TShowing dogs is a great sport where the thrill of competition is combined with
the joy of seeing beautiful dogs. Dog shows are one of many types of AKC dog events
in which AKC-registered dogs can compete. These events, which draw over three million
entries annually, include dog shows and tests of instinct and trainability, such
as obedience trials, Canine Good Citizen tests, field trials, agility trials, lure
coursing, rally, hunting tests, herding trials, tracking tests, coonhound and earthdog
events.
Dog shows (conformation events) are intended to evaluate breeding stock. The size
of these events ranges from large all-breed shows, with over 3,000 dogs entered,
to small local specialty club shows, featuring a specific breed. The dog's conformation
(overall appearance and structure), an indication of the dog's ability to produce
quality puppies, is judged.
There are three types of conformation dog shows:
All-breed shows offer competitions for over 150 breeds and varieties
of dogs recognized by the AKC. All-breed shows are the type often shown on television
Specialty shows are restricted to dogs of a specific breed or to
varieties of one breed. For example, the Bulldog Club of America Specialty is for
Bulldogs only, but the Poodle Club of America's specialty show includes the three
varieties of the Poodle - Standard, Miniature and Toy.
Group shows are limited to dogs belonging to one of the seven groups.
For example, the Potomac Hound Group show features only breeds belonging to the
Hound group.
To be eligible to compete, a dog must:
- be individually registered with the American Kennel Club
- be 6 months of age or older
- be a breed for which classes are offered at a show
- meet any eligibility requirements in the written standard for its breed
Spayed or neutered dogs are not eligible to compete in conformation classes at a
dog show, because the purpose of a dog show is to evaluate breeding stock.
Judges examine the dogs, then give awards according to how closely each dog compares
to the judge's mental image of the "perfect" dog described in the breed's official
standard.
The standard describes the characteristics that allow the breed to perform the function
for which it was bred. These standards include specifications for structure, temperament
and movement.
The official written standard for each breed is maintained by the breed's national
club and is included in The Complete Dog Book published by the
AKC.
The judges are experts on the breeds they are judging. They examine ("go over")
each dog with their hands to see if the teeth, muscles, bones and coat texture conform
to the breed's standard. They view each dog in profile for overall balance, and
watch each dog gait ("move") to see how all of those features fit together in action.
Each dog presented to a judge is exhibited ("handled") by its owner, breeder or
a hired professional. The role of a handler is similar to that of a jockey who rides
a horse around the track and, hopefully, into the winner's circle.
Most dogs in competition at conformation shows are competing for points toward their
AKC championships. It takes fifteen points, including two majors (wins of three,
four or five points) awarded by at least three different judges, to become an American
Kennel Club "Champion of Record."
The number of championship points awarded at a show depends on the number of males
("dogs") and females ("bitches") of the breed actually in competition. The larger
the entry, the greater the number of points a male or a female can win. The maximum
number of points awarded to a dog at any show is 5 points.
Males and females compete separately within their respective breeds, in seven regular
classes. The following classes are offered, and are divided by sex:
- Puppy – For dogs between six and twelve months of age, that
are not yet champions (optional class).
- Twelve-To-Eighteen Months – For dogs twelve to eighteen months
of age, that are not yet champions (optional class).
- Novice – For dogs six months of age and over, which have
not, prior to the date of closing of entries, won three first prizes in the Novice
Class, a first prize in Bred-by-Exhibitor, American-bred, or Open Classes, nor one
or more points toward their championship (optional class).
- Amateur-Owner-Handler – For dogs that are at least six months
of age that are not champions. Dogs must be handled in the class by the registered
owner of the dog and is limited to exhibitors who have not, at any point in time,
been a professional dog handler, AKC approved conformation judge, or employed as
an assistant to a professional handler (effective January 1, 2009) (optional class).
- Bred By Exhibitor – For dogs that are exhibited by their
owner and breeder, that are not yet champions (optional class).
