Declan was imported to the USA from Iceland at 9 months of age in May 2013. Shown on a very limited basis of only 10 times total during the Summer; he was awarded Major Reserve at his very first show and accumulated 2-2 point wins (one a broken major), 3 Best Puppy, Puppy Group 1 over 10 other hounds the first and only day competing in group~all at that first circuit.

By the end of August, Declan had 8 American Kennel Club points in addition to an Owner Handled Best of Breed and Owner Handled Group 2 ranking him at the #14 Owner Handled Afghan Hound in the USA (both the youngest and highest ranked class dog) for 2013. In order to place in Owner Handled competition; one must first be in the Best of Breed ring. Owner Handled competitions are also open to agents and judges according the rules.

Focusing on the mature dog; the decision was made to pull Declan for 9 months to do some growing up at home. In May 2014, Declan entered the show ring once again singling out at Tallmadge, OH. It was his first weekend being shown indoors and that performance can be seen directly above.

Throughout, Declan has been trained, conditioned, groomed, and EXCLUSIVELY Owner Handled by Kaitlin Jeanette Smith (NO "Best Friends", NOT a Professional here and there, NO Breeder Interventions). Kaitlin began handling standard poodles at 9 years of age, fell in love with the afghan hound breed, and continues to pursue her passion. For updates; visit Declan online at Angelsun Afghan Hounds.