Agility
An obstacle race for dogs. Dogs and
handlers complete course made up of jumps, A-frames, dog
walks, weave pole, tunnels and other apparatus at a
controlled pace. Speed and accuracy are important in
developing the skills required for agility.
All-Breed Club
An organized group of dog fanciers,
recognized by the Canadian Kennel Club (CKC) and/or American
Kennel Club (AKC) to hold all-breed dog shows and
performance events within their geographic boundaries. New
clubs are considered "Sanctioned" which means that although
they are officially recognized, they are not yet authorized
to hold pointed shows. "Licensed" clubs have successfully
completed a series of pre-requisite qualifying events, and
are now authorized to conduct official all-breed events
which award points. "Member" clubs are licensed clubs who
have opted to have a representative regularly attend and
represent their interests as a voting member club of the CKC
and/or AKC. An important requisite mission that all clubs
must perform is their duty to educate the general public on
responsible dog ownership, breeding practices, and the
multi-faceted world of purebred dogs.
All-Breed Show
An event where dogs are judged as to how
closely each CONFORMS (hence the term "conformation") to
it's own breed's written standard of perfection. Often shows
are accompanied by Obedience Trials, Junior Showmanship
Competition, and some non-regular class events, such as
sweepstakes and futurities or Canine Good Citizen tests.
Exhibitors are usually happy to talk to you about their
breed, their breeding program, etc. *after* they have
finished showing. Please do not touch or feed the dogs
without first receiving the owner's direct permission.
American Kennel Club
Organized in the late 1800's, the AKC is
a body of licensed clubs whose stated mission is to:
- Maintain a registry for purebred dogs
and preserve its integrity. Sanction dog events that
promote interest in, and sustain the process of,
breeding for type and function of purebred dogs.
The AKC's stated objective is to advance the
study, breeding, exhibiting, running and maintenance of
purebred dogs.
AKC states its' core values as:
"The human/animal bond, which is perpetuated and supported
by purpose-bred dogs for companionship, sport, work,
service, etc., is valuable. Dogs bring joy and people who
keep dogs as pets feel safer and live longer. All dogs are
wonderful, but purpose bred or purebred dogs are more
predictable in many important ways than random- bred dogs
and therefore make better pets. Pet ownership is more
widespread in the US today than in any other country of the
world, at any time in history. More than 50% of all
households have pets; 36% keep dogs, about a third of which
are recognizable breeds.
Breeding for type and function to create,
preserve and improve breeds ties modern urban populations
with the 12,000 year tradition of animal husbandry, now
vanishing from the rest of our culture. In the last 100
years, this country, along with the rest of the Western
world, has undergone what many historians call the most
dramatic transformation in human history. It is the shift
from rural, agricultural society to an urban technological
one. When AKC was created, more than half of all Americans
lived on farms. Even at the turn of the century, 85% of all
jobs were agriculturally based. Today, less than one in
fifty Americans lives on a farm but more than 50% of
households maintains positive contact with animals by
keeping pets. Very few people have hands-on experience in
animal husbandry anymore-- and that make AKC's constituents
unique subject matter experts in an area that touches and
matters to half of all households. AKC breeders are the
experts, the preservationist, the ones who tie society to
its past and support society's present need to maintain the
human/animal bond."
Armband
A number printed on paper which an exhibitor
wears to indicate the entered dog's (or Junior's) reference
number in the judge's book and catalog. This number is the
only identification that the judge is allowed access to
before and during the competition.
Article
Items used in Obedience Trial competition
which are utilized in exercises testing retrieval on command
or scent discrimination. These can be wooden, leather or
metal dumbbells.
Bait
When used as a verb, as "to bait the dog" or
"to freebait," this refers to using an item of food or toy
to gain the dogs' attention; showing expression and
animation to the judge.
When used as a noun, it refers to items of
food (usually cooked liver, cheese, or other treat) used to
bait the dog to show expression and animation.
Benched Show
An all-breed show specifically designed for
public education and enjoyment, wherein all dogs are
required to stay in an assigned "benching area" for the
duration of the show, (except when being exercised, groomed,
or exhibited) in order that the public may easily view the
exhibits up close and talk to the breeders, owners, and
handlers. There are very few benched shows left in the USA -
the ones that readily come to mind are Westminster Kennel
Club in New York City, International Kennel Club in Chicago,
and Golden Gate in San Francisco. These are very large,
heavily attended shows by the public. Excellent for the
public, but can be exhausting for the exhibitors.
Best In Show (BIS)
A coveted award given to the ONE dog who, at
the end of an all-breed dog show, has successfully defeated
ALL other dogs of all breeds entered that day - by being
judged to be the dog who - on that day, is considered to be
the most closely conforming to it's own breed's written
standard of excellence. The rosette given for a BIS win is
red, white and blue.
Best Junior Handler (BJH)
The award given to the ONE Junior Handler at
an all-breed or specialty show, who is judged to have
exhibited the highest degree of skill in presenting their
dog as effectively and skillfully as possible, by way of
defeating the balance of other junior handling entrants. The
rosette given for a BJH win is pink and green.