- American-Bred – For dogs born in the United States from a
mating which took place in the United States, that are not yet champions (mandatory
class).
- Open – For any dog of the breed, at least 6 months of age
(mandatory class).
After these classes are judged, all the dogs that won first place in a class compete
again to see who is the best of the winning dogs. Males and females are judged separately.
Only the best male (Winners Dog) and the best female (Winners Bitch) receive championship
points. The Winners Dog and Winners Bitch then compete with the champions for the
Best of Breed award. At the end of the Best of Breed Competition, three awards are
usually given:
- Best of Breed – the dog judged as the best in its breed category.
- Best of Winners – the dog judged as the better of the Winners
Dog and Winners Bitch.
- Best of Opposite Sex – the best dog that is the opposite
sex to the Best of Breed winner.
Dog shows are a process of elimination, with one dog being named Best in Show
at the end of the show.
Only the Best of Breed winners advance to compete in the Group
competitions. Each AKC-recognized breed falls into one of seven group classifications.
The seven groups are Sporting, Hound, Working, Terrier, Toy, Non-Sporting and Herding.
Four placements are awarded in each group, but only the first-place winner advances
to the Best In Show competition.
Sporting – These dogs were bred to hunt game birds both on
land and in the water. The breeds in this group include Pointers, Retrievers, Setters
and Spaniels.
Hounds – These breeds were bred for hunting other game by
sight or scent. These breeds include such dogs as Beagles, Bassets, Dachshunds and
Greyhounds.
Working – These dogs were bred to pull carts, guard property
and perform search and rescue services. Among the breeds in this group are the Akita,
Boxer, Doberman Pinscher and St. Bernard.
Terrier – This group includes breeds such as the Airedale,
Cairn Terrier and Scottish Terrier. Terriers were bred to rid property of vermin
such as rats.
Toy – These dogs were bred to be household companions. This
group includes little dogs such as the Chihuahua, Maltese, Pomeranian and Pug.
Non-Sporting – This diverse group includes the Chow Chow,
Bulldog, Dalmatian and Poodle. These dogs vary in size and function, and many are
considered companion dogs.
Herding – These dogs were bred to help shepherds and ranchers
herd their livestock. The Briard, Collie, German Shepherd Dog and Old English Sheepdog
are some of the breeds in this group.
Finally, the seven group winners are brought into the ring where they compete for
Best In Show, the highest award at a dog show.
Each dog that receives an award is given a ribbon by the judge. The color of the
ribbon indicates the type of award the dog has won.
Blue – awarded for first place in any regular class. Also
awarded to the winner of each group competition, usually in the form of a "rosette."
Red – awarded for second place in each class. Also awarded
for second place in each group competition, usually in the form of a "rosette."
Yellow – awarded for third place in each class. Also awarded
for third place in each group competition, usually in the form of a "rosette."
White – awarded for fourth place in each class. Also awarded
for fourth place of each group competition, usually in the form of a "rosette."
Purple – awarded to the winners of the Winners Dog and Winners
Bitch classes. Since these are the classes in which championship points are earned,
these ribbons are highly coveted.
Purple and White – awarded to the Reserve Winners; that is,
the runners-up to the winner of the Winners Dog and Winners Bitch classes.
Blue and White – awarded to the dog that wins Best of Winners;
that is, the better of the Winners Dog and Winners Bitch winners.
Purple and Gold – awarded to the dog judged "Best of Breed"
in each breed competition. This is highly coveted because it allows advancement
to the Group competition.
Red and White – awarded to the Best of Opposite Sex. This
means the best dog of the breed that is the opposite sex of the Best of Breed winner.
Red, White and Blue – only one of these is awarded, at the
end of each show. It is given to the ultimate award winner, the Best In Show.
The best place to start is by joining a local kennel club, whether an all-breed
kennel club or a breed-specific specialty club. A listing of clubs by state can
be found on the AKC's
Club Search page or through their customer service department by calling
(919) 233-9767.
