GLOSSARY OF DOG RELATED TERMS,
ABBREVIATIONS & TITLES TERMINOLOGY
Agility
An obstacle race for dogs. Dogs and handlers complete course made up of jumps,
A-frames, dog walks, weave pole, tunnels and other apparatus at a controlled
pace. Speed and accuracy are important in developing the skills required for
agility.
All-Breed Club
An organized group of dog fanciers, recognized by the Canadian Kennel Club (CKC)
and/or American Kennel Club (AKC) to hold all-breed dog shows and performance
events within their geographic boundaries. New clubs are considered "Sanctioned"
which means that although they are officially recognized, they are not yet
authorized to hold pointed shows. "Licensed" clubs have successfully completed a
series of pre-requisite qualifying events, and are now authorized to conduct
official all-breed events which award points. "Member" clubs are licensed clubs
who have opted to have a representative regularly attend and represent their
interests as a voting member club of the CKC and/or AKC. An important requisite
mission that all clubs must perform is their duty to educate the general public
on responsible dog ownership, breeding practices, and the multi-faceted world of
purebred dogs.
All-Breed Show
An event where dogs are judged as to how closely each CONFORMS (hence the term
"conformation") to it's own breed's written standard of perfection. Often shows
are accompanied by Obedience Trials, Junior Showmanship Competition, and some
non-regular class events, such as sweepstakes and futurities or Canine Good
Citizen tests. Exhibitors are usually happy to talk to you about their breed,
their breeding program, etc. *after* they have finished showing. Please do not
touch or feed the dogs without first receiving the owner's direct permission.
Organized in the late 1800's, the AKC is a body of licensed clubs whose stated
mission is to:
- Maintain a registry for purebred dogs and preserve its integrity. Sanction dog
events that promote interest in, and sustain the process of, breeding for type
and function of purebred dogs.
The AKC's stated objective is to advance the study, breeding, exhibiting,
running and maintenance of purebred dogs. AKC states its' core values as:
"The human/animal bond, which is perpetuated and supported by purpose-bred dogs
for companionship, sport, work, service, etc., is valuable. Dogs bring joy and
people who keep dogs as pets feel safer and live longer. All dogs are wonderful,
but purpose bred or purebred dogs are more predictable in many important ways
than random- bred dogs and therefore make better pets. Pet ownership is more
widespread in the US today than in any other country of the world, at any time
in history. More than 50% of all households have pets; 36% keep dogs, about a
third of which are recognizable breeds. Breeding for type and function to
create, preserve and improve breeds ties modern urban populations with the
12,000 year tradition of animal husbandry, now vanishing from the rest of our
culture. In the last 100 years, this country, along with the rest of the Western
world, has undergone what many historians call the most dramatic transformation
in human history. It is the shift from rural, agricultural society to an urban
technological one. When AKC was created, more than half of all Americans lived
on farms. Even at the turn of the century, 85% of all jobs were agriculturally
based. Today, less than one in fifty Americans lives on a farm but more than 50%
of households maintains positive contact with animals by keeping pets. Very few
people have hands-on experience in animal husbandry anymore-- and that make
AKC's constituents unique subject matter experts in an area that touches and
matters to half of all households. AKC breeders are the experts, the
preservationist, the ones who tie society to its past and support society's
present need to maintain the human/animal bond."
Armband
A number printed on paper which an exhibitor wears to indicate the entered dog's
(or Junior's) reference number in the judge's book and catalog. This number is
the only identification that the judge is allowed access to before and during
the competition.
Article
Items used in Obedience Trial competition which are utilized in exercises
testing retrieval on command or scent discrimination. These can be wooden,
leather or metal dumbbells.
Bait
When used as a verb, as "to bait the dog" or "to freebait," this refers to using
an item of food or toy to gain the dogs' attention; showing expression and
animation to the judge. When used as a noun, it refers to items of food (usually
cooked liver, cheese, or other treat) used to bait the dog to show expression
and animation.
