Judging Criteria

How Dogs Are Judged

Dogs  “strut their stuff” before a panel of independent judges, each with expertise in one or more areas of dog personality, structure or grooming. Judges use a 10 point scale to rate each dog based on the criteria shown below. Best in Class for each category receives a trophy, second and third place winners each receive a ribbon with medallion. Best in show receives the Best in Show trophy.

Criteria

Coat:
Grooming, condition of coat and coloration

Conformation:
Body shape, stance, fitness, form and carriage

Personality:
Behavior, individuality, persona, character and traits

Commands:
Attentiveness, response and obedience to Sit, Shake and Heel commands

Total:
Your dog’s total score is figured and compared to other dogs within the same class, with first, second and third place winners in each class.  Best in Show is determined by highest category scores. In the event of a tie, a tie-breaking decision is made at the judges’ discretion (all judges’ decisions are final).

Categories

For a list of representative breeds in each category CLICK HERE.

Most rescued dogs are not purebred, therefore category judging is not entirely based on breed-specific qualities. These descriptions are provided to help you choose the right show category for your dog. You can enter in as many categories as you’d like – the more categories you enter, the better your chances of walking away with Best In Class or even Best In Show!

For complete event rules CLICK HERE