Local clubs will have information on training classes for the show ring, and for
obedience and agility classes. Even if the show ring is not your ultimate goal,
the relationship that training forms between you and your dog will be very rewarding
to you both. Local clubs also have "Matches" where you and your dog can test your
skill in the ring.
Handling your dog is an exceptional and enjoyable experience. From the grooming
table to the show ring, you and your dog will develop a bond. While training classes
offer the best hands-on way to practice for the show ring, attending shows and observing
your breed is also a great way to gain understanding of what judges and other competitors
do.
If you do not wish to handle your dog yourself, or have a friend or family member
do it, you may contact a professional handler who charges a fee for showing
your dog.
You're on your way! You are entering a sport that will bring many hours of enjoyment
and education to every member of your family. You will make many friends in the
sport, and will enjoy your dog and your new hobby for many years to come.
The AKC offers children 9 to 18 years of age the opportunity to compete with others
their own age at various AKC events. Juniors competing in conformation events are
judged on how they present their dogs.
- Make sure your dog is registered with the AKC.
- Be sure your dog is current on all inoculations.
- Learn the proper techniques for grooming and for presenting your dog in the ring.
- Join your breed's Parent Club, or a Local Specialty and/or All-Breed club in your
area.
- Become familiar with the AKC rules and regulations for dog shows.
- Attend some dog shows to observe your breed being judged and how others present
your breed. Get a Judging Program at the show to find out ring number and judging
time.
- Use the knowledge of your breeder.
- Don't be afraid to ask questions.
- Attend handling classes with your dog.
- If the grooming area is open to spectators, visit it and talk with professional
groomers to get tips on keeping your dog looking his best.
- However tempting, do not pet a dog without asking for permission first. The dog
may have just been groomed in preparation for being judged.
- At each dog show, you will find vendors and information booths. Many club booths
offer helpful information to the general public.
- Wear comfortable shoes - you'll be doing a lot of walking. Unless you bring a chair
or arrive early, be prepared to stand most of the time, as seating is usually limited.
- If you are considering getting a purebred dog, talk to the breeders and exhibitors
- they are experts in their breeds
- If you bring a baby stroller to a dog show, be careful that you do not run over
any dog's tail, and that your child does not grab or poke the dogs it can reach.
Avoid having them near ring entrances, which are especially crowded. Some shows
prohibit baby strollers.
Angulation – Angles created by bones meeting at their joints.
Baiting – Using liver or some treat to get the dog's attention
and have him look alert.
Bench Show – A dog show at which the dogs are kept on assigned
benches when not being shown in competition, so they can be viewed and discussed
by attendees, exhibitors and breeders.
Exhibitor – A person who brings a dog to a dog show and shows
it in the appropriate class.
Fancier – A person who is especially interested, and usually
active, in some phase of the sport of purebred dogs.
Gait – The way a dog moves, movement is a good indicator
of structure and condition.
Groom – To brush, comb, trim or otherwise make a dog's coat
neat.
Handler – A person or agent who takes a dog into the show
ring or who works the dog at a field trial or other performance event.
Heel – A command to a dog to keep close beside its handler.
Match Show – A usually informal dog show at which no championship
points are awarded.
Miscellaneous Class – Transitional class for breeds attempting
to advance to full AKC recognition.
Pedigree – The written record of a dog's family tree of three
or more generations.
Points – Credits earned toward a championship.
Soundness – Mental and physical well-being.
Stacking – Posing the dog's legs and body to create a pleasing
picture.
Before taking the Canine Good Citizen test, owners will sign the Responsible
Dog Owners Pledge. We believe that responsible dog ownership is a key
part of the CGC concept and by signing the pledge, owners agree to take care of
their dog's health needs, safety, exercise, training and quality of life. Owners
also agree to show responsibility by doing things such as cleaning up after their
dogs in public places and never letting dogs infringe on the rights of others.
