Judging our breed in conformation Dog shows which offer competition in Conformation are licensed by the American Kennel Club and are sponsored by either a Specialty Club (where only one breed is being evaluated) or an All Breed Club where several breeds are being evaluated on the same day. Their purpose is essentially the same - to promote and maintain the quality of the Breed being judged based on the Standard for that particular Breed. If you are the proud owner of a show quality German Shepherd Dog either arena can be utilized in the achievements of points.

The ultimate goal of competing at a point show is to establish your dog's quality by the completion of his championship. In order to qualify as a "Champion" a dog must be awarded points by three different judges with a total point tabulation of 15. This total must include two majors under two different judges. To earn a "major" (3 or more points ) your dog must compete against a specified number of dogs. A point schedule is set up for all regions in the country based on the ascertained amount of competition in that area. The listing is currently published in the April edition of the Events Calendar which is a supplement to the AKC Gazette. The point schedule which will be in effect as of May 2007 for the German Shepherd Dog in Division One which includes Connecticut, Vermont, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New York, Rhode Island, and Maine is as follows:

Check the AKC website for the most recent update for the Point Schedule.

This schedule can be downloaded from the Web at www.GSDCA.org. (under the Miscellaneous Category) for other regions in the U.S. The Groundwork Preparing your German Shepherd Dog for a show career requires a serious commitment. Before your youngster or inexperienced adult can compete in the Breed ring the groundwork needs to be firmly established.

It is paramount that he be socialized properly as a puppy and throughout his life and be given the appropriate training depending on his age. It is helpful to have the guidance of a professional "dog fancier" and/or trainer before you embark on preparing your prospect for the show ring. However, you will discover during your quest that certain things are primarily your responsibility. A trainer can instruct but it is your dedication to the effort that will perfect the outcome. A responsible trainer would advocate that you introduce your dog to a collar and lead at a young age. This should be done as gently as possible without deterring the spirit or natural excitement of the puppy. At first my concern is not control, but more acceptance. Once this has been established the collar and lead can then be used to give the dog direction, with the emphasis being on positive reinforcement. It is also essential that your youngster begin to learn the concept of stacking and standing for examination. Since a young dog is less tolerant than an adult dog when it comes to inactivity, lessons should be short in duration but practiced repetitively until the puppy understands what you are asking of him. If a particular routine seems to bother the youngster, I would forego that aspect of the training program for the moment and go back to it at a latter date. Also, since grooming will be an essential part of his life style as a "show dog", it is important that he be groomed on a regular basis. He must also be kept fit and trim with the proper nourishment and be exercised in accordance with his age and his physical requirements.

Beginning in Competition once you have established the groundwork with your dog you might want to venture into a Match Competition. Here the protocol is essentially the same as that at a Point Show -basically the judging procedure mirrors that of an actual conformation show. The participants are basically at the same level in terms of training and experience. The exposure that a Match provides can serve as a valuable learning tool. The weaknesses and strengths of your puppy's performance can be ascertained, and those areas needing work can be more easily identified. It is also a great opportunity to get your youngster socialized and accustomed to the atmosphere of Show Competition. Matches are held by several clubs in this area and a listing can be found in the "Canine Companion" and "Match Show Bulletin".