Level 1Beginner
Puppy class: growing up and discovering the ring
The answer
Still a puppy, already more confident… but still learning!
The Puppy class is for dogs from six months to under nine months. Your companion can take part even if he has never been through the Baby class: the classes depend on his age, not on a path he has to complete.
It is a chance to discover his qualities and to find your feet together, without expecting the perfectly polished presentation of an experienced dog.
When does a dog enter and leave Puppy?
Age is calculated on the day the dog is shown.
| Age reached on the day of showing | Corresponding class |
|---|---|
| 6 months | Entry into Puppy |
| 8 months and a few days | Still Puppy |
| 9 months exactly | Move to Junior |
A puppy born on 10 January is therefore in Puppy from 10 July up to and including 9 October.
What does the judge look at?
The judge assesses the puppy’s characteristics against the standard for his breed: his overall appearance, proportions, movement, condition and temperament.
The FCI regulations state that age must be taken into account when assessing a Puppy. The result describes the dog shown that day; it does not guarantee his future results as an adult.
To prepare, get your puppy used to walking or trotting naturally on the lead, to standing briefly and to accepting a gentle examination. Short, enjoyable sessions will help you make progress.
What grades can he receive?
The official information consulted presents two scales:
| Framework | Grades published, in descending order |
|---|---|
| SCC Expo (the platform of the French kennel club, the Société Centrale Canine), presentation of the French classes | Very Promising, Promising, Fairly Promising, Sufficient, Insufficient |
| FCI international regulations 2026 | Very Promising, Promising, Less Promising |
Check the regulations that apply to your show, particularly abroad. Do not assume the names on the two scales are automatically equivalent.
Can he win anything?
SCC Expo provides for a placing in Puppy provided Very Promising is awarded, with a possible Best Puppy designation.
Several puppies can receive the same grade: Very Promising is an assessment; first is a placing.
The Puppy class does not give access to the adult CACIB or the Junior CACIB. The FCI regulations do, however, provide for Best Puppy competitions in the ring of honour, depending on the show programme.
How to approach the day?
Set yourself a concrete goal: a few calm movements, an examination accepted and a puppy who is still engaged after his turn.
Plan for breaks and a quiet spot. If he gets tired or overwhelmed, adapt your plan. A pleasant outing is a good foundation for the next ones.
Beginner — three tips to get started
- Check the age on the day of showing. On the day he turns nine months, your dog leaves Puppy.
- Choose a comfortable pace. Aim for natural movement on a loose lead.
- Plan breaks. Waiting is part of the day too.
Intermediate — three tips to progress
- Work on movement and standing position separately. Then put these exercises together in a short session.
- Get him used to being handled gradually. Start in a familiar environment.
- Re-read the judge’s report. Note the specific comments rather than just the placing.
Advanced — three tips to keep perspective
- Follow his development over several months. Avoid drawing a final conclusion from a single judgement.
- Pace your outings. Choose how often to go according to his ease and recovery.
- Plan ahead for the move to Junior. Check the next class before each new entry.