Show Rules & Regulations

F Kennel Club Show Regulations General Show Regulations

As at 1st July 2015
These Regulations apply to all licensed Shows, except Obedience Shows and Agility Tests.
Any numbered/lettered lists are in order for easier reading although they may not correlate to the complete kennel club text. All references remain accurate.
Excerpts relevant to exhibitors and judges

  1. Eligibility
    1. Dogs entered for exhibition at Kennel Club licensed Shows, with the exception of Companion Dog Shows must be registered at the Kennel Club in accordance with Kennel Club Regulations for Classification and Registration B. In the case of Companion Dog Shows held in conjunction with another Kennel Club licensed dog show, a dog entered for exhibition at the Companion Dog Show will be deemed to be an entered dog for the purposes of visiting and/or competing at the other licensed dog show.
    2. Only dogs of six calendar months of age and over on the first day of the Show are eligible for exhibition at Kennel Club licensed Shows. However, societies may accept Not for Competition entries at their discretion and dogs aged four calendar months and over are eligible to enter Not for Competition at all Kennel Club licensed Shows. Furthermore, dogs aged four calendar months and over are eligible to enter Match Competitions.
    3. If, in the opinion of the General Committee, a dog is of a savage disposition it shall be ineligible for entry for any Show held under Kennel Club Rules and Regulations.
    4. Persons disqualified or suspended under Kennel Club Rules are not permitted to take part in any Kennel Club licensed Show.
    5. No activity shall be conducted which permits, encourages or develops aggression in a dog.
    6. Only breeds for which a Breed Standard or Interim Breed Standard has been published by the Kennel Club are eligible to enter to compete at Shows.
  2. Welfare of Dogs
    An exhibitor whose dog is entered at a Kennel Club licensed event should take all reasonable steps to ensure the needs of their dog(s) are met, and should not knowingly put their dogs’ health and welfare at risk by any action, default, omission or otherwise. A breach of this Regulation may be referred to the General Committee for disciplinary action under Kennel Club Rules and Regulations.
  3. Those taking part in Kennel Club licensed/approved events are expected to maintain and abide by the highest standards, in accordance with Kennel Club Rules and Regulations and appropriate Codes of Conduct as published from time to time.
  4. Licensed Shows
    Licensed Shows held under Kennel Club Rules and Regulations are those held under Licence granted by the General Committee of the Kennel Club and which comprise:

    1. Championship Shows – which are open to all exhibitors (except where a qualification for entry has been approved by the General Committee of the Kennel Club) and at which Kennel Club Challenge Certificates are offered. (vide Kennel Club Show Regulation F(1))
    2. Open Shows – which are open to all exhibitors (vide Kennel Club Show Regulation F(1)).
    3. Limited Shows – at which entry is limited to Members of the Show Society or to exhibitors resident within specified areas or otherwise subject to the approval of the General Committee of the Kennel Club*. (vide Kennel Club Show Regulation F(1))
    4. Matches – at which entry is limited to Members of the Show Society*. (vide Kennel Club Show Regulations F(2))
    5. Companion Dog Shows – at which registered and unregistered dogs are eligible to enter. (vide Kennel Club Show Regulation F(3))

    *Dogs which have won a Challenge Certificate or obtained any award that counts towards the title of Champion under the rules of any governing body recognised by the Kennel Club are not eligible for entry at these Shows.
    NOTE: The General Committee of the Kennel Club also licenses Obedience Shows and Agility Tests which are covered by the appropriate Regulations.

  5. Judging
    Judges at Kennel Club licensed Shows must judge in accordance with Kennel Club Breed Standards. In assessing dogs, judges must penalise any features or exaggerations which they consider would be detrimental to the soundness, health or well being of the dog. Judges are also expected to maintain and abide by the highest standards in accordance with Kennel Club Rules and Regulations and appropriate Codes of Best Practice as published from time to time.
  6. Exhibition of Dogs
    1. No person shall carry out punitive correction or harsh handling of a dog at any time whilst at the licensed venue, including its environs, car and caravan parks and approaches.
    2. The owner, exhibitor, handler or other person in charge of a dog at Kennel Club licensed events must at all times ensure that the dog is kept under proper control whilst at the licensed venue, including its environs, car and caravan parks and approaches. This Regulation applies before (at any time during the set up period at the venue), during the event and afterwards (at any time during the breakdown of the event).
  7. Dog Fouling, Grooming and Waste (Animal)
    1. Any owner, exhibitor, handler or other person in charge of a dog is required to remove immediately any fouling caused by their dog(s) and/or any grooming waste at any Kennel Club licensed show within the licensed venue and within the environs of that event including car and caravan parks and approaches.
    2. Any organisation holding a Kennel Club licensed event is required to provide an adequate number of receptacles for the disposal of such fouling waste.
    3. The chalking, powdering or spraying (with the exception of water) of exhibits within the precincts of the Show is forbidden.

F (1) Specific Show Regulations Championship, Open and Limited Show Regulations

The following Regulations apply to Championship, Open and Limited Shows. Certain clauses of the Regulations only affect certain types of Shows and, where this is the case, a note to that effect appears at the beginning of the relevant clause. These Regulations must be read in conjunction with Kennel Club General Show Regulations F.

  1. Sponsorship and Donations
    1. No offer of sponsorship or donation may be made on condition that a specified person is appointed to judge except that a registered Breed Society may offer sponsorship or donation subject to either of the following conditions:-
      1. That the judge is on the registered Breed Society’s list of Judges.
      2. That a specified person is appointed to judge but the selection of that judge must have been made by the Committee of the registered Breed Society or by a properly conducted ballot of the members of the registered Breed Society.
    2. Classes restricted to breed points may be sponsored only by registered Breed Societies.
    3. No prize may be offered for progeny sired by a specific dog and no prize consisting of a free service of any dog is permitted.
  2. Benching
    Championship, Open and Limited Shows:-

