We are delighted to announce the return of the Carrie Mehdi Foundation (CMF) as a photo contest sponsor, and that this year, they are generously offering a second challenge in Carrie Mehdi’s name open to all breeds (note: There is a Dachshund-only photo challenge, too!)
Carrie was a vital part of the Dachshund and AKC All breed community for over 30 years. She was President of the Dachshund Club of California, Show Chair and longtime member of the Dachshund Club of America, the wins she earned with her Dachshund, “Phineas” included an Award of Merit at Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show in New York, and BOS Best of Variety award at Knickerbocker Dachshund Club in New York. Carrie was a member of Beverly Hills Kennel Club. Carrie’s sudden and unexpected death silenced an irreplaceable force of nature. To honor her memory, the Carrie Mehdi Foundation (CMF) was formed in 2012 by her family and friends to support the charitable and philanthropic causes that were dear to her.
Carrie Mehdi with her beloved Phineas- Ch Hildisvin Eclipse
The challenge: Our dogs are equally comfortable digging in the mud of an earthdog trial, running in a field trial or on the beach, working on the farm, or hobnobbing with landed gentry over tea and crumpets in town. Your challenge is to show our judges your hatted dog. Their hat should set the tone of your photo entry – and yes, the NPDD sign must be part of the composition. Be creative! Judges are eager to be impressed by innovative ideas and will be looking for the entry that boldly pushes beyond conventional boundaries, and shows the theme presented in a fresh and unique way.
The prize: $150 gift certificate to Barking Baby where all manner of canine hats, cool coats and other items are found. Please note: The prize must be redeemed within 120 days of the award announcement.
Sponsor: Carrie Mehdi Foundation (find them also on Facebook)
The Dreaded Small Print You Must Read To Enter
•••• This contest happens on May 1 on our Facebook page. It is limited to US residents only;
•••• One entry per person; You may enter four different photo challenges,
•••• When submitting your photo entry on Facebook, you must indicate the name of this contest, The CMF “About Town & Country” All Breed Hat Photo Challenge
•••• Your entry must be for the 2025 contest;
•••• Within the photo, your image must include a purebred dog and one of the following either downloaded from the link or handmade:
The “Happy National Purebred D♥g Day” sign
The “I L♥ve My Purebred Dog” sign
Any official National Purebred Dog Day item available here.
•••• No photoshopping, and no photoshopping the required sign over your photo entry. Be creative with how you use it, but our judges, David Frei, co-host of NBC’s National Dog Show, and veteran Westminster Kennel Club photographer, Jack Grassa, must see what you actually shot with your camera;
•••• Many people may help you take your photo, but the prize goes to the person submitting the winning photograph;
•••• Entering this contest implies consent that your photo may be shared on NPDD’s social media platforms and by the Carrie Mehdi Foundation;
•••• A full explanation of how, when, and where to submit your entry can be read here;
•••• Important! You and your dog should have safe fun when composing your entry!
•••• Judges’ decisions are final
Top photo of Addison, a Golden Retriever, at the Carrie Foundation Haute Dog Picnic. Photo by Stephen Simpson Photography
PhotoContest2025