Benched Show
An all-breed show specifically designed for public education and enjoyment,
wherein all dogs are required to stay in an assigned "benching area" for the
duration of the show, (except when being exercised, groomed, or exhibited) in
order that the public may easily view the exhibits up close and talk to the
breeders, owners, and handlers. There are very few benched shows left in the USA
- the ones that readily come to mind are Westminster Kennel Club in New York
City, International Kennel Club in Chicago, and Golden Gate in San Francisco.
These are very large, heavily attended shows by the public. Excellent for the
public, but can be exhausting for the exhibitors.
Best In Show (BIS)
A coveted award given to the ONE dog who, at the end of an all-breed dog show,
has successfully defeated ALL other dogs of all breeds entered that day - by
being judged to be the dog who - on that day, is considered to be the most
closely conforming to it's own breed's written standard of excellence. The
rosette given for a BIS win is red, white and blue.
Best Junior Handler (BJH)
The award given to the ONE Junior Handler at an all-breed or specialty show, who
is judged to have exhibited the highest degree of skill in presenting their dog
as effectively and skillfully as possible, by way of defeating the balance of
other junior handling entrants. The rosette given for a BJH win is pink and
green.
Best of Winners (BOW)
A competition between the Winners Dog and the Winners Bitch, held during the
Best of Breed Competition, whereby the two dogs are judged as to which one is
considered to be most closely conformed to its written breed standard. The
winner of BOW receives the highest number of points given to that breed's WD or
WB that day. For instance, if it was only two points in Dogs that day, and 4
points in Bitches, and the Dog won Best of Winners, he, too would be awarded 4
points.
Bitch
A female dog. NOT a dirty word. Get used to it.
Brace
Two dogs of the same breed and exact same ownership being shown together as a
pair in order to display the breeder's consistency in their breeding program.
Dogs selected to be shown in a brace should display the same attributes,
virtues, style and type. Brace competition is a non-regular competition and no
points are awarded.
Bred By
A competitive class in conformation, the Bred by Exhibitor class is a breeder's
showcase of the specimens s/he is most proud of - and those that they wish to
represent the best of their kennel. Exhibits must be shown by the actual breeder
of record - not a handler. AKC has recently implemented a program to award dogs
who finish their championships entirely from the BBE class. A medallion is given
to the breeder as special recognition.
Breed
Used as a verb, to breed is to cause the reproduction of two animals. As a noun,
the term "Breed" is used to describe a particular sub-species of animals of
similar type and heritage, who have been carefully and intentionally bred to
meet certain functional, temperamental, and physical characteristics. "Breed
competition" or "in the breed ring" are also common references to competiting in
the conformation classes at a dog show.
A written standard of excellence describing the functional, temperamental, and
physical attributes which the dedicated students and caretakers of the breed -
via their national parent organization, have agreed upon as the official
description of perfection for their particular breed.
Campaign (Conformation)
To enter and compete in a large number of shows with a Champion of Record (a
"Special") - in order to obtain national rankings by way of defeating the
greatest number of other dogs. Most commonly done by using the services of a
Professional Handler. Requires a substantial investment and an excellent dog and
handler.
Campaign (Obedience)
To enter and compete in a large number of obedience trials at the Open or
Utility level. Points are accumulated with the scores achieved. Top dogs are
recognized by the CKC and/or the AKC for placements in both the breed and group.
An overall "Top 10" list is accumulated of the dogs and handlers that achieve
the highest point totals in their respective countries during a calendar year.
AKC's temperament certification program aimed mostly towards the general public
as an encouragement to buy/breed only temperamentally sound dogs, and to do at
least a *little* obedience training, so that their dogs will be welcome, safe,
and happy in public situations. Dogs and their handlers are put through a series
of simple exercises such as walking on lead through a crowd of strangers,
sitting on command, standing for examination, response to being left alone for a
moment, etc. Successful participants are given a certificate of achievement.
Although the "CGC" is NOT an official AKC title, many people are proud to list
this among their dogs accomplishments, as it represents that the dog is of
stable temperament in public.
The Canadian Kennel Club is devoted to encouraging, guiding and advancing the
interests of purebred dogs and their responsible owners and breeders in Canada.
It promotes the knowledge and understanding of the benefits which dogs can bring
to Canada and the means by which these benefits can most effectively be enjoyed.
