Conformation Judging

Dog Shows, or “conformation” events, are the signature events of the AKC. Exhibits are judged against individual breed standards, which have been established for the AKC-recognized breeds by their parent clubs. There written standards describe the ideal size, color, and temperament of each breed, as well as correct proportion.

Obedience Trials test a dog’s ability to perform a prescribed set of exercises on which it is scored. In each exercise, the dog must score more than 50% of the possible points (ranging from 20 to 40) and get a total score of at least 170 out of a possible 200. Each time the dog gets that magic 170 qualifying score, he’s earned a “leg” towards his title. Three legs and the dog has become an Obedience Titled dog. there are 3 levels at which a dog can earn a title and each is more difficult than the one before it.

Rally is a sport in which the dog and the handler compete through a course of designated stations. Rally provides a link from the Canine good Citizen program to obedience or agility competition, both for dogs and handlers. in addition, rally promotes fun and enjoyment for dogs at all levels of competition.

Agility is the ultimate game for you and your dog. It is also one of the most exciting canine sports for spectators. In agility, a dog demonstrates its agile nature and versatility by following cues from the handler through a timed obstacle course. The course has jumps, tunnels, weave poles, and other obstacles. Agility strengthens the bond between dogs and handlers, it is extremely fun and it provides vigorous exercise for both.