Dog Sports: a look back at Conformation

The sport of showing purebred Dogs is an interesting subject. First off, yes, it is a sport, and until you have run around rings in nylons or a suit competing against pros in 95 degree heat with a furry teammate, don’t scoff.  Make no mistake, Conformation showing can be tough.

It is the only sport I can think of in which amateurs and pros compete together on a “level playing field” and of course many will discuss the politics involved behind that.  Showing as an amateur owner-handler is not for the weak-willed.  There are advantages and disadvantages to being a paid professional versus showing Dogs you know, live, live with, and even possibly produced.

Conformation showing is the evaluation of purebred stock against their breed standard.  Every breed has an ideal drawn up through word and image in their published breed standard, and animals are judged on how the conform to that standard.  It is meant to aid in selection of quality breeding stock that meets the criteria for that particular breed without disqualifying faults.

To finish a Champion, one must have two “majors” or 3,4, or 5 point wins under different judges, along with the required 15 points in competition.  Note this is AKC “breed” or conformation showing, but other venues require wins against competition as well.

While it is not my favorite sport, I have learned much and had success in showing various dogs.  Aspects I enjoyed were the bonding with each dog, learning their differences and similarities, fun with friends, travel, and the events themselves, enjoying being surrounded by so much canine beauty!  Some very special moments and wins are relished in my dog event memories!  I did not so much enjoy the reliance on other people (to create points/majors), politics and over-the-top grooming, and the lack of feedback in terms of learning and growing.  For those reasons I prefer performance.

Conditioning a show dog involves exercise and care, proper nutrition and grooming.  Training for the ring goes beyond basic socialization and rudimentary obedience in terms of gaiting and stacking for examination.  Dogs must display proper movement as well as solid temperament and correct characteristics for their breed.  They are observed as a group and as individuals, watched as they move at a trot in various patterns, and gone over to check structure, muscling, and details like hair texture and bite (how the teeth meet together).  Judges direct exhibitors to move their Dogs down and back as well as around the ring so they can see movement from the front, rear, and side.

Different breeds are shown differently and there are many points of etiquette observed.  It can be tremendously gratifying to watch your show dog grow and develop, and to enjoy honor in the Fancy with an animal who displays proper breed type and characteristics.  Some go on to show for Grand Championships or other careers in performance or as producers.

The sport continues to see changes and challenges, but its history and dedication of fanciers remains steadfast.  I shall revisit this facet of the fancy from time to time, but I welcome your questions and comments.

Ch. Phaser and Ch. Cola