Hi John, What does the PC or AKC say about a judge actually taking the lead away from the handler? Isn't the handler supposed to have control over his dog at ALL TIMES, and if a judge physically removes the leash from the handler's possession, then he/she has at that point lost control of said dog? I can't imagine why anyone would want to do it, or want to see a dog that would allow it? Inquiring minds... Take care Kathy