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Dog Obedience Trials

An obedience trial is a dog sport in which a dog must execute a predefined set of tasks when directed to do so by his handler. The basic objective of obedience trials is to recognize dogs that have been trained to behave in the home, in public places, and in the presence of other dogs in a manner that will reflect obedience at all times and under all conditions. Training a dog to participate in A...More on Floor Matting Dog Shows

Obedience Titles

Obedience Titles are awarded through several organizations in the United States. A purebred dog recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) can compete under AKC rules. Dogs not recognized by the AKC can earn titles in the United Kennel Club (UKC), Mixed Breed Dog Club of America (MBDCA), American Mixed Breed Obedience Registry (AMBOR), or Australian Shepherd Club of America (ASCA). When a dog ea...More on Floor Matting Dog Shows

American Kennel Club Obedience Trials

Obedience competition provides an opportunity for a person and a dog to work as a team. Training a dog to participate in obedience trials in American Kennel Club (AKC) dog shows increases a dog's understanding and reliability in responding to commands such as "sit," "down," "stay," "come" and "heel." At an obedience trial, the dog and handler will perform various predefined obedience exercises, wh...More on Floor Matting Dog Shows

The Finer Points Of Dog Handling

When it comes to dog shows, the "handler" is the person who actually shows the dog in the ring. A professional handler shows dogs as a profession and gets paid for being in the ring with the dog. There are good handlers who are strictly amateurs. One way to become a better handler is to watch the good ones and learn from them. The two main mistakes a novice handler makes is holding the show lead ...More on Floor Matting Dog Shows

Dog Show Classes

Novice dog handlers should start competing in Match shows before competing in point shows. Match shows are usually informal dog shows at which no championship points are awarded, but the experience gained at Matches will be of great value later. If you want to know when and where there will be a Match show, ask someone who is participating in dog shows. They will be able to supply this information...More on Floor Matting Dog Shows

Obedience Trial Championship

Obedience Trials are held in conjunction with most all-breed shows. Obedience Trials are also held separately and sponsored by training clubs. Obedience Trials sponsored by training clubs cater to the Obedience exhibitors and often feature such niceties as large rings, close-cropped grass at outdoor shows, efficient stewarding and an impressive trophy list. There are three regular classes at an O...More on Floor Matting Dog Shows

Dog Shows In US and Canada

Dog shows take place year round in various locations. Some dog shows are small, local shows, while others draw competitors from all around the country and even the world. Some shows are so large that they limit entries only to dogs who have already earned Championship status. Winning Best in Breed or Best in Show can elevate the reputation of a dog, a breeder, or a kennel to the top overnight and ...More on Floor Matting Dog Shows

How an AKC Dog Show Works

Each dog is presented to a judge by its handler, who can be its owner, breeder or a hired professional. Judges examine each dog with their hands to see if the teeth, muscles, bones and coat texture conform to the breed's standard. They view each dog in profile for overall balance and watch each dog gait (move) to see how all of those features fit together in action. The judges give awards accordin...More on Floor Matting Dog Shows

Dog Show Championship

Dogs compete at dog shows to earn points or certification toward the title of Champion. The Kennel Club system in the UK, which is also used by the Australian National Kennel Council and in other countries, is considered the most difficult. At certain shows designated as Championship shows, the top bitch and dog in each breed will be awarded a Challenge Certificate. Three Challenge Certificates ar...More on Floor Matting Dog Shows

How To Get Started Showing Your Dog

The best place to start is by joining a local kennel club. It doesn't matter if it is an all-breed kennel club or a breed-specific specialty club. Local clubs will have information on training classes for the show ring and for obedience and agility classes. Local clubs will have "Matches" where you and your dog can test your skill in the ring. Even if showing your dog is not your ultimate goal, t...More on Floor Matting Dog Shows