Level 3Experienced
International titles: a path beyond borders
The answer
C.I.B., C.I.E., C.I.B.-J… Behind these few letters lie fine adventures, several judgings and a file to be validated.
In this article, we talk about the international titles of the Fédération Cynologique Internationale — FCI — linked to dog shows. A dog that is a champion in several countries does not automatically become an international champion: each title has its own requirements.
Here are three tips per level to understand the path.
Beginner: recognising the main titles
1. Learn to tell the abbreviations apart
| Abbreviation | FCI title |
|---|---|
| C.I.B. | International Beauty Champion |
| C.I.E. | International Show Champion |
| C.I.B.-J | International Junior Beauty Champion |
| C.I.B.-V | International Veteran Beauty Champion |
These titles are not four rungs to climb in order. Access depends, among other things, on the dog’s age and, for adult titles, on whether its breed is subject to a working test. [1][2]
2. Don’t confuse a certificate with a title
The CACIB is a certificate earned at a show. The C.I.B. is a title that requires several conditions to be met, then the file to be homologated (officially confirmed).
The same logic applies to juniors and veterans: a CACIB-J or a CACIB-V is one step, not the full title. [2][3]
Picture a travel journal: each certificate adds a page, but the journey still has to be verified.
3. Check that your dog is eligible
The FCI requires, among other things, a breed recognised on a definitive basis, registration in a recognised stud book — and not just in its annex — and a pedigree that meets the conditions for pure origin. [1]
Before planning any travel, have these points checked. Being able to take part in a show does not, on its own, guarantee access to an international title.
Intermediate: choosing the right path
1. Check your breed’s status
For the C.I.B., the requirements differ depending on whether or not the breed is subject to a working test in the FCI nomenclature.
This status does not simply depend on whether your dog does an activity or is shown in the open class. Consult the official breed sheet and the provisions that apply. [1][2]
2. Compare the requirements for adult titles
Here are the general requirements, subject to officially approved exceptions:
| Path | Certificates | Countries | Judges | Additional requirement |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| C.I.B., breed not subject to a working test | 4 CACIB | 3 | 3 | Regulatory period between the first and the last |
| C.I.B., breed subject to a working test | 2 CACIB | 2 | 2 | Same period and a working test meeting the breed’s requirements |
| C.I.E., breed subject to a working test | 4 CACIB | 3 | 3 | Regulatory period, with no working result required for this title |
The regulations word the period as “one year and one day” and give their own clarification on how to calculate it. Have the eligible date confirmed before booking the outing meant to complete the path. [2]
3. Spot the junior and veteran paths
The basic requirements are:
- C.I.B.-J: three international Junior certificates, in three countries, under three different judges.
- C.I.B.-V: three international Veteran certificates, in three countries, under three different judges.
Under the current regulations, keep the supporting documents for CACIB-J or CACIB-V actually awarded: a “1st Excellent” does not automatically guarantee they are granted. [3]
Advanced: building a solid file
1. Keep track of countries, judges and dates
Prepare a table with each certificate, its country, its date and the judge’s name.
Several wins can be excellent for experience without completing a requirement that is still missing. Before each entry, look at what you really still need to earn.
This way of organising things is a practical tip: it avoids counting only certificates.
2. Check the validity of the awards you are using
For the adult CACIB, the judge’s proposal is subject to FCI homologation. A reserve CACIB must not be counted as a CACIB without an official conversion in line with the regulations. [2][3]
Keep the cards and check the details: dog’s name, date, show and judge. A small administrative error is easier to correct when the documents are together.
3. Finish with the homologation application
Gathering the results is not enough: you have to submit the application with the appropriate form and supporting documents.
The procedure depends on the title and on the owner’s country of residence. Some applications go through the national kennel organisation; agreements allow direct submission to the FCI for certain titles and certain countries. Consult the official section that matches your file exactly. [1]
Then wait for confirmation before presenting your dog as the holder of the title.
The reflex to remember
Choose the right title, check its requirements and keep a record of each step.
An international path is prepared with method, but also with flexibility: your dog’s rest and enjoyment must keep their place between two trips.
The tracking tips are practical recommendations. The conditions for obtaining titles and any exceptions are a matter for the official regulations.