Already competing in dog showing?

For any dog show exhibitor, Crufts is the one show you want to qualify for. Qualifying competitions take place each year at championship shows and premier open shows. 

Find out more about the eligibility for qualifying for Crufts. 

Stud book bands

As well as class qualifying through class placings, you will also be able to qualify for life by receiving a Kennel Club stud book number.

Find out which stud book band your breed is in.

The vulnerable breeds competition was launched in 2015. Each year the competition returns to the best in show ring to raise awareness of vulnerable British and Irish breeds. The competition recognises those people who are dedicated to the survival and prosperity of these breeds. To qualify for this competition, exhibitors must win a Best of Breed at one of the designated group championship shows. Learn more about the vulnerable breeds competition.

Each year, there are a series of qualifying heats at open shows held by general canine societies around the country, during June, July and August.

At each heat, four dogs and two reserves are selected by the judge and 64 dogs from the heats are then invited to the semi-finals at Discover Dogs at ExCeL London. At Discover Dogs, the dogs are exhibited in the main ring in two groups simultaneously and from this, the judges select the 10 finalists to go on and compete at the grand final which is held at Crufts the following March.

Learn more about qualifying heats.

Each general and group championship show society has been encouraged to schedule a special beginner class for dogs and bitches in each breed, which can be a single mixed-sex class or a separate dog and bitch class, plus any variety not separately classified and imported breed register classes. The Best Special Beginner declared for each breed will go forward to the special beginner group competition.

The class definition will be stated in the schedule as “For owner, handler or exhibit not having won a Challenge Certificate or Reserve Challenge Certificate, or for those breeds not allocated championship status, Best of Sex or Reserve Best of Sex at a championship show.”

It is hoped that exhibitors and the competition itself will receive maximum visibility at each show. It is preferable for all judging to take place in the main ring, although it is accepted that this may not always be possible. If time does not allow for all judging to take place in the main ring, pre-judging can take place, but the final decision and presentation of awards must be made in the main ring or an additional ‘special ring’. It is at each society’s discretion as to the time the group is to be judged.

The Kennel Club will provide sponsorship in the form of rosettes and will provide a 1st to 4th for each group, together with prize money of £100 for each group to be awarded as follows - 1st prize of £40, 2nd prize of £30, 3rd prize of £20 and 4th prize of £10.

Updated 14 Oct 19

1. At which shows can this competition be scheduled?

The Kennel Club is sponsoring the classes and groups at general and group championship shows.

2. Is it mandatory for every society to schedule this competition?

No, it is not mandatory, although of course we hope that societies will choose to do so.

3. What is the class definition?

“For owner, handler or exhibit not having won a Challenge Certificate or Reserve Challenge Certificate, or for those breeds not allocated championship status, Best of Sex or Reserve Best of Sex at a championship show.”

4. What is the definition of ‘handler’?

Anyone who physically shows a dog in any competitive classes, challenge or group. Therefore if a dog has been awarded a Challenge Certificate, Reserve Challenge Certificate (or an overseas equivalent), or for those breeds not allocated championship status, Best of Sex or Reserve Best of Sex at a championship show, whilst being handled by you, even if only in the challenge, you would not be eligible to enter special beginners.

5. Do Challenge Certificate and Reserve Challenge Certificate winners in this context also include CACIB, CAC and green star winners (and reserves)?

Overseas awards must be counted when working out eligibility, owners/handlers or dogs that have gained any of these awards are not eligible for the special beginners' competition.

6. I have been showing for many years, can I still enter the special beginner class?

If you have not handled or owned a dog that has won a Challenge Certificate, Reserve Challenge Certificate (or an overseas equivalent), or for those breeds not allocated championship status, Best of Sex or Reserve Best of Sex at a championship show then you are eligible to enter.

7. Does it matter how old my dog is?

No, the age of your dog does not matter, provided it has not won a Challenge Certificate, Reserve Challenge Certificate (or an overseas equivalent), or for those breeds not allocated championship status, Best of Sex or Reserve Best of Sex at a championship show.

8. Will classes be scheduled for AVNSC and AV imported breed register classes?

Yes, if the competition is being scheduled at a show then classes should be included for each breed including AVSNC and imported breed register classes.

9. Will the classes be scheduled as separate dog and bitch classes or as a mixed sex class?

It can be scheduled either as separate classes or as a mixed sex class, it is up the society, and you will need to check the schedule.

10. Where in the classification should the class be scheduled?

It is up to the society where in the classification the class is included but it should be borne in mind that the winning dog and bitch will be eligible challenge for Best of Sex/CC.