Best of Winners (BOW)
A competition between the Winners Dog and the
Winners Bitch, held during the Best of Breed Competition,
whereby the two dogs are judged as to which one is
considered to be most closely conformed to its written breed
standard. The winner of BOW receives the highest number of
points given to that breed's WD or WB that day. For
instance, if it was only two points in Dogs that day, and 4
points in Bitches, and the Dog won Best of Winners, he, too
would be awarded 4 points.
Bitch
A female dog. NOT a dirty word. Get used to
it.
Brace
Two dogs of the same breed and exact same
ownership being shown together as a pair in order to display
the breeder's consistency in their breeding program. Dogs
selected to be shown in a brace should display the same
attributes, virtues, style and type. Brace competition is a
non-regular competition and no points are awarded.
Bred By
A competitive class in conformation, the Bred
by Exhibitor class is a breeder's showcase of the specimens
s/he is most proud of - and those that they wish to
represent the best of their kennel. Exhibits must be shown
by the actual breeder of record - not a handler. AKC has
recently implemented a program to award dogs who finish
their championships entirely from the BBE class. A medallion
is given to the breeder as special recognition.
Breed
Used as a verb, to breed is to cause the
reproduction of two animals. As a noun, the term "Breed" is
used to describe a particular sub-species of animals of
similar type and heritage, who have been carefully and
intentionally bred to meet certain functional,
temperamental, and physical characteristics. "Breed
competition" or "in the breed ring" are also common
references to competiting in the conformation classes at a
dog show.
Breed Standard
A written standard of excellence
describing the functional, temperamental, and physical
attributes which the dedicated students and caretakers of
the breed - via their national parent organization, have
agreed upon as the official description of perfection for
their particular breed.
Campaign (Conformation)
To enter and compete in a large number of
shows with a Champion of Record (a "Special") - in order to
obtain national rankings by way of defeating the greatest
number of other dogs. Most commonly done by using the
services of a Professional Handler. Requires a substantial
investment and an excellent dog and handler.
Campaign (Obedience)
To enter and compete in a large number of
obedience trials at the Open or Utility level. Points are
accumulated with the scores achieved. Top dogs are
recognized by the CKC and/or the AKC for placements in both
the breed and group. An overall "Top 10" list is accumulated
of the dogs and handlers that achieve the highest point
totals in their respective countries during a calendar year.
Canine Good Citizen
AKC's temperament certification program
aimed mostly towards the general public as an encouragement
to buy/breed only temperamentally sound dogs, and to do at
least a *little* obedience training, so that their dogs will
be welcome, safe, and happy in public situations. Dogs and
their handlers are put through a series of simple exercises
such as walking on lead through a crowd of strangers,
sitting on command, standing for examination, response to
being left alone for a moment, etc. Successful participants
are given a certificate of achievement. Although the "CGC"
is NOT an official AKC title, many people are proud to list
this among their dogs accomplishments, as it represents that
the dog is of stable temperament in public.
The CKC
The Canadian Kennel Club is devoted to
encouraging, guiding and advancing the interests of purebred
dogs and their responsible owners and breeders in Canada. It
promotes the knowledge and understanding of the benefits
which dogs can bring to Canada and the means by which these
benefits can most effectively be enjoyed.
The CKC cooperates with governments at all
levels in Canada in the development of legislation which
will effectively control the activities of irresponsible dog
owners and breeders without unduly restricting responsible
owners and breeders. The C.K.C maintains a system of
registration of purebred dogs that satisfies the
requirements of the Animal Pedigree Act, Agriculture Canada
and the Club members.
It maintains a system whereby clubs and
associations wishing to do so may hold dogs shows, obedience
trials, field trials and other trials, tests and activities
for purebred dogs under the auspices of and in accordance
with the rules, regulations, standards, policies and
procedures established by the Club. It encourages and
assists persons and organizations engaged in these
activities and co-operates with other associations and clubs
engaged in furthering the interests of purebred animals.
Catalogue
A document sold at shows which lists each
entered dog's entry number, class entered, registered name
and number, breeder, owner, sire, dam, and date of birth.
Excellent tool for following along with the competition and
looking for patterns in breeding that you prefer, as well as
breeders and exhibitors to contact. If the show also has
obedience classes the catalogue will list each dog by class
and entry numbers. It will also list the same information
about the handler and dog as for the conformation classes.
Champion
In AKC competition, a Champion of Record
("CH") title is given to a dog or bitch who has won a total
of 15 points at licensed AKC shows. At least 6 of these
points must have come from "Major" wins (see "Points") under
different judges. A Champion of Record may then enter and
compete in the Best of Breed competition, and the "CH"
becomes an official prefix to the dog's registered name.
In CKC competition, a Champion of Record
("CH") title is given to a dog or bitch earning 10 points at
licensed CKC shows under at least 3 different judges. As
with the AKC, a Champion of Record may then enter and
compete in the Best of Breed competition, and the "CH"
becomes an official prefix to the dog's registered name.
Champions are often referred to as
"specials" - usually when they are being actively
campaigned. Champions of Record also used to be commonly
referred to as "bench champions" referring to the formerly
common practice of holding benched shows.
