Owner Suzanne Schmidt, Co-Owner/Breeder/Handler Sharon Crawford and Co-owner/Handler Susan Parsons and Phoenix will be competing in Conformation at the AKC/Eukanuba National Championships scheduled for this weekend, Dec. 4-5, in Long Beach, Calif.

As a way of acknowledging Alaskans' incredible achievements, this week the Dog Blog is introducing some of the Alaska competitors in a Q&A format.

Here's more on Phoenix, a very special dog.

Dog Blog note: Suzanne was en route to the show and unable to provide a photo. Hope to add one later of this gorgeous sheltie.

Dog's Registered Name: BIS Multiple BISS GCH CH sunburst Faith Unconditional

Call name: Phoenix

Breed: Shetland Sheepdog

Dog's Age: 3 Years

Hometown: Fairbanks

Handler/owner: Owner - Suzanne Schmidt Co-Owner/Breeder/Handler Sharon Crawford Co-owner/Handler Susan Parsons

Event you'll be competing in at the AKC/Eukanuba Nationals: Conformation

How long have you been showing/competing with dogs? Suzanne Schmidt 12 yrs, Sharon Crawford 30+ yrs, Susan Parsons 25+ yrs

Always same breed? Shelties, Collies & Flat Coat Retrievers

Best features/attributes: Meet Breed Standards, clear of Genetic Diseases and Solid Temperament

First time to Eukanuba Nationals? Yes

Goals for the show? Have Fun

Anything else people should know about you and your dog? He is a Wonderful All Around Show Dog, Sire and Loving Companion with a Solid Temperament.