Dr. Jerry Klein

DR. JERRY KLEIN of Chicago, Illinois, passion for dogs started at a young age, it’s not surprising that he has found ways to dedicate himself to the betterment of dogs through his work and in his free time. As Chief Veterinary Officer of the American Kennel Club, Dr. Klein serves as an official spokesperson and policy leader for the American Kennel Club and purebred dogs.

For more than 35 years, Dr. Klein practiced emergency veterinary medicine at Chicago’s oldest and largest veterinary emergency center, retiring as Department Head Emeritus of MedVet Chicago. During that time, he was selected as America’s Favorite Veterinarian. Today, Dr. Klein continues to provide primary care for cats and dogs in the Chicago area. He is active in several professional organizations, including serving on the Scientific Advisory Committee for the American Kennel Club Canine Health Foundation.

Dr. Klein is a renowned breeder of champion Afghan Hounds and has owned several other breeds, including champions in Wire Fox Terriers, Miniature Schnauzers, a Standard Poodle, and Whippet.  Breeding under the kennel name Sebring, his dogs have won top prizes at major shows throughout the U.S. 

He has been a dog show judge for more than 30 years and has judged on both the national and international levels, including The AKC National Championship and the Westminster Kennel Club. This will be his third Westminster assignment.