Choke
As a noun, a "choke" is a metal, nylon, or
leather collar consisting of a straight piece of the
material, usually joined by looping it through one of two
rings on each end. This is the most common collar worn by
dogs in the breed ring. Worn properly, with the pull loop
coming off the top of the head, this does NOT actually choke
the dog, but rather gives a quick correction to get the
dog's attention. It immediately releases. Kind of a quick
"Hello?!" or "Hey, knock it off!" signal from the handler to
the dog.
Classes
Although there ARE actual instructional
classes available to learn to handle dogs in many
performance events, the most common use of the term
"Classes" is when referring to the different class divisions
which are available to show your dog in when entered at a
dog show. In conformation, the "class dogs" (those who have
not finished their championships) are divided first by sex
(males go in first), then further divided by age group and
experience level.
Regular Conformatoin Classes are:
- Puppy 6 months to under 9 months ("6
to 9")
- Puppy 9 months to under 12 months ("9
to 12")
- Junior 12 months to under 18 months
("12 to 18") (Specialties only)
- Novice (for unpointed dogs)
- Bred By Exhibitor ("Bred-By" - shown
by the dog's breeder)
- CanBred ("CanBred" - bred & whelped
in the USA)
- Open (open to all purebred dogs at
least 6 mos old, but usually containing fully mature
dogs)
The first place winners of each of these
classes in each sex compete for Winners Dog or Winners
Bitch. These two remaining dogs are the only dogs of that
breed who, at that show, receive points towards their
championships. These two dogs also compete in the Best of
Breed that day.
In obedience competition, the following
classes exist:
- Novice A - dogs and handlers that are
trying to obtain a CD for the first time
- Novice B - dogs and handlers that are
trying to obtain a CD that have an OTCH on a dog or are
professional trainers
- Open A - dogs and handlers that are
trying to obtain a CDX for the first time
- Open B - dogs and handlers that have
obtained a CDX or are professional trainers.
- Utility (Canadian) - those trying to
obtain the UD and OTCH designation
- Utility A (American) - those trying
to obtain the UD title for the first time
- Utility B (American) - those trying
to obtain an OTCH in the US
In obedience competition, dogs and handlers
compete for "LEGS" which are qualifying scores of 170 or
more out of a possible 200. To earn a title, a dog and
handler must get 3 "LEGS" under at least 2 different judges.
Closing Date
The last date by which entries must be
received by the show superintendent or secretary, in order
for an entry to be valid and included in the show's
competition. Entries usually close 4 weeks prior to the show
date in order to allow the club to arrange the judging
schedule and prepare and print the catalogs etc. Closing
dates are always listed clearly in the premium lists, as
well as in the CKC's "Dogs in Canada" magazine for
Canadian Shows or for American shows, the
AKC's Gazette
Conformation
How well a specific dog's structure, type and
temperament conform to it's breed's written standard of
excellence.
Conformation competition is also commonly referred to as
"breed competition."
The term "dog confirmation," on the other hand, is reserved
for dogs who confirm their faith by regularly attending
Catholic Mass.
Cow Palace
A large benched dog show held in February in
San Francisco's Cow Palace by the Golden Gate Kennel Club.
Heavily attended by the public. Considered a larger show in
size than Westminster.
Crate
A containment unit used to safely transport
and house a dog during rest periods. Dogs feel very safe and
secure in their crates, which double as their private
"dens." Crates are a CRITICAL piece of safety equipment for
ALL dogs travelling in cars. Crates function in much the
same way as does a child's safety seat; preventing dogs from
being hurled through glass windows during a collision, and
taking the impact of a crash. DOGS (and people for that
matter) SHOULD *NEVER* ride loose in the back of a truck. If
you wouldn't allow your three year old barefoot human child
to stand on a hot or wet and slippery truckbed floor with no
protection from the elements or from the effects of a sudden
stop, bump, turn, or collision, why would you allow your
dog??!! Illegal in most states and grounds for *immediate*
and non-negotiable, contractually enforced return of any dog
we adopt into a new family.
Croup
The lower spinal region of a dog, containing
the back of the pelvis to the root of the tail.
Crufts
"The" international dog show of the year,
held outside of London, England each March. Visit Crufts'
page.
Dog
Used specifically, a term to describe a MALE
canine. Generally, a term used to describe the canine
species.
Ex
A handy term used to refer to one's former
spouse (you know - the one who hated dogs :) --OR-- an
abbreviation for the verb to exercise (potty) one's dog -
allowing them to eliminate, stretch their legs, etc. As in
"I'm going to ex the dogs before bed."
Ex-Pen
A portable wire fencing unit taken to shows
to allow dogs a safe, clean place to eliminate and stretch
out.
Finish
In conformation competition, to finish means
to have won enough points to be awarded the title of
Champion of Record. In obedience a finish is a transitional
movement the dog makes between the completion of a recall,
and the return to the heel position.
Flexi
"Flexi-Lead" is the common brand name of a
retractable, spring loaded lead which allows a dog to wander
and traverse at a distance from the handler without getting
caught up in the lead itself. Not used in competition, but a
god-send for casual walks and exercises. Available at any
large pet supply store or from vendors at a show.
