Valerie Nunes-Atkinson

Valerie Nunes-Atkinson has devoted her life to her passion for dogs and horses. Growing up surrounded by German Shorthaired Pointers and cutting horses bred by her father; Valerie’s affinity for animals was evident from an early age.

After earning a degree in Journalism from SDSU, she transformed her love for dogs into a successful career as a Breeder of German Shorthaired Pointers, Whippets, and as an All Breed Professional Handler. With meticulous care, conditioning, and training, Valerie has led numerous dogs to top honors, including numerous #1 Dogs in their breeds, #1 Dogs in their respected Groups, many National Specialty wins, 150+ Best In Shows, and multiple wins at the prestigious Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show. This includes three times winning the Sporting Group at WKC with CJ, Carlee, and Jade while also winning the Hound Group with Lucy. She was an owner on Carlee, Best In Show at WKC in 2005, and was Breeder/Owner/Handler on her beloved CJ, 2016 Best In Show winner at WKC. She was voted by her peers as Handler of the Year in 2013 and Breeder of the Year by both AKC & Santa Barbara KC for her accomplishments in breeding GSP’s under the prefix; VJK-MYST, along with Co-Breeder;

Yvonne Hassler-Deterding. 

In addition to her remarkable achievements in the ring, Valerie is revered for her unwavering commitment to the welfare and advocacy of purebred dogs. She is an AKC-approved Juniors judge and has officiated at both Eukanuba and Westminster KC judging Best Jr. Handler. As a respected mentor and educator, she tirelessly imparts her knowledge and expertise to aspiring Handlers, Owner Handlers, Junior Handlers & Breeders with her Handling Seminars all across the USA and Internationally, shaping the future of the sport with her invaluable contributions. Most recently in 2024, we will see her “on the air” as the new Fox Sports Broadcaster analyzing the Groups & Best In Show at Westminster Kennel Club. 

Her passion for teaching and education inspired her to create this video series. She aims to reach a broad audience both in the United States and internationally by providing captions in multiple languages.