What is the purpose of a Dog Show?

Although today dog shows are often likened to a "doggie beauty pageant," understanding the purpose will shed light on why many dog enthusiasts take part in this sport, what is actually taking place during the judging, and how it all relates to our goals as breeders.

In the 1800's, man relied on dog to serve specific needs, i.e. hunting, herding, guarding. Men then gathered to test their dogs' abilities against each other-for example in field trials-and the fittest were used to reproduce. This process of selective breeding was used to achieve the desired characteristics which man looked for in his dogs. Over time, more formal gatherings took place to compare breeding stock until the first official dog show was held in England in 1859. As dog competitions became increasingly popular in England, a kennel club was established to register dogs, keep stud books and to record results of field trial and dog shows. The United States followed suite in 1884 by establishing The American Kennel Club, now the largest dog registry in the world. Pure breeds were officially recognized and clubs established to look out for the best interest of each breed.

What is the purpose of a Breed Standard?

In looking out for the best interest of each bred, Breed standards were written describing each breed in detail, including physical characteristics and temperament which allow them to perform their function. A dog show is actually called a "conformation" dog show because each dog entered is judged based on how closely he "conforms" to a written breed standard.

A conformation show is not a comparison of one dog to another; rather it's a comparison of each dog to a judge's mental image of the ideal breed type as outlined in each breed standard. The winner is chosen by a judge who observes and "goes over" (feels) each dog and attempts to select the dog which most closely epitomizes the breed standard. A responsible breeder will strive to understand and uphold the breed standard established long ago. (CKCSC Breed Standard)

Why do some dogs become champions and some not?

There are various reasons why a dog may not earn his championship, the most obvious being he does not meet up to the breed standard in the eyes of judges. However, reasons for not showing a dog or not continuing to show a dog after he has begun are various and complex. For example, not everyone has the same priorities and wishes to spend all their weekends at dog shows. Others may not have the time or money to campaign a dog. The sport has become very competitive; professional handlers are often hired and cost is definitely an issue for many dog enthusiasts. For me, whether an owner/breeder shows or not, it's important they know which of their dogs are worthy to breed on even if they cannot compete at a highly competitive level.

Keep in mind, just because a dog does not become a champion does not mean he is not worthy to be bred. I know some very worthy dogs that simply are not "showy" enough for the ring and others who have a handler that is unable to show them at their best. Some worthy dogs have earned point towards their champion title, are bred before they earn the points needed to complete their title, and for some reason or another never continue to show. There are MANY reasons a dog may not become a champion and this sport is definitely competitive! A dog that has been shown to his championship simply means that the owner/breeder had the desire, the "know how," and invested the time and money necessary to prove his dog's worth in the eyes of others.

Why is showing in conformation an important part of our life at Grandville Cavaliers?

Showing conformation began as a family hobby, a way to spend quality time with each other while enjoying healthy competition. There I discovered a perfect environment to learn all I could in order to be the best "doggie parent," handler, and breeder I could possibly be! Although it's an expensive and time-consuming hobby, I remain convinced that taking part in dog shows is a valuable experience for anyone interested in breeding or learning more about dogs. Learning about structure, movement, general breed knowledge, meeting and sharing information with others who are pursuing the same goals are all important reasons for being involved in conformation shows and/or other canine events and even breed clubs. It's a thrill to experience first hand becoming a "team" with a dog I love and believe will enhance the breed. Bringing home a win is always a joy; but I remain objective and graciously accept the losses. A loss has its purpose. For me it translates: try harder, train more and possibly re-evaluate my dog's potential while continuing to strive for excellence! Learning is a life-long journey in which I must continually reevaluate what I know, admit my shortcomings, and celebrate my growth!

In sum, we see the original purpose for a dog show was to gather and compare breeding stock and select the best to reproduce the traits man desired. Today, while keeping in mind the original purpose, I strive to uphold the breed standard in my breeding program, while remembering that showing my dogs in conformation is a sport and must remain fun for all, especially for our precious dogs!

** Check out my book, A Story of a Promising Puppy, which shares my hearts desire for all dogs. SunnyVille Publishing **