What is the point of formal dog shows?

Large-scale formal dog shows such as Crufts and other major Kennel Club affiliated events are often highly publicised and prestigious competitions. Dog lovers enjoy watching these breed shows in person or on TV, whether or not they plan to enter their own dog someday. However, some view dog shows as dull or even concerning, particularly when dogs with exaggerated or unhealthy traits win awards.

So, what is the point of formal dog shows? Many would say they allow owners to see how their dogs compare to others, offer prestige for winning, and sometimes prize money. Yet, the true and original reasons for dog shows are less widely understood.

In this article, we explore the purpose of formal dog shows like Crufts and what they are designed to achieve in theory, along with a balanced view of the realities.

Identifying the Best Examples of a Specific Breed

Formal dog shows begin with comparing dogs of the same breed to each other. These classes are often divided further by age and gender. Judges assess how well each dog adheres to the established breed standard, aiming to identify the best example of the breed present on the day.

Group Classes to Find the Best of Type

Beyond initial breed classes, dog shows hold breed group competitions, where dogs of different breeds but within the same group are compared. This highlights the best representatives of each breed within broader category contexts. These rounds serve as heats for higher-level qualifications leading up to prestigious awards such as Best in Show at Crufts.

Driving Breed Improvement Through Standards

Show winners should exemplify the ideal traits of their breed, serving as role models for breeders and puppy buyers. Winning dogs demonstrate the characteristics that breeders should aim for, encouraging demand for healthier, well-structured dogs. This helps drive breed improvement by promoting positive traits and discouraging undesirable ones.

Rewarding Positive Traits Responsibly

Judges at shows reward dogs displaying desirable traits more highly, while dogs showing faults rank lower. This system incentivises breeders to adhere to breed standards and focus on producing healthy dogs. However, how rigorously these standards are applied in practice can be contentious.

For example, a 2015 Veterinary Record study found that 25% of Crufts winners were overweight, and some breeds exhibit exaggerated features that may compromise health but are still rewarded. This highlights ongoing challenges to ensure judging strictly promotes healthy traits.

Improving Breed Health and Welfare

One key goal of dog shows is to encourage the breeding of healthy dogs by not rewarding unfit or unhealthy specimens. This intends to reduce suffering and promote welfare. Yet, controversies persist regularly over how well health is prioritised in judging.

Enjoyment and Bonding for Dogs and Owners

Dog shows are designed to be enjoyable and rewarding for both dogs and their owners, provided the dogs are fit, healthy, and handled positively. Participating can help owners refine their dogs’ skills, obedience, and responsiveness, further strengthening their mutual bond.

Financial Realities of Dog Showing

Contrary to popular belief, winning top awards such as Best in Show at Crufts offers limited financial gain, with prizes often modest (£100 at Crufts). The costs of showing dogs, especially at high levels, are significant, making it an expensive hobby out of reach for many.

Indirect Financial Benefits of Show Success

While prize money is limited, owning a show-winning dog can lead to financial opportunities through stud fees, sponsorships, and breeding litters. Nonetheless, significant profit is rare, and responsible breeding must always prioritise health and welfare before financial gain.