Level 1Beginner
Which dogs can take part?
The answer
A guide to conformation shows in France and FCI international shows.
Small poodle, large shepherd, young dog or veteran with a greying muzzle: rings welcome all kinds of dogs. However, admission depends on the breed, the dog's documents, its age and the show's rules.
A breed accepted by the organiser
In France, national and international all-breed shows admit breeds recognised by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (the FCI) or by the Centrale Canine (the Société Centrale Canine, the French kennel club).
National and regional breed shows are more targeted: they cover the breeds managed by the organising club. So before you book your Sunday, check the list of breeds on the entry form!
The right papers, with no need to be confirmed
Your dog does not need to be confirmed in order to take part. The Centrale Canine states that, for an international show, the dog must be registered in a stud book from the age of six months.
The FCI rules require a stud book, or its appendix, recognised by the federation. A breed recognised only at national level may be admitted under certain conditions, but without access to FCI titles.
So a LOF (the French stud book) birth certificate and a final pedigree are not the same thing, but a lack of confirmation does not, on its own, close the door to the ring.
And what about a crossbreed or simply a "Labrador type"? Looking like a breed does not replace the required documents. Such a dog cannot be entered as a representative of that breed in an FCI competition.
An age that suits its class
Dogs are not all grouped in the same category. Here are some reference points from the FCI international rules:
| Class | Dog’s age |
|---|---|
| Puppy | From 6 months to under 9 months |
| Junior | From 9 months to under 18 months |
| Intermediate | From 15 months to under 24 months |
| Open | From 15 months |
| Veteran | From 8 years |
Age is calculated on the day the dog is shown. For puppies under six months, check the conditions of the class offered by the organiser.
A dog fit to take part
The FCI excludes, among others, sick, deaf or blind dogs, as well as bitches in milk or accompanied by their puppies. Bitches in season may take part unless the organiser forbids it.
Even when entry is possible, ask yourself a very practical question: will my dog be able to get through the day comfortably? Noise, waiting around and the proximity of other dogs deserve gradual preparation.
Beginner — three tips to get started
- Check the documents. "He looks like a purebred" is not enough to enter him in that breed.
- Work out his age on the date of the show. A few days can change the class he can enter.
- Don't get stuck on confirmation. Check the admission conditions before giving up on your first show.
Intermediate — three tips for choosing well
- Read the entry form. A club show does not necessarily admit your dog's breed.
- Prepare him for the atmosphere. Work on moving, waiting and handling in short, enjoyable sessions.
- Check the event's health requirements. Also look up the formalities that apply if your dog is coming from abroad.
Advanced — three tips for planning ahead
- Check which awards are available. Admission of a breed and access to international titles are two separate questions.
- Check the supporting documents for special classes. Don't choose a working or champion class based on its name alone.
- Study the host country's restrictions. In particular if your dog has had its tail docked or ears cropped: national rules matter.