11. How do I enter these classes?

The classes will be listed in the schedule and can be entered in the same way as any other class.

12. How will the classes be judged?

The class will be judged in the same way as any other breed class.

13. Can I enter other classes as well?

Yes, you can enter as many classes as you wish, provided you and your dog are eligible.

14. Can someone else handle my dog for me?

Yes, provided they are also eligible for the class, i.e. not previously handled or owned a dog that has won a Challenge Certificate, Reserve Challenge Certificate (or an overseas equivalent), or for those breeds not allocated championship status, Best of Sex or Reserve Best of Sex at a championship show. It is important to remember that this class is for beginners and we would not expect experienced dog exhibitors to be handling dogs in this competition.

15. Must the same person handle the dog in the special beginner class and the special beginner group?

It is acceptable for different handlers to handle the dog, provided they are both eligible to do so (as above).

16. If my dog wins the special beginner class and is not beaten in any other breed class it is also eligible to challenge for Best of Sex/the CC or best of breed?

Yes.

17. If my dog wins the special beginners' class and Best of Breed, can my dog compete in the special beginners' group, and would my dog automatically win that group?

Your dog can compete in the special beginners' group but it doesn’t automatically win the group, it has to compete against the other Best of Breeds in the main group competition.

18. If my dog is awarded Best Special Beginner in Breed, but is beaten in other classes, can we still compete in the special beginners' group?

Yes your dog can compete in the special beginners' group.

19. If my dog wins the special beginner group, will we be expected to return on the final day of the show to compete for best special beginner in show?

No, there will not be an overall best special beginner in show award sponsored by The Kennel Club. You should check the schedule in case the society is running a best special beginner in show competition.

20. If my dog wins special beginner in breed and/or the special beginner group, can my dog be entered in the same class again at subsequent shows?

Yes, provided you, your dog or its handler have not won a Challenge Certificate, Reserve Challenge Certificate (or an overseas equivalent), or for those breeds not allocated championship status, Best of Sex or Reserve Best of Sex at a championship show.

Originally launched on 15 January 2009, the prestigious breeders' competition, sponsored by Agria Pet Insurance, will make its return at Crufts 2021. The competition gives breeders the opportunity to showcase their skill and knowledge as a breeder. 

Each year a number of qualifying heats take place at general and group championship shows. Teams compete to gain points by being placed between 1st and 4th. The top 40 teams qualify for the final at Crufts, of which two positions will be for the breeders' competition winners from the European and world dog shows.

Find out more about participating in the breeders' competition.

1. How many dogs should be entered in each team?

Three or four dogs of the same breed will make up the team, and each dog must have its own handler. The breeder’s details for each dog must be identical.

2. What is the entry fee for the competition?

The recommended entry fee is £15 per team.

3. Can a breeder enter multiple teams?

Yes, provided all the dogs in each team have identical breeder details, the breeder may enter as many teams as they wish.

4. Do all the dogs entered in the team have to be previously entered at the show, or can this be a first entry?

One dog must be entered in another class, and the total number of dogs in the team must be shown on the entry form.

5. As the breeder is entering the team, who is responsible for ensuring the dogs are under control and have not been in contact with contagious diseases etc.?

The breeder confirms on the entry form that they are entering on behalf of the other exhibitors within the team.

6. As the competition is being entered by the breeder, could a judge of a different breed exhibit a dog within the breeders' competition?

No – a judge at the show may not exhibit in the breeders' competition at that show.

7. If the dogs are entered in other classes, is there still an entry fee for the breeders' competition?

Yes the breeder must pay the entry fee of £15 per team.

8. What information is required by the breeder when entering?

The breeder must provide their own details (the breeder’s details) and the affix/kennel name (if they have one) together with the total number of dogs that will be part of the team at that show.

9. As it is the breeder who is entering the competition, will it be permissible to have different dogs in the team at different shows?

Yes that is permissible.

10. Which dogs should be exhibited at Crufts in the breeders' competition for each breeder?

It is up to the individual breeder which dogs they invite to represent them at Crufts.

11. Who can own the dogs taking part in the breeders' competition?

The dogs may be in any ownership.

12. Can a team compete with both dogs and bitches within the team?

Yes.

13. Can the team be entered on the day?

No, the team must be entered by the closing date.

14. If the dogs are not entered in any other class, is the society still required to provide benching for the dogs entered in the breeders' competition?

No, the dog(s) should be treated as spectator dogs. If any spare benches are available, they should be provided to the spectator dog until the breeders' competition starts.

