Level 3Experienced
Country-by-country differences
The answer
Same dog, same breed… but sometimes different rules once you cross the border! The FCI framework harmonises international shows, while each national organisation sets the rules for its own national certificates and championships.
Before a show abroad, a few checks help you avoid nasty surprises.
The national certificate changes name and how it works
In France, it is called the CACS. In other countries, you will come across the CAC.
How it is awarded is not necessarily organised in the same way: the eligible classes and the comparisons can differ.
A concrete example: France and Switzerland
| Point compared | France | Switzerland |
|---|---|---|
| National certificate | CACS | CAC |
| Champion class | Does not give access to the CACS | Can give access to the CAC |
| Junior or Veteran reserve | No CACS-J or CACS-V reserve | Junior and Veteran CAC reserves provided |
| National championship | French conditions and breed requirements | Swiss conditions specific to the title |
These differences concern national certificates. They should not be confused with the international CACIB rules.
The route to the title varies too
Don’t assume that a number of certificates that works in one country is enough in another.
For the title you have in mind, check:
- The number of certificates needed.
- The different judges required.
- The time limits and the specific events.
- Any health, temperament or working requirements.
- The recognition procedure.
A national title won in one country does not automatically become a national title in the neighbouring country.
Reserves don’t carry the same weight everywhere
A reserve can be converted into a certificate in certain situations, but the conditions depend on the regulations concerned.
In Switzerland, for example, a reserve CAC can be converted when the CAC winner already holds the officially recognised title of Swiss Beauty Champion. The Swiss Show Champion title alone does not allow this conversion.
So keep the exact abbreviation, the country and the supporting document.
Oslo’s trip
Oslo is entered in the champion class:
In France: this class does not let him receive the CACS. In Switzerland: it can let him receive the CAC.
His class has the same name, but his access to the national certificate changes. That is why reading the regulations before entering matters as much as packing the suitcase!
Entry documents deserve your attention too
Check the supporting documents required for the class you’ve chosen, the entry deadlines and the programme for the finals.
For the working class at an FCI international show, the WCC — Working Class Certificate is, among others, a document provided for by the regulations.
Travel and entry formalities for the country must be checked separately with the relevant authorities.
Three tips to progress
Beginner — Make a sheet for each country. Note the official organisation, the national certificate and the link to its regulations.
Intermediate — Check the class before paying. Make sure it gives access to the certificate you want and that you have the necessary supporting documents.
Advanced — Follow each championship separately. Create one table per national title and another for the international title. You’ll avoid counting a result towards the wrong route.