Show Cavaliers

If you’re new to the world of dog shows, you’re probably wondering just how a dog comes to earn the title of Champion or Grand Champion. We’d like to provide you with a little information on that subject.

The sPORT of ShowING DOGS

The American Kennel Club’s Beginner’s Guide to Dog Shows states that showing dogs is a competitive sport designed to evaluate a breed's potential by testing areas of performance that includes overall conformation (appearance and structure), obedience, agility, herding, field trials, Fast CAT, and more.

Eligibility Standards

In order to compete in an event sanctioned by the American Kennel Club (AKC), for instance, dogs must be at least 4 months of age, registered as a purebred, and a member of a recognized breed competing at the event.

The American Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Club (ACKCSC) and The Kennel Club (United Kingdom) have similar requirements for their events.

Types of Shows and Awards

Some shows are limited to a particular breed or group, others welcome all seven recognized groups: Sporting, Hounds, Working, Terrier, Toy, Non-Sporting, and Herding.

Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are included in the Toy group. Male and female dogs compete in separate categories. The final award of the show, “Best in Show” is a competition among the Group winners from each subgroup. Winners receive ribbons as well as points.

More detailed information about dog shows and awards is available at the Westminster Kennel Club website.

Accumulation of Points

Over time, the accumulated points may lead to a dog’s well-deserved classification as a Champion (CH) or Grand Champion (GCH). Milestone classifications of Bronze, Silver, Gold, and Platinum help to monitor a champion dog’s progress. Congratulations to all!

Show Cavaliers

The sPORT of ShowING DOGS

Eligibility Standards

Types of Shows and Awards

Accumulation of Points

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