Conformation

Class Schedule:

Conformation classes meet for 1 hour once a week for 8 weeks Cost: $65 per 8-week session.

The instructor for these classes is an experienced handler who has bred, trained and shown dogs in the breed ring since 1970.

Need more information?
Email:
or phone (937) 258-8493

What is Conformation?
Conformation or “the breed ring” is where the dog is judged based upon its “looks” or structure. Every breed has a written standard or list of attributes for that breed. The “Parent Club” for that particular breed develops this standard. For example, The Border Terrier Club of America wrote and approved the Border Terrier Breed Standard that is used in judging Border Terriers at AKC shows. The standard depicts the perfect Border Terrier. It describes his head, body, teeth, legs, feet, etc. The judge compares each dog entered with the “perfect dog”, and then determines which entry best matches the “standard of perfection”. The dog will physically examine the dog and also watch the way the dog moves at a trot. This is called “gaiting” the dog. He will also watch the way the dog stands or “stacks”. The dogs are ranked according to their level of adherence to the standard. The standard also lists “faults” or characteristics that are considered negatively when evaluating the dog. Some breeds have “disqualifying faults” or characteristics that would eliminate the dog from competition.

At AKC shows, the dogs entered in a particular breed are divided into three categories: 1) Class Dogs (males that have not yet finished their Championship), 2) Class Bitches (females that have not yet finished their Championship), and 3) Specials (Dogs /Bitches that are already Champions.) All the Class dogs compete first, and after the various classes, the judge picks the Winners Dog (WD). The judge then judges all the class Bitches and picks a Winners Bitch (WB). Then the WD and WB go back into the ring and compete with the Champions for Best of Breed (BOB), Best of Opposite Sex to Best of Breed (BOS), and Best of Winners (WB), or better between the WD and WB. The WD and WB will win the “points” toward their championships. The number of points earned is based on the area of the country where the show is held and the number of dogs in competition. To complete a Championship, a dog must earn 15 points. These must include two major wins (3, 4, or 5 points) under two different judges and at least one point under a third judge. The BOB breed dog then competes in the Group Judging. At AKC shows all the breeds are divided into seven Groups: Sporting, Working, Hound, Terrier, Toy, Non-sporting, and Herding. The first place dog from each of the Groups them competes for Best in Show (BIS). Therefore, a show such as Louisville that started with over 5,000 dogs entered will end up with one dog that is awarded Best in Show.

Conformation handling is wonderful socialization for dogs, as they are encouraged with treats and toys. It gives them an opportunity to have a stranger gently pet/examine them in a non-threatening situation. It is good for all trainers and handlers as it teaches the basis of structure and movement. A sound dog is better equipped to compete in obedience and agility, and these classes are a starting point for recognizing structure, soundness, and movement.

Our Emphasis If you would like to learn more about this part of the Dog Game, come and join the Conformation classes at Gem City. These classes are OPEN TO EVERYONE. Since these classes place the emphasis on the handler, a show quality dog is not required. Students may use any dog to take the class and learn the skills that it takes to present a dog in the breed ring.

Beginners Class

In the Beginners’ class the students will learn how to stack, gait, and free bait the dogs. There is also instruction on the AKC point system, show attire, ring procedures, canine anatomy, and general dog show knowledge. Students are required to do a brief oral presentation on their breed and its standard.

Advanced Class

The Advanced class deals with advanced ring patterns, canine structure and how it affects movement, tack box essentials, Dog show Politics, and how to win in the ring when competing against Professional handlers. Both classes are for eight weeks, and students may start in the Advanced class if they have had prior show experience.

Drop in Classes

Gem City also offers drop in classes for experienced handler who want to start a new dog or need ring experience. These are on Wednesday evenings at 8:00 at the Gem City Building.