Did you know that the Westminster dog show is the second oldest sporting event in America, second only to the Kentucky Derby?
This world-famous canine competition has been going on since 1877.
Over 2500 dogs (representing over 350 dog breeds) compete in this annual event at Madison Square Garden in New York City.
Any Golden Retriever owner will tell you that his dog is the most beautiful Golden in the world.
The attempt to prove this point is basically how dog shows got started in the first place.
There are two main types of dog shows in the U.S. -- specialty and all-breed events. Specialty shows are limited to dogs of a particular breed (i.e. Golden Retrievers) or group of similar breeds (i.e. sporting dogs).At all-breed shows, purebred dogs of many breeds compete against each other for Best in Show, though each breed competes within its own breed until the final classes.
Dog shows have changed in many ways over the years.
At one time, most shows were benched.
That means the dogs were actually attached by chains to wooden benches.
They were available for viewing during the hours of the show, except when they were in the ring or had been excused.
This is where the term "bench show" originated.
Only five shows are still benched in the United States, including Westminster. Nowadays, the dogs are kept on leashes or in crates rather than on benches.
Judges at an official AKC (American Kennel Club) dog show evaluate a dog's conformation. That means they try to determine how closely his physical characteristics, movement/gait, and temperament measure up to that dog's particular breed standard.
Then the judges give points and award ribbons to the dogs that come closest to the standards.
Junior Showmanship classes at dog shows are judged solely on the ability and skills of the young handler.
They do not consider the dog's conformation at all.
This competition is just for kids age 10 through 18.
It encourages young people to participate in showing dogs at an early age. It provides junior handlers with an opportunity to compete, learn, practice, and improve their skills and sportsmanship.
And finally, it prepares them for lives as handlers, judges, dog breeders, veterinarians, dog trainers, show superintendents, dog health researchers--and responsible dog owners.
One way to ease into the world of dog shows is to attend match shows. These may be AKC sanctioned, where clubs and judges gain credit and necessary experience for AKC approval.
Or they may be "just for fun" matches.
These informal competitions are used as training grounds for exhibitors and for potential show dogs.
Puppies as young as three months old may be shown.
They're conducted in exactly the same way as licensed shows.
But because they're designed for experience only, no points are awarded.
Most Goldens love the show scene. They're extremely sociable and they love the attention, especially when shows are benched and people come up and ask if they can pet them.Because they're easily trainable, they can quickly learn how to behave in the show ring.
That means learning how to walk nicely, let the judge examine them, and so on.
If you're just starting out and are looking for a show-quality puppy, you need to keep in mind that no dog breeder can predict a winner.
Even Golden Retriever puppies from champion bloodlines may not develop the qualities they need to be a show dog.
But they'll still be absolutely adorable!
If you have an older dog and are thinking of showing, you'd be wise to contact your nearest Golden Retriever Club. They can help you get an expert's opinion on whether your dog has what it takes to be a show dog.
The dog club can also advise you about upcoming shows, help you obtain and complete the application form, and inform you of the entry fee and any necessary documentation.
What if you don't have a purebred dog? If you can't prove your Golden's ancestry or you have a lovable mutt with a question mark for a family tree, don't despair.
You can still take part in a mixed breed dog show in your area. It's lots of fun to mingle with fellow dog lovers and discuss what dog breeds might be lurking inside your precious pooch.
Before you start entering serious competition, you first need to learn how to present and exhibit your dog.
Look for classes in your area offered by a professional dog trainer or by dog clubs in ring training or "ring craft."
Here you're taught how to show your dog to his best advantage.
This is also a great place to get your dog used to other dogs, handlers and the whole show experience.
Breed clubs are a great place to get some tips on dog grooming to make sure your Golden is looking his very best for a show.
They'll also be happy to recommend a top-notch dog groomer who can give you some pointers or just take care of the whole grooming thing for you.
The world of showing dogs is fun and exciting. Whether you enter your Golden Retriever or not, attending a dog show is rewarding and educational.
It's a wonderful way to meet other dog lovers and make friendships that last a lifetime.
You can always learn something new at the vendor booths.
That's where new research, canine products and technologies are introduced and discussed.
You'll also be able to exchange tips with other dog owners and breeders.
Don't be shy -- you all speak the same language: dogs!
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