If you're here you must be interested in Shetland Sheepdogs or American Eskimo Dogs.

Istari came into being in the mid 1970's with Kathy's urge for "just one dog." We have been exhibiting Shelties for over 30 years and Eskies since their recognition by AKC in 1994. We show in both American Kennel Club (AKC) and United Kennel Club (UKC) shows. All championships on this website are AKC unless otherwise noted. UKC championships are listed as either U-CH or UKC CH. Canadian Championships as Can CH.

We are located in sunny Phoenix, Arizona - a desert city with temperatures ranging from lows of 40 degrees and highs of 70 during the winter months to lows of 90 degrees and highs above 110 in the summertime. Due to the summertime heat, we generally take a break from showing then to enjoy the swimming pool and events in the air conditioning.



AKC Ch. & U-Ch. Istari Deja Voodoo


Our goal is to produce a genetically and structurally sound dog with a temperament you can live with. After all, they are show dogs only 1% of the time and companions 99%. Both the Shelties and Eskies have had their eyes checked by a board certified opthalmologist and, once they reach 2 years of age, hips certified free of dysplasia by OFA. In addition, the Eskies are DNA tested by Optigen against Progressive Retinal Atrophy before they are bred.

Keith is a Vice President of the Desert Southwest Shetland Sheepdog Association and Assistant National Show Chairman for the American Shetland Sheepdog Association. Kathy is Recording Secretary for the American Shetland Sheepdog Association. So, you can say our "free time" has gone to the dogs.



U-Ch. Istari Blues Clues



Our daughter, Rebecca, grew up with the dogs and actively showed in both Junior Showmanship and in the conformation ring as a youngster. She was the winner of two Best Junior Handler awards at American Shetland Sheepdog Association national specialities as well as numerous awards at all breed shows. Now, as an adult, Rebecca has joined us in our quest for the perfect Shelties and Eskies. We coown several dogs with her and she has become adept at grooming and handling both breeds. Rebecca showed Ch Istari Deja Voodoo at the 2006 AKC/Eukanuba National Championship.



AKC Ch./BIMBS U-Ch. Sunnyvale Christmas Cowboy shown by Rebecca



We are often asked how we came up with the kennel name "Istari." The word "Istari" means "wise ones" in The Lord Of The Rings and was used to decribe the wizards (Maiar), such as Gandalf, who came to Middle-earth in the Third Age.





© 2008