Dog Shows - Facts

1. Type of Competition:

   Competitions in dog shows vary from "Best in Breed", wherein each dog is judged among other dogs of its breed; to "Best in Show", wherein a dog that represents its breed standards competes against other dogs of different breeds. There are also agility and obedience trials. There is something for every type of show enthusiast whether you like to sit back and relax or play Frisbee with your dog.

2. Location:

   Dog shows are generally held in arenas and at fair grounds that can hold hundreds of dogs at one time. Larger shows are held in larger, more popular cities, where the arenas are large enough to hold thousands of spectators.

3. History:

   Different affiliations have different histories. The American Kennel Club started hosting shows in 1884 and the United Kennel club was founded shortly after in 1898. Most affiliations started with field and bench shows and progressively started judging and setting breed standards for their competitions.

4. Sanctioned:

   The American Kennel Club sanctions the Eukanuba Tournament of Champions as well as various field trials, emergency service trials, agility, obedience and other best of breed and best in shows competitions. The United Kennel club, also sanctions such shows with different hosts such as Purina. These competitions even have special events for children and junior event-goers.

5. Entrance Procedure:

   The entrance procedure is similar with the different affiliations. What they most have in common are that they are for registered dogs, applications must be filled out, fees are to be paid, and dogs must be current on vaccinations.

6. Classes:

   The classes vary depending on the type of competition. "Best in Breed" is grouped by breed; "Best in Show" is grouped by breed type (such as herding or toy group); agility courses are grouped by dog size; and field trials are grouped by the type of hunting the dog was bred for.

7. Judging:

   Judging is based on the standards that are set for each breed. In other types of competitions, judging is based on the satisfactory completion of a course or task.

8. Awards:

   Awards range from certificates to trophies and can even include cash prizes. Some awards are also given in the form of lifetime food supply and pet products.