After signing the Responsible Dog Owners Pledge, owners and their dogs are ready
to take the CGC Test. Items on the Canine Good Citizen Test include:
Test 1: Accepting a friendly stranger
This test demonstrates that the dog will allow a friendly stranger to approach it
and speak to the handler in a natural, everyday situation. The evaluator walks up
to the dog and handler and greets the handler in a friendly manner, ignoring the
dog. The evaluator and handler shake hands and exchange pleasantries. The dog must
show no sign of resentment or shyness, and must not break position or try to go
to the evaluator.
Test 2: Sitting politely for petting
This test demonstrates that the dog will allow a friendly stranger to touch it while
it is out with its handler. With the dog sitting at the handler's side, to begin
the exercise, the evaluator pets the dog on the head and body. The handler may talk
to his or her dog throughout the exercise. The dog may stand in place as it is petted.
The dog must not show shyness or resentment.
Test 3: Appearance and grooming
This practical test demonstrates that the dog will welcome being groomed and examined
and will permit someone, such as a veterinarian, groomer or friend of the owner,
to do so. It also demonstrates the owner's care, concern and sense of responsibility.
The evaluator inspects the dog to determine if it is clean and groomed. The dog
must appear to be in healthy condition (i.e., proper weight, clean, healthy and
alert). The handler should supply the comb or brush commonly used on the dog. The
evaluator then softly combs or brushes the dog, and in a natural manner, lightly
examines the ears and gently picks up each front foot. It is not necessary for the
dog to hold a specific position during the examination, and the handler may talk
to the dog, praise it and give encouragement throughout.
Test 4: Out for a walk (walking on a loose lead)
This test demonstrates that the handler is in control of the dog. The dog may be
on either side of the handler. The dog's position should leave no doubt that the
dog is attentive to the handler and is responding to the handler's movements and
changes of direction. The dog need not be perfectly aligned with the handler and
need not sit when the handler stops. The evaluator may use a pre-plotted course
or may direct the handler/dog team by issuing instructions or commands. In either
case, there should be a right turn, left turn, and an about turn with at least one
stop in between and another at the end. The handler may talk to the dog along the
way, praise the dog, or give commands in a normal tone of voice. The handler may
sit the dog at the halts if desired.
Test 5: Walking through a crowd
This test demonstrates that the dog can move about politely in pedestrian traffic
and is under control in public places. The dog and handler walk around and pass
close to several people (at least three). The dog may show some interest in the
strangers but should continue to walk with the handler, without evidence of over-exuberance,
shyness or resentment. The handler may talk to the dog and encourage or praise the
dog throughout the test. The dog should not jump on people in the crowd or strain
on the leash.
Test 6: Sit and down on command and Staying in place
This test demonstrates that the dog has training, will respond to the handler's
commands to sit and down and will remain in the place commanded by the handler (sit
or down position, whichever the handler prefers). The dog must do sit AND down on
command, then the owner chooses the position for leaving the dog in the stay. Prior
to this test, the dog's leash is replaced with a line 20 feet long. The handler
may take a reasonable amount of time and use more than one command to get the dog
to sit and then down. The evaluator must determine if the dog has responded to the
handler's commands. The handler may not force the dog into position but may touch
the dog to offer gentle guidance. When instructed by the evaluator, the handler
tells the dog to stay and walks forward the length of the line, turns and returns
to the dog at a natural pace. The dog must remain in the place in which it was left
(it may change position) until the evaluator instructs the handler to release the
dog. The dog may be released from the front or the side.
Test 7: Coming when called
This test demonstrates that the dog will come when called by the handler. The handler
will walk 10 feet from the dog, turn to face the dog, and call the dog. The handler
may use encouragement to get the dog to come. Handlers may choose to tell dogs to
"stay" or "wait" or they may simply walk away, giving no instructions to the dog.
Test 8: Reaction to another dog
This test demonstrates that the dog can behave politely around other dogs. Two handlers
and their dogs approach each other from a distance of about 20 feet, stop, shake
hands and exchange pleasantries, and continue on for about 10 feet. The dogs should
show no more than casual interest in each other. Neither dog should go to the other
dog or its handler.
