The Different Types of Dog Shows
Exemption / Companion Show
The Exemption show or Companion show is the base level for dog showing. These shows are fun and although some have pedigree classes like Puppy, Sporting, Non-Sporting, Open, they often include classes like 'Waggiest Tail' and 'Handsome Dog'. Both pedigree dogs and cross-breeds can enter. Entries are taken on the day.
These shows are just for fun and can be great practice for the larger shows.
You can find local fun shows on the below Facebook page.
Companion and Fun Dog Shows in East Anglia Only
Limit Shows
Limit shows are held for Members Only of the Society running the show. These are usually All Breed shows and are for Pedigree, Kennel Club Registered dogs only. Your breed may have its own classes where you are judged alongside dogs of the same breed and age. If you do not have specific breed classes you may enter a AV NSC (Any Variety Not Separately Classified) where you will be judged with other breeds who also do not have classes. Limit shows are judged on the Group System.
Entries are taken On-line or via Post, in advance.
Open Shows
Open shows can be All-Breed shows, or Breed Club shows. These are for Pedigree, Kennel Club Registered dogs only.
As in a Limit show, your breed may have its own classes where you are judged alongside dogs of the same breed and age. If you do not have specific breed classes you may enter a AV NSC (Any Variety Not Separately Classified) where you will be judged with other breeds who also do not have classes. All Breed Open shows are judged on the Group System. Points for Junior Warrants, Veteran Warrants & ShCEx can be gained. Entries are taken On-line or via the post in advance.
Premier Open Shows
Premier Open shows are All-Breed shows. These are for Pedigree, Kennel Club Registered dogs only.
Premier Open Shows are very much like an Open show, however there may be more breed classes available.
The main difference is that if you win 1st, 2nd, 3rd or 4th in the Adult Group or Puppy Group you will qualify for Crufts.
Championship Shows
Championship shows can be All-Breed shows or Breed Club shows. These are for Pedigree, Kennel Club Registered dogs only.
Championship Shows are the largest type of show. All Breed Championship shows are held over a number of days, split up by your breed group. You usually have an allocated bench specifically for your dog. Your ring number is found on your bench. Classes are split between dogs and bitches so they can be judged separately.
You can quality for Crufts by being placed 1st, 2nd or 3rd in most breed classes. (Class specific. See Crufts Qualifications).
At a Championship show CC's (Challenge Certificates) can be awarded. Where CCs are on offer, you can also be awarded with a Stud Book number by winning a CC, Reserve CC or by winning your Limit or Open class. This is breed specific and different rules apply to different breeds.
All Breed Championship shows are judged on the Group System. Entries are taken On-line or via Post, in advance.