A canine sport for dogs. A relay race with
consisting of 4 dogs that individually run over 4 hurdles
placed 10 feet apart and retrieve a tennis ball after
triggering a box. The dog must then return back over the
jumps with the tennis ball in their mouth. Once the dog has
crossed the finish line, the next dog goes. Once all 4 dogs
have completed, the race is over. This sport is played with
two lanes and whichever team crosses the finish line first
wins the race. Dogs compete for titles as well as for
rosettes for defeating other teams.
Free Bait
To use food, toy, or some other enticement to
get the dog to stack properly (without physical interaction
from the handler) and show alert, animated expression while
standing in the breed ring being judged. The term "free"
comes from "hands-free."
Futurity
A non-regular competition whereby the breeder
nominates a litter before it is whelped, and enters the
produce from that litter in a special competition (usually
held at National Specialty Shows). The idea is that these
dogs represent that breeders best efforts in researching and
planing their highest quality litter for that year, based
upon their knowledge, understanding and confidence of the
genetic potential of the proposed breeding.
Gait
The most efficient way of moving for a
particular dog. Most breeds are gaited at a trot or jogging
speed.
Garden (The)
Slang for the Westminster Kennel Club's high
visibility, prestigious, and well respected benched show
held in New York City's Madison Square Garden each February.
Normally held and internationally televised on the Monday
and Tuesday of the second week in February each year. The
'98 show will be held during the third week in February, due
to scheduling conflicts with Madision Square Garden.
Get
The offspring of a stud dog.
Groom
To bathe, dry, comb, clip and scissors a dog
to best exhibit its virtues. Very strict rules and
traditions govern "correct" grooming, and significant talent
and experience is required to become excellent at
show-grooming the coated breeds.
Group(s)
Groupings of dogs by their traditional
functional similarities. The AKC and CKC currently has seven
groups;
- Sporting (dogs used for upland
gamebird hunting i.e. retrievers, pointers, setters,
spaniels)
- Hound (dogs who track by sight or
scent)
- Working (guard, pulling and/or rescue
dogs)
- Terrier (dogs who were bred to kill
vermin)
- Toy (dogs who were bred strictly as
small companions to people)
- Non-Sporting (dogs whose original job
no longer exists, or who no longer are used for their
original function)
- Herding (Dogs bred to gather and move
livestock - formerly part of the Working Group)
Each recognized breed belongs to a specific
Group. Each breed awards a Best of Breed (BOB) winner to
represent that breed in the afternoon's Group competition,
whereby the BOB contestants compete for group placement
awards of 1st, 2nd, 3rd, and 4th in group. The winner of
each group's first place award goes on to represent their
group in the Best in Show competition at the end of the day.
Handler
The person presenting the dog in competition.
Often a term used to refer to a professional handler.
Judge
An adjudicating official tasked with
evaluating and comparing how well, in his/her opinion, and
in comparison to the other dogs entered in the class that
day, a dog conforms to its breed's written standard of
excellence. Other performance events also have official
judges.
Judging Schedule
A small (usually free) publication offered by
the superintendent/show secretary which lists when and where
each breed will be judged that day, and by whom. For a
complete listing of dogs, their breeders, owners, etc, buy a
complete catalog.
Junior
A young person between the ages of 10 and up
to their 18th birthday, who competes with other juniors of
similar age/experience levels in exhibiting their technical
skills of handling dogs, ring conduct, and sportsmanship.
Junior Handling
The actual competitive classes offered for
Juniors exhibiting their handling skills, which are usually
offered at dog shows and matches. The AKC and CKC offer
classes for two age groups, each divided by skill:
- Novice Junior (Ages 10 up to 14, who
have won less than three 1st place awards with
competition)
- Novice Senior (Ages 14 up to 18, who
have won less than three 1st place awards with
competition)
- Open Junior (Ages 10 up to 14, who
have won at least three 1st place awards with
competition)
- Open Senior (Ages 14 up to 18, who
have won at least three 1st place awards with
competition)
The first place winners of each of these four
classes compete for Best Junior Handler.
Lead
A thin leather, nylon, cotton, etc. piece of
material usually with a metal snap or clip connector on one
end to attach to the dog's collar, and a loop on the other
end for the handler to hold on to, leading the dog around
the show ring. This is not called a leash - which is a thick
piece of material used to take your dogs for a walk or
compete in obedience.
Loin
The area of the body between the last ribcage
and the beginning of the pelvis. (In human terms, this would
be the waist). The lower portion of the loin is known as the
"tuck-up."
Major
"A Major" is a big win for a class dog who
has defeated enough dogs that day by going Winners Dog or
Winners Bitch, to earn either 3, 4, or 5 points towards its
championship. The point schedule is different for each
breed, sex, and region, depending upon entries. Also see
"Points" definition below.
National
An annual specialty show hosted by the
breed's national parent breed club. Usually considered that
breed's most important, competitive, and prestigious event
to win or place well in.
