Level 3Experienced
What does “Very Good” mean?
The answer
You were hoping for an “Excellent” and find “Very Good”, often abbreviated VG, on the judging sheet. A little disappointment is understandable… but take the time to read what this grade really means.
An assessment that recognises quality
According to the FCI regulations, “Very Good” is awarded to a dog that is perfectly typical of its breed, balanced in its proportions and in correct condition. The text allows a few “minor faults, but not morphological ones” and states: “This grade can only be awarded to a dog of quality.”
Two expressions deserve an explanation:
- Typical: the dog clearly shows the distinctive characteristics of its breed.
- Minor faults: slight imperfections. The official definition excludes morphological faults here, which concern the shape or construction of the body.
To put it simply: “This dog has fine breed qualities, with a few minor reservations.”
This sentence is a teaching explanation, not a quotation from the regulations.
Why “Very Good” rather than “Excellent”?
“Excellent” requires, among other things, a very close match to the ideal standard, perfect condition and a particularly harmonious overall impression. “Very Good” corresponds to a different assessment, while still recognising a dog of quality.
The grade alone does not reveal the precise reason for the judgement. To understand it, read the critique. Avoid jumping to automatic conclusions: “It’s because of the grooming” or “It just needed better presenting”.
Can you be placed with “Very Good”?
Yes. The FCI regulations provide for the four best dogs in each class to be placed, provided they have received at least “Very Good”. However, this grade does not allow the CACIB to be awarded, which requires, among other things, a “1st Excellent” in an eligible class.
A concrete example
Imagine Oslo, the only dog in his class. The judge gives him “1st Very Good”.
The two pieces of information are read separately:
- 1st: his place in the class.
- Very Good: the assessment of his quality.
Being alone therefore does not automatically turn the result into “Excellent”.
This example is fictional.
Beginner: three tips to get off to a good start
- Read the positive points too. Do not let one reservation make you forget the qualities the judge noted.
- Get unfamiliar words explained. A critique becomes useful when you understand what it concretely describes.
- Keep the same enthusiasm with your dog. Reward its cooperation and end the outing on a pleasant experience.
Intermediate: three tips to improve
- Tell the dog apart from its presentation. A remark about construction and a remark about a badly shown movement do not call for the same response.
- Work on one specific point. If the critique mentions a difficult presentation, practise a short stand or a calm movement, without multiplying exercises.
- Compare several critiques. Look for the observations that come up repeatedly rather than drawing a firm conclusion from a single result.
Advanced: three tips to refine your analysis
- Link each remark to the breed standard. Identify the criterion concerned and the weight the text gives it.
- Ask for a competent outside opinion. A breed specialist can help you understand an observation; this does not guarantee a better grade.
- Set realistic goals. Improve what comes down to preparation and ease in the ring, while respecting the dog’s construction and comfort.
These nine tips are practical recommendations, separate from the official rules.