Dog shows: how they go and why they are needed

Exhibitions are an important component of the life of a professional breeder and his wards. At events of this kind, animals are awarded various titles and awards that increase the rating, recognition, authority of both the breeder himself and his cattery with animals.

Below you can go to one of the categories that is relevant to you at the moment:

If you plan to get puppies from your thoroughbred pet in the future, then you can’t do without participation in dog shows. Since the pedigree of each puppy must indicate the ratings of the exterior of the parents and titles. And in order to have the cherished "excellent" (excellent) for admission to breeding, you need to properly prepare.

What you need for the dog to participate in the exhibition

The main condition is the presence of a pedigree. Even if your dog fully complies with the breed standard recognized by FCI, but does not have a supporting document, you will not be accepted.

A fee is charged for the opportunity to show your four-legged friend in the ring. The price varies depending on the country, type of exhibition, exhibition class (in particular, on the age of the animal), on which club and where it organizes the event, and whether you are a member of this club. As a rule, the cost goes from 10-50 cu

You can easily find the schedule of dog shows on the Internet. It is better to start with your city, and as you progress, continue your exhibition career beyond its borders.

To register, fill out the application form (you will find on the club’s website that hosts the exhibition) and send it by e-mail or regular mail.

Attach a copy of the payment order for participation payment to the application form (bank details are also usually indicated on the website) and the necessary package of documents for the dog. Specify the full list in the club that organizes this event.

After confirming the registration, it remains to come with the pet to the designated place and time and show it in all its glory in the ring so that the experts like it.

Exhibition Class Requirements

When registering, please note that exhibition classes have their own requirements regarding the age of the animal and certificates.

Beginners usually participate in classes such as:

baby - up to six months;

puppy - from six months to 9 months;

junior - 9-18 months;

intermediate - from 15 months. up to 2 years;

open - older than 15 months

To do this, it is enough to attach a photocopy of the pedigree.

But when registering for a working class, the dog must be at least 15 months old, and a copy of a working diploma of an international standard is also needed. There are also classes for tailed friends of the same age:

winner - you must have at least a CAC certificate;

champion - for pets who have won the title “Champion”.

For old people, a veteran class is organized. Titled pets over 8 years old participate in it.

What are dog shows

All-breed (pets of breeds recognized by FCI are involved) are:

regional (issued by CAC);

international (assigned by САС and CACIB).

Specialty shows are held among certain breeds. For example, retrievers, Spitz, schnauzers, etc. There are:

regional (for champions);

national (for breed champions).

How dogs are rated at shows

Animals are evaluated not by intelligence, but by their exterior - appearance and physique. Each breed has a standard approved by the international cynological federation. Carefully read it in advance.

The breed standard contains a description of the general appearance of the animal, size and weight, detailed descriptions of its individual parts of the body (what should be the tail, back, eyes, etc.), what should be the movements of the animal, etc. Every deviation from this standard reduces your chances of getting a good grade.

Often, such trifles are important that an ordinary person does not pay attention to. For example, pink-marbled Australian shepherds, which are now gaining popularity, are allowed to have pink spots on their nose, but no more than 25%. Almost completely pink nose in adult dogs is considered a serious drawback.

Dog behavior should also be consistent. So, aggression at a Labrador is a serious vice. Particular attention should be paid to such nuances as a malocclusion (in most breeds it is scissor-shaped) and cryptorchidism. These are the most common reasons for disqualification.

In addition to the beauty that Mother Nature gave the pet, grooming is also evaluated. The coat should be clean and combed. Some breeds need a neat haircut. Therefore, the skillful hands of a professional groomer can not do here. In addition, do not forget to cut the claws of the dog and brush your teeth with a special paste with non-foaming ingredients (you can’t use human toothpaste!).

Dog titles at exhibitions are awarded at the discretion of the judge. They are entered in diplomas in the form of abbreviations.