Novice A/B
Basic level Obedience classes. Dogs
successfully achieving three qualifying scores ("legs") of
at least 170 out of 200 points (including earning at least
50% of available points for each separate exercise) are
awarded the title "Companion Dog" and are allowed to add the
"CD" suffix to their registered name. Obedience classes are
divided into two groups; (A and B) - "A" for exhibitors who
have not yet added this title to a dog's name that they have
either handled or trained, and "B" or more experienced
exhibitors who have. Exercises in these classes include:
- Heel on Leash and Figure
Eight........40 points
- Stand for
Examination....................30 points
- Heel Free (off leash)
........................40 points
- Recall (return to handler and sit
front)......30 points
- Long Sit (1
minute)...........................30 points
- Long Down (3 minutes)
.....................30 points
Maximum Total Score....................200
points
In AKC competition the stand for exam is done off leash and
in CKC competition the Stand for Exam is done off leash and
in CKC competition the Stand for Exam is done on leash.
Novice Junior
A handling class for young people between the
ages of 10 and up to their 14th birthday who have not yet
won three first place awards in a novice handling class
*with* competition.
Novice Senior
A handling class for young people between the
ages of 14 and up to their 18th birthday who have not yet
won three first place awards in a novice handling class
*with* competition.
A competitive performance event whereby the
dog and handler are judged on their ability to execute a
predetermined set of exercises which display the dog's
ability to adhere to certain commands. Dogs are scored on
their tractability, style, and execution using a *very*
strict scale of 0 - 200 points. Dogs achieving 3 qualifying
scores ("legs") of at least 170 are awarded official AKC/CKC
titles as suffixes to their registered name. The three
regular AKC/CKC obedience classes - in order of degree of
difficulty) are:
- Novice (which earns the title of
"Companion Dog" or "CD")
- Open (which earns the title of
"Companion Dog Excellent" or "CDX")
- Utility (which earns the title of
"Utility Dog" or "UD")
There are additional titles available for
dogs competing at the highest levels, such as UDX for dogs
earning 10 qualifying scores in both Open B and Utility B,
and OTCH (Obedience Trial Champion). Obedience Trials can be
held in conjunction with all-breed conformation shows, or as
independent events. The AKC is now in the process of
creating a special "juniors" obedience division to encourage
kids to get involved! Yeah AKC!
In Canada, 3 UD legs earns the title of
OTCH. In the US 100 points must be collected to earn the
title of OTCH.
Occiput
A boney section of the skull located at the
back of the topskull. Also known as an Occipital
Protuberance. This bone, during puberty, or if not situated
properly in an adult, creates an unattractive bump (or
protuberance) in the shape of the headpiece. Situated
properly, it creates a slight dome to the skull.
Open A/B
Mid-level obedience classes (off leash) which
earn the suffix title of Companion Dog Excellent ("CDX")
when they earn three qualifying scores of at least 170 out
of 200 points (including earning at least 50% of available
points for each separate exercise) from three different
judges. Obedience classes are divided into two groups; (A
and B) - "A" for exhibitors who have not yet added this
title to a dog's name that they have either handled or
trained, and "B" or more experienced exhibitors who have.
Exercises include:
- Heel Free and Figure
Eight.............40 points
- Drop on
Recall.........................30 points
- Retrieve on
Flat.......................20 points
- Retrieve over High
Jump................30 points
- Broad
Jump.............................20 points
- Long Sit - out of
site.................30 points
- Long Down - out of
site................30 points
Maximum Total Score.......................200
points
Open Junior
A handling class for young people between the
ages of 10 and up to their 14th birthday who have already
won three first place awards in a novice handling class
*with* competition.
Open Senior
A handling class for young people between the
ages of 14 and up to their 18th birthday who have already
won three first place awards in a novice handling class
*with* competition.
Parent Club (aka National Breed Club)
The officially recognized national
organization governing each specific breed's independent
specialty clubs. Parent clubs or "National Breed Clubs" are
tasked with being the official guardians of their breeds and
their written standards and stud book in this country, and
to protect the welfare and integrity of their respective
breeds.
Pastern
The area between a dog's paws and it's lower
arm, which - in the front - relates to a human wrist area,
and in the rear relates to a human's sole of foot. In the
rear, the pasterns are topped by "hocks" which relate to a
human heel / ankle bone. Often, this entire rear foot
assembly in general is mistakenly referred to as the "hock."
A good way to understand and visualize the components of a
dogs foot / leg assembly is to sit in a chair barefooted and
rest your weight on just your bent toes. Your toes and ball
of foot would be the dog's "paw" or foot; your soles would
be the pasterns, and your heels/ankle would be the hocks.
See also Stifle and Patella.
Patella
The knee joint of a dog's rear legs which
allow the dog's legs to bend and flex as they move. The
patellar joint consists of bone, ligaments and muscle
tissue. A frequent disorder of this joint, Patellar luxation
is a looseness or hyperextension of the joining tendons
which allows the kneecap to slip off of its "runners"
causing pain and inability to move correctly. Luxated
Patellae can be surgically corrected. LP is thought to be a
genetically inheritable tendency, but can also be caused by
injury.
Pedigree Invitational
A special annual non-regular competition for
Open level junior handlers, sponsored by Kal-Kan Pedigree.