15. Do exhibitors have an award book and, if so, how would they obtain one?

There is no need for exhibitors to have an award book. Our Dogs will collate the points after each show and will maintain the leader board, so there is no requirement for breeders to maintain their own records.

16. How will the competition work?

The team awarded 1st place will gain 30 points, the team awarded 2nd place will gain 15 points, 3rd will gain 10 points and 4th will gain 5 points. The top 40 teams at the end of the year will be eligible to enter Crufts the following year.

17. What will happen if there are several teams on the same points, meaning there are more than 40 teams qualified?

If there is an equality of points after all the heat results have been calculated, the teams which have achieved the highest place at a heat will take preference in the final allocation of places.

18. Who can judge the breeders' competition?

A group judge or a judge who awards Challenge Certificates in three or more breeds.

19. How will the entry be listed in the catalogue? Is the breeder issued with a ring number or do they use the individual dogs’ ring numbers?

The breeder should be allocated a separate ring number for this competition.

20. If the breeder is an assured breeder, how is that identified in the catalogue?

At the time of entry there is no requirement to provide evidence of assured breeder membership and therefore this information will not be shown in the catalogue.

21. What is the prize money that will be awarded for this competition?

The winner of each breeders' group competition will be awarded £20 prize money. If the winner is an assured breeder, they are entitled to an additional £5. They must show a copy of their current membership certificate to the secretary to claim the additional prize money.

22. Are docked dogs allowed to compete at the heats during the year?

Docked dogs are not permitted to compete at any show where the public pay an admission fee, which includes Crufts. Therefore they would be possible to enter some shows, but not Crufts.

Travelling from Great Britain into the EU

• Dog must be microchipped
• Dog must be vaccinated against rabies – puppies must be at least 12 weeks old before they can be vaccinated
• Wait 21 days after the primary vaccination before travel
• Visit your vet to get an Animal Health Certificate for your dog no more than 10 days before travelling to the EU
• Tapeworm treatment if travelling directly to Finland, Ireland, Malta or Norway (must be administered no less than 24 hours and no more than 120 hours (5 days) before you arrive)

Animal Health Certificates are valid for:

• 10 days after the date of issue for entry into the EU
• A single trip for entry to the EU – a new certificate must be obtained for each entry
• Onward travel within the EU for four months after the date of issue
• Re-entry to GB for four months after the date of issue

For travelling from Northern Ireland into the EU

• Dog must be microchipped
• Dog must be vaccinated against rabies – puppies must be at least 12 weeks old before they can be vaccinated
• A valid EU pet passport or an EU animal health certificate
• Tapeworm treatment if travelling directly to Finland, Ireland, Malta or Norway (must be administered no less than 24 hours and no more than 120 hours (5 days) before you arrive)

For travelling from Great Britain into the EU

• Dog must be microchipped
• Dog must be vaccinated against rabies – puppies must be at least 12 weeks old before they can be vaccinated
• Wait 21 days after the primary vaccination before travel
• Visit your vet to get an Animal Health Certificate for your dog no more than 10 days before travelling to the EU
• Tapeworm treatment if travelling directly to Finland, Ireland, Malta or Norway (must be administered no less than 24 hours and no more than 120 hours (5 days before you arrive)

Animal Health Certificates are valid for:

• 10 days after the date of issue for entry into the EU
• A single trip for entry to the EU – a new certificate must be obtained for each entry
• Onward travel within the EU for four months after the date of issue
• Re-entry to GB for four months after the date of issue

For travelling from Northern Ireland into the EU

• Dog must be microchipped
• Dog must be vaccinated against rabies – puppies must be at least 12 weeks old before they can be vaccinated
• A valid EU pet passport or an EU animal health certificate
• Tapeworm treatment if travelling directly to Finland, Ireland, Malta or Norway (must be administered no less than 24 hours and no more than 120 hours (5 days) before you arrive)

For entry into either Great Britain or Northern Ireland

You can enter or return to Great Britain or Northern Ireland* with your pet cat, dog or ferret if it:

• Dog has been microchipped
• Dog has an EU pet passport or health certificate
• Dog has been vaccinated against rabies - it will also need a blood test if you’re travelling from an country that is not ‘listed’

When entering Great Britain dogs must have a tapeworm treatment, unless they’re travelling directly from Finland, Ireland, Northern Ireland, Malta or Norway.

When entering Northern Ireland dogs must have a tapeworm treatment, unless they’re travelling directly from Finland, Ireland, Malta or Norway.

