Show Your Pup: Different Kinds of Conformation Dog Shows

If you’ve ever dreamed of seeing perfectly groomed dogs striking their best poses, a conformation show is the place to be! Whether you’re a spectator or ready to showcase your AKC-registered dog, there’s a variety of events you can enter.

Benched Shows

Benched shows have a rich history dating back to 1874, when the first dog exhibition in the United States was held in Chicago. The concept of benched shows introduced the practice of requiring dogs to stay at their designated "benches" for the entire event, rather than simply participating in the ring and leaving afterward. This format was established to give spectators a more personal and up-close experience with the dogs and their handlers. It also provided a unique opportunity for dog enthusiasts to meet breeders and owners, ask questions, and gain insight into the intricacies of each breed.

During a benched show, each participating dog has a specific spot or "bench" where it remains for the day. These designated areas allow for direct interaction between the dogs, their handlers, and the public. Visitors can walk through the aisles, observing the dogs and speaking with the breeders and owners about their experiences, the history of the breed, and the care required for each individual dog. This close contact fosters a deeper appreciation of the breeds and promotes conversation about topics such as health, training, temperament, and grooming.

Although benched shows were once the norm for dog exhibitions, they have become much rarer in recent years. However, two prominent shows continue to preserve the tradition of benched events: The Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show and the Kennel Club of Philadelphia’s National Dog Show. These prestigious events continue to require dogs to remain at their benches throughout the show, providing an enriching experience for both exhibitors and spectators alike.

The Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show, held annually in New York City, is one of the most well-known benched shows in the world. It is a highlight of the dog show calendar, attracting top breeders, owners, and handlers from around the globe. Likewise, the National Dog Show in Philadelphia, which is broadcast annually on Thanksgiving Day, also maintains the benched format, offering dog lovers the chance to interact with some of the most highly regarded dogs in the country.

Benched shows are considered a valuable experience for anyone passionate about purebred dogs. They give people the chance to see dogs up close, talk with knowledgeable breeders and handlers, and learn more about the traditions and commitment involved in dog showing. These events allow enthusiasts to appreciate the dogs beyond the competition, creating an atmosphere of education, camaraderie, and shared love for the canine world.

Unbenched Shows

The majority of dog shows are unbenched, meaning exhibitors don’t need to stay at the event all day after their breed’s judging is complete. Once the judges have evaluated their dogs and the results are in, participants can leave if they wish. This format contrasts with benched shows, where dogs must remain at the venue for the entire duration of the event, often in designated areas called "benches," which provide opportunities for spectators to interact with the dogs and their owners. While benched shows offer this unique interaction, unbenched shows tend to be the more common format in dog show circuits.

For exhibitors, unbenched shows provide flexibility. After competing, they have the option to relax, watch other breeds in action, or network with fellow dog enthusiasts. This format is particularly beneficial for those who want to keep the event experience more streamlined or for those who may have multiple dogs competing in different categories. It allows them to focus on their own dog’s performance and then choose whether to stay for the rest of the event or head home early.

Unbenched dog shows are also an excellent learning opportunity. With fewer commitments to stay in one place, exhibitors can take the time to observe other dogs in their breed group, learn from the judging process, and see how other participants prepare their dogs. This interaction fosters a sense of community and allows exhibitors to pick up helpful tips and tricks on handling, grooming, and training. Whether it’s observing a more experienced handler’s techniques or discussing breed standards with other breeders, the environment encourages mutual learning.

These shows are also a great opportunity to witness the diversity of dog breeds. From the majestic herding breeds to the small but energetic terriers, unbenched dog shows allow spectators and exhibitors alike to appreciate the variety of talents and temperaments within the canine world.

Unbenched dog shows are much more than just competitions; they are a chance to grow, learn, and connect with the broader dog-loving community. Whether you’re a novice exhibitor or a seasoned handler, attending these shows offers exposure to various breeds and allows for continuous growth in the world of dog showing.

