Suzanne Bauman and her long-coated Chihuahua “Bear” will compete at the AKC RACH Invitational on December 11 and 12 at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, FL, as part of the AKC National Championship Week.
Bear and Bauman aren’t just representing the Chihuahua breed at the RACH Invitational – Bear is also one of the oldest dogs competing. The team is entering the course seeking redemption this year, so they’ve made the stakes high for themselves. All in all, Bauman sees dog sports as an opportunity to bond with her dog doing something that brings him joy.
Using Last Year as a Learning Opportunity
When AKC debuted the RACH Invitational last year, Bear was also the only Chihuahua to compete. Being the sole representative meant that Bauman felt a lot of pressure. Even with a decade of experience under her belt, she says she wasn’t prepared for the challenges that come with this event, including being unable to walk the course beforehand.
“That was a new experience for us, and my nerves got the best of me,” she says. “I’m coming back this year feeling confident and being able to run these courses without walking them.”
With the first year behind them, Bauman adapted her training methods with the help of her AKC Rally teacher, Sam Scicchigno. She considers Scicchigno an inspiration, and someone who can keep her “on track.” To help prepare for the upcoming competition, Bauman has been entering the training ring without prior knowledge of the setup in an effort to mimic what she can expect on competition day.
“That’s sort of the preparation we’ve done to make sure that I’m able to think on my feet,” she says. “I want to make sure that I’m giving Bear all the information he needs to perform the exercise correctly.”
Chi Power in the Ring
Bauman and Bear have been competing in AKC Rally competitions for about 10 years now. With Bear inching toward 16 years old, he’s one of the oldest dogs competing. This honor isn’t new for Bauman. She also owns Bear’s littermate, “Teddy,” who was the oldest competitor at the 2025 AKC National Agility Championship. Instead, she sees it as an opportunity to spotlight the breed.
“I feel so proud to represent the breed,” she says. “I love being able to show people that they can do every sport that is out there, whether it’s agility, Rally, obedience, Fast CAT, or any of these sports that AKC offers.”
Small dogs generally have shorter legs. But while some perceive as a disadvantage in the ring, Bear’s skill proves it’s not a deterrent.
Proving Age Is Just a Number
As he’s gotten older, Bauman has shifted her training method to make sure Bear stays healthy and strong for everyday activities and competitions.
“We make sure we do our hill workouts every day,” she explains. “[My priority is] making sure to keep him in top physical shape.” Their routine also includes physical therapy and chiropractic care, which Bauman says help to keep his body healthy and strong.
“It’s all about communication, and being a team with your dog. He can’t do it without me, and I can’t do it without him,” says Bauman. “Form that bond with your dog, and you’ll be a success.”
Remembering They’re a Team
While Bauman experiences pre-competition jitters, the quick-footed Bear is her happy, confident dog, patiently awaiting her commands. For him, it’s an opportunity to do something he’s passionate about. “He just exudes joy when he walks into the ring,” she says.
It’s when Bauman feels the pressure, that she finds she needs to recenter her focus. “He doesn’t have any problems. It’s me. I need to make sure my game is on point,” she says. “We need to make sure that I’m doing exactly what I need to do to give him the information he needs.
When she feels especially stressed, she relies on Bear to keep them both grounded. “We just have a little conversation before we walk in the ring that we’re the best team walking in, and we’re going to be the best team walking out too,” she says.
The AKC National Championship, presented by Royal Canin, has crowned its 2025 Best in Show! Learn more about conformation and follow your favorite breeds at dog shows throughout the year.