About Conformation
Conformation events, or dog shows as they are commonly called, are one of many types of events in which AKC-registered purebred Westies may compete. Dog shows are mainly intended to evaluate breeding stock. Dog shows range in size from large all-breed shows, with thousands of dogs entered, to small local specialty shows, featuring a specific breed. A dog's conformation (overall appearance and structure), an indication of the dog's ability to produce quality puppies, is judged.
There are three types of conformation dog shows:
1. All-breed shows offer competitions for the breeds of dogs recognized by the AKC. The all-breed shows are the type commonly seen on television.
2. Specialty shows are restricted to dogs of a specific breed, such as the Westie. The WHWTCSET hosts a Specialty show in July of each year.
3. Group shows are limited to dogs belonging to one of the seven recognized groups. Westies show in the Terrier group.
To be eligible to compete in Conformation, a Westie must:
1. be registered with the American Kennel Club,
2. be 6 months of age or older, and
3. meet the eligibility requirements in the written standard for Westies.
Spayed or neutered dogs are not eligible to compete in conformation classes at a dog show, because the purpose of a dog show is to evaluate breeding stock.
For more information on agility, visit the AKC website on the subject.
There are three types of conformation dog shows:
1. All-breed shows offer competitions for the breeds of dogs recognized by the AKC. The all-breed shows are the type commonly seen on television.
2. Specialty shows are restricted to dogs of a specific breed, such as the Westie. The WHWTCSET hosts a Specialty show in July of each year.
3. Group shows are limited to dogs belonging to one of the seven recognized groups. Westies show in the Terrier group.
To be eligible to compete in Conformation, a Westie must:
1. be registered with the American Kennel Club,
2. be 6 months of age or older, and
3. meet the eligibility requirements in the written standard for Westies.
Spayed or neutered dogs are not eligible to compete in conformation classes at a dog show, because the purpose of a dog show is to evaluate breeding stock.
For more information on agility, visit the AKC website on the subject.
Where all conformance show dogs aspire to be, GCH CH TullyBloom's Royal Pallas wins Best Opposite Sex at the 2011 Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show.