Pedigree designates approximately 12 of the largest shows in
the country as either Open Junior and/or Open Senior
"Qualifiers." The winners of these qualifiers and their
chaperones are invited to attend an all expenses paid
special competition which is broadcast on ESPN. The winner
of the Open Senior Invitational represents the USA at the
international competition at the prestigious Crufts Dog show
in England. The winner of the Open Junior invitational
competition represents the USA at the FCI World Dog Show,
which this year was held in Puerto Rico. Again, Pedigree
covers all expenses - including the wonderful
extra-curricular sight seeing activities. Juniors owe a debt
of great thanks to Kal-Kan Pedigree for their outstanding
efforts and commitment to supporting the future of the sport
of dog shows by sponsoring these wonderful events.
Points
In conformation ("breed") competition, CKC &
AKC award between one and five points towards their Champion
of Record title - depending on the regional point schedule
and/or how many dogs defeated - to both the Winners Dog and
Winners Bitch of each breed entered at a show.To receive the
title of Champion in Canada a dog must earn at least 10
points, winning points from at least e judges. To receive
the title of Champion in US, a dog must earn at least 15
points; at least 6 of which must come from two different
judges, and be "majors." A "major" is a substantial
achievement earned by defeating a large number of dogs
relative to that breed. A major consists of either 3, 4, or
5 points.
In obedience competition, points are
awarded towards the Obedience Trial Champion title based on
scores and the number of dogs defeated. 100 points earns the
title of OTCH in the US. Points are also given out to
qualifying scores in the Open and Utility level and
accumulate within a calendar year to determine placing
within the breed and within the group. While earning each
title scores are given to the dog and handler. Any score
over 170 points earns a qualifying "leg" towards their
title. Three "legs" and the dog earns the title associated
with the scores.
In junior handling competition, points are
garnered by the number of competitors defeated. In the most
widely recognized scoring system, which AKC is in the
process of beginning to track, one point is awarded for each
competitor you defeat. (You do not count yourself, as you
did not defeat yourself). The Best Jr. Handler receives one
point for each other competitor entered and defeated that
day.
Post Sternum
The "breastbone" on a dog. Located on its
forechest midway between its point of shoulders, a somewhat
protruding post sternum is desirable in most sporting,
working, and herding breed - as it is thought to indicate a
chest cavity large enough to accommodate lungs and heart
expansion as they work in heavy physical activity.
Premium List
A publication created by the show
superintendent or secretary which is mailed to prospective
exhibitors, listing the show giving club, the date and
location of the show, the judges, classes and awards
("premiums") offered, etc. Premium lists contain forms and
fees for entering, and list the closing date by which
entries must be received. You may request a specific premium
list by contacting the show superintendent or secretary for
the show you are interested in. The name of the super/sec
for each individual show in Canada is listed in the CKC Dogs
in Canada magazine. The names of the super/sec in the US for
each individual show is listed in the
AKC gazette.
Produce
The offspring of a brood bitch.
Regional
A grouping of states with similar numbers of
entries, which AKC designates as a Region for calculating
point schedules.
Reserve (or Reserve Winners)
See "Winners Bitch" and/or "Winners Dog"
descriptions below.
Ring Steward
A judge's assistant who is tasked with
coordinating the logistics of getting the exhibitors and
their dogs into and out of the rings efficiently. Stewards
check in the exhibitors, answer questions about ring
procedures, call in the classes, prepare the ribbons and
trophies for distribution, and maintain their own marked
catalogs as back-up documentation for official placements.
Stewards are responsible for the smooth operation of their
rings, and the comfort of the judges they are assigned to
assist. Some Stewards are club volunteers while others are
paid for their professional services.
Roadwork
To exercise and condition a dog usually by
walking, jogging, or biking.
Secretary
A show official (usually an individual
person) licensed by the CKC or AKC, and hired by the show
giving club to act as the coordinating management for the
show. The secretary usually generates and distributes the
premium lists, receives the entries, creates the catalogs,
provides the equipment and materials needed, keeps all the
records and generates the reports for CKC.
Set Up
The area on the show grounds in which you
establish your home-base for grooming and holding your dogs
while you are not in the ring. Pray for a space close to the
rings with an electrical outlet!
Sidegait
The movement of a dog as it is seen from the
dog's side. Look for how effectively it tracks, and how
appropriately it reaches with it's front legs, and drives
off of it's rear.
Slicker
A small grooming tool with a rectangular head
on the end containing fine teeth with bent tops which is
used to separate and brush out topcoat and furnishings such
as hock hair.
Special
Slang for a Champion of Record who is being
actively campaigned.
Specialty
A show consisting of only one breed, given by
a "Specialty Club." Specialty clubs are groups of
individuals (breeders, exhibitors, pet enthusiasts, etc.)
who share a passion for a specific breed of dogs, and who
host events specific to promoting that breed. Specialties
usually draw a large entry of dogs, and wins garnered from
specialties are very high visibility within the national
family of that breed's fanciers.