    1. No person may interfere in any way with the benching as erected in accordance with this Regulation and in particular the partitions as erected between one pen and another must not be removed.
    2. Only the following notices may be displayed over the benches:-
      1. White cards not exceeding 25.5cm x 2.7cm (10″ x 5″), with black lettering not exceeding 2.5cm (1″) in height bearing the following messages:-
        1. “Not for Competition”, with the name of the dog similarly displayed.
        2. The name of the kennel and the name, address and telephone number of the owners.
      2. Printed awards, including the Challenge Certificates awarded at that Show.
    3. Obstruction of gangways prohibited.
  3. Awards
    1. There shall be at least 4 awards including Reserve on offer in every class. Printed awards must be given and, may indicate the name of the Society, the type and date of the Show, the nature of the award and the name of any commercial firms donating the awards.
    2. Best of Breed
      Where a breed is separately classified a Best of Breed may be declared but only from those dogs which have received a first prize in a breed class at the show. Where separate classes are provided for each sex of a breed a Best of each Sex must be declared. (Effective from 1 March 2012).
      Best Any Variety Not Separately Classified Puppy
      The Best Any Variety Not Separately Classified Puppy must be selected from the Any Variety Not Separately Classified classes.
    3. Best Puppy in Breed
      Where there is an award for Best Puppy in Breed the winner must be selected from puppies entered in the breed classes.
    4. Best Any Variety Not Separately Classified
      Where an Any Variety Not Separately Classified class(es) is (are) scheduled the Best Any Variety Not Separately Classified must be selected from the Any Variety Not Separately Classified classes. Where separate Any Variety Not Separately Classified classes are provided for each sex, the Best Any Variety Not Separately Classified must be selected from those dogs declared Best of each Sex.
    5. Best Any Variety Not Separately Classified Puppy
      The Best Any Variety Not Separately Classified Puppy must be selected from the Any Variety Not Separately Classified classes.
  4. Entry for Exhibition
    1. Puppies under 6 calendar months of age on the first day of the Show are not eligible for exhibition
    2. Entries for a Show must close at the time indicated in the Schedule and, at the latest on the fourteenth day before the Show opens.
    3. The Show Committee must reserve to itself the right to refuse any entry.
    4. Entries received by post bearing the Post Office postmark of the date for closing of entries or before must be accepted subject to the conditions of Regulation F(1)9.c.
    5. Entries from exhibitors claiming that undelivered entries have been correctly posted must be accepted on the day of the Show, subject to the conditions of Regulation F(1)9.c. Such claims will have to be 12 F(1) substantiated to the Kennel Club which will request documentary evidence, subsequent to the Show.
    6. A dog must, at the time of entry for a Show, be registered as required by Kennel Club Rules and Regulations in the exhibitors’ name (or registration or transfer applied for). In the case of joint registered owners the full name of every registered owner must be given. Where an owner makes an entry on behalf of another joint registered owner(s) or where an agent enters on behalf of a single or joint registered owner(s) such person must have the authority and consent from the single or joint registered owner(s) to sign the entry form on their behalf thereby binding them all to Kennel Club Rules and Regulations. In the event of any dispute, evidence of such authority and consent will be required.
      A dog acquired subsequent to entry having been made at a Show may be exhibited by the new owner as the new owner’s property provided that an application for the transfer has been forwarded to the Kennel Club before the Show, and the new owner has undertaken to abide by the Regulations and conditions of the original entry form (and in accordance with the conditions set out above).
    7. A separate application for entry must be made by each exhibitor and acceptance of the entry declaration must be given in accordance with the provisions specified thereon – whether in writing or via the internet. Entries cannot be accepted without the appropriate fees or acceptance of the entry declaration.
    8. In the case of a dog owned in partnership, and entered in Members’ Classes or competing for Members’ Specials, each partner must at the time of entry be a Member of the Society.
    9. In 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. Wins in Variety Classes do not count for entry in Breed Classes.
    10. A dog is not eligible for entry in Variety Classes (excluding AVNSC classes) unless also entered and subsequently exhibited in a Breed Class where such a class is provided for which it is eligible. Exemptions from this Regulation are:-
      1. A puppy, unless a class for dogs under 12 months of age for which it is eligible is provided for the breed.
      2. A dog in Any Variety Field Trial or Working Trial Class.
      3. A dog in Any Variety Veteran Class.
      4. A dog in Any Variety Champion Class at a Championship or Open Show.
      5. A dog entered at a Limited Show.
      6. As provided in Annex A to these Regulations.
      7. A dog which is withdrawn from exhibition in Breed Classes as a result of the appointment of an emergency Judge.
      8. A dog in Young Kennel Club (YKC) Stakes Classes.
      9. A dog in Good Citizen Dog Scheme Classes.
      10. Exhibits Bred by the Scheduled Breed Judge.
    11. If an exhibitor reports before the judging of a class or classes that a dog has been entered which is ineligible, the exhibitor may choose one of the following options:-
      1. Withdrawal The dog may be withdrawn from competition subject to the conditions of Regulations F(1)9.(j) and 20.
      2. Transfer
        1. If a dog is ineligible for a class or classes as regards its breed, colour, sex, weight or height the Show Secretary shall transfer it to the equivalent class or classes for the correct breed, colour, sex, weight, or height or, in the event of there being no equivalent class, Minor Puppy and Puppy excepted to the Open Class for the correct breed, colour, sex, weight, or height.
        2. If an exhibit is entered incorrectly in a Minor Puppy Class, Puppy Class or Junior Class, which is over age but under 12 calendar months of age, 18 calendar months of age or 24 calendar months of age respectively the Show Secretary shall transfer the exhibit to the Puppy Class, Junior Class or Yearling Class respectively for the correct breed, colour, sex, weight or height and in the event of there being no Puppy, Junior or Yearling Class to the Open Class for the correct breed, colour, sex, weight or height.
        3. For any reason other than the above, the Show Secretary shall transfer it to the Open Class for the correct breed, colour, sex, weight or height.
        4. If an exhibit arrives late and misses a class, even if it is the only class in which the dog is entered, the dog may not be transferred to any other class.
  5. Free Passes
    1. The Committee of a Show shall provide all exhibitors with a free pass enabling them to enter the Show at any time on the day their exhibits are scheduled, but in the case of a dog owned in partnership only one such free pass need be issued. Any exhibitor entering 3 or more dogs must be allowed a further free pass. Free passes and Pass Out tickets shall be available for exhibitors, but the admission or exit of dogs may be restricted to special entrances. Additional free passes may be issued at the Show Committee’s discretion.
    2. The owner, exhibitor, handler or other person in charge of a dog at Kennel Club licensed events must at all times ensure that the dog is kept under proper control whilst at the licensed venue, including its environs, car and caravan parks and approaches.
  6. Animals Allowed in Show
    No animal other than an exhibit shall be brought into the precincts of a Dog Show during its continuance, except any dogs registered to assist the disabled, those brought for health testing (provided that the appropriate entry form declaration has been signed) or dogs required for educational or instructional 14 F(1) purposes or by permission of the General Committee.
    However, at the discretion of the show society, a dog brought to the show by a spectator may be admitted into the precincts of the dog show, with the proviso that those in charge of the dog sign a declaration confirming the dog is free from disease and that the dog will be kept under proper control at all times. In the case of General and Group Championship Shows, the show society must apply to the General Committee for permission to admit spectators’ dogs as described above, and the granting of such permission will be entirely at the Committee’s discretion.
  7. Veterinary Support
    1. Show Societies are to arrange veterinary support in accordance with Regulation F11.
    2. For Shows at which a Veterinary Surgeon is present, provision must be made for examination by the Veterinary Surgeon of:
      1. Any dog so referred by a Judge or an authorised official of the Show.
      2. Any dog to which objection has been made on grounds which require a veterinary opinion. The opinion must be given in writing to the Secretary before the Show closes. No dog to which objection has been made may leave the Show before such examination. In any dispute the appointed Veterinary Surgeon’s decision shall be final.
      3. Any dog so referred by the Show Society on the written instructions of the General Committee.
        Where no Veterinary Surgeon is present at the show, the objection should be reported to the Kennel Club within 7 days of the close of the show.
  8. Exclusion of Dogs
    1. If in the opinion of the Show Secretary, Show Manager or Judge any dog is considered not in a fit state for exhibition owing to disease, savage disposition, or any other cause, the dog may be excluded or removed from the Show on the instruction of the Show Management. Once excluded or removed from the Show the dog must not be brought into the Show at any time under any circumstances.
    2. If in the opinion of the Show Secretary, Show Manager or duly appointed official of the Kennel Club any dog is suffering from a visible condition which adversely affects its health or welfare the dog must be examined by the Veterinary Surgeon of the Show to establish the validity of the allegation. The Veterinary Surgeon’s opinion shall be final and if the allegation is upheld, the dog shall be excluded from all subsequent competition at the Show. Where no Veterinary Surgeon is present at the show, the matter should be reported to the Kennel Club within 7 days of the close of the show.
    3. A full report on any exclusion(s) must be made by the Show Secretary to the Kennel Club for consideration within 7 days of the close of the show.
  9. Exhibition of Dogs Suffering from Contagious or Infectious Disease or Any Visible Condition which adversely affects their Health or Welfare
    No dog suffering from any infectious or contagious disease or having been exposed to such disease during the period of 21 days prior to the Show or suffering from any visible condition which adversely affects its health or welfare may be exhibited. Exhibitors infringing this Regulation will be liable to be fined and/or to be dealt with under Kennel Club Rule A11.
  10. Exhibition of Dogs
    1. Championship, Open and Limited Shows (Benched):-
      1. Dogs should be present on their benches at all times except
        1. When being judged.
        2. When being prepared for exhibition and/or being exercised.
      2. In certain circumstances dogs must be present on their benches at all times if required by show Management
      3. Dogs may be removed from their benches by order of the Veterinary Surgeon or Show Management.
    2. Preparation of exhibits should generally take place on benches or in the area provided by the Show Society.
    3. Except when securely benched or caged all dogs must be on a lead for the duration of the Show including in the exercising area, except when competing in the ring in an Obedience Class or Agility Test, or taking part in a Demonstration.
    4. Cages, grooming tables and trolleys are not allowed at the ringside.
    5. Obstruction of gangways is prohibited.
    6. No dog shall be allowed in a judging ring other than actual exhibits in the class being judged.
    7. Printed awards may not be displayed in the ring except when judging is taking place for Groups and Best in Show. Nothing may be carried, worn or displayed by a handler or a dog in the ring which is capable of indicating the identity of the exhibit, owner or company which might be sponsoring that handler or dog. Nor must anything be said or any action be taken which identifies the exhibit other than by exhibit number.
    8. The attracting of the attention of exhibits by any method from outside the ring is prohibited. It is the duty of the Judge, steward or Show Management noticing such attraction to ask that it cease.
    9. Every exhibitor shall ensure that whilst the dog is being exhibited, its handler shall display the correct ring number.
    10. Before confirmation of a Best of Breed/Best Any Variety Not Separately Classified award and where appropriate a Champion award, for breeds designated by the Kennel Club as a Category 3 Breed, exhibitors are required to present their dogs for examination to a General & Group Championship Show Veterinary Surgeon. The result of the examination shall be final. (Effective from 1 March 2012).
  11. Use of Firearms and Sound Amplifiers
    The use of firearms is prohibited and the use of sound amplifiers is forbidden except as authorised by the Show Management.
  12. Cooking Stoves
    The use of cooking stoves in the proximity of tenting and benching areas is forbidden except as authorised by the Show Management.
  13. Withdrawal from Competition
    If a dog admitted to a Show is not exhibited in all the classes in which it is entered or not brought into the ring when required by a Judge, it is liable to be disqualified at the discretion of the General Committee, but withdrawal from competition is permissible in the following circumstances:

