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What exactly is a "dog show"?
“Dog show” can actually refer to many different canine events. This page addresses conformation shows, where a dog is judged on how s/he conforms to their breed's standard.
Other kinds of shows include obedience, agility, herding, tracking, carting, lure coursing, weight pulling and more.
The Central Iowa Kennel Club hosts two all-breed (conformation) dog shows each year. They are back-to-back, one on Saturday and a whole new show on Sunday. Click here for more information on our show.
For more information on various types of canine sporting events, visit AKC dog events
Can spectators attend?Yes! Spectators are welcome. Please read this article about spectator etiquette.
Will there be puppies for sale at the show?
No. However, a show is a great opportunity to learn about and meet different breeds. This may help you decide which breed is right for your family.
It might also help you find a breeder, although not every breeder at a show is responsible and not every dog there should be bred. (Note: The AKC cannot guarantee health or quality of the dogs in its registry.) Showing is one piece of the breeding puzzle, health and temperament are as just as important as conformation. Buyers are encouraged to do their research and take their time. A great starting point is this article about finding a responsible breeder.
Can I bring my dog?No, non-entered dogs should be left at home.
What goes on in the ring? What is the judge looking for?
At a conformation show, judges are looking to see how closely the dogs conform to their breed standard. They examine ("go over") each dog with their hands to see if the teeth, muscles, bones and coat texture conform to the breed standard. They view each dog in profile for overall balance, and watch each dog gait (move) to see how all of those features fit together in action.
Read the AKC's "Beginners' Guide to Dog Shows" for details of how the show process works.
Why do people show their dogs? What do they win?
Showing is an expensive hobby, not a money-making venture. It’s a fun way to meet people with similar interests, participate in a sport with your dog and gain unbiased opinions about a dog’s breeding potential (although not all people that show breed their dogs).
Mostly, all that an exhibitor will win is a small ribbon. For some wins, a trophy or dog related item is offered. Cash prizes are occasionally offered for big wins, however these cash prizes do not offset the money spent to show a dog. In general, prizes won do not come close to the expense of showing when one figures entry fees, traveling & equipment expenses and all other expenses that go along with showing a dog.
How can I find dates and locations of shows in my area?Infodog is a great resource for finding shows. Just click your state and you'll find all sorts of dog sports listed. To attend a conformation show, look for an All-Breed show or a Specialty show of the breed in which you are interested.
All-breed shows run all day and you can attend any part you would like. If you have a specific breed you wish to see, check the judging program before you leave home so you don't miss them. Many things are happening similantiounsly at a show. There are multiple rings, each with their own judge. At 9:00 AM, there might be ten different breeds all showing at the same time.
Shows are a process of elimination, once a dog has been defeated they are done for the day. Most shows today are "unbenched", meaning the dog and exhibitor only have to be present for their class. Therefore,
Shows are often clustered at one location.
How can I get involved in showing?
A good first step is joining a club. Learn first hand about dog shows, gain valuable contacts and earn peer respect by assisting with club needs. This may also help decide if this is a hobby for
you.
It is advantageous to join a club and become involved prior to purchasing a show potential dog, as your experience and contacts will lend to a more educated purchasing decision.
Although there are various types of clubs, for someone looking to start showing in conformation, a breed or all-breed club would be a good choice. AKC’s website has a club search to help you find the right club.
Visit AKC's New Exhibitor corner for more details.
What other types of activities can I do with my dog?
Tons! Obedience, agility, therapy, tracking, herding and more.
Visit our Dog Activities Page!
Westminster Kennel Club's About Dog Shows
Dogpatch's Dog Show Links & Info
Dog Owner's Guide to Conformation Shows
What Happens at a Dog Show?
The User's Guide to Dog Shows
Confusing Terms for AKC Dog Show Beginners
- the show "superintendent" has a schedule available about one week prior to the show date. Infodog's website will list the show's superintendent (if not them) and their website. A breed can not show earlier than listed in the schedule, but might run later.
Do you have questions not answered? Please feel free to email me.
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