Level 3Experienced
What does “Very Promising” mean?
The answer
You pick up your puppy’s judging sheet and discover the letters TP, for “Très Prometteur” (Very Promising). Good news: it is the best grade provided for the Baby and Puppy classes in the French framework presented by SCC Expo! But what is it really telling you?
A lovely compliment, suited to his age
According to the FCI regulations applicable since 1 January 2026, this grade rewards a puppy that is very close to the breed standard, harmonious, in excellent condition and of balanced temperament. Its qualities may allow minor imperfections to be overlooked. The judge must take its age into account.
The standard is the text that describes the characteristics sought in a breed: proportions, head, coat, movement, behaviour…
To grasp the idea, imagine this assessment, reworded simply:
“For his age, this puppy already shows very good breed qualities.”
This sentence is an educational explanation, not a quotation from the regulations.
Which puppies is it for?
In France, SCC Expo gives the following age bands:
- Baby: from 4 months to under 6 months.
- Puppy: from 6 months to under 9 months.
In these classes, “Très Prometteur” (Very Promising) gives access to the placings. A “Best Baby” or “Best Puppy” award may also be provided.
A promise… without a crystal ball
The grade describes the qualities observed on the day of judging. It therefore guarantees neither a future championship title nor a grade of “Excellent” as an adult: the dog will still develop.
It is also worth distinguishing three pieces of information:
- Très Prometteur (Very Promising): the assessment of the puppy’s quality.
- 1st Très Prometteur: that assessment, together with first place in its class.
- Best Puppy: an additional distinction, when it is awarded.
Several puppies can be Very Promising: that does not mean they are all first.
Beginner: three tips to get off to a good start
- Read the comments together with the grade. The letters “TP” feel good; the critique helps you understand the qualities the judge appreciated.
- Get your puppy used to a calm examination. Short, rewarded sessions let him discover being handled, having his teeth shown and a few steps on the lead, without rushing him.
- Keep the experience pleasant. Allow for rest and breaks. At a first show, a relaxed puppy who leaves happy has already learned a lot.
Intermediate: three tips to progress
- Spot the observations that come up again and again. Keep the critiques to track the dog’s development, rather than stopping at a single result.
- Distinguish growth from presentation. A comment on proportions deserves a different reading from a remark about a gait that was poorly shown. Ask for an explanation if the vocabulary escapes you.
- Work on one goal at a time. A few seconds standing, steady movement or calm handling: choose one small success per session.
Advanced: three tips to refine your reading
- Re-read the standard behind the critique. Identify the breed characteristics the judge is referring to, without applying the criteria of another breed.
- Record the context of the judging. Exact age, coat condition, ease in the ring and comments allow you to compare results with more perspective.
- Prepare what comes next without rushing. Adapt the next outings to the puppy’s maturity and comfort. A good result is no reason to multiply shows.
These nine tips are practical recommendations, separate from the official rules.