• Rules for travelling between Great Britain and Northern Ireland

Northern Ireland to Great Britain

There are no specific entry requirements when travelling from Northern Ireland to Great Britain.

Great Britain to Northern Ireland

Following Brexit and the implantation of the Northern Ireland Protocol, Northern Ireland was categorised as remaining within the EU for pet travel purposes. Dog owners wishing to travel to Northern Ireland from Great Britain were required to follow the same rules as if they were travelling to the EU i.e. vaccinate for rabies, obtain an Animal Health Certificate and vaccinate for tapeworm.

However, it was announced in September 2021 that checks on dogs entering Northern Ireland had been suspended indefinitely pending further negotiations between the UK government and the EU.

In February 2023 the UK Government and EU announced the Windsor Framework, which will update the requirements for travelling with your dog from Great Britain to Northern Ireland. Following the implementation of the Windsor Framework, dog owners will need to ensure their dog is microchipped and complete a simple declaration. The travel document will be valid for the lifetime of the dog and will be possible to complete online, while purchasing ferry or fight tickets.

We would advise dog owners to check latest advice before travelling from Great Britian to Northern Ireland on the relevant Government websites.

For more information please visit the following Government websites –

• Taking your dog abroad from Great Britain
• Bringing your dog into Great Britain
• Travel advice for Northern Ireland

The Federation Cynologique International (FCI) is a worldwide organisation set up with the aim to promote purebred dogs. Contrary to widespread belief, the FCI is not a registry and nor does it have records of breeders' addresses. One of its functions, however, is to set up the calendar of international dog shows. A list of shows is available from the FCI, 13 Place Albert I, B-6530, Thuin, Belgium.

If you require details about any of the shows on the list you will need to contact the kennel club of the country concerned or alternatively, obtain a copy of Info Expos Magazine.

(Jean Wastiaux - 24/2 Rue v Rousseau, B-7181, Feluy, Belgium). This magazine, published eight times a year, includes judging lists, schedules, regulations, calendars, entry forms and other general information on about 1,000 dog shows in more than 40 countries.

When choosing which shows to enter, it is very important to bear in mind the specifics of exhibiting in certain countries. For example, in order for a gundog to become a champion in Belgium the dog will require hunting certificates. Another point to remember is that the docking of dogs' tails is illegal in some parts of Europe and therefore not all countries allow the exhibition of docked dogs. Similarly, in some countries it is not permissible to show a dog which has been neutered. You will also need to familiarise yourself with the group system and breed names, which may both differ considerably from that in the United Kingdom.

You are advised to make yourself aware of any breed-specific legislation which might exist in the country you intend to visit. You should be able to obtain such information from the relevant embassy in the United Kingdom or overseas kennel club.

You should also be aware that many countries have particular rules about dogs being carried in cars. These range from the use of cages and dog guards to leaving a dog in a car parked in a public car park. More information about this, together with details about where you can obtain some helpful leaflets, is available from the AA's website.

Awards are given overseas at both national and international level.

• A CAC is generally considered to be the national equivalent of the breed CC awarded in Britain
• A Certificate d'Aptitude au Championnat International de Beauté or CACIB is an International Challenge Certificate
• There are also awards for other disciplines such as working trials (CACIL), obedience (CACIOB) and agility (CACIAG)

The relevant overseas kennel club will provide information on how to obtain a national title in all these disciplines. The FCI will provide information on how the obtain the International Beauty Champion (Int Ch) title.

Exhibitors should be aware that claims for an international title for UK based dogs should also be made direct to the FCI and that a British Champion or Show Champion title is required. For breeds which do not have Challenge Certificate status, there are other requirements which will need to be met before the claim can be put to the FCI. Exhibitors should note that under FCI regulations, a number of breeds are required to pass a working test before the Int Ch title can be awarded. Exhibitors should contact the FCI for further information about this.

The Breeds Liaison Council is made up of representatives for every breed and has 30 group delegates who attend each meeting. Representatives are elected for a three-year term to act as a channel of communication between breed clubs, exhibitors and The Kennel Club. The council was set up to represent grassroots opinion within the sport at The Kennel Club, and to promote a better understanding among exhibitors of how The Kennel Club functions. It meets twice per year, and representatives hold meetings prior to each council meeting to provide a platform for proposals and discussion items to be raised. The meetings also provide feedback from The Kennel Club on recent developments and decisions.

The council reviews the show regulations and advises The Kennel Club on any changes that may be needed, and is actively involved in strategic planning to enable showing to continue and flourish. Council proposals can result in fundamental changes in The Kennel Club's policy and we value the important work the councils do.