    1. In accordance with the provisions of Regulation F(1)9.k.(1).
    2. When the Judge announced in the Schedule is changed and notice of the change is not given in accordance with Regulation F(1)8.d., the dog may be withdrawn from competition under the substitute Judge by giving notice to the Show Secretary before the commencement of the judging. The Show Secretary shall notify the steward of the ring and, on application, shall permit the removal of the exhibit from the Show by the owner or his accredited agent.
    3. When the exhibitor or his representative makes application to the Judge. A dog so withdrawn must not compete further at that Show.
    4. Through its illness, when an application to that effect must be made at once to the Show Secretary, and if thought necessary by the Show Manager the dog must be examined by the Veterinary Surgeon of the Show. All such cases must be reported to the Kennel Club by the Show Secretary within 7 days of the close of the show.
    5. When classes are judged after the authorised time for removal of the exhibit.
    6. In accordance with the provisions of Regulations F(1)26 and 27.
  14. Judges and Judging
    1. Not more than three Judges shall be appointed to adjudicate for any award.
    2. General Canine Society Championship and Open Shows – Affiliated Societies and Breed Club Open Shows.
      For non Challenge Certificate breeds at Championship Shows and for General Canine Society Open Shows, Affiliated Organisations Open shows and Breed Club Open Shows scheduling more than three breed classes for a particular breed (five classes for Stud Book Band E breeds), the selected Judge must, when appointed by the Club/Society, either:

      1. Have previously been approved to award Challenge Certificates to the relevant breed and not have been declared ineligible to do so by the time of carrying out the appointment or
      2. Be included on a Breed Council/Club B judges list or above. In the latter case before accepting such an appointment, the selected Judge must ensure that their name is included on a relevant Breed Council/Club judges list. Except:-
        1. Judges resident in Northern Ireland. Persons who are approved to award Green Stars under Irish Kennel Club Rules and are resident in Northern Ireland are permitted to judge the above mentioned classes at Kennel Club licensed Championship and Open Shows held in Northern Ireland without being included on a Breed Council/Club judges list.
        2. Overseas Judges. For non Challenge Certificate breeds at Championship Shows and for General Canine Society Open Shows, Affiliated Organisations Open Shows and Breed Club Open Shows the organising Club/Society must ensure that any overseas Judge appointed to judge more than three breed classes (five classes for Stud Book Band E breeds) has been approved to judge the breed concerned at Championship level in the country in which they are domiciled, or are on a Kennel Club registered Breed Club/Council B list or above for the breed concerned.
        3. General Canine Society Open Shows and Affiliated Organisation Open Shows only. Persons appointed to judge Best in Show, Best in Group, Best Puppy in Group and/or Variety Classes must have previously been approved to award and have awarded Challenge Certificates to at least one breed, and be currently eligible to do so. Classes for varieties of a breed and handling classes are exempt from this Regulation.
    3. If more than one Judge is appointed for any form of competition, a further Judge must be appointed to act as Referee and the name published in the Schedule. However, at a Single Breed Championship Show, where more than one judge is appointed, the society may appoint a Best in Show Judge instead of a Referee, whose name must be published in the schedule.
    4. In the event of a Judge being unable to complete all allotted judging, a substitute Judge must be appointed to complete the judging.
    5. Judges may not exhibit a dog for competition or handle a dog in the ring at a Show at which they are officiating (vide Regulation F(1)30.(9)).
    6. The judging of breeds in which Challenge Certificates are offered must have priority over all other breeds and classes.
    7. The numbering of the classes in the judging book must follow that of the Schedule and Judges must judge the classes in each breed in the order in which they are entered in the judging book.
    8. Each Judge must be provided with a judging book which must have:
      1. Detachable slips for each class and award for use on the award board and in the Secretary’s office.
      2. On the portion of the book which is retained by the Judge, the exhibit numbers of the dogs entered in each class and space for recording the numbers of the exhibits gaining awards.
      3. Championship Shows –
        Slips for the Best of Sex, Reserve Best of Sex and Best of Breed.
      4. Championship Shows –
        The notice regarding the awarding of Challenge Certificates, obtainable from the Kennel Club.
    9. When a breed is to be judged in a ring other than that intimated in the Catalogue, a notice of the change must be prominently posted in the original ring.
    10. If a society/club and/or judge wish to weigh Miniature Dachshunds at a show the intention to do so must be clearly stated in the show schedule, and a certified weighing machine must be provided. The intention to weigh must be agreed in writing between the judge and the society/club in good time prior to the show and on the day of the show each new dog must be weighed by the judge or with the judge observing.
    11. In all classes where competition is subject to a height or weight limit, the decision of the Judge in case of dispute shall be final.
    12. A Judge’s awards shall be final except in the case of fraud or misrepresentation or where a bona fide mistake has been made by the Judge. No alteration of the awards may be made after the date of the Show without specific permission of the Kennel Club.
    13. An award may be withheld if in the opinion of the Judge there is lack of sufficient merit. The Judge must mark on the judging slips that the award has been so withheld. The Judge is not entitled to withhold an award for any other reason. When a Judge withholds a Third award for want of merit, the subsequent awards in that class must also be withheld.
    14. Judges may exclude any dog from the ring if it is considered not in a fit state for exhibition owing to savage disposition or suffering from any visible condition which adversely affects its health or welfare and the exclusion must be reported immediately by the judge/steward to the Show Secretary. The judge’s decision is final and the dog shall be excluded from all subsequent competition at the Show. The judge must make a report to the Show Secretary at the first opportunity after the Show.
    15. Where a dog has been withdrawn at the request or suggestion of the judge, the judge must make a report to the Show Secretary at the first opportunity at the Show. The Secretary must forward these details to the Kennel Club within 7 days of the close of the show.
    16. Judges who consider there has been a breach of Annex B to these Regulations may call for an examination at the Show and shall mark the awards accordingly.
    17. At any level of competition there must be no placing in reverse order. The Judge must place the dogs to be given awards in the centre of the ring in descending order from the Judge’s left to right and must then mark and sign the Judge’s Book.
    18. A Judge must initial any alteration made and endorse upon the Judging Book, slips, letter and any other relevant document, the time and date of making the alteration.
    19. Where applicable, the Judge must mark in the Judging Book the dogs declared to be the Best of each Sex, Best of Breed and Best Any Variety Not Separately Classified and Best Puppy in Breed and Best Any Variety Not Separately Classified Puppy and must complete and sign the award cards.
    20. Judges are not permitted to make any oral commentary on the dogs until after the conclusion of all their judging. Any public commentary at a Show must not include mention of a dog’s name or reference to previous awards.
    21. Equal awards are prohibited.
    22. The Committee shall have the power to grant, withhold, suspend or cancel the appointment of any Judge.
  15. Judging Contracts
    1. Invitations to judge must be made by Show Societies in writing and they must ensure that written acceptances are received. Written acceptances must be followed by written confirmation of the appointment by the Society upon which a judging contract will be deemed to have been formed; except that in the case of appointments to award Challenge Certificates, the contract to judge will only be formed when Kennel Club approval of the appointment has been given.
    2. Societies are required to include the following wording in Judges’ invitation letters: “In accepting this invitation you agree to be bound by Kennel Club Rules and Regulations and the Kennel Club Code of Best Practice for Judges. In doing so you also recognise that you are obliged to notify us in writing of any change in personal circumstances which will affect your ability to fulfil this judging appointment. You should also note that we reserve the right to cancel the contract before the date of the appointment if there is a change in your circumstances, which in our reasonable opinion would adversely affect your ability to fulfil the appointment.”
    3. In the case of a person invited to judge Miniature Dachshunds it must be established in writing as part of the contract being formed whether the show society and judge wish the breed to be weighed.
    4. All Judges at Championship Shows and Open Breed Club Shows must produce a written critique for the first two placings in each class, and will dispatch these to at least one of the weekly United Kingdom Canine journals.
    5. When requested to do so, judges must submit a completed breed health monitoring report form and a copy of their critique to the Kennel Club within 21 days of the close of the show.
    6. All judging contracts are subject to cancellation at the discretion of the Kennel Club in the event of the judge being subject to relevant disciplinary action.
    7. In the event of a Judge or Society being in breach of any of the terms of a judging contract, the General Committee may impose a fine. The Judge or Society may be required by the General Committee to give reasons for such breach, and in the event of the explanation not being considered satisfactory, the General Committee may impose a fine.
    8. In the event of such fines not being paid within the time stipulated by the General Committee, the Judge or Guarantors of the Show, as applicable, may at the discretion of the General Committee be dealt with as if a complaint under Kennel Club Rule A11 had been lodged and proved to the satisfaction of the General Committee.
  16. Stewards
    Show Societies must appoint at least one steward for every ring in which judging is to take place. Stewards shall at all times act in accordance with Instructions for Stewards (Annex C to these Regulations), a copy of which must be issued to each steward by Show Societies.
  17. Challenge Certificates
    Championship Shows

