Level 3Experienced
Why can two "Excellent" dogs be separated?
The answer
Two dogs go before the judge. Both get "Excellent", but one finishes first and the other second. A contradiction? No: the grade and the placing answer two different questions.
"Excellent" indicates quality, not equality
The grade assesses the dog against the standard of its breed. The placing puts it among its competitors.
| Result | What it indicates |
|---|---|
| Excellent | The dog meets the requirements of this grade. |
| 1st Excellent | It gets "Excellent" and finishes first in its class. |
| 2nd Excellent | It gets "Excellent" and finishes second in its class. |
Two dogs can therefore belong to the same quality level without having exactly the same qualities.
The FCI rules in fact state that "Excellent" may tolerate minor imperfections. This grade does not mean that all dogs receiving it are identical or faultless.
What can make the difference?
The judge compares each dog's qualities and faults on the basis of the standard. Depending on the breed, their assessment may cover in particular:
- Type: the characteristics that give the breed its expected appearance.
- Harmony: the way the different parts of the body fit together.
- Construction and gait: proportions, footfall and movement.
- Characteristic details: head, expression, coat or other points defined by the standard.
- Condition and behaviour observed during the run.
The rules for judges require them to follow the standards in force. Separating the dogs therefore calls for a reasoned assessment of the dogs, within this framework.
An example to help you understand
Here is a fictional situation, for teaching purposes.
Two German Shepherd Dogs get "Excellent".
The first has a particularly successful head. The second also has a good head, but shows steadier gait and a more stable back.
The standard for this breed gives an important place to movement and describes a steady trot, with no noticeable swaying of the topline. The judge might therefore prefer the second for the sum of its qualities.
This is not a rule saying that "movement always wins". In another comparison, a different point may be decisive. The dogs must be considered as a whole.
Can presentation carry weight?
It helps the judge see what the dog really has.
A lead that is too tight, a speed that is badly suited or an unstable position can make observation harder. A well-prepared dog allows a clearer assessment of his outline and movement.
Your aim is therefore to make his qualities visible, with a calm and suitable presentation.
Why can the order change at another show?
The competition, the dog's condition and his behaviour during the run can vary. Two judges may also assess a close comparison differently, while both remaining bound to follow the same standard.
A placing is an assessment within a given competition. To understand the results, also look at the comments and how they evolve.
Nine tips for improving
These tips are practical suggestions, separate from regulatory obligations.
Beginner — Reading your result properly
- Separate the grade from the place. A "2nd Excellent" is still an "Excellent". Second place does not change the grade obtained.
- Read the whole report. Pick out the qualities recognised and the points to improve, beyond the number in front of the result.
- Watch the other dogs with curiosity. Look for visible differences, without drawing conclusions based only on your personal preference.
Intermediate — Making comparison easier
- Work on a steady gait. Get yourself filmed to find a speed suited to your dog and to follow the judge's instructions properly.
- Prepare a stable stack. Train your dog to stand briefly, with a clear outline, without constant corrections.
- Link the comments to the standard. Ask someone knowledgeable in your breed to explain why certain points matter.
Advanced — Refining your analysis
- Compare the whole package. Avoid deciding that a dog should win because it has one outstanding quality. Study the balance of its qualities and faults.
- Analyse several runs. Keep the reports and a few videos. Recurring observations are more instructive than a single placing.
- Stay ready until the final decision. Manage the waiting, the breaks and your positioning so that your dog can still clearly show his gait and outline in the final comparison.
The benchmark to remember
"Excellent" recognises the dog's quality; the placing separates dogs of quality. Understanding this difference lets you appreciate the result better and work on your next presentation.