Council members are always interested in hearing the views and ideas of exhibitors, and will be seen competing at, judging at or managing many shows during the year. Minutes and agendas for recent and forthcoming council meetings can be found below.

Representatives are elected for a period of three years and the current term of office of all The Kennel Club Liaison Council representatives ends on 31 December 2024. 

Representatives are elected by The Kennel Club's registered societies and clubs which have an active interest in dog showing.

The most recent agenda, annexes and minutes are available below. If you wish to obtain a copy of older agendas, annexes and minutes, please email your request to The Kennel Club.

5 June 2024

• Agenda
• Minutes

21 November 2023

• Agenda
• Minutes

6 June 2023

• Agenda
• Minutes

25 May 2022

• Agenda
• Minutes

26 May 2021

• Agenda
• Minutes

4 November 2020

• Agenda
• Minutes

*Asterisk denotes a Delegate.

*Asterisk denotes a Delegate.

*Asterisk denotes a Delegate.

*Asterisk denotes a Delegate.

*Asterisk denotes a Delegate.

*Asterisk denotes a Delegate.

*Asterisk denotes a Delegate.

The Shows Liaison Council is made up of 31 regional representatives, elected for a three-year term to act as a channel of communication between breed societies, exhibitors and The Kennel Club.

The council was set up to provide a channel of communication on matters of general concern to the dog community and to promote a better understanding among exhibitors of how The Kennel Club functions. It meets once per year, and representatives hold area meetings prior to each council meeting to provide a platform for proposals and discussion items to be raised. The meetings also provide feedback from The Kennel Club on recent developments and decisions.

The council reviews the show regulations and advises The Kennel Club on any changes that may be needed, and is actively involved in strategic planning to enable showing to continue and flourish. Council proposals can result in fundamental changes in The Kennel Club policy and we value the important work the councils do.

Council members are always interested in hearing the views and ideas of exhibitors, and will be seen competing, stewarding, or judging at many shows during the year. Minutes and agendas for recent and forthcoming council meetings can be found below.

Representatives are elected for a period of three years and the current term of office of all The Kennel Club Liaison Council representatives ends on 31 December 2021. 

Representatives are elected by The Kennel Club's registered societies and clubs which have an active interest in dog showing.

The most recent agenda, annexes and minutes are available below. If you wish to obtain a copy of older agendas, annexes and minutes, please email your request to The Kennel Club.

23 April 2024

• Agenda
• Minutes

25 April 2023

• Agenda
• Minutes

3 May 2022

• Agenda
  
• Minutes

7 April 2021

• Agenda
• Minutes

1. My dog is a year old on the first day of a two-day show. Can I enter him/her in a puppy class?

Yes - a puppy class is for dogs of 6 months and not exceeding 12 calendar months on the first day of the show.

2. Can I enter any shows while my import application is being processed?

A dog must, at the time of entry for a show, be registered as required by The Kennel Club Rules and Regulations in the exhibitor’s name (or registration or transfer applied for). Therefore, if at the closing date of entries, the import has been applied for but the Kennel Club document has not been received, the dog may be entered and the name should be followed by the letters N.A.F (name applied for).

3. Can I enter a show while my authority to compete (ATC) is being processed?

You may not enter any competitions in the UK until you have your ATC number, and this number must be quoted on all entry forms.

4. Can I enter a show prior to sending in the registration forms?

You are not permitted to enter a show with either NAF or TAF, unless you have physically applied for a name or transfer.

5. I haven't seen a copy of the critique for a show I entered. What should I do?

Report a missing critique by filling in this online form. Once we have received it, we forward a copy on to the exhibitor. If a judge isn't able to provide a critique, the matter may be referred to the committee for consideration.

6. What is the difference between any variety/stakes classes?

A variety class is one in which more than one breed or variety of a breed can compete. For the purpose of The Kennel Club show regulations, the term “variety class” also applies to “stakes classes”.

7. My dog is in co-ownership with the scheduled judge. Can I enter it at the show if I handle the dog on the day?

No. Judges may not exhibit a dog for competition or handle a dog in the ring at a show at which they are officiating. 

8. I want to enter a show but the scheduled judge handled my dog in the ring at a previous show. Can I enter under the judge?

A dog may not be entered under a judge that has handled the dog at a show within the previous 12 months. This does not apply to a judge appointed in an emergency. 

9. My breed is scheduled at a show. Can I enter AVNSC?

No. Any variety not separately classified (AVNSC) classes are for breeds of dog for which no separate breed classes are scheduled.

