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
Show procedures and attitude
Movement patterns
Stacking your dog considering the breed
Ring appearance
Good sportsmanship
Nonverbal signs from judges
CDTC is currently NOT offering Conformation classes but hopes to do so again soon.
