Quck answer
Dog shows are events where purebred dogs are judged based on breed standards. The dogs are separated into classes, such as puppies or adults, and are evaluated on their appearance, movement, and temperament. The judges compare each dog to the breed standard and select a winner for each class. The winners then compete against each other for Best of Breed, and those winners compete for Best in Group. Finally, the winners of each group compete for Best in Show. Dog shows provide a way for breeders to showcase their breeding stock and for dog enthusiasts to appreciate and learn about different breeds.
Animal Facts
Different Types of Dog Shows
A terrier participating in an agility show
Stephen Chernin/Getty Images
When people talk about dog shows, they usually think of conformation shows such as Westminster. But, there are various other types of dog shows that don’t get as much media attention. The two most popular types are agility trials and obedience trials.
In agility trials, dogs have to complete various tasks such as jumping over poles, running through tunnels, and weaving through posts. The judges decide the order of the tasks, and the handlers lead the dogs through the course without a leash. The judges time how long it takes the dogs to complete the trial and deduct points for any errors. Dogs compete in agility trials to progress and earn different titles. Like conformation shows, these trials can be specialty, group, or all-breed trials [source: AKC].
In obedience trials, dogs have to follow commands from their handlers and perform exercises. The AKC regulates these exercises, and judges award points according to those regulations. The difficulty of the tasks depends on the level of the dog’s competition. For instance, the dog must walk beside its handler at the same speed and stand and sit for extended periods. The dogs can also perform advanced exercises such as jumps and retrieving items. Obedience competitions include all-breed obedience trials and specialty trials, and dogs can aspire to various championship titles, the highest being the National Obedience Champion [source: AKC].
The AKC also regulates other types of dog competitions, such as field tests, lure coursing, hunting tests, and herding tests.
After learning about dog shows, you can impress your friends during the next Westminster show with your knowledge. You can comment on the excellent specimen of the clumber spaniel and the graceful gait of the Finnish spitz. To learn more about dogs, including those dog heroes charged with search-and-rescue, guiding, and policing duties, check out the links below.
World Dog Shows
The AKC also organizes the AKC/Eukanuba National Championship, an annual show where international dogs compete. The show is televised by Animal Planet. In addition to Best in Show, the AKC gives out awards to people, including the Breeder of the Year Award and the Lifetime Achievement Award. Also, five dogs can get Awards for Canine Excellence (ACE) in the categories of:
- Law Enforcement
- Search and Rescue
- Therapy
- Service
- Exemplary Companion Dog
[source: AKC]
Read More
Frequently Asked Questions about Dog Shows
Do dog shows involve cruelty?
The primary concern with dog shows is the emphasis on breeding purebred dogs and their physical attributes, which raises ethical issues.
What is the reward for winning the Westminster Dog Show?
The winner of the Westminster Dog Show is bestowed with the Best in Show title, but there is no monetary reward.
Who was the victor of the Westminster Dog Show in 2020?
Siba, a standard poodle, was the winner of the Westminster Dog Show in 2020.
Who won the Westminster Dog Show in 2019?
King, a wire fox terrier, was the winner of the Westminster Dog Show in 2019.
Who won the AKC Dog Show in 2020?
A berger picard emerged as the victor of the AKC Dog Show in 2020.
Originally Published: Mar 25, 2008
Related HowStuffWorks Articles
- How Dogs Work
- How Search-and-rescue Dogs Work
- How Guide Dogs Work
- How Police Dogs Work
- How to Train a Dog
- How to Choose a Dog
- How Dog Training Works
- How to Care for a Dog
- Is dog really man’s best friend?
- Is chocolate poisonous to dogs?
ВMore Great Links
- American Kennel Club
- Westminster Kennel Club
- Crufts
Sources
The following is a list of resources related to dog shows, agility, obedience, and breeds. Included are links to beginner’s guides and information about specific events. There are also books available on specific breeds and natural health for dogs and cats. Some of the sources discuss controversies surrounding dog shows, such as tail-docking and eugenics.
FAQ
1. What are dog shows?
Dog shows are events where purebred dogs are judged on their appearance, movement, and temperament. These events are held all over the world and are a way for breeders to showcase their dogs and for potential owners to meet and learn more about different breeds.
2. How are dogs judged in a dog show?
Dogs are judged based on their breed standards, which outline the ideal appearance and temperament for each breed. Judges compare each dog to the breed standard and evaluate their conformation, movement, coat, and overall appearance. Temperament is also important, as dogs must be well-behaved and friendly with both judges and other dogs.
3. How are dog shows organized?
Dog shows are organized by kennel clubs, which are responsible for setting the rules and standards for each show. These clubs also register dogs and maintain breed standards. Shows are typically held over several days and feature different events for each breed and age group. The most prestigious shows, such as the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show, are invitation-only and only feature top-ranked dogs.
4. Who can participate in a dog show?
Only purebred dogs that are registered with a kennel club and meet the breed standards can participate in dog shows. Owners must also be members of the kennel club and pay entry fees to participate in shows. Handlers, who are responsible for presenting the dogs to judges, can be professionals or amateurs.
5. What are the different types of dog shows?
There are several different types of dog shows, including conformation shows, obedience trials, agility trials, and field trials. Conformation shows are the most popular and feature dogs being judged on their appearance and movement. Obedience trials test a dog’s ability to follow commands, while agility trials test their agility and speed. Field trials are for hunting breeds and test a dog’s hunting skills.
6. What is Best in Show?
Best in Show is the highest honor at a dog show and is awarded to the top dog out of all the breed winners. The winner is chosen by a panel of judges who evaluate each dog’s conformation, movement, and temperament. Best in Show is considered the most prestigious award a purebred dog can receive.
7. How do you prepare a dog for a dog show?
Dogs must be well-groomed and in good physical condition to compete in dog shows. Owners must also train their dogs to behave properly in the show ring and work with a handler to present their dog to the judges. Some owners also hire professional handlers to train and present their dogs.
8. How are dogs grouped in a dog show?
Dogs are grouped by breed in a dog show, with each breed competing against others of the same breed. The breeds are then divided into seven groups based on their characteristics: sporting, hound, working, terrier, toy, non-sporting, and herding. The Best in Show winner is chosen from the seven group winners.
9. What are some common mistakes made in dog shows?
Some common mistakes made in dog shows include handling errors, such as not presenting the dog properly to the judges, or grooming errors, such as not properly trimming the dog’s coat. Temperament issues, such as a dog being aggressive or overly timid, can also hurt a dog’s chances of winning.
10. What are the benefits of participating in dog shows?
Participating in dog shows can be a great way for breeders to showcase their dogs and find potential owners. It can also be a way for owners to learn more about their breed and meet other dog enthusiasts. Winning awards at dog shows can also increase a dog’s value and reputation.
11. What are some controversies surrounding dog shows?
Some controversies surrounding dog shows include the emphasis on appearance over health, as some breeds have genetic health issues related to their appearance, such as breathing problems in flat-faced breeds. Others have criticized the inbreeding that can occur in purebred dogs and the emphasis on winning awards over the welfare of the dogs.
12. How can I attend a dog show?
Most dog shows are open to the public and allow spectators to attend. Check with your local kennel club or search online for upcoming dog shows in your area. Some shows may charge an admission fee, while others may be free. You can also look up live streams of major dog shows online to watch from the comfort of your own home.
Leave a Reply