Level 1Beginner
Veteran class: elegance has no age
The answer
A few white hairs on the muzzle, well-worn habits… and sometimes just as much enthusiasm when the show lead comes out of the drawer! The veteran class lets older dogs keep taking part in a category dedicated to them.
From what age?
The veteran class is open from 8 years old, with no upper age limit for this class. Age is calculated on the day the dog is shown to the judge.
Example: Paco turns 8 on 12 June. For judging on 15 June, he is old enough, even if his entry was made in April.
The word “veteran” refers to a regulatory category. In itself, it does not describe your companion’s fitness or enthusiasm.
Does the dog have to have been a champion?
No: no champion title is needed to enter the veteran class. The general conditions for admission to the show still apply.
A dog can therefore continue a long career there… or discover the ring late in life!
How does the judging work?
The judge examines the dog standing and moving, then assesses its qualities against its breed standard. The veteran class gives rise to a grade and a placing: it is not simply a parade of tribute.
For you, the aim remains to present your companion in good conditions, keeping the enjoyment of this shared activity.
What awards can the dog win?
The veteran class has its own certificates:
| Type of show | Certificate available |
|---|---|
| National in France | CACS-V: certificate of aptitude for conformity to the veteran standard |
| International at CACIB | CACIB-V: veteran certificate of aptitude for international beauty championship |
It does not give access to the CACS or the CACIB of the adult classes.
To qualify for the veteran certificate, the dog must obtain 1st Excellent. Awarding it is at the judge’s discretion: winning the class does not guarantee it. There is no reserve CACS-V or CACIB-V.
And the adventure can continue! At an international show, the male and the female put forward for the CACIB-V also take part in the Best of Breed competition, in accordance with the regulations.
Three tips for progressing
Beginner — Plan a comfortable day. Bring water, a familiar bed and a quiet place to wait. Keep your little practice sessions short and enjoyable.
Intermediate — Adapt your pace to your dog. Look for a natural, steady gait. Watch how keen they are to take part and allow them breaks: your presentation habits may change along with them.
Advanced — Anticipate possible call-backs. Your dog may be called back for another competition after their judging. Check the times, limit pointless repetitions and save their energy for the rounds you are asked to do. The FCI regulations put the welfare and health of dogs first.
Sources
- FCI: Show regulations applicable from 1 January 2026 (PDF, in French): section 4, page 4, welfare; section 5, page 8, veteran class; section 6, pages 9–10, grades and placings; section 7, pages 11–12, CACIB-V and Best of Breed.
- Centrale Canine (the French kennel club): Regulations of the Ambès 2025 show (PDF, in French): “Veteran” section, age and available certificates.
- Société Centrale Canine (France): Show regulations (in French)