The CKC cooperates with governments at all levels in Canada in the development
of legislation which will effectively control the activities of irresponsible
dog owners and breeders without unduly restricting responsible owners and
breeders. The C.K.C maintains a system of registration of purebred dogs that
satisfies the requirements of the Animal Pedigree Act, Agriculture Canada and
the Club members. It maintains a system whereby clubs and associations wishing
to do so may hold dogs shows, obedience trials, field trials and other trials,
tests and activities for purebred dogs under the auspices of and in accordance
with the rules, regulations, standards, policies and procedures established by
the Club. It encourages and assists persons and organizations engaged in these
activities and co-operates with other associations and clubs engaged in
furthering the interests of purebred animals.
Catalogue
A document sold at shows which lists each entered dog's entry number, class
entered, registered name and number, breeder, owner, sire, dam, and date of
birth. Excellent tool for following along with the competition and looking for
patterns in breeding that you prefer, as well as breeders and exhibitors to
contact. If the show also has obedience classes the catalogue will list each dog
by class and entry numbers. It will also list the same information about the
handler and dog as for the conformation classes.
Champion
In AKC competition, a Champion of Record ("CH") title is given to a dog or bitch
who has won a total of 15 points at licensed AKC shows. At least 6 of these
points must have come from "Major" wins (see "Points") under different judges. A
Champion of Record may then enter and compete in the Best of Breed competition,
and the "CH" becomes an official prefix to the dog's registered name. In CKC
competition, a Champion of Record ("CH") title is given to a dog or bitch
earning 10 points at licensed CKC shows under at least 3 different judges. As
with the AKC, a Champion of Record may then enter and compete in the Best of
Breed competition, and the "CH" becomes an official prefix to the dog's
registered name. Champions are often referred to as "specials" - usually when
they are being actively campaigned. Champions of Record also used to be commonly
referred to as "bench champions" referring to the formerly common practice of
holding benched shows.
Choke
As a noun, a "choke" is a metal, nylon, or leather collar consisting of a
straight piece of the material, usually joined by looping it through one of two
rings on each end. This is the most common collar worn by dogs in the breed
ring. Worn properly, with the pull loop coming off the top of the head, this
does NOT actually choke the dog, but rather gives a quick correction to get the
dog's attention. It immediately releases. Kind of a quick "Hello?!" or "Hey,
knock it off!" signal from the handler to the dog.
Classes
Although there ARE actual instructional classes available to learn to handle
dogs in many performance events, the most common use of the term "Classes" is
when referring to the different class divisions which are available to show your
dog in when entered at a dog show. In conformation, the "class dogs" (those who
have not finished their championships) are divided first by sex (males go in
first), then further divided by age group and experience level.
Regular Conformatoin Classes are:
-
Junior Puppy 6 months to under 9 months ("6 to 9")
-
Senior Puppy 9 months to under 12 months ("9 to 12")
- 12 months to under 18 months ("12 to 18") (Specialties only)
-
Novice (for unpointed dogs)
-
Bred By Exhibitor ("Bred-By" - shown by the dog's breeder)
-
Canadian Bred ("CanBred" - bred & whelped in Canada) or AmBred bred amd whelped
in the US
-
Open (open to all purebred dogs at least 6 mos old, but usually containing fully
mature dogs)
The first place winners of each of these classes in each sex compete for Winners
Dog or Winners Bitch. These two remaining dogs are the only dogs of that breed
who, at that show, receive points towards their championships. These two dogs
also compete in the Specials Only class for Best of Breed that day.
In obedience competition, the following classes exist:
-
Novice A - dogs and handlers that are trying to obtain a CD for the first time
-
Novice B - dogs and handlers that are trying to obtain a CD that have an OTCH on
a dog or are professional trainers
-
Open A - dogs and handlers that are trying to obtain a CDX for the first time
-
Open B - dogs and handlers that have obtained a CDX or are professional
trainers.
-
Utility (Canadian) - those trying to obtain the UD and OTCH designation
-
Utility A (American) - those trying to obtain the UD title for the first time
-
Utility B (American) - those trying to obtain an OTCH in the US
In obedience competition, dogs and handlers compete for "LEGS" which are
qualifying scores of 170 or more out of a possible 200. To earn a title, a dog
and handler must get 3 "LEGS" under at least 2 different judges.