Stack
To cause your dog to stand in a manner that
best displays it's virtues. In most breeds, the dog's
forelegs are stacked in alignment with their withers, and
their rear pasterns are squarely aligned and presented at a
90 degree angle from the floor. There are exceptions by
breed i.e. German Shepherd Dogs, etc. One may "Hand stack"
their dog by manually placing each foot in it's best
position, or else "Free stack" by using a hands free method
of using bait, verbal commands, body language, or lead
correction to get the dog to stack itself.
The officially recognized written description
of an ideal specimen of a specific breed. This is the
document judges are tasked to interpret when judging in the
breed ring, where dogs are judged as to how well they
conform to this written standard of excellence. Original
breed standards are written by the national parent clubs of
each individual breed, and are then adopted by the Kennel
Club of the appropriate county, ie CKC/AKC.
Sternum
See "Post Sternum"
Steward
See "Ring Steward" above.
Stifle
The curved area on a dog's rear legs
containing the thighs and patella (knee). The actual bend of
stifle regulates how much flexibility the dog will have to
drive off of its rear.
Stop
The skeletal junction on the skull's foreface
between the back of the muzzle and the beginning of the
topskull. Collies and Afghans have very little "stop" and
Chihuahuas, Labrador Retrievers, and St. Bernards have a
great deal of "stop."
A show official (usually a professional show
managing company) licensed by the CKC/AKC, and hired by the
show giving club to act as the coordinating management team
for the show. The superintendent usually generates and
distributes the premium lists, receives the entries, creates
the catalogs, provides the equipment and materials needed,
keeps all the records and generates the reports for the
appropriate kennel club.
Sweepstakes
A non-regular class, usually offered at
specialty shows, which are specifically designed to
recognize outstanding young dogs and puppies. Winners of
Best in Sweeps, Best Opposite Sex in Sweeps, and often all
of the class placement winners, receive a portion of the
entry fees as prizes for their placement. Sweepstakes are
the only classes where money prizes are normally awarded.
Tack
Equipment (collars, leads, grooming products,
combs, brushes, shears, etc) used to prepare and show a dog.
Hopefully found in a "Tack Box" when not in use.
Topline
The spinal section of a dog from it's withers
(top of shoulder blades) to the end of it's croup (at the
tail root).
Utility A/B
Highest level of obedience classes for people
seeking to earn the suffix title of Utility Dog ("UD") when
they earn three qualifying scores of at least 170 out of 200
points (including earning at least 50% of available points
for each separate exercise) from three different judges.
Obedience classes are divided into two groups; (A and B) -
"A" for exhibitors who have not yet added this title to a
dog's name that they have either handled or trained, and "B"
or more experienced exhibitors who have. Exercises (all off
leash) include:
- Signal
Exercise.....................40 points
- Scent Discrimination Article
#1.....30 points *
- Scent Discrimination Article
#2.....30 points *
- Directed
Retrieve...................30 points
- Moving Stand and
Examination........30 points
- Directed
Jumping....................40 points
Maximum Total Score....................200
points
* The scent discrimination exercise is different in both
Canada and in the US. In Canada, there are 3 articles, wood,
metal and leather. In the US only the wood and metal are
used.
In the US, there are A and B classes. Once
the UD is achieved in the US, competitors continue to
compete for placements to accumulate 100 points to earn
their OTCH designation. In Canada, there is only the one
Utility class. In Canada, 3 legs earns the title UD and
OTCH.
Veterans
A non-regular but competitive class for dogs
at least 7-8 years old, designed to honor those dogs who
have maintained their structural integrity, health, vigor
and love of showing into their golden years. Boxes of
Kleenex are mandatory at ringside...trust me.
Westminster KC
A very prestigious all-breed /all-champions
limited entry benched show held in New York City's Madison
Square Garden each February, The Westminster Kennel Club
show is legendary. The WKC show is the 2nd oldest sporting
event in the United States, younger only than the Kentucky
Derby. A major social event as well, "The Garden" is an
event every dog lover should attend at least once. Normally
nationally televised over two nights. Also see "Garden"
above.
Withers
The point at which the shoulder blades
(scapulae) meet. This critical structural point and its
adjoining muscles and ligaments regulate how effectively a
dog is able to cover ground with the rest of its front
assembly. the tightness or looseness of the shoulders can
make the difference between a sloppy thrown front and a
clean tracking one. The angulation that the shoulders make
create the transition between the neck and spine, and
contribute to how easily a dog can reach ahead of itself and
how it carries it's head. The withers is also the point at
which actual HEIGHT of a dog is measured with a tool called
a wicket. The height of the dog needs to be determined for
obedience, agility and flyball competition as it will
determine the jumping height of the dog.
Whelp
To give birth to a litter of puppies. A
pregnant bitch is considered to be "in whelp." When she is
giving birth, she is said to be "whelping."
Winners Bitch
The class (aka "unfinished" or
"non-champion") bitch who has defeated all other class
bitches of that breed at that show is the ONE female of that
breed to be awarded points towards her championship . The
first place winners from each of the bitch classes in that
breed that day**, compete for Winners Bitch.