    1. Selection of Judges
      The names of Judges submitted for approval to the General Committee must be selected in accordance with the Rules of the Show Society, and if required, evidence of this must be forwarded to the General Committee.
    2. Application for Approval of Judges
      The Show Society must apply to the General Committee for the approval of the following Judges with the following conditions:

      1. All applications for the approval to judge with Challenge Certificates, Groups, Best in Show, and Referees, must include both the nomination and the questionnaire (where required), and must be lodged by the Show Society with the Secretary of the Kennel Club at least 12 months prior to the date of the Show on the form provided.
      2. Judges to award Challenge Certificates, at Single Breed, Sub-Group and General or Group Championship Shows.
        1. There must be an interval of not less than 12 calendar months between the appointment of a Judge to award Challenge Certificates to the same sex of the same breed.
      3. Judges for Group Competitions.
        The Judge of a Group at a Championship Show shall not judge any Breed or Variety classes in that Group at the Show except when acting in the capacity of Referee. There must be an interval of not less than 9 calendar months between appointments to judge the same Group at Championship Shows.
      4. Judges for Best in Show (excluding Single Breed Championship Shows).
        1. The Judge of Best in Show at a General or Group Championship Show, shall not judge any Breed or Variety classes at the Show except when acting in the capacity of Referee.
        2. At a Sub-Group Championship Show where more than one Judge is appointed a separate Best in Show Judge must also be appointed, who must not judge any Breed or Variety classes at the Show except when acting in the capacity of Referee. At a Sub-Group Championship Show where only one Judge is appointed a separate Best in Show Judge need not be nominated.
        3. There must be an interval of not less than 9 calendar months between appointments to judge Best in Show at a Championship Show.
    3. Judges for Puppy Group Competitions. The judge of a Puppy Group at a Championship Show shall not judge any Breed or Variety classes in that Group at the show except when acting in the capacity of Referee.
    4. The Committee shall have the power to grant, withhold, suspend or cancel the approval of any Judge, Referee, Judge of Group Competitions or Judge for Best in Show.
    5. No announcement may be made by a Show Society of an appointment to award Challenge Certificates, or to act as Referee for a breed for which Challenge Certificates are on offer at the Show or to judge a Group or Best in Show until the name of the Judge has been submitted to the General Committee and the General Committee has intimated its approval, which approval is entirely at the discretion of the General Committee.
    6. Should any Judge named in the Schedule be unable to fulfil the specified engagement, the name of another Judge must be submitted to the General Committee for approval and the alteration announced in the Canine Press if possible. In an emergency, the Show Committee may substitute as a Judge for a breed with Challenge Certificates, a person who has previously awarded Challenge Certificates in the breed but who has not accepted an invitation to judge the same sex of the breed at another Championship Show within the 12 calendar months following the Show in question. In an emergency, the Show Committee may similarly substitute a Judge for a Group or Best in Show provided that the substitute Judge has not accepted an invitation to judge the same Group or Best in Show within the 9 calendar months following the Show in question. The circumstances of any such substitution must be reported to the Kennel Club without delay.
    7. Where a Judge is unable to complete all allotted judging, a substitute Judge must be appointed to complete the judging. The appointment of the substitute must be in accordance with the procedure and Regulations for appointing Judges in an emergency.
    8. The Judge shall decide on a Best of Sex and Reserve Best of Sex winner in each sex. Before deciding to award a Challenge Certificate or a Best of Breed Challenge Certificate the judge must be clearly of the opinion that the exhibit to which he is awarding the Challenge Certificate is of such outstanding merit as to be worthy of the title of Champion and that the exhibit to which he is awarding the Reserve Challenge Certificate or the Reserve Best of Breed Challenge Certificate is in his opinion worthy of being awarded the Challenge Certificate should the Challenge Certificate winner be disqualified. Should the Challenge Certificate not be awarded the Reserve Challenge Certificate cannot be awarded. The dog must be in the ring at the time the awards are made. The judge must complete and sign all certificates, in accordance with the catalogue details.
    9. In the event of a dog awarded a Challenge Certificate being subsequently disqualified under Kennel Club Show Regulation F(1)30, the General Committee may authorise the award of the Challenge Certificate to the exhibit awarded the Reserve Challenge Certificate.
    10. The Kennel Club will issue the award cards for each Challenge Certificate and Reserve Challenge Certificate offered and the cards for the Best of Sex, Reserve Best of Sex and Best of Breed once the published Schedule has been lodged with the Kennel Club.
  18. Special Awards
    1. Special awards may be given to exhibits placed first, second, third and reserve in addition to the class award.
    2. Special awards dependent on breed characteristics may be offered only by registered Breed Societies.
    3. In any case where a Special Award involves the presentation of a Diploma of Merit in the form of an Award card, a specimen must be submitted to the Kennel Club for approval before the publication of the Schedule and Catalogue. The use of the word “Certificate” for a Special Award is not permitted.
    4. Proviso A dog beaten in competition for a Special Award confined to one breed is not considered to be a beaten dog for the purposes of Regulations F(1)26 and 27.
  19. Best Puppy in Show
    Where a Best Puppy in Show competition is scheduled the Best Puppy in Show is a puppy which has competed and is unbeaten by any other puppy exhibited at the same Show. A puppy is a dog of 6 and not exceeding 12 calendar months of age on the first day of the Show. Where the Best of Breed, Best of Group or Best in Show is a puppy it should automatically be awarded Best Puppy in Breed, Best Puppy in Group or Best Puppy in Show respectively. Similarly, if the Reserve Best of Breed, Reserve Best of Group or Reserve Best in Show is a puppy which has only been beaten by an adult dog it will also automatically be Best Puppy in Breed, Best Puppy in Group or Best Puppy in Show respectively. Consequently, selection of Best Puppy in Breed, Best Puppy in Group and Best Puppy in Show must follow the selection of Best of Breed, Best of Group and Best in Show respectively.

