Possibly one of the most wonderful spectator sports in a conformation or all-breed dog show.

Whilst all dogs are marvelous, purebred dogs have been bred for specific qualities, skills, and physical characteristics to enable them to perform a unique job, such as herding sheep or retrieving water fowl. This is known as breeding for function. Each breed’s job is defined by a written standard that is also recognized by the AKC, such as the Dalmatian Club of America, or the Norwegian Elkhound Association of America.

Dog shows begin with class judging, which is divided by gender and age. The dogs are required to pose on a stand for inspection by judges. The judges inspect the dogs build, structure, fur color and texture, and correct head, tail, bite and ear set. The dogs are then run around the ring by their handlers, firstly individually, and then as a group. This is to show the dog’s motion or gait which is appropriate to their breed. These are all necessary elements to a breed’s proper performance.

Each division has a winner and then the best male and female are chosen from these selections. The Winning dog and winning bitch are awarded with points based upon the number of dogs that they beat. It is when the dog receives 15 points that they earn the title of Champion.

In order to be a winner in a dog show, time, money, work, training, grooming, devotion, and the love of dogs is required.

Dog shows are also about beauty and muscle content as well as the dog being well-mannered and trained for the ring. Regardless of how well mannered and trained a dog is in the ring, if he is not in good condition he will not show well. It is important to condition show dogs with exercise. They can be taken jogging or exercised on a treadmill indoors in order to build muscle.

Show days are an absolute frenzy of activity. The preparation for the show generally begins the evening before the exhibitors arrive at the show site. They then set up their grooming tables, blow dryers, clippers and an array of brushes, combs, scissors and sprays. It is the next morning when the sun rises that the handlers feed and take the dogs for a walk and prepare them for the show ahead. At ringside, the competitors check in with a steward and wait for their number to be called.

If you with to show your purebred dog, then a dog show is one of the best places to gather information. Listed below are some simple guidelines for enjoying and understanding a show.

Arrive early and remain there for enough time to see the classes of the breeds that you like the most and converse with the handlers after the show.

Purchase a catalogue that lists the breed class times, locations, and owner addresses.

Take a folding chair, and wear comfortable shoes.

Talk to groomers during slack times about what type of care particular breeds require.

Take down notes in your show catalogue about the dogs that won, those that you liked and what you have learnt.

Browse through information booths and vendors for helpful dog supplies and brochures.

It is certainly an exciting and thrilling way to build your relationship with your dog when preparing and entering dog shows. Dog shows are something that you can do with your dog rather than the simple day to day activities that are generally undertaken with your canine friend.

Author Bio: Kelly Marshall is a popular contributor at Oh My Dog Supplies – where you can find dog beds, dog steps, knitted dog sweaters, and more unique dog gear that you’ll never find at your local pet store.

Category: Pets
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