Dog shows, breed shows or conformation shows are
competitions where the judges examine dogs of a specific breed
or sometimes dogs of all breeds, to see whether it meets the
breed standards or not. Kennel clubs and breed clubs conduct
such kinds of shows. Shows where only specific breeds are
examined are known as specialty show.
The standards are set prior to the show by the judges of the
show. During the show, they choose dogs, which match the set
standards. This task is extremely difficult because the
judgments made should be completely subjective. Not only is one
dog compared with the other, but the comparison of the dog to
the judge's image of an ideal dog which meet the breed standard
almost perfectly. The objective of each dog show is to select a
winner dog, which matches the breed standards.
The breed standard is jotted down in a long list, which is
called a conformation point. All the judges get together and
frame the conformation point. Conformation point can vary from
one competition to another, but there are certain requirements
that are general. The fur is the most important factor. The
pet's color, pattern, length, type and quality are observed
carefully. The distribution, quality and quantity of the
markings are observed.
Healthy skin with no pigmentation is also one of the important
criterions. The shape and color of the head is also taken into
consideration. The general attitude and temperament is noted
down for each breed of dogs. The jaw-line and the structure of
the teeth and how they align when the jaw is closed are
compared. Shape and color of the eyes and shape and set of the
ears are observed. The sizes and the ratio of the length and
height are also compared. The style of walking and gait is
compared. The shape of the tail and feet are closely observed.
The dogs, which enter such competition, should be well groomed.
Some even check for skin wrinkles and measure the flews. The
name of each participating dog should be registered. Every dog's
name is attached with the breeder's kennel name. Every dog can
have a registered name as well as a call name. The kennel club
uses the registered name and the owner to refer to the pet uses
the call name.
There are many dog shows conducted on various levels. There are
local shows and national shows, which attract competitors from
different parts of the country. Usually dog shows are
hierarchical competitions. The winners earn certain points in
each show and each level, which makes them eligible for the next
show. And the dog which wins shows that are at the highest level
is declared as a champion. 'Ch.', for example Ch. Tony, appends
the dog's name. Such shows are called as prestigious shows.
These shows allow pets, which have already won championship in
other shows. These shows aim to choose the best in the breed.
Such shows make the reputation of the dog, breeder and kennel
higher. The price of the puppies of that particular dog is sold
for a surprisingly high price. This is because other people want
to buy a pet, which resembles the champion. The popularity of
the breed increases rapidly. There are two such prestigious
shows, The Crufts in the United Kingdom and the Westminster
Kennel Club Dog Show in the United States.