How Dog Shows Work

Have you ever run across a dog show as you channel-surfed the TV? Or gone to a dog show in person?  And were you left wondering what the heck was going on?

The information below can help you understand and make sense of what dog shows are all about.  

A dog show is a competitive event where dogs of various breeds are evaluated against a breed standard set by the national governing clubs for each breed. A dog show evaluates the conformation (physical attributes and structure) of the dogs. Judges assess each dog based on criteria such as body proportions, coat condition, movement, and overall appearance as compared to the ideal breed standard (*not* against the other dogs showing that day). The judge selects the dogs that compare most favorably to the breed standard.  Dog shows often include different categories and classes for puppies, adults, and champions, providing a platform for breeders, owners, and enthusiasts to celebrate and promote specific breeds.

How Dog Shows Work:

• The day begins with dogs of a specific breed competing in separate rings, with other dogs of only their breed.  After the various classes within the breed are finished being judged, the judge awards a “Best of Breed” to a single dog.
• The various Best of Breed dogs from all the breeds then compete in the Group classes against the other breeds in their Group.  There are seven Groups – they are the Hound Group, Toy Group, Non-sporting Group, Sporting Group, Terrier Group, and Working Group.  (PWDs are in the Working Group)  You can see the individual breeds in each group listed here 
• After the Group judging is complete, one dog is named “Best of Group”, aka “First in Group”. The seven Best of Group dogs then compete for the final judging of the day where one dog is named “Best in Show”.

You can read a little more about "How a dog wins a dog show" at this AKC link