**This would be the 1st place 6-9 month
Puppy Bitch, the 1st place 9-12 Puppy Bitch, the 1st place
12-18 Junior Bitch, the 1st place Novice Bitch, the 1st
Place Bred-by Bitch, the First place Can-Bred Bitch, and the
1st place Open Bitch.
After one Winners Bitch is selected, the
bitch who originally took 2nd place to her in the classes is
asked to come in and compete with the remaining bitches for
"Reserve Winners Bitch." The winner of the "Reserve" is like
a "runner- up" and is only awarded points if, in the future,
the Winners Bitch is found to be disqualified for some
reason and the award is disallowed.
During the Best of Breed competition,
which is held after all class dogs (male and female) of that
breed have been judged, the Winners Bitch and Winners Dog
compete with each other for "Best of Winners." They may
*also* be awarded Best of Breed or Best of Opposite Sex to
BOB against the other, already finished champions in the BOB
competition.
Winners Dog
Same as above, but for males. Substitute
"Dog" for "Bitch" where appropriate.
TITLES AND ABBREVIATIONS
For details about what these terms and titles
mean, check for definition above.
- AI-Artificial Insemination
-
AKC - American Kennel Club
- Am/Can-American and Canadian
- BBE-Bred By Exhibitor
- BIS-Best In Show
- BISS-Best In Specialty Sweepstakes
(NOT Best In Specialty Show which is actually a
"Specialty BOB")
- BJH-Best Junior Handler - (See Junior
Handling above)
- BOH-Breeder, Owner, Handler
- BOS-Best of Opposite Sex to Best of
Breed
- BW-Best of Winners (see Winners Bitch
above)
- CD-Companion Dog (AKC/CKC obedience
title from the Novice A/B class)
- CDX-Companion Dog Excellent (AKC/CKC
obedience title from the Open A/B class)
- CERF-Canine Eye Registry Foundation
(A group of board certified Veterinary Ophthalmologists
who maintain a registry of purebred dogs that the ACVO
Diplomats (members) examine and have found to be
unaffected by major heritable eye disease. CERF also
maintains a research data base which consists of
information that is generated by all examinations done
by ACVO Diplomats. Reports generated from this resource
help breeders and ophthalmologists identify trends in
eye disease and breed susceptibility. CERF is dedicated
to educating the public on matters involving canine eye
disease. CERF provides a variety of reports, the CERF
newsletter and other eye disease materials to help
educate the owner/breeder on heritable eye disease
questions, healthy breeding stock, and breed- specific
eye problems)
-
CGC-Canine Good Citizen (AKC certificate (not an
official title) indicating that the dog has successfully
participated in AKC's CGC test-a casual set of exercises
testing the dog's skills and basic obedience)
- CH - Champion of Record (CKC/AKC
title awarded to dogs who have been awarded at least
10/15 points, including two majors in the breed ring,
where their conformation to the written standard of
excellence for their breed is judged. See "Champion"
definition above)
-
FD-Flyball Dog title awarded to a dog that competes
in flyball and earns 20 points.
-
FDX-Flyball Dog Excellent title award to a dog that
competes in flyball and earns 100 points.
-
FDCH-Flyball Dog Champion title awarded to a dog
that competes in flyball and earns 500 points.
-
NA-Novice Agility (AKC title awarded to dogs who
completes 3 legs in AKC novice agility.
- NAC - Novice Agility certificate
earned by a dog who completes 3 legs in NADAC novice
agility.
-
OA-Open Agility certificate earned by a dog who
completes 3 legs in AKC open agility.
- OFA - Orthopedic Foundation for
Animals - A research, diagnostic, and registration
organization of veterinary orthopedists whose mission is
to organize, collate and disseminate information
concerning orthopedic and genetic disease of animals. To
advise, encourage control and establish programs to
lower the incidence of orthopedic and genetic diseases.
To encourage and finance researches in orthopedic and
genetic disease in animals. The OFA is a diagnostic
service and registry for:
- Hip Dysplasia-canine and feline
- Elbow Dysplasia
- Patellar Luxation
- Craniomandibular osteopathy
- Copper Toxicosis-Bedlington
Terriers
- Cardiac Registry
- Thyroid Registry
- Von Willebrand's Disease-Shetland
Sheepdog, Doberman Pinscher, Scottish Terriers
- Phosphofructokinase
Deficiency-Cocker Spaniel, English Springer Spaniel
- Progressive Retinal Atrophy-Irish
Setter
- Pyruvate Kinase
Deficiency-Basenji
- PHA-Professional Handlers'
Association
- SAS-Subaeortal Arterial Stenosis a
serious genetic disorder of the cardiac system, causing
heart murmurs.
- SHDCH-Scent Hurdle Dog Champion (CKC
certificate awarded to a dog that competes succesfully
in Scent Hurdle Dog Racing)
- TD-Tracking Dog (CKC/AKC title
awarded to dogs who have qualified in this first level
of Tracking Test)
- TDX-Tracking Dog Excellent (CKC/AKC
title awarded to dogs who have qualified in this highest
level of Tracking Test)
- WB-Winners Bitch (see definition
above in terminology section)
- WD-Winners Dog (see definition above
in terminology section)
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