10. If I miss the first of the two classes that I am entered into, is it okay to go into the second class?

If a dog misses a class(es) it may continue to compete in all subsequent classes for which it was entered. If in any of these classes the dog becomes eligible to challenge for any other prizes or awards at the show, it can continue to challenge for these awards.

Where a dog misses a class(es), a post-show report must be forwarded to The Kennel Club, where the reason(s) for missing class(es) will be investigated. This information will then be considered by the relevant committee and if the reason(s) given was not acceptable, it is likely that any awards gained at the show will be disqualified.

11. I withdrew my dog from a class and was not subsequently allowed to compete (with the same dog) in the next class. Was this correct?

Generally if a dog has been withdrawn it must not compete further at that show. Exceptions to this include a dog which has become eligible for Best of Group, Best Puppy in Group, Best Puppy in Show and Best in Show, which may withdraw from all other competitions other than breed classes, Best of Breed or Best Puppy in Breed in order to remain unbeaten. Dogs may also be withdrawn from any variety classes when judged before breed classes.

12. Can the winners of AV (any variety/stakes) classes compete in the group? 

Not unless they have also been declared either best of breed or best AVNSC. 

13. What should I do if an incident occurs at the show?

Incidents should be reported at the show and forwarded by the secretary to The Kennel Club in the post-show report, for follow up as appropriate. Show reports can be scanned over email to The Kennel Club.

14. My dog requires/has had surgery. Do I need to inform The Kennel Club and, if so, how do I go about it?’

If your dog has had any surgical procedure that has altered the natural conformation please complete the permission to show form.

If your dog has been spayed / neutered please complete the neutered dog application form.

If you are reporting a C-section or veterinary procedure please complete Form 6 - Veterinary report of a caesarean operation on a dog and/or a procedure altering the natural conformation of a dog.

15. My dog has been docked. Can they compete?

The owner of any dog, from any country, which was docked on or after 6 April 2007 (28 March 2007 for shows in Wales) must apply to The Kennel Club for permission to show before competing.

16. Can I show a dog with cropped ears?

No dog with cropped ears is eligible to compete at any Kennel Club licensed event. 

17. Which puppies are eligible to compete for BPIG and BPIS at championship shows?

The puppies which are eligible to compete for BPIG and BPIS at championship shows are:

• Those puppies which have been declared Best Puppy in Breed
• Best AVNSC Puppy
• Best Imported Breed Registered Puppy

18. Now that eligibility for groups at all types of show is the same, which dogs are eligible to complete for the group and Best in Show?

All Best of Breeds, Best AVNSC and Best AV Imported Breed Register dogs can compete for the group and the best from each group will be eligible for Best in Show.

19. Why is best AV Imported Breed Register now eligible for the group when previously the dog was only allowed to do a lap of honour?

The initiatives brought forward by the dog show promotion working party have in the main been as a response to extensive consultation with exhibitors and others, and are intended to to open up competition and to make as many dogs as possible eligible for awards.

20. If my dog is declared BIS and Best Puppy in Show, can I go on to compete further at the show?

Yes, dogs declared BIS and Reserve BIS (including Best Puppy in Show) need not be withdrawn from subsequent competition. It was agreed that competition should not be overly restrictive.

21. If my dog wins a breed class but is subsequently beaten in another breed class can it challenge for Best of Sex?

No, BoB, Best AVNSC and Best Imported Breed Register can only come from unbeaten dogs within the breed (or AVNSC/best Imported Breed Register). Therefore only all unbeaten dogs in breed, AVNSC and Imported Breed Register can challenge for Best Dog or Best Bitch.

22. My dog is declared BoB and I would prefer that it remains unbeaten to challenge for best in group. Can I still withdraw from AV classes in which it has been entered?

From feedback received from exhibitors it was noted that some would prefer their dog to be unbeaten when competing for the group, despite the fact that beaten dogs can now compete in the group. The regulations still allow for exhibitors to withdraw from variety classes to remain unbeaten.

23. I own a breed on the Imported Breed Register and previously I have only been allowed to do a lap of honour before the group competition. Is it correct that dogs registered on the Imported Breed Register can now compete in group competitions?

Yes, the winner of AV Imported Breed Register classes can now compete in the relevant group or puppy group competitions.

1. Do overseas wins count when calculating eligibility for classes at UK shows licensed by The Kennel Club?

In the class definitions, a Challenge Certificate (CC) includes any show award that counts towards the title of champion under the rules of any governing body recognised by The Kennel Club.

