Xavier began working with dogs as a second-generation owner/handler of Alaskan Malamutes and the working breeds. Since then, he has expanded his knowledge and expertise with handling and grooming to the other groups, including the sporting, non-sporting, herding and hounds. With years of experience in canine competition and an average attendance of 75 shows per year, Xavier has won first place ribbons, Best of Winners, Best of Opposites and Best of Breeds at major competitions around the country. Trained by some of the top breeder/owner/handlers and groomers in the dog-show industry, including Carlene Way, Nancy Zinkham, Linda Whitney, Maura Ptacek and Mary Curtis, Xavier has a well-developed knowledge for dog-grooming and breed standards. He has taken over the family tradition from his mentor and father, champion Malamute handler Ladislao Santiago.
With a superb eye for what a coat should look like for each group of dogs as well as an incredible breadth of knowledge of the techniques necessary to achieve such grooms, Xavier has created a line of specific breed-grooming videos to help the first-time owner/handler. His work and research for these videos have imparted Xavier with a unique perspective and a specialized eye for grooming.
Recently, Xavier served as a judge at Groom Expo West in Burbank, California. With this experience, Xavier has intensified his drive for perfection, and as a Groomer Has It judge, he expects every hair to be not only perfectly in place but that the experience for the dog should be a rewarding one in the end. Nothing angers him more than untapped potential, and Xavier's unwavering standards come across in his harsh yet constructive criticism of the show's groomers.
Xavier is a graduate from Bowdoin College with a Bachelor of Arts degree in English and theatre. When not showing his dogs, Xavier enjoys training in Jujutsu and Judo and spending time with his wife and friends back home in New York City.
Recent Comments