Closing Date
The last date by which entries must be received by the show superintendent or
secretary, in order for an entry to be valid and included in the show's
competition. Entries usually close 3-4 weeks prior to the show date in order to
allow the club to arrange the judging schedule and prepare and print the
catalogs etc. Closing dates are always listed clearly in the premium lists, as
well as in the CKC's "Dogs in Canada" magazine for
Canadian Shows or for American shows, the
AKC's Gazette
Conformation
How well a specific dog's structure, type and temperament conform to it's
breed's written standard of excellence.
Conformation competition is also commonly referred to as "breed competition."
The term "dog confirmation," on the other hand, is reserved for dogs who confirm
their faith by regularly attending Catholic Mass.
Crate
A containment unit used to safely transport and house a dog during rest periods.
Dogs feel very safe and secure in their crates, which double as their private
"dens." Crates are a CRITICAL piece of safety equipment for ALL dogs travelling
in cars. Crates function in much the same way as does a child's safety seat;
preventing dogs from being hurled through glass windows during a collision, and
taking the impact of a crash. DOGS (and people for that matter) SHOULD *NEVER*
ride loose in the back of a truck. If you wouldn't allow your three year old
barefoot human child to stand on a hot or wet and slippery truckbed floor with
no protection from the elements or from the effects of a sudden stop, bump,
turn, or collision, why would you allow your dog??!! Illegal in most states and
grounds for *immediate* and non-negotiable, contractually enforced return of any
dog we adopt into a new family.
Croup
The lower spinal region of a dog, containing the back of the pelvis to the root
of the tail.
Crufts
"The" international dog show of the year, held outside of London, England each
March. Visit Crufts' page.
Dog
Used specifically, a term to describe a MALE canine. Generally, a term used to
describe the canine species.
Ex
A handy term used to refer to one's former spouse (you know - the one who hated
dogs :) --OR-- an abbreviation for the verb to exercise (potty) one's dog -
allowing them to eliminate, stretch their legs, etc. As in "I'm going to ex the
dogs before bed."
Ex-Pen
A portable wire fencing unit taken to shows to allow dogs a safe, clean place to
eliminate and stretch out.
Finish
In conformation competition, to finish means to have won enough points to be
awarded the title of Champion of Record. In obedience a finish is a transitional
movement the dog makes between the completion of a recall, and the return to the
heel position.
Flexi
"Flexi-Lead" is the common brand name of a retractable, spring loaded lead which
allows a dog to wander and traverse at a distance from the handler without
getting caught up in the lead itself. Not used in competition, but a god-send
for casual walks and exercises. Available at any large pet supply store or from
vendors at a show.
A canine sport for dogs. A relay race with consisting of 4 dogs that
individually run over 4 hurdles placed 10 feet apart and retrieve a tennis ball
after triggering a box. The dog must then return back over the jumps with the
tennis ball in their mouth. Once the dog has crossed the finish line, the next
dog goes. Once all 4 dogs have completed, the race is over. This sport is played
with two lanes and whichever team crosses the finish line first wins the race.
Dogs compete for titles as well as for rosettes for defeating other teams.
Free Bait
To use food, toy, or some other enticement to get the dog to stack properly
(without physical interaction from the handler) and show alert, animated
expression while standing in the breed ring being judged. The term "free" comes
from "hands-free."
Futurity
A non-regular competition whereby the breeder nominates a litter before it is
whelped, and enters the produce from that litter in a special competition
(usually held at National Specialty Shows). The idea is that these dogs
represent that breeders best efforts in researching and planing their highest
quality litter for that year, based upon their knowledge, understanding and
confidence of the genetic potential of the proposed breeding.
Gait
The most efficient way of moving for a particular dog. Most breeds are gaited at
a trot or jogging speed.
Garden (The)
Slang for the Westminster Kennel Club's high visibility, prestigious, and well
respected benched show held in New York City's Madison Square Garden each
February. Normally held and internationally televised on the Monday and Tuesday
of the second week in February each year. The '98 show will be held during the
third week in February, due to scheduling conflicts with Madision Square Garden.