    1. a. Championship Shows Judged on the Group System
      (Definition: Shows judged on the Group System-Refer Regulation F(1)27.b.).

      1. Best Puppy in Breed
        A Best Puppy must be declared in each breed from puppies entered in the Breed Classes.
      2. Best Puppy in Group
        Best Puppy in Group and subsequent Puppy Group placings must be selected from:-

        1. Those puppies declared Best Puppy in Breed provided they are unbeaten by any other puppy.
        2. The puppy declared Best Puppy from the Any Variety Not Separately Classified classes in each Group or on each day provided it is unbeaten by any other puppy.
      3. Best Puppy in Show
        Best Puppy in Show must be selected from the Best Puppy in Group winners provided they are unbeaten by any other puppy.
    2. Open and Limited Shows Judged on the Group System
      1. Best Puppy in Group
        Best Puppy in Group and subsequent Puppy Group placings must be selected from those puppies which have been judged and which are unbeaten by any other puppy.
      2. Best Puppy in Show
        Best Puppy in Show must be selected from the Best Puppy in Group winners provided they are unbeaten by any other puppy.
    3. All Shows Not Judged on the Group system
      Best Puppy in Show must be selected from puppies which have been judged and which are unbeaten by any other puppy.
    4. Withdrawal from Other Competition
      Puppies which become eligible for Best Puppy in Group and Best Puppy in Show may be withdrawn from all other competition, other than breed classes and Best Puppy in Breed, prior to the competition for Best Puppy in Group and Best Puppy in Show as appropriate, in order to remain unbeaten. A puppy beaten in competition for Best Puppy in Group or Best Puppy in Show may subsequently be exhibited in all competition for which it was previously eligible. The dog declared Best Puppy in Show, however, must not compete in any subsequent competition. Puppies may be withdrawn from Any Variety Classes when judged before Breed Classes.
    5. Proviso
      For the purpose of this Regulation, dogs beaten in competition for Stud Dog, Brood Bitch, Progeny, Brace and Team or a Special Award confined to one breed will not be considered to be a beaten dog.
  20. Best in Show
    Definition of a Category 3 Breed. A breed from time to time designated by the General Committee as requiring particular monitoring by reason of visible condition(s) which may cause health or welfare concerns. The list of designated Category 3 Breeds is kept under regular review and is published from time to time in the Kennel Gazette.

    1. Best of Breed
      Where a breed is separately classified a Best of Breed may be declared but only from those dogs which have received a first prize in a breed class at the show. Where separate classes are provided for each sex of a breed a Best of each Sex must be declared.
      NOTE: The Best of Breed/Best Any Variety Not Separately Classified award relevant to a Category 3 Breed will not be confirmed until the dog
    2. Shows Judged on the Group System
      (Definition: Shows judged on the Group System include classes for breeds within more than one Group, as defined in Kennel Club Regulation B(A); and require a Judge to declare a Best of each Group after which the exhibits so declared will compete for the award of Best in Show and Reserve Best in Show.)

      1. Best of Group
        Best of Group and subsequent Group placings must be selected from:-

        1. The Best of Breed winners in each Group provided that they are unbeaten winning dogs.
        2. The best unbeaten winning dog from the Any Variety Not Separately Classified classes in each Group or on each day.

        NOTE: The dog declared Best of Breed/Best Any Variety Not Separately Classified from a breed designated by the Kennel Club as a Category 3 Breed is not eligible to compete in the Group competition unless it has passed an examination by the Show’s Veterinary Surgeon. If the dog fails to pass the examination it is ineligible to compete in the relevant Group.

