Dogs are undoubtedly man’s best friend. From playing with them to taking them for walks, dogs can bring so much joy and happiness to our lives. But dogs are not just pets; they are athletes too. The world of dog shows and competitions is a huge and exciting one. This article will explore the best dog shows in the world.

What are Dog Shows?

Dog shows are events where dogs are judged based on their breed and conformation to breed standards. There are different types of dog shows, including all-breed shows and specialty shows. All-breed shows are open to all breeds of dogs, while specialty shows are only open to a specific breed or group of breeds.

Types of Conformation Dog Shows

There are several types of conformation dog shows, including:

All-Breed Shows: These are the most common type of conformation shows and feature all breeds of dogs recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC). These shows are typically held over multiple days and involve a series of breed-specific competitions, culminating in the selection of the Best in Show.

Group Shows: These shows feature only one AKC group, such as the Sporting or Working group. Dogs are judged based on how well they conform to their breed standards, and the best dog in the group is chosen.

Specialty Shows: These shows are limited to a specific breed or group of breeds. They are typically hosted by breed clubs and offer an opportunity for breed enthusiasts to come together and showcase their dogs.

Limited Breed Shows: These shows are similar to specialty shows but are restricted to a particular geographic area or region. They may also be limited to a specific group of breeds or a single breed.

Rare Breed Shows: These shows are designed to showcase rare and lesser-known breeds that the AKC does not yet recognize. They may also include breeds that are recognized by other kennel clubs but are not yet recognized by the AKC.

National Breed Shows: These shows are hosted by national kennel clubs and feature only one breed. They are typically held annually and offer breed enthusiasts an opportunity to showcase the best dogs in their breed.

International Shows: These shows are held in different countries and may feature a variety of breeds from different kennel clubs around the world. They offer an opportunity for breeders and enthusiasts to compete internationally.

How Does a Dog Show Work?

Dog shows are a contest where dogs are assessed based on their adherence to their breed’s official standard rather than against other dogs in the competition. The objective is to have one dog emerge as the winner and earn the title of Best in Show after an elimination process. The process starts at the breed level, where each breed is categorized into classes by sex. The competition begins with males, followed by females. Handlers or owners enroll their dogs in a particular class, including Puppy, Twelve-to-Eighteen Months, Novice, Amateur-Owner-Handler, Bred-by Exhibitor, American-Bred, and Open.

At the end of each standard class, judges bestow placements and ribbons to the competitors. The top prize, first place, is recognized with a blue ribbon. Second place earns a red ribbon, third place earns a yellow ribbon, and fourth place is awarded a white ribbon.

The dogs that win the titles of “Winners Dog” and “Winners Bitch” are eligible to participate in the “Winners Class” along with the Champion dogs and first-place winners of non-regular classes, like the Veterans class. This is to win the “Best of Breed” award.

The competition

The competition at a specialty show has ended, and at all-breed and group shows, the Best of Breed winners move on to compete in the group competition. The American Kennel Club (AKC) has classified all its recognized breeds into seven groups based on their purposes and characteristics: Sporting, Hound, Working, Terrier, Toy, Non-Sporting, and Herding.

Sporting dogs were bred for bird hunting on land and water, including breeds like Pointers, Retrievers, Setters, and Spaniels. Hounds were bred to hunt other animals by sight or scent, such as Beagles, Basset Hounds, Dachshunds, and Greyhounds. Working dogs perform functions like cart-pulling, property guarding, and search and rescue, including breeds like Akitas, Boxers, Doberman Pinschers, and St. Bernards. Terriers were bred to eliminate pests like rats, including breeds like Airedales, Cairn Terriers, and Scottish Terriers. Toy dogs were bred as companions and included small breeds like Chihuahuas, Maltese, Pomeranians, and Pugs. Non-Sporting dogs are diverse in size and function and include breeds like Chow Chows, Bulldogs, Dalmatians, and Poodles. Herding dogs assist shepherds and ranchers in herding livestock, including breeds like Briards, Collies, German Shepherd Dogs, and Old English Sheepdogs.

In group competitions, a judge awards four placements: first place receiving a blue ribbon or rosette, second receiving red, third receiving yellow, and fourth receiving white. The first-place winner from each group advances to the Best in Show competition at all-breed shows. From the seven group winners, the judge selects the Reserve Best in Show and Best in Show winners, the highest award at a dog show. The Best in Show winner traditionally receives a red, white, and blue ribbon and is the only undefeated dog at the end of the confirmation event.

The Best Dog Shows in the World

Crufts

Crufts is the world’s largest and most famous dog show, held annually in Birmingham, England. It was first held in 1891 and has since become a major event in the canine world, attracting thousands of dogs and handlers from around the globe.

Crufts features many competitions and events, including breed shows, agility, obedience, flyball, heelwork, music, and more. It is organized by the Kennel Club, the oldest and largest organization dedicated to the welfare of dogs in the United Kingdom.

The event’s highlight is the Best in Show competition, where the winners of each breed category compete for the coveted title of Best in Show. The competition is judged by an expert panel of judges, who evaluate the dogs based on their breed standards and overall appearance.

Crufts is a major event for dog enthusiasts and a popular television program. It is broadcast live on television in the UK and has a worldwide audience. The event also features trade stands, exhibitions, and demonstrations, making it a fun and educational day for all the family.

However, Crufts has also faced controversy over the years, including allegations of animal cruelty, inbreeding, and breed standards prioritizing appearance over health. The Kennel Club has taken steps to address these issues, including introducing new breed standards and health testing requirements and implementing stricter animal welfare policies at the event.

Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show

The Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show is one of the best dog shows in the world, held annually in New York City. It is the second oldest continuously held sporting event in the United States, after the Kentucky Derby, and has been held since 1877.

The Westminster Dog Show features breed showing and obedience competitions, junior handling, agility, and other events. It is organized by the Westminster Kennel Club, a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting purebred dogs and their responsible breeding and ownership.

The event’s highlight is the Best in Show competition, where the winners of each breed category compete for the title of Best in Show. The competition is judged by experts who evaluate the dogs based on their breed standards and overall appearance.

The Westminster Dog Show is a major event in the canine world, attracting thousands of dogs and handlers from around the United States and the world. It is broadcast live on television in the United States and has a large audience.

The event has also faced controversy over the years, particularly over breed standards and health issues associated with purebred dogs. The Westminster Kennel Club has taken steps to address these issues, including introducing new breed standards and health testing requirements and implementing stricter animal welfare policies at the event.

World Dog Show

The World Dog Show is an annual international dog show organized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI), the largest international federation of kennel clubs. It is held in a different country each year and attracts thousands of dogs and handlers worldwide.

The World Dog Show features breed showing, obedience, agility, and other competitions. It is a major event in the canine world and is considered one of the best dog shows in the world. The event is judged by an expert panel of judges who evaluate the dogs based on their breed standards and overall appearance.

In addition to the competitions, the World Dog Show also includes trade stands, exhibitions, and demonstrations, making it a fun and educational day for all the family. The event provides a platform for exchanging information, ideas, and experiences between dog lovers from different countries and cultures.

The FCI greatly emphasizes the welfare of the dogs participating in the World Dog Show and has implemented strict rules and regulations to ensure their safety and well-being. This includes health checks, vaccinations, and guidelines on transportation, accommodation, and care.

The World Dog Show celebrates the diversity and beauty of dogs and promotes responsible breeding and ownership practices. It is a unique opportunity for dog lovers worldwide to come together and share their passion for these wonderful animals.

Eukanuba National Championship

The Eukanuba National Championship is an annual dog show and competition sponsored by Eukanuba, a premium dog food brand. The event is held in the United States and is open to dogs of all breeds and sizes.

The Eukanuba National Championship features breed showing, obedience, agility, and other competitions. It is judged by an expert panel of judges who evaluate the dogs based on their breed standards and overall performance. The event’s highlight is the Best in Show competition, where the winners of each category compete for the coveted title of Eukanuba National Champion.

The event also includes exhibitions, demonstrations, and trade stands, providing a fun and educational experience for all the family. It is broadcast on television in the United States and has a large audience.

The Eukanuba National Championship is known for its generous prize, with the Best in Show winner receiving a significant cash prize. The event is also known for its focus on the health and well-being of the dogs and includes strict guidelines on care, nutrition, and veterinary support.

