Conformation is not just a beauty contest. Judges study the written breed standards and compare each dog against the standard. Movement is a factor as well as the structure of the dog.

The best trained dogs have an advantage as they always look great. Both gaiting and stacking require different skills in training. Bad temperaments, unruly behavior, and reaction to pressure/stress can take a great looking dog right out of "the ribbons".

Once a dog defeats a pre-set number of other dogs in the same breed, it is a champion. Different registries have different requirements on obtaining a championship, so educate yourself before sending in entries.


Click on the following links for more details:




Canadian Kennel Club
http://www.ckc.ca/en/Default.aspx?tabid=106&ItemId=11


Austalian Shepherd Club of America
http://asca.org/programs/conformation


American Kennel Club
http://www.akc.org/events/conformation/index.cfm


United Kennel Club
http://www.ukcdogs.com/WebSite.nsf/WebPages/DogConformation