      2. Best in Show
        Best in Show must be selected from the Best of Group winners provided they are unbeaten. Reserve Best in Show must be selected from the remaining Group winners following the selection for Best in Show.
        NOTE: Group Championship Shows will be judged on the Group System, the Best in Group being the Best in Show Reserve Best in Show being selected from the remaining dogs judged for Best in Show.
    3. Shows Not Judged on the Group System
      Best in Show must be selected from all unbeaten winning dogs. Reserve Best in Show must be selected from the remaining unbeaten winning dogs following the selection of Best in Show.
    4. Breed Society Shows
      1. Shows confined to one Breed
        Best in Show must be selected from the exhibits declared Best of Sex providing they are unbeaten winning dogs. Reserve Best in Show must be selected from the Best Opposite Sex and the Reserve Best of Sex to the exhibit declared Best in Show.
      2. Shows confined to a Sub-Group
        Best in Show must be selected from all unbeaten winning dogs. Reserve Best in Show must be selected from the remaining Best of Breed(s) and the dog/bitch declared by the breed judge to be Reserve Best of Breed to the dog declared Best in Show.
  21. Withdrawal from Other Competition
    Dogs which become eligible for Best of Group and Best in Show may be withdrawn from all other competition other than Breed Classes and Best of Breed prior to the competition for Best of Group or Best in Show as appropriate in order to remain unbeaten. A dog beaten in competition for Best of Group or Best in Show may subsequently be exhibited in all competition for which it was previously eligible. The dogs declared Best in Show and Reserve Best in Show however, must not compete in any subsequent competition. Dogs may be withdrawn from Any Variety Classes when judged before Breed Classes.
  22. Proviso
    For the purposes of this Regulation, dogs beaten in competition for Stud Dog, Brood Bitch, Progeny, Brace and Team or a Special Award confined to a single breed, will not be considered to be beaten dogs.
  • Objections
    1. Grounds for Objection
      1. That an exhibit is suffering from an infectious or contagious disease.
      2. That an act or operation has been performed which alters the natural conformation of the dog (as outlined in F(B)3).
      3. That Kennel Club Regulations have been contravened.
    2. Objection Fee
      Objections must be accompanied by a deposit of £35.00, or such amount as may from time to time be decided by the General Committee. In the case of objections lodged against exhibits such deposit must be made for each exhibit to which objection is made except in the case of an objection to a pack, couple or team when one deposit only is required. The deposit may be returned at the General Committee’s discretion once the objection has been considered.
    3. Submission of Objection
      1. Infectious or contagious disease
        An objection to an exhibit on the grounds of infectious or contagious disease may be made by any person except by one who is under a term of suspension by the Kennel Club.
      2. Acts or Operations altering the natural conformation of a dog.
        An objection to an exhibit on the grounds that an act or operation has been performed which alters the natural conformation of the dog (as outlined in F(B)3) may be made only by an individual handling or owning a dog competing in the same breed or class as the dog to which the objection is being made.
      3. Breaches of Regulations
        An objection to any breach of Kennel Club Regulations may be made by any person except by one who is under a term of suspension by the Kennel Club.
      4. No objection shall be invalidated solely on the grounds that it was incorrectly lodged.
    4. Procedure
      1. Infectious or contagious disease/Acts or operations altering the natural conformation of a dog.
        1. Objections must be made before the Show closes to the Show Secretary and must be in writing accompanied by the fee. The Show Secretary must establish the identity of the person lodging the objection.
        2. When the objection is lodged, the Secretary must at once require the owner or handler to bring the dog to a convenient place appointed by the Secretary and advise him of the terms of the objection.
        3. If the objection relates to infectious or contagious disease. The exhibit must be examined and/or tested by the Veterinary Surgeon of the Show to establish the validity of the objection: The Veterinary Surgeon’s opinion shall be final. A report must be submitted by the Show Secretary to the Kennel Club for consideration.
        4. If the objection relates to an act or operation which alters the natural conformation of a dog under Regulation F(B)3, the exhibit must be examined and/or tested by the Veterinary Surgeon of the Show and a report submitted by the Show Secretary to the Kennel Club for consideration.
        5. In all cases, the examination must take place in the presence of the Secretary or a duly authorised official of the Show. An exhibitor or handler failing to comply with a proper request to produce an exhibit for examination will be in breach of this Regulation.
        6. Within 7 days following the Show, the Secretary must send the following to the Secretary of the Kennel Club;
          1. A copy of the objection together with a fee.
          2. The name and address of the objector.
          3. The name and address of the owner of the dog.
          4. Where appropriate, the name, address and written report of the Veterinary Surgeon who examined the dog under F(1)28.d. (1) above.
          5. Any other relevant information.
      2. Breaches of Kennel Club Regulations
        An objection to a breach of Kennel Club Regulation(s) may be made direct to the Secretary of the Show before the end of the Show. As an alternative, an objection may be lodged directly with the Kennel Club within seven days after the last day of the Show and under these circumstances a copy of the objection must be sent to the Show Secretary.
        When an objection is lodged the following information must be given: 28 F(1) A statement detailing the objection quoting the relevant regulation(s).
        The objection fee.
        The name and address of the objector.
        The name and address of the owner of the dog (if relevant).
        All relevant evidence.
      3. With the exception of objections made under Regulation F(1)15 and 16 (Exclusion of dogs & Exhibition of dogs suffering from contagious or infectious disease) the dog should be allowed to compete and a full report made to the Kennel Club.
      4. Disposal
        Objections or alleged breaches of Kennel Club Regulations shall be referred to the General Committee who shall have the power to delegate the hearing of the objection or breach of Regulation to the relevant Sub-Committee or may decide to refer the matter for disciplinary action under Kennel Club Rule A11.
    5. Appeal
      Any appeal against the relevant Sub-Committee decision must be lodged within fourteen days of the decision being given and will be subject to the prescribed appeals procedure as shall be determined by the General Committee from time to time.
  • Payment and Delivery of Prize Money and Printed Awards.
    1. All prize money and printed awards must be available for collection at the Show.
    2. Prize money and printed awards, except special awards, not collected on the day, must be claimed not later than 31 days from the close of the Show, otherwise they will be forfeited.
    3. Where any prize money is offered in the Schedule it must be paid in full, without deduction except in cases where amounts are legally due to a Show Executive.
    4. When special awards are offered by a registered Breed Society or sponsor the Committee of the Society or sponsor will be held responsible.
    5. In the event of the disqualification of an award winner subsequent to the receipt of any prize or prize money, such prize or prize money must be returned at once on receipt of a demand from the Show Society. A failure to comply with any request shall be reported to the Kennel Club and may be dealt with under Rule A11.
  • Disqualification and Forfeit of Awards
    1. A dog may be disqualified by the General Committee from any award, whether an objection has been lodged or not, if proved amongst other things to have been:
      1. Exhibited at an unrecognised Show.
      2. Exhibited by a person disqualified or suspended under Rule A11 as from the date of the complaint having been lodged at the Kennel Club and for the period of disqualification or suspension.
      3. Not entered on a Kennel Club approved entry form in the name and with the details which are recorded with the Kennel Club.
      4. Entered after the date announced for closing of entries, subject to the conditions of Regulation F(1)9.d. and e., or contrary to Kennel Club Rules and Regulations.
        1. Totally Blind.
        2. Deaf.
        3. Or except as provided for in Annex B of these Regulations.
      5. Suffering from an infectious or contagious disease
      6. Prepared for exhibition in contravention of Show Regulations.
      7. Exhibited in a class for which it was not entered subject to the conditions of Regulation F(1)9.k.(2).
      8. Exhibited for competition or handled in the ring by a Judge of dogs at that Show.
      9. Registered or recorded as owned by the scheduled Judge within a period of twelve months prior to the Show. This shall not apply to dogs owned by a Judge appointed in an emergency.
      10. Handled at a Show, boarded or prepared for exhibition within the previous twelve months by the scheduled Judge. This shall not apply to a Judge appointed in an emergency.
      11. Not correctly registered and recorded in the name of the exhibitor(s) at the Kennel Club or as provided in Regulation F(1)9.f.
      12. Attracted from outside the ring whilst being judged.
      13. Registered or recorded as having been bred by the scheduled Judge. This shall not apply to a Judge appointed in an emergency.
      14. Exhibited without payment of appropriate entry fees. (Regulation F(1).9.g. refers).
      15. To have been the subject of any other default, omission, action or incident occurring at or in connection with the Show rendering it unfair that the award should be allowed to stand.
    2. A dog may be disqualified by the General Committee from any award or awards gained whether an objection has been lodged or not if entered in a class or classes for which it is ineligible and not withdrawn from competition in such class or classes or transferred in accordance with the provisions of Regulation F(1)9.k., and the exhibitor may be fined at the discretion of the General Committee.
    3. The owner of a dog disqualified for any of the above reasons is liable to forfeit all entry fees paid, and all prize money won by such dog.
  • Order of Merit When Dogs Are Disqualified
    If a dog be disqualified, the prize to which it would otherwise have been entitled shall be forfeited. The Committee may at its discretion move up the dog or dogs next in order of merit (up to and including reserve or fourth place) to take the prize or prize(s).
  • Entry Forms and Other Documents
    All entry forms must be preserved by the Show Committee for at least 12 months from the closing date of entries and must be forwarded to the Kennel Club if requested, together with any other documents.
  • Payment of Sponsorship
    In the absence of any agreement to the contrary, the liability of the sponsor(s) of any class or classes at a Show shall be limited to making good any deficiency between entry fees received and any prize money paid out.
    The Show Secretary must intimate the amount of sponsorship due within one calendar month of the close of the Show and the sponsor(s) must pay this amount within 14 days of receipt of such notice. If the sponsorship is not paid within the specified time the Show Secretary must report the matter to the Kennel Club.
  • Penalties
    The General Committee shall have power to impose any of the following penalties upon any person for any breach of Kennel Club Regulations subject to a right of appeal, notice of intention of which must be lodged within 14 days from the date on which the decision is given and subject to the prescribed appeals process as shall be determined by the General Committee from time to time;

    1. Warn
    2. Censure/Reprimand
    3. Apology directive (Conduct Regulation or the Control of Dog Regulation)
    4. Fine
    5. Award disqualified
    6. A dog’s registration record may be marked ‘incident recorded’
    7. A dog’s registration record may be endorsed ‘not eligible for entry in any event held under Kennel Club Rules and Regulations, nor any unlicensed event recognised by the Kennel Club.’

    In the event of any fine not being paid, or non compliance with any apology directive issued within the time stipulated by the General Committee, then that person may, at the discretion of the General Committee, be dealt with as if a complaint under Kennel Club Rule A11 had been lodged and proved to the satisfaction of the General Committee.

F(2) Specific Show Regulations Match Regulations

These Regulations must be read in conjunction with Kennel Club General Show Regulations F.

  1. A Match is a form of competition where judging is by elimination one against one. A Match may be intra-Club or an inter-Club competition between Societies.
  2. A Society may hold up to 12 Matches per annum. In the case of Clubs which have registered Branches, each Branch may hold one Match per calendar month.
  3. Regulations:
    1. A dog must at the time of entry for a Match be solely and unconditionally the property of the exhibitor and must, at the time of competition, be registered in the exhibitors’ name at the Kennel Club.
    2. Separate entry forms must be completed for each exhibit and must be signed by the exhibitor or his/her authorised agent.
    3. The Committee of the Society may reserve the right to refuse any entry on reasonable grounds.
    4. Exhibits must be the property of the Members of one of the Societies competing in the Match. In the case of a dog owned in partnership, each member of such partnership must, at the time of entry, be a Member of one of the Societies competing in the Match.
    5. If a dog competes which has been exposed to the risk of any contagious or infectious disease during the period of 21 days prior to a Match and/or if any dog shall be proved to be suffering from any contagious or infectious disease, including contagious results of inoculation against distemper, at a Match, the owner thereof shall be liable to be dealt with under Kennel Club Rule A11.
    6. Dogs, which have won a Challenge Certificate or obtained any award that counts towards the title of Champion under the rules of any governing body recognised by the Kennel Club, are not eligible for entry in Matches. 32 F(2)
    7. Not more than 64 dogs may compete at a Match.
    8. Prize cards, diplomas, rosettes and other printed awards may be awarded at Matches but they must be overprinted “Match”.
    9. Not more than two Special prizes shall be presented at Matches.
    10. A Society shall keep a list of the names of all competing dogs with awards, and the names and addresses of the owners for a period of twelve months from the date of the Matches.