Therefore a green star, CAC and/or CACIB, when considering class eligibility, will be the equivalent of winning a CC. We would further advise that if the dog is a Champion, it will only be eligible to enter the open class (unless it is eligible for a ‘special’ or age restricted class, e.g. yearling where eligibility is based solely on age and not on awards). This applies to all UK shows licensed by The Kennel Club. The first prizes sections of the class definitions refer to those first prizes gained at UK shows licensed by The Kennel Club.

2. My dog is a Junior Champion. Does this count when calculating eligibility?

The Kennel Club does not recognise the title of Junior Champion. However, exhibitors should take into account any award (which we recognise) which counts towards the title of Champion as it will be the equivalent to a Kennel Club Challenge Certificate (CC) (e.g. CACs, CACIBs, green stars). If the dog has not been awarded a prize which counts towards the title of Champion, then it has no previous CCs.

3. My dog is an overseas Champion. Can it enter an AV Champion class?

Yes. Dogs which have gained an overseas Champion title awarded by any governing body recognised by The Kennel Club are eligible to enter AV Champion classes. However, exhibitors should check the show schedule as some definitions, specified by the show society, may state otherwise.

4. I have entered junior, maiden and novice at a show coming up this weekend, but I've just realised that my dog is overqualified for maiden and novice. What can I do?

The dog cannot enter the classes for which it is overqualified and must be transferred to the open class by the secretary at the show. Therefore it should compete in junior (for which it is eligible) and open, in lieu of the two ineligible classes.

If you are uncertain whether you have overqualified, please note that when estimating the number of awards won, all wins up to and including the seventh day before the date of closing of entries shall be counted when entering for any class. The specific date for calculating awards is also published in each schedule. Please note that wins in variety classes do not count for entry in breed classes.

5. When entering a show online, do I calculate the awards won up to and including seven days before the online or postal closing date?

The awards won should be calculated up to and including the seventh day before the postal closing date. The specific date for calculating awards is also published in each schedule.

1. How do I add a foreign title to my dog's record?

To add a foreign title you need to send photocopies of the certificates to the awards department who will add the title to your dog's record and then confirm the addition in writing. Please note that we will only recognise Irish Champion titles and foreign titles from the dog's home country, providing The Kennel Club has a reciprocal agreement. 

2. Does The Kennel Club recognise FCI international champion titles?

No. This title is not recognised by The Kennel Club.

3. My dog is now a champion in a few different countries. Can I still use these titles when applying for shows?

Even though The Kennel Club does not add foreign Champion titles to a dog's records, you can still use the title on your entry form when applying for shows.

If you have any further questions regarding awards please contact the awards department on 01296 318540 or email The Kennel Club.

On 1 January 2015, The Kennel Club suspended our show regulations which stipulated that dogs must be entered and exhibited in a breed class before exhibiting in an any variety class/stakes class and that only unbeaten dogs were eligible to compete in the group or best in show competitions.

From 1 January 2018 this suspension will be made permanent and included in the F Regulations.

Please note that for the purposes of Kennel Club show regulations, the term “variety class” also applies to “stakes classes”. A variety class is one in which more than one breed or variety of a breed can compete.

1. I am entering a show ‘judged on the group system’, my breed is scheduled but I only want to enter the stakes class. Is this possible?

Yes, it is now possible for any dog, whether the breed is scheduled or not to compete in only the stakes classes. However exhibitors are reminded that those winning dogs entered only in the stakes class cannot go forward to the group. Only BoB and AVNSC winners can go forward at shows judged on the group system.

2. My dog’s breed class clashes with the stakes class. Can my dog still go forward for the group if I withdraw from the stakes class?

As it is no longer necessary to compete in a breed class before competing in an AV class, you have the option of withdrawing from either the breed class or the AV class. However, it is only those dogs which have been declared Best of Breed and Best AVNSC which will be eligible for BIS.

3. My Golden Retriever is entered in both a breed class and an AV class. It is awarded BOB and goes on to compete in the AV class, but is beaten by another Golden Retriever which is only entered in the AV class. Can it still go forward to the group?

Yes your Golden Retriever is eligible to compete in the group.

4. My dog is declared BoB, but is beaten or unplaced in the stakes class. Can I still go forward for the group.

Yes.

5. With beaten dogs now being allowed to compete in the group competition, which puppies are eligible to compete for BPIG and BPIS at open and limited shows?

