Level 1Beginner
The different types of dog shows
The answer
National, international, breed specialty, breed national… The names sound alike, but they tell you different things.
To get your bearings, ask two questions: which breeds can take part, and which certificates can be awarded? Here are the main formats you will find in France.
The national show: the CACS event
An all-breeds national show welcomes the recognised breeds admitted by its regulations. The judge can award the CACS there (the Certificat d’Aptitude de Conformité au Standard, a French certificate of conformity to the standard).
It is a chance to discover different breeds and to show your dog in its class.
Careful: “national” does not mean “reserved for French dogs”.
The international show: the CACIB event
An international show allows the CACIB to be awarded, the FCI’s Certificat d’Aptitude au Championnat International de Beauté. In France, the CACS can also be offered.
The word “international” describes the setting of the show. It does not mean your dog has to be a champion already to take part.
The breed national — NE: the breed club’s event
The breed national (nationale d’élevage) brings together dogs of the breeds managed by the organising club.
Despite its name, it is not only for breeders: it is also a chance for an owner to meet people who are passionate about their breed and to see many dogs.
Check the admitted breeds and the conditions on the entry form.
The regional breed show — RE: a club event in the region
The regional breed show (régionale d’élevage) is also reserved for the breeds covered by the organising club.
It lets you take part in an event centred on those breeds. Check its programme to find out about the judging and any additional tests that may be offered.
An RE and an NE do not automatically give access to the same certificates or selection results.
The breed specialty: a distinction within a show
A breed specialty can be held as part of an all-breeds national or international show.
So you are entering the host show, but the judging of your breed has “specialty” status. This is something to check with your club, especially if you are following a selection or championship path.
Official example: Club de l’Épagneul Français (the French breed club) — Breed specialty at the Montluçon international show.
The French Championship show
Organised by the Société Centrale Canine (SCC, France), this show is a special event in the French calendar, with the CACS and the CACIB possibly awarded.
Winning an award at this show is not enough, on its own, to earn a champion title. The conditions for homologation of the title must be met.
The key to remember
| You read… | You identify… |
|---|---|
| National / International | The setting of the show and the certificates on offer |
| NE / RE | An event devoted to the breeds of the organising club |
| Breed specialty | A special status for one breed within a host show |
| French Championship | A specific event organised by the Société Centrale Canine (SCC, France) |
Beginner: choosing your first outing
- Choose simple logistics. Distance, timings and the welcome arrangements matter for a first experience.
- Check that your breed is admitted. This is particularly useful for club events.
- Contact your breed club. They can explain the formats and point you towards a suitable event.
Intermediate: varying your experiences
- Try several formats. Compare an all-breeds show with an event run by your club.
- Read the programme before you enter. Look out for the certificates, the tests and the separate entries.
- Set a concrete goal. Meeting specialists or improving your presentation can guide your choice.
Advanced: building your calendar
- Check the rules for the title you are aiming for. Not all awards meet the same conditions.
- Spot the specialties for your breed. Check their status in the official information.
- Pace your travelling. Protect your dog’s rest and availability between events.
These nine tips are practical suggestions. The precise conditions remain those in the regulations and entry form of each event.
Illustration caption: variety of breeds, a gathering around one breed and a presentation at a big event. The venue or the size of the site does not determine the type of show.