F(3) Specific Show Regulations Companion Dog Shows

These Regulations must be read in conjunction with Kennel Club General Show Regulation F.

  1. A Companion Dog Show may schedule an unlimited number of classes for both pedigree and non-pedigree dogs whether registered or unregistered. The schedule for the show must follow that of the specimen schedule provided by the Kennel Club with the show licence.
  2. Application
    1. A Companion Dog Show will only be licensed for the purpose of raising money on behalf of charities or charitable organisations. The organisers must inform the nominated charity in writing of their intention to hold a Companion Dog Show on their behalf. The charity’s acknowledgement of this letter (original not a copy) must accompany the licence application. The licence will not be issued without this information.
    2. If the organisers are a Kennel Club registered club or society, at least 50% of profits must be donated to a charity or charitable cause.
    3. Companion Dog Shows may be held as separate events or in conjunction with licensed dog shows.
    4. In the case of Companion Dog Shows held in conjunction with another Kennel Club Licensed dog show, dogs entered for competition at the Companion Dog Show will be deemed to be entered dogs for the purpose of visiting and/or competing in a pay on the day AV Companion Dog Show Class at the other licensed dog Show.
    5. Applications for a licence to hold a Companion Dog Show must be made in writing at least 42 days before the date of the show. The application must specify the charity or charitable cause, the date, the show venue and the name(s) of the judge(s), and must be accompanied by the charity’s acknowledgement letter and the relevant fee. NOTE: Applications for Companion Dog Shows to be held in Scotland or Wales must be made direct to the Scottish Kennel Club or Welsh Kennel Club as appropriate.
    6. The licence will only be valid if on the day of the event a current Public Liability Insurance document is held and is on display.
  3. Guarantor(s)
    1. The licensee of a Companion Dog Show shall be the Guarantor for the show. In the case of a Companion Dog Show being held by a registered Society, the Guarantor will be nominated by the Society.
    2. The Guarantor shall retain receipts or accounts for monies taken at the show and, where applicable, forward these to the organisation on whose behalf the 34 F(3) show was held. The Kennel Club may require production of receipts or accounts after the show. The Guarantor shall be responsible for the event, its safety and finances.
    3. All entry forms together with any other documents must be preserved by the Guarantor for at least twelve months and must be forwarded to the Kennel Club if required.
  4. Classification
    1. Classes for pedigree dogs may include any of the following:
      1. Any Variety Sporting Dogs
      2. Any Variety Hounds
      3. Any Variety Gundogs
      4. Any Variety Terriers
      5. Any Variety Non-Sporting Dogs
      6. Any Variety Utility
      7. Any Variety Working
      8. Any Variety Pastoral
      9. Any Variety Toys
      10. Any Variety Puppy (6 – 9 months)
      11. Any Variety Puppy (6-12 months)
      12. Any Variety Junior (12 – 18 months)
      13. Any Variety Open
      14. Any Variety Veteran (Over 7 years)
      15. Any Combination of Groups
      16. Junior Handlers Class (Under 18 years of age – Dog owned by exhibitor or the exhibitor’s parents).
    2. The basis for the grouping of the breeds is defined in Kennel Club Regulations for Classification and Registration.
    3. A maximum of two breed classes per breed may, at the organiser’s discretion, be scheduled on the day of the show for pedigree dogs whether registered or unregistered.
    4. Novelty Classes. Notwithstanding the above any number of novelty (fun) classes may be scheduled open to all entered dogs whether KC registered or not.
    5. Companion Dog Club Novelty Classes. Limited to those dogs that are members of the Companion Dog Club.
  5. Regulations
    1. Dogs which have won any of the following awards are not eligible for entry at Companion Dog Shows:
      1. Challenge Certificate (or any award that counts towards the title of champion under the rules of any governing body recognised by the Kennel Club). (Pedigree classes only).
      2. Reserve Challenge Certificate. (Pedigree classes only).
      3. Junior Warrant. (Pedigree classes only).
      4. Obedience Certificate. (Obedience classes only).
    2. Only dogs of 6 calendar months of age and over on the day of the show are eligible for entry.

36 Annex A to F Regulations F(A)

Definitions of Classes at Championship, Open and Limited Shows

  1. 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. There must be no stipulation that exhibits must be entered for Variety Classes as well as Breed Classes and no minimum number of classes in which a dog must be entered may be fixed.
  2. Wins at Championship Shows in Breed Classes where Challenge Certificates are not on offer shall be counted as wins at Open Shows.
  3. In the following Definitions, a Challenge Certificate includes any Show award that counts towards the title of Champion under the rules of any governing body recognised by the Kennel Club.
  4. No class may be provided unless a definition of the class is given in the Schedule.
  5. Where a breed is separately classified an Open Class for the breed must be provided at Championship, Open and Limited Shows, and a Best of Breed declared in accordance with the provisions of Regulation F(1)7.b.
  6. At Shows judged on the Group system at least one Any Variety Not Separately Classified Class must be scheduled, unless a class for every breed eligible for classification is provided.
  7. No dog is eligible for exhibition at a Limited Show or Match competition which has won a Challenge Certificate or obtained any award that counts towards the title of Champion under the rules of any governing body recognised by the Kennel Club.
  8. General Canine Society Limited Shows shall not schedule more than 100 classes.
  9. Subject to the following and to any individual Show Regulations, Show Committees may offer such prizes and make such classification and definitions thereof as they think fit except that:
    1. All classes advertised in the Schedule of the Show must be clearly defined in the Schedule, in accordance with the Kennel Club Show Regulations.
    2. If any class be provided with a definition other than those defined below, the word “Special” must precede the name of such class.
    3. The words Grand or Challenge must not be used in the designation of any class or prize for which an entrance fee is charged and for which entry has to be made prior to the day of the Show. The word “Champion” can only be used in the designation of the Champion Variety class as previously defined, and further explained in the Champion class definition in these Regulations.
    4. Sweepstake Classes may only be scheduled in respect of Brace, Team, Stud Dog, Brood Bitch, Veteran and Breeders Classes only; entry fees may be given as prize money in such proportion as the Committee of the Show may determine.

In the following definitions:
* applies to Championship and Open Shows only.
** applies to Limited Shows only.
Where there is no qualification, the Definition applies to all types of Shows.

In 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. Wins in Variety Classes do not count for entry in Breed Classes, but when entering for Variety Classes, wins in both Breed and Variety Classes must be counted. A First Prize does not include a Special Prize of whatever value.