All-Breed and Specialty Shows

At all-breed dog shows, dogs from every AKC-recognized breed are invited to compete, offering a wide variety of canines for spectators to admire. These events typically attract a large number of entries, as they include almost every breed recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC). All-breed shows are often considered a great starting point for novice exhibitors, as they allow competitors to see how their dogs fare against others of different breeds. These shows are also excellent opportunities to gain exposure, as the dogs compete in specific categories based on their breed, with judges evaluating the dogs according to the AKC’s official breed standards.

While all-breed shows are diverse, National Breed Club Specialty shows are quite different in focus. These events are dedicated to a single breed, often showcasing the very best dogs of that particular breed. They are organized by breed-specific clubs, known as parent clubs, which are dedicated to preserving the breed’s standards and promoting its welfare. National Breed Club Specialty shows are highly prestigious within the dog-show community and tend to last several days, allowing breeders, owners, handlers, and enthusiasts to immerse themselves in all things related to a particular breed.

One of the key benefits of attending or participating in a National Breed Club Specialty is the opportunity for networking. These shows attract serious breeders and experienced handlers, offering an invaluable chance for newcomers to connect with established members of the breed’s community. Whether you're a breeder, handler, or simply a dog enthusiast, these specialty shows provide a platform for sharing knowledge about health, breeding practices, training techniques, and other breed-specific concerns. The long duration of these events also offers attendees ample time for conversations, making it easier to establish relationships with other breeders and enthusiasts who share a passion for the breed.

Additionally, National Breed Club Specialty shows can be a great way to discover more about the breed, from its history to its temperament and unique traits. Many specialty shows host educational seminars, breed talks, and sometimes even performance competitions, allowing attendees to learn from experts. These events highlight the breed’s strengths and offer a close-up view of what makes it so special.

Whether you're attending an all-breed show for exposure to various breeds or attending a National Breed Club Specialty to immerse yourself in a single breed, both types of events provide unique opportunities to network, learn, and grow within the world of dog showing.

Junior Showmanship and Other Fun Events

Junior Showmanship is an educational competition designed specifically for young handlers, aged 9 to 18. In this event, the focus is on the handler’s ability to showcase the dog in the best possible light, rather than the dog’s physical appearance or conformation. Handlers are judged on their skills, presentation, and knowledge of the breed they’re showing. This provides a fantastic opportunity for young dog lovers to develop their handling abilities, learn about the intricacies of dog showing, and become part of the broader dog show community.

In Junior Showmanship, participants are expected to demonstrate excellent control of their dog, whether it’s during individual evaluations or in group settings. Judges assess how well the handler can present the dog’s structure, movement, and behavior, paying close attention to the overall coordination between the handler and their dog. A well-prepared junior handler knows how to maneuver their dog efficiently, showcasing the dog’s best qualities and ensuring that it follows their lead smoothly in the ring. Additionally, handlers must be able to answer breed-specific questions posed by the judge, demonstrating their understanding of the breed’s standards and characteristics.

Many dog shows also offer Pee Wee classes, designed for younger children aged 5 to 9. These classes are non-competitive, making them a great introduction to the world of dog shows. The focus in Pee Wee classes is on fun, learning, and fostering a love for dogs and the sport of showing. Children in these classes get the chance to handle a dog in a relaxed and supportive environment. They’re encouraged to interact with the dogs, learn basic showmanship skills, and develop confidence in handling animals. Pee Wee classes are a wonderful way to introduce kids to the world of dog shows and help them build valuable skills and relationships that will last a lifetime.

In addition to teaching valuable skills like responsibility, sportsmanship, and discipline, Junior Showmanship also fosters a sense of camaraderie and teamwork. It’s a great way for kids to meet others with similar interests, make lifelong friendships, and be part of a community that shares a passion for dogs. For those who excel in Junior Showmanship, there are opportunities to compete in national events like the AKC National Championship and Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show, where they can showcase their skills on a larger stage. Whether participating in local shows or working toward a national title, Junior Showmanship offers young handlers a chance to shine in the world of dog shows.

FSS Open Show

The AKC Foundation Stock Service (FSS) Open Show provides a fantastic opportunity for novice exhibitors and their dogs to enter the world of competitive dog shows. This event is specifically designed for breeds that are not yet fully recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) but are registered under the AKC Foundation Stock Service program. The FSS is a step towards eventual breed recognition, and participating in this type of show can serve as an invaluable experience for both new exhibitors and their dogs.

For many, entering an FSS Open Show is the first taste of the competitive dog show world. The relaxed environment of these shows allows novice exhibitors to gain confidence, improve their handling skills, and learn the ropes without the pressure of competing against more seasoned handlers. These shows are especially helpful for those new to the sport, as they allow them to focus on the fundamentals of dog handling, grooming, and presentation. Whether it’s learning how to properly stack a dog in the ring or mastering the art of the leash, the FSS Open Show serves as an excellent stepping stone for exhibitors who plan to compete at a higher level in the future.

Another great advantage of the FSS Open Show is the opportunity to earn a Certificate of Merit (CM). While these points do not count toward championship titles, they are a great way to build a dog’s credentials and gain recognition within the dog show community. Additionally, the points earned at these shows provide exhibitors and breeders with useful feedback on how their dogs are perceived in the ring. It’s an excellent chance for novice exhibitors to learn more about their dogs’ strengths and areas for improvement.

Participating in these shows also offers a fantastic chance to socialize with other dog owners and breeders who share a passion for developing and promoting their breeds. It’s an excellent environment for networking, exchanging tips, and building relationships with others in the dog show community.

The FSS Open Show serves as an important stepping stone for breeds not yet fully recognized by the AKC. Dogs that participate in these events may eventually move toward full recognition, which opens up more prestigious competitions. This show offers an accessible entry point for novice exhibitors and a chance to showcase their dog’s potential, making it a great way to gain experience, connect with others, and prepare for future dog show successes.

Preparing for Your Show Journey

Whether you’re entering a regional specialty, an open show, or competing in the AKC Owner-Handled Series, one of the most important steps in preparing for your dog’s first show is consulting with your breeder about which class to enter. Your breeder is a valuable resource who understands your dog’s specific traits and qualifications, and can guide you in choosing the most appropriate class based on your dog’s age, breed, and experience. This advice is crucial because each type of show has different requirements and rules for the dogs that compete.

Regional specialties, for example, are often more intimate events focusing on a specific breed or group of breeds. These shows are fantastic opportunities to connect with others who share a passion for the same breed and to learn more about breed standards and health considerations. Regional specialties are ideal for newcomers to the dog show world, as the competition is often less intense compared to large, national events. Your breeder can help you determine if your dog is ready for such an event, depending on factors like age, coat condition, and temperament. They can also give you insight into how to present your dog to the judges and make a good impression in a more focused setting.

Open shows, on the other hand, can be a bit larger and more competitive. These shows allow dogs to compete within their designated group, such as Sporting, Hound, Working, or Toy, and the competition can vary depending on the size and prestige of the event. It’s important to know which group your dog belongs to and whether they fit the characteristics that judges will be looking for. Here, your breeder’s advice is invaluable in helping you navigate the class structure and ensuring your dog is in the right competition tier.

The AKC Owner-Handled Series is another exciting avenue for dog owners who want to showcase their pets without hiring a professional handler. This series is open to non-professional handlers who want to show their dogs and earn recognition. It’s a fantastic opportunity to bond with your dog and gain experience in the ring. Consulting with your breeder on entering the AKC Owner-Handled Series can help ensure that your dog is physically and mentally ready for the challenge, as the series can be particularly demanding for both dog and owner.

Ultimately, no matter which type of show you decide to enter, you’ll find that dog shows offer a unique experience. Beyond the competition, it’s an opportunity to meet fellow dog lovers, exchange tips, and most importantly, spend quality time with your beloved pup. The camaraderie and shared passion for dogs make every event, big or small, an enjoyable and rewarding experience for everyone involved.