Usually, a dog will be examined to determine if it does fulfill the standards set for each individual breed during dog shows, breed and configuration shows. It is often conducted by kennel clubs and breed clubs. Specialty shows are events where only special breeds are examined.
Prior to the show, judges of the show have already set standards. Making subjective judgements is never easy so it is with choosing dogs which match the set standards. Not only is one dog compared with the other, but the comparison of the dog to the judge’s image of an ideal dog which meet the breed standard almost perfectly. The objective of each dog show is to select a winner dog, which matches the breed standards.
Using the long list of breed standards, the judges work as a group to frame the conformation point. There are certain requirements that form the foundation of competitions though conformation points can alter from one competition to another. Although the pet’s color, pattern, length, type and quality are observed, in the final analysis the fur is still the most important factor. Apart from the fur, the distribution, quality and number of markings will also be carefully scrutinized.
The judges will also take into consideration a healthy pigmentation free skin and the shape and color of the head. The general behavior of each breed of dogs are also closely observed. The competing dogs jaw-line plus the structure and alignment of the teeth when its mouth is closed are compared. The shape and color of the eyes and the shape and set of the ears, including the ratio of the length and height are also compared. The dogs entering competitions should be well groomed because the style of walking and gait and the shape of the tail and feet are closely observed. The name of each participating dog should be registered so that every dog’s name is attached with the breeder’s kennel name.
Because every dog can have a registered name as well as a pet name, the kennel club uses the registered name while the owner refers to the pet using the call name. There are many dog shows conducted on various levels: there are local shows and national shows, which attract competitors from various parts of the country. Usually dog shows are hierarchic competitions where the winners earn certain points in each show at each level, which makes them eligible for the next show.
To ensure that the chosen champion is the best in the breed, these shows at the highest level only allow pets that have already won championships in other shows. Since the dog shows are known to select the best dog in the breed, the price of the puppies of champions fetch a surprisingly high price. The popularity of the champion breed increases rapidly when pet buyers crowd around looking for a pet that looks like the champion. Crufts in the United Kingdom and the Westminster Kennel Club Show in the United States are two prestigious shows available.