Test 9: Reaction to distraction
This test demonstrates that the dog is confident at all times when faced with common
distracting situations. The evaluator will select and present two distractions.
Examples of distractions include dropping a chair, rolling a crate dolly past the
dog, having a jogger run in front of the dog, or dropping a crutch or cane. The
dog may express natural interest and curiosity and/or may appear slightly startled
but should not panic, try to run away, show aggressiveness, or bark. The handler
may talk to the dog and encourage or praise it throughout the exercise.
Test 10: Supervised separation
This test demonstrates that a dog can be left with a trusted person, if necessary,
and will maintain training and good manners. Evaluators are encouraged to say something
like, "Would you like me to watch your dog?" and then take hold of the dog's leash.
The owner will go out of sight for three minutes. The dog does not have to stay
in position but should not continually bark, whine, or pace unnecessarily, or show
anything stronger than mild agitation or nervousness. Evaluators may talk to the
dog but should not engage in excessive talking, petting, or management attempts
(e.g, "there, there, it's alright").
All tests must be performed on leash. Dogs should wear well-fitting buckle or slip
collars made of leather, fabric, or chain. Special training collars such as pinch
collars, head halters, etc. are not permitted in the CGC test. We recognize that
special training collars may be very useful tools for beginning dog trainers, however,
we feel that dogs are ready to take the CGC test at the point at which they are
transitioned to regular collars.
The evaluator supplies a 20-foot lead for the test. The owner/handler should bring
the dog's brush or comb to the test.
Owners/handlers may use praise and encouragement throughout the test. The owner
may pet the dog between exercises. Food and treats are not permitted during testing,
nor is the use of toys, squeaky toys, etc. to get the dog to do something. We recognize
that food and toys may provide valuable reinforcement or encouragement during the
training process but these items should not be used during the test.
Any dog that eliminates during testing must be marked failed. The only exception
to this rule is that elimination is allowable in test Item 10, but only when test
Item 10 is held outdoors.
Any dog that growls, snaps, bites, attacks, or attempts to attack a person or another
dog is not a good citizen and must be dismissed from the test.
What is Therapy Dogs International?
Therapy Dogs International (TDI®) is a volunteer organization dedicated to regulating,
testing and registration of therapy dogs and their volunteer handlers for the purpose
of visiting nursing homes, hospitals, other institutions and wherever else therapy
dogs are needed.
When was TDI established?
TDI was founded in 1976 in New Jersey.
What type of dogs are used?
TDI registers all breeds of dogs. Some dogs have pedigrees, while others have been
adopted from local shelters or are rescue dogs.
How many dogs are registered?
In 2009, over 21,000 dog/handler teams were registered with TDI.
Where do the dogs volunteer?
We have volunteer dogs and their handlers in all 50 States as well as some in Canada.
What are the requirements for joining TDI?
To belong to Therapy Dogs International (TDI®) all dogs must be tested and evaluated
by a Certified TDI Evaluator. A dog must be a minimum of one (1) year of age and
have a sound temperament. Each dog must pass a temperament evaluation for suitability
to become a Therapy Dog, which includes the American Kennel Club's Canine Good Citizen
Test (CGC). The test will also include the evaluation of the dog's behavior around
people with the use of some type of service equipment (wheelchairs, crutches, etc.).
What are the health requirements?
We require an annual Health Record Form to be completed and signed by a licensed
veterinarian.
How is the organization funded?
TDI is a non-profit organization supported through annual membership dues. Donations
are welcome.
How is the organization managed?
A Board of Directors governs the organization under the leadership of Ursula A.
Kempe, President (volunteer), who is also directing the business office of the organization.
How to obtain more information?
Our mailing address is: 88 Bartley Road, Flanders, New Jersey 07836
Tel: (973) 252-9800
Fax: (973) 252-7171
E-mail: tdi@gti.net