Exhibiting
The most popular form of canine competition in this country is the dog show - the formal beauty contest for Kennel Club registered pure-bred dogs, such as those seen at Crufts. The Kennel Club sets a Breed Standard for every breed of dog it recognises, which represents the ideal conformation and characteristics for that breed. At shows, the judge must compare each dog with the Breed Standard to find the dog nearest to that ideal picture of the breed.
It is important that you attend dog training classes before you start to exhibit your dog. The Good Citizen Dog Scheme is the UK's largest dog training programme and there are thousands of organisations that can help you and your dog learn the basics. The programme includes training for different stages of development starting at the Puppy Foundation course and then through to Bronze, Silver and Gold. Contact the Kennel Club to find your nearest club on 0870 6066750 or email gcds@thekennelclub.org.uk.
Facts about dog shows and competitions
The Kennel Club produces publications such as the Year Book and pocket sized individual regulation booklets, which contain all the rules and regulations that govern dog shows and other canine activities (available to purchase through our Online Shop). Although you do not need to know all of them before you enter a competition, there are some things that everyone needs to know:
All dogs must be registered with the Kennel Club if they are to take part in a Kennel Club licensed event (except Companion Dog Shows). It is also advisable to undertake some level of basic training such as the Good Citizen Dog Scheme.
Dogs registered on the Kennel Club's Breed Register are eligible to compete at Kennel Club licensed events. However some breeds on the Imported Breeds Register do not yet have a Breed Standard and are therefore not currently eligible to be exhibited. Please click here for a list of these breeds. The Kennel Club also maintains an Activity Register for dogs which may wish to compete in canine activities but are not eligible for breed registration. Click on the link for information about the Activity Register and to download an application form. Alternatively you can call 0870 606 6750 for further information.
- Your dog needs to be of a minimum age to be eligible to compete in competitions. Refer to the regulation booklet as this varies depending on the discipline.
- No bitches may be mated within the precincts of a show or competition.
- You should not allow your dog to foul anywhere other than the allotted 'exercise areas' and always clean up after your dog.
- Always leave showgrounds and venues clean and tidy.
- It simply is not acceptable that a dog displays aggression in competition. If your dog growls, or otherwise shows aggression, the judge will immediately exclude the dog from the ring, and from further competition. It is of paramount importance that your dog has an entirely stable temperament when attending any canine event.
- The Kennel Club expects all exhibitors taking part in its licensed events to conduct themselves in a sportsmanlike manner. You should never interfere with another dog in competition, or try to distract a dog, or otherwise impede it from giving its best.
- You should never handle your dog harshly or use punitive correction at a competition. The Kennel Club advocates positive training methods at all times.
- Your dog should be kept on a lead and under control at all times within the showground. Again, safety is paramount, and all responsible dog owners want to enjoy a good day out without problems of loose or unruly dogs.
- You should never question the decision of the judge. You have entered the show to get that judge's opinion and if he/she does not place your dog, remember that you may have better luck on another day.
- If your dog has an operation which alters its natural conformation you must write to the Kennel Club to seek permission to continue to show your dog. In order to preserve the integrity of its register of pure-bred dogs it needs to know that the dogs being exhibited at shows are the best examples of the breed and have not been surgically altered to improve their chances of winning. If in doubt, ask the Kennel Club.
To keep up with all the latest developments in the canine world, the Kennel Club's flagship publication, the Kennel Gazette is your essential guide to what is happening in the world of dogs today. The Kennel Gazette provides full listings of all forthcoming events for all types of competition. To subscribe call the Publications Hotline on 020 7518 1016 or visit the Kennel Club Online Shop to purchase a subscription or individual copies of the Gazette.
