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What is Conformation?

Updated: Jun 15

If you're new to the world of purebred dogs or just starting your journey as an exhibitor, you’ve probably heard people talk about “finishing a champion,” “earning points,” or “getting a major.” But what does that all really mean?

Welcome to the world of conformation dog shows, where dogs are evaluated based on how closely they match the ideal standard for their breed. Think of it as a quality check that helps preserve the health and integrity of the breed for future generations.

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So, What Exactly Is Conformation?

Conformation is a competitive event where purebred dogs are judged according to their breed standard. This is a written guide created by each breed’s national club that describes what the ideal specimen of the breed should look and act like.

Judges evaluate traits such as:


  • Physical structure: Is the dog proportionate, well-angled, and balanced?

  • Movement: Does the dog move smoothly and efficiently, with reach and drive?

  • Coat and color: Is the coat correct in texture, length, and appearance?

  • Temperament: Does the dog display confidence and the correct attitude for the breed?


Dogs aren’t judged against each other directly, but rather on how closely each one matches the written standard. The goal is to recognize and reward dogs that are structurally and behaviorally sound examples of their breed.


How Are Championships Earned?

In American Kennel Club (AKC) conformation shows, dogs compete within their breed for championship points. To become a Champion (CH), a dog must:

  • Earn 15 points total

  • Win at least two “majors” (a major is a 3-, 4-, or 5-point win)

  • Have wins under at least three different judges

  • Each major must be awarded by a different judge


But how do you get those points?

Points are awarded based on the number of dogs of the same sex and breed that your dog defeats at a show. More dogs = more points.


Here’s a simplified look at how it works:

Dogs Entered

(Same Sex- Including your dog)

Points Earned

2

1 point

3

2 points

4

3 points (major)

5

4 points (major)

6

5 points (major)

The exact number of dogs required for a major can vary depending on your breed and region (AKC updates this annually on their website). For example, it might take 9 females to earn a major in Border Collies in one region, but only 6 in another. This assures championships can be earned in rare breeds or low entry areas, but are still a prestigious title in more popular breeds or areas.


Points can be won by:


  • Winning Winners Dog or Winners Bitch

  • Defeating Champions in the Best of Breed competition


What Are the AKC Conformation Titles?

There are several levels of recognition a dog can earn in conformation:

  • CH (Champion): Earned by accumulating 15 points with two majors under at least three judges.

  • GCH (Grand Champion): After earning a CH title, the dog competes in Best of Breed to defeat other champions. The GCH title requires:

    • 25 points

    • 3 majors

    • Defeats over other champions

    • Wins under at least 3 different judges

From there, dogs can go on to earn higher levels of Grand Champion recognition:

  • GCHB – Grand Champion Bronze (100 points)

  • GCHS – Grand Champion Silver (200 points)

  • GCHG – Grand Champion Gold (400 points)

  • GCHP – Grand Champion Platinum (800 points)

These titles show a dog’s continued success in the ring and recognition as a top competitor in the breed.


Why Does Conformation Matter for Breeders?

For responsible breeders, conformation isn’t just about ribbons, it's about preserving and improving your breed. If breeders don't have a goal their program this can lead to progressively worse structure, temperament, health, etc.


Showing dogs allows you to:

  • Evaluate how your dogs measure up to the standard

  • Get feedback from experienced judges

  • Show the quality of your breeding program to others

  • Make informed decisions about future breedings

  • Promote sound structure, health, and temperament in the breed


There's a saying in purebred dogs,"Saying you don't need a dog from a breeder that shows is like saying you don't need a house built to code". Dogs will be a part of your life for to better part of two decades, make sure that you chose carefully!

Even if you’re not showing yourself, understanding conformation helps you evaluate your dogs, understand titles, and find reputable breeders.



 
 
 

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