MINOR PUPPY For dogs of 6 and not exceeding 9 calendar months of age on the first day of the Show.
PUPPY For dogs of 6 and not exceeding 12 calendar months of age on the first day of the Show.
JUNIOR For dogs of 6 and not exceeding 18 calendar months of age on the first day of the Show.
YEARLING For dogs of twelve and not exceeding twenty-four calendar months of age on the first day of the Show.
BEGINNERS * For owner, handler or exhibit not having won a first prize at any Show.
** For owner, handler or exhibit not having won a first prize at any Show.
MAIDEN * For dogs which have not won a Challenge Certificate or a First Prize at an Open or Championship Show (Minor Puppy, Special Minor Puppy, Puppy and Special Puppy Classes excepted, whether restricted or not).
** For dogs which have not won a First Prize at any Show (Minor Puppy, Special Minor Puppy, Puppy and Special Puppy Classes excepted whether restricted or not).
NOVICE * For dogs which have not won a Challenge Certificate or 3 or more First Prizes at Open and Championship Shows (Minor Puppy, Special Minor Puppy, Puppy and Special Puppy Classes excepted, whether restricted or not).
** For dogs which have not won 3 or more First Prizes at any Show (Minor Puppy, Special Minor Puppy, Puppy and Special Puppy Classes excepted, whether restricted or not).
TYRO * For dogs which have not won a Challenge Certificate or 5 or more First Prizes at Open and Championship Shows (Minor Puppy, Special Minor Puppy, Puppy and Special Puppy Classes excepted, whether restricted or not).
** For dogs which have not won 5 or more First Prizes at any Show (Minor Puppy, Special Minor Puppy, Puppy and Special Puppy Classes excepted, whether restricted or not).
DEBUTANT * For dogs which have not won a Challenge Certificate or a First Prize at a Championship Show where Challenge Certificates were offered for the breed (Minor Puppy, Special Minor Puppy, Puppy, Special Puppy classes excepted, whether restricted or not).
** For dogs which have not won a First Prize at an Open or Championship Show (Minor Puppy, Special Minor Puppy, Puppy and Special Puppy Classes excepted, whether restricted or not).
UNDERGRADUATE * For dogs which have not won a Challenge Certificate or 3 or more First Prizes at Championship Shows where Challenge Certificates were offered for the breed (Minor Puppy, Special Minor Puppy, Puppy and Special Puppy Classes excepted, whether restricted or not).
** For dogs which have not won 3 or more First Prize at Open or Championship Shows (Minor Puppy, Special Minor Puppy, Puppy and Special Puppy Classes excepted, whether restricted or not).
GRADUATE * For dogs which have not won a Challenge Certificate or 4 or more First Prizes at Championship Shows in Graduate, Post Graduate, Minor Limit, Mid Limit, Limit and Open Classes, whether restricted or not where Challenge Certificates were offered for the breed.
** For dogs which have not won 4 or more First Prizes at Open or Championship Shows in Graduate, Post Graduate, Minor Limit, Mid Limit, Limit and Open Classes, whether restricted or not.
POST GRADUATE * For dogs which have not won a Challenge Certificate or 5 or more First Prizes at Championship Shows in Post Graduate, Minor Limit, Mid Limit, Limit and Open Classes, whether restricted or not where Challenge Certificates were offered for the breed.
** For dogs which have not won 5 or more First Prizes at Championship and Open Shows in Post F(A) 39 Graduate, Minor Limit, Mid Limit, Limit and Open Classes, whether restricted or not.
MINOR LIMIT * For dogs which have not won 2 Challenge Certificates or three or more First Prizes in all at Championship Shows in Minor Limit, Mid Limit, Limit and Open Classes, confined to the breed, whether restricted or not at Shows where Challenge Certificates were offered for the breed.
** For dogs which have not won 3 or more First Prizes in all at Open and Championship Shows in Minor Limit, Mid Limit, Limit and Open Classes, confined to the breed, whether restricted or not.
MID LIMIT * For dogs which have not become show Champions under Kennel Club Regulations or under the rules of any governing body recognised by the Kennel Club or won five or more First Prizes in all at Championship Shows in Mid Limit, Limit or Open Classes, confined to the breed, whether restricted or not, at shows where Challenge Certificates were offered for the breed.
** For dogs which have not won 5 or more First Prizes in all at Open and Championship Shows in Mid Limit, Limit and Open Classes, confined to the breed, whether restricted or not.
LIMIT * For dogs which have not become show Champions under Kennel Club Regulations or under the rules of any governing body recognised by the Kennel Club or won 7 or more First Prizes in all, at Championship Shows in Limit or Open Classes, confined to the breed, whether restricted or not at shows where Challenge Certificates were offered for the breed.
** For dogs which have not won 7 or more First Prizes in all at Open and Championship Shows in Limit and Open Classes, confined to the breed, whether restricted or not.
OPEN * For all dogs of the breed for which the class is provided and eligible for entry at the Show.
VETERAN For dogs of not less than 7 years of age on the first day of the Show.
CHAMPION For dogs which have been confirmed a Champion, Show Champion or Field Trial Champion. Champion Classes may not be scheduled for individual breeds or varieties of breeds.
BREEDS Confined to those breeds not granted Challenge Certificates in the current year, with the exception of those breeds whose registration is confined to the Imported Register.
FIELD TRIAL For dogs which have won an award, Diploma of Merit or Certificate of Merit in actual competition at a Field Trial held under Kennel Club or Irish Kennel Club Field Trial Regulations.
WORKING TRIAL For dogs which have won an award in competition at a Bloodhound Working Trial and Kennel Club licensed Working Trials, held under Kennel Club Regulations.
STUD DOG For stud dogs and at least two progeny of which only the progeny must be entered and exhibited in a breed class at the Show.
BROOD BITCH For brood bitches and at least 2 progeny of which only the progeny must be entered and exhibited in a breed class at the Show.
PROGENY For a dog or bitch, accompanied by at least three of its registered progeny. The dog or bitch not necessarily entered in another class however, all progeny having been entered and exhibited in another class. The dog or bitch and the progeny need not be registered in the same ownership.
BRACE For 2 exhibits (either sex or mixed) of one breed belonging to the same exhibitor, each exhibit having been entered in some class other than Brace or Team.
TEAM For 3 or more exhibits (either sex or mixed) of one breed belonging to the same exhibitor, each exhibit having been entered in some class other than Brace or Team.
BREEDERS For dogs bred by the exhibitor.
IMPORTED REGISTER For breeds confined to the Imported Breeds Register and only when an Interim Breed Standard has been published by the Kennel Club. Such breeds may be exhibited in this class only, and are ineligible for any other competition whatsoever.
ANY VARIETY NOT SEPARATELY CLASSIFIED For breeds of dog for which no separate breed classes are scheduled.
YOUNG KENNEL CLUB (YKC) STAKES For Any Variety dog or bitch exhibited and handled by a fully paid up member of the Young Kennel Club. The dog should be registered either:
a. Solely or jointly in the member's name, or
b. In the name of a member of the family and under these circumstances the dog must be resident at the YKC member's address.
GOOD CITIZEN DOG GCDS SCHEME CLASS For dogs that have achieved their Bronze Award Certificate or above.
NOT FOR COMPETITION Societies may at their discretion, accept Not for Competition entries. Societies may accept such entries from Breeds of dog not included within the title of the Society and at Shows held over more than one day, such entries may be accepted on any day from any breed.
CLUB CLASS Companion Dog Show held in conjunction with the show at which this class is scheduled."

Annex B to F Regulations F(B)

Regulations for the Preparation of Dogs for Exhibition

  1. 1. These Regulations must be observed when a dog is prepared for exhibition and/or exhibited at any Kennel Club Licensed event. Objections may be referred to the General Committee for disciplinary action under these Show Regulations and/or for disciplinary action under Kennel Club Rule A11.
    1. A dog found to have been exhibited in breach of these Regulations will automatically be disqualified from exhibition at the show and from any award gained thereat.
    2. Unless the exhibitor provides a satisfactory explanation for the dog being exhibited in breach of these Regulations then he/she may be subject to further penalties of either a fine or as listed under Rule A11.
    1. No substance which alters the natural colour, texture or body of the coat may be present in the dog’s coat for any purpose at any time during the Show. No substance which alters the natural colour of any external part of the dog may be present on the dog for any purpose at any time during the Show.
    2. Any other substance (other than water) which may be used in the preparation of a dog for exhibition must not be allowed to remain in the coat or on any other part of the dog at the time of exhibition.
  2. No act or operation which alters the natural conformation of a dog or any part thereof may be performed except:-
    1. Operations certified to the satisfaction of the General Committee.
    2. The removal of dew claws of any breed.
    3. Operations to prevent breeding provided that such operations are notified to the Kennel Club before neutered dogs are shown. Nor must anything be done calculated to in the opinion of the General Committee to deceive.
  3. The General Committee without previous notice may order an examination of any dog or dogs at any Show. Any examination thus ordered will be made by a person having executive authority who shall have a written directive from the Kennel Club in their possession. Samples may be taken for further examination and analysis.
  4. An individual has the right to lodge an objection to a dog only if he/she is the owner or handler of a dog competing in the same breed or class. An objection may, however, be lodged by an official of the Show or by anyone so deputed by the Kennel Club. It will be the responsibility of the individual who lodges the objection or the official (as appropriate), to substantiate the grounds for the objection. The Kennel Club will substantiate the grounds for an objection made on its behalf.
  5. Any objection by an individual related to an infringement of these Regulations must be made in writing to the Show Secretary at his/her office before the close of the Show and the individual must produce evidence of identity at the time of lodging the complaint.