life was born in August of 1995, Am Can Ch Chinarose
A Ladies Man (Derek). His breeders and co-owners, Steve and Sandra Miller let Derek go live with Judy
and a love that would eventually make history blossomed. Judy and Derek were a great team. They
both loved showing. She went to the 1998 National in Portland, OR with the hopes of an Award of Merit,
and left with a Best Of Breed trophy instead. Her hard work on behalf of the smooth chow paying off
with the first smooth National winner. She eventually passed the show ring torch to her daughter and
grandson, but she still remained a puppy breath addict. Her legacy will live on for generations of chows
still to come. Those who knew her well will remember her jokes with fond smiles and memories of her
generosity will warm their hearts.