Get
The offspring of a stud dog.
Groom
To bathe, dry, comb, clip and scissors a dog to best exhibit its virtues. Very
strict rules and traditions govern "correct" grooming, and significant talent
and experience is required to become excellent at show-grooming the coated
breeds.
Group(s)
Groupings of dogs by their traditional functional similarities. The AKC and CKC
currently has seven groups;
-
Sporting (dogs used for upland gamebird hunting i.e. retrievers, pointers,
setters, spaniels)
-
Hound (dogs who track by sight or scent)
-
Working (guard, pulling and/or rescue dogs)
-
Terrier (dogs who were bred to kill vermin)
-
Toy (dogs who were bred strictly as small companions to people)
-
Non-Sporting (dogs whose original job no longer exists, or who no longer are
used for their original function)
-
Herding (Dogs bred to gather and move livestock - formerly part of the Working
Group)
Each recognized breed belongs to a specific Group. Each breed awards a Best of
Breed (BOB) winner to represent that breed in the afternoon's Group competition,
whereby the BOB contestants compete for group placement awards of 1st, 2nd, 3rd,
and 4th in group. The winner of each group's first place award goes on to
represent their group in the Best in Show competition at the end of the day.
Handler
The person presenting the dog in competition. Often a term used to refer to a
professional handler.
Judge
An adjudicating official tasked with evaluating and comparing how well, in
his/her opinion, and in comparison to the other dogs entered in the class that
day, a dog conforms to its breed's written standard of excellence. Other
performance events also have official judges.
Judging Schedule
A small (usually free) publication offered by the superintendent/show secretary
which lists when and where each breed will be judged that day, and by whom. For
a complete listing of dogs, their breeders, owners, etc, buy a complete catalog.
Junior
A young person between the ages of 10 and up to their 18th birthday, who
competes with other juniors of similar age/experience levels in exhibiting their
technical skills of handling dogs, ring conduct, and sportsmanship.
Junior Handling
The actual competitive classes offered for Juniors exhibiting their handling
skills, which are usually offered at dog shows and matches. The AKC and CKC
offer classes for two age groups, each divided by skill:
-
Novice Junior (Ages 10 up to 14, who have won less than three 1st place awards
with competition)
-
Novice Senior (Ages 14 up to 18, who have won less than three 1st place awards
with competition)
-
Open Junior (Ages 10 up to 14, who have won at least three 1st place awards with
competition)
-
Open Senior (Ages 14 up to 18, who have won at least three 1st place awards with
competition)
The first place winners of each of these four classes compete for Best Junior
Handler.
Lead
A thin leather, nylon, cotton, etc. piece of material usually with a metal snap
or clip connector on one end to attach to the dog's collar, and a loop on the
other end for the handler to hold on to, leading the dog around the show ring.
This is not called a leash - which is a thick piece of material used to take
your dogs for a walk or compete in obedience.
Loin
The area of the body between the last ribcage and the beginning of the pelvis.
(In human terms, this would be the waist). The lower portion of the loin is
known as the "tuck-up."
Major
"A Major" is a big win for a class dog who has defeated enough dogs that day by
going Winners Dog or Winners Bitch, to earn either 3, 4, or 5 points towards its
championship. The point schedule is different for each breed, sex, and region,
depending upon entries. Also see "Points" definition below.
National
An annual specialty show hosted by the breed's national parent breed club.
Usually considered that breed's most important, competitive, and prestigious
event to win or place well in.
Novice A/B
Basic level Obedience classes. Dogs successfully achieving three qualifying
scores ("legs") of at least 170 out of 200 points (including earning at least
50% of available points for each separate exercise) are awarded the title
"Companion Dog" and are allowed to add the "CD" suffix to their registered name.
Obedience classes are divided into two groups; (A and B) - "A" for exhibitors
who have not yet added this title to a dog's name that they have either handled
or trained, and "B" or more experienced exhibitors who have. Exercises in these
classes include:
-
Heel on Leash and Figure Eight........40 points
-
Stand for Examