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 What exactly is a "dog show"?“Dog show” can actually refer to many different canine events. There are conformation shows, where a dog is judged on how she/he conforms to their breed's standard. Other kinds of shows include obedience, agility, rally, herding, tracking, carting, lure coursing, weight pulling and much more. The Greater Monroe Kennel Club hosts two all-breed dog shows each year. These shows include agility, conformation, obedience and rally. They are back-to-back, one on Friday and the other on Saturday, November 17 & 18, 2006. This year Fayetteville Kennel Club will be having their show on Sunday following our two day show making it a three day event-full days of fun dog showing. For more information on various types of canine sporting events, visit AKC dog events of contact a member of the Greater Monroe Kennel Club.
Can spectators attend?Yes! Spectators are welcome.
Will there be puppies for sale at the show?No. However, a show is a great opportunity to learn about and meet different breeds. This may help you decide which breed is right for your family. It might also help you find a breeder, although not every breeder at a show is responsible and not every dog being shown should be bred. (Note: The AKC cannot guarantee health or quality of the dogs in its registry.) Showing is one piece of the breeding puzzle, health and temperament are just as important as conformation. Buyers are encouraged to do their research and take their time. A great starting point is this article about finding a responsible breeder.
Can I bring my dog?No, non-entered dogs should be left at home.
What goes on in the ring? What is the judge looking
for? At a conformation show, judges are looking to see how closely the dogs conform to their breed standard. They examine ("go over") each dog with their hands to see if the teeth, muscles, bones and coat texture conform to the individual breed 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. Read the AKC's "Beginners' Guide to Dog Shows" for details of how the show process works.
Why do people show their dogs? What do they win?Showing is an expensive hobby, not a money-making venture. It’s a fun way to meet people with similar interests, participate in a sport with your dog and gain unbiased opinions about a dog’s breeding potential (although not all people that show breed their dogs). Mostly, all that an exhibitor will win is a small ribbon. For some wins, a trophy or dog related item is offered. Cash prizes are occasionally offered for big wins, however these cash prizes do not offset the money spent to show a dog. In general, prizes won do not come close to the expense of showing when one figures entry fees, traveling & equipment expenses, training, grooming and all other expenses that go along with showing a dog. The real prize is training and working with your dog..... and
ultimately knowing the "team" effort has done such a good
job the "team" takes the reward. After all the dog
loves you most dogs could care less if the judge likes them or
not.... It's all for their family. |
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Updated: Monday, November 06, 2006
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