Level 3Experienced
Best in Show: the show's grand winner
The answer
The ring of honour welcomes the last finalists. Every dog has already won its group… One final distinction remains: Best in Show, generally abbreviated to BIS.
In French, this means Meilleur de l'Exposition.
Who takes part in this final?
At an all-breed show, BIS brings together the group winners. The judge picks the winner of the show from among them.
To reach this final, the usual route is:
| Stage | Award |
|---|---|
| In its breed | BOB — Best of Breed |
| In its group | BOG / BIG — Best of Group |
| In the overall final | BIS — Best in Show |
A CACIB or a class win therefore does not give direct access to BIS.
How do you compare such different dogs?
A Sighthound, a Terrier and a Retriever can all end up in this final. The judge assesses each against the standard of its own breed, then chooses between them.
BIS rewards the dog chosen at this show, on that day. It does not mean it is definitively better than all other dogs.
A scene to help you understand
Imagine three finalists:
Oslo, winner of group 8. Nala, winner of group 1. Jazz, winner of group 3.
After a final presentation, the judge picks Nala: she wins Best in Show!
Oslo and Jazz keep their breed and group wins. Nala adds the final award to her record.
What does “BIS 2” mean?
When the organiser provides for a ranking:
- BIS 1: the winner of Best in Show.
- BIS 2: the runner-up in the final.
- BIS 3, and possibly BIS 4: the following places.
The number of places depends on the regulations and the programme. Always use the official wording of your result.
Watch out for category finals
A BIS Puppy, BIS Junior or BIS Veteran designates the winner of a final reserved for that category.
These awards are different from the overall BIS. When announcing the result, keep the full name: “BIS Puppy” is more precise than “BIS”.
Three tips for progressing
Beginner — Check the time before leaving. After a group win, ask when and where BIS takes place. At a show lasting several days, the final may be held on another day.
Intermediate — Save your dog's energy. Plan for rest, water and a walk between runs. A successful day also includes quiet moments.
Advanced — Prepare for final conditions. Gradually get your dog used to different floor surfaces, loudspeaker announcements and the presence of other dogs. Work in short sessions to keep a calm presentation.