Getting Started

• For those who are interested in entering a dog show for the first time, it is very important to be aware of all of the rules for that particular show. Many purebred breeders and owners select the American Kennel Club (AKC) as a source for dog shows. The AKC has more than 4,000 clubs that it is affiliated with, as well as more than 500 member clubs.
  
  In order to compete in AKC dog shows, the dog must first be properly registered with the AKC. The registration requirements stipulate that not only should the dog itself be a purebred, but its parents and its ancestors must be purebreds as well. The best way for a person to get started in dog shows is to start attending them as an observer, and also to join one of the clubs that is recognized by the AKC.
  
  

Understanding the Categories of a Dog Show

• Dog shows also are known as conformation events. This means that the overall structure, as well as the appearance of the dog, are the main aspects that are judged. It is important to note that the health of the dog is not a factor that is judged, nor is it a factor in AKC registration. In order to compete, the dog must have all of its inoculations, fit its breed standards and be at least six months old.
  
  Those who have never been to or competed in a dog show need to be aware of the three main categories of a dog show. This is especially important to be aware of because while a dog might be an excellent candidate to compete in one category show, it might not in another one.
  
  The first category consists of all-breed shows, which are often shown on television. This means that all of the 150 breeds that the AKC recognizes can compete together. The second category involves specialty shows, which are shows in which only one specific breed can compete. The third category is that of the group shows, which are for dogs that fall under the category of a specific group, of which there are seven in the AKC (Herding, Toy, Working, Sporting, Non-Sporting, Terriers, and Hounds).
  
  

More Things to Keep in Mind

• For first-time competitors, it is important to understand show etiquette in terms of how to present the dog while it is being judged in the ring. The dog should be well-trained, and if necessary, the owner should attend dog handling classes.