Previously, eligibility for best puppy in group at championship shows and open and limited shows were different. The new regulations confirm that the Best of Breed Puppy and the Best AVNSC Puppy are eligible for Best Puppy in Group and the Best Puppy in Group winner goes on to compete for Best Puppy in Show. Best AV Puppy is no longer eligible to compete for Best Puppy in Group. This eligibility is the same for all types of show and for open shows judged on the group system and open shows not judged on the group system.

Eligibility for the group competition at all shows is now open to dogs declared best Imported Breed Register.

1. Am I allowed to show my dogs that are already docked?

It will depend on where in the UK the show is held and when the dog was docked.

For shows held in England:

• Dogs docked before the 6 April 2007
  • Can be shown at any show, including those where the public pay to enter
• Dogs docked on or after 6 April 2007
  • If the show does not charge the public a fee for admission, then you are allowed to show any dog which is legally docked on or after the 6 April 2007 - irrespective of where it was legally docked
  • At any event where the public is admitted on payment of a fee you are not allowed to show any dog which is docked on or after 6 April 2007 - irrespective of where it was docked

For shows held in Wales:

• Dogs docked before the 28 March 2007
  • Can be shown at any show, including those where the public pay to enter
• Dogs docked on or after 28 March 2007
  • If the show does not charge the public a fee for admission, then you are allowed to show any dog which is legally docked on or after the 28 March 2007 - irrespective of where it was legally docked
  • At any event where the public is admitted on payment of a fee, you are not allowed to show any dog which is docked on or after 28 March 2007- irrespective of where it was docked

For shows held in Scotland:

• Legally docked dogs can be shown at all shows, irrespective of when the docking took place or if the public are charged to enter

For shows held in Northern Ireland:

• From 1 January 2013, it is also an offence to show a dog, which had its tail docked on or after this date, at events where the exhibitor pays a fee or members of the public pay an admittance fee
• This does not apply to dogs who had their tails docked prior to 1 January 2013 or where a dog is shown solely for the purposes of demonstrating its working ability

2. Does all this mean that dogs which are docked in England and Wales after 6 April 2007 won't be allowed to be shown at Crufts?

Yes it does. As Crufts charges the public for admission, the law in England declares that even dogs legally docked on or after 6 April 2007 will not be allowed to be shown there. It does not matter where they were docked - the law says that if the docking was on or after 6 April 2007 - they may not be exhibited at shows such as Crufts.

All dogs docked before 6 April 2007 will however still be able to be shown at Crufts.

3. Does the law apply only to shows licensed by The Kennel Club?

No - the ban on showing in England, Northern Ireland and Wales applies to all shows if there is a charge made to the public for admission.

4. What if my dog was docked overseas?

The law in England, Northern Ireland and Wales, for shows with a paying gate, applies to all dogs wherever they were born or wherever they were docked. So even a dog born in the USA, docked after the law changes and registered for example with the American Kennel Club, will not be allowed to be shown at any show in England, Northern Ireland and Wales which has a paying gate.

Dogs docked before the law changed, may be shown at all shows but dogs docked legally after this time may only be shown at shows where there is no paying gate in England, Northern Ireland and Wales, or at all shows held in Scotland.

Dogs docked illegally may not be shown at all - at licensed shows in England, Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland.

N.B - The owner of any dog, from any country, which was docked on or after 6 April 2007 (28 March 2007 for shows in Wales) must apply to The Kennel Club for permission to show at a Kennel Club licensed show before competing. Applications must be put in writing to The Kennel Club, 10 Clarges Street, London, W1J 8AB, UK.

5. What if I have a gundog which is legally docked in England or Wales after the law changed, and I want to enter the gamekeepers' classes at a show?

This will still fall under the definition of showing a dog and will therefore be illegal if the show charges the public a fee for admission.

6. What breeds of dog are exempted from the docking ban in England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales, and may continue to be docked legally?

The breeds in which docking may continue in England and Northern Ireland include Spaniels, Terriers, hunt point retrieve breeds and any combination of these breeds.

In Wales, docking is only allowed in Spaniels, Terriers and hunt point retrieve breeds but not any combination of these breeds.

In Scotland, docking was initially banned completely under the Animal Health and Welfare Scotland Act 2006 but was legalised again for working dogs (Spaniels, hunt point retrieve breeds and any combination of these breeds) on 28 June 2017.

In all countries, this is legal providing they will be used to work and the veterinary surgeon is provided with the appropriate evidence of this.

7. Has The Kennel Club altered breed standards as a result of the changes in the law?

No, there is no current intention to alter The Kennel Club breed standards and the standards of those breeds with optional docking clauses will remain unchanged, so as to accommodate dogs docked legally either before or after the introduction of the terms of the acts.