So how does all of this show stuff work? Well... each dog presented to a judge is exhibited "handled" by its owner, breeder or a hired professional. The role of a handler is similar to that of a jockey who rides a horse around the track leading the horse and hopefully, into the winner's circle.
Most dogs in competition at conformation shows are competing for points toward their AKC championships. It takes fifteen points, including two majors (wins of three, four or five points) awarded by at least three different judges, to become an American Kennel Club "Champion of Record."
The number of championship points awarded at a show depends on the number of males "dogs" and females "bitches" of the breed actually in competition. The larger the entry, the greater the number of points a male or a female can win. The maximum number of points awarded to a dog at any show is 5 points and is called a Major.
Males and females compete separately within their respective breeds, in six regular classes. The following classes are offered, and are divided by sex: Puppy, 12-18 months, Novice, Bred by Exhibitor, American Bred and Open.
After these classes are judged, all the dogs that won first place in a class compete again to see who is the best of the winning dogs. Males and females are judged separately. Only the best male (Winners Dog) and the best female (Winners Bitch) receive championship points. The Winners Dog and Winners Bitch then compete with the champions for the Best of Breed award. At the end of the Best of Breed Competition, three awards are usually given: Best of Breed, Best of Winners and Best of Opposite Sex.
