The official term for dog shows is conformation — as in, the act of conforming or producing conformity. While a dog show may look like a beauty pageant, it’s not. Dogs are not being compared to each other; they’re being measured by how closely they conform to the standard of their particular breed. As one of the most popular AKC events, conformation events range from large all-breed shows, with over 3,000 dogs entered, to small local specialty club shows that feature only one breed. More information at the AKC website.
Course content:
Familiarity with breed standards and their importance
Reviewing your specific breed standard to evaluate your dog’s faults and positives
Canine anatomy terminology
Proper equipment use for exhibiting specific breeds