Overall, the Eukanuba National Championship is a major event in the canine world, attracting dogs and handlers from around the United States and the world. It provides a platform for celebrating the beauty and diversity of dogs and promoting responsible breeding and ownership practices.

National Dog Show

The National Dog Show is an annual dog show held in the United States on Thanksgiving Day. It is broadcast on television and has become a popular tradition for many families to watch together.

The National Dog Show features breed showing and obedience competitions, junior handling, agility, and other events. The event is judged by an expert panel of judges who evaluate the dogs based on their breed standards and overall appearance.

The event’s highlight is the Best in Show competition, where the winners of each breed category compete for the title of Best in Show. The competition is judged by experts who evaluate the dogs based on their breed standards and overall appearance.

The Kennel Club of Philadelphia organizes the National Dog Show, which has been held annually since 2002. It is one of the few major dog shows in the United States that is not affiliated with the American Kennel Club.

The National Dog Show has gained popularity over the years and has become a major event in the canine world, attracting thousands of dogs and handlers from around the United States. It is broadcast live on television in the United States and has a large audience.

The event is also known for its focus on the health and well-being of the dogs and includes strict guidelines on care, nutrition, and veterinary support. Overall, the National Dog Show is a celebration of the beauty and diversity of dogs, as well as promoting responsible breeding and ownership practices.

Canadian Kennel Club National Championship

The Canadian Kennel Club National Championship, or the CKC National, is an annual dog show and competition held in Canada. The Canadian Kennel Club, the primary registry for purebred dogs in Canada, organizes it.

The CKC National features breed showing and obedience competitions, junior handling, and other events. The event is judged by an expert panel of judges who evaluate the dogs based on their breed standards and overall performance.

The event’s highlight is the Best in Show competition, where the winners of each breed category compete for the title of CKC National Champion. The competition is judged by experts who evaluate the dogs based on their breed standards and overall appearance.

The event also includes trade stands, exhibitions, and demonstrations, providing a fun and educational experience for all the family. It attracts thousands of dogs and handlers from across Canada and worldwide.

The CKC National is known for its focus on the health and well-being of the dogs and includes strict guidelines on care, nutrition, and veterinary support. It promotes responsible breeding and ownership practices and celebrates the beauty and diversity of dogs.

Overall, the Canadian Kennel Club National Championship is a major event in the canine world, promoting responsible dog ownership and showcasing the best of Canadian-bred dogs. It is a unique opportunity for dog lovers worldwide to come together and share their passion for these wonderful animals.

The European Dog Show

The European Dog Show is an annual event organized by the European Kennel Club (EKC), comprised of kennel clubs from over 40 European countries. The event rotates between different European cities each year and attracts thousands of dogs and handlers worldwide.

The European Dog Show is a conformation show that focuses on breed standards and the physical appearance and structure of the dogs. Dogs are judged by an expert panel of judges who evaluate their movement, temperament, and overall appearance. The show also includes obedience competitions, junior handling competitions, and other events.

In addition to the competitions, the European Dog Show features trade stands, exhibitions, and demonstrations, providing a fun and educational experience for all the family. The event also allows dog lovers to connect and share their passion for dogs.

The European Dog Show has considered one of the largest and best dog shows in the world and Europe, and winning at this event is considered a significant achievement for both the dog and the handler. The event promotes responsible dog breeding and ownership practices and promotes the health and well-being of dogs.

Conclusion 

In conclusion, the best dog shows in the world are an exciting world of competition and athleticism for our furry friends. These shows have different types, including all-breed shows, group shows, specialty shows, limited breed shows, rare breed shows, national breed shows, and international shows. The dogs are assessed based on their breed’s official standard rather than against other dogs in the competition. Dog shows culminate in the selection of the Best in Show after an elimination process starting at the breed level, with males competing first, followed by females. Best of Breed winners move on to compete in the group competition, and the American Kennel Club (AKC) has classified all its recognized breeds into seven groups based on their respective purposes and characteristics. These shows provide an excellent platform for breed enthusiasts to come together and showcase the best dogs in their breed, fostering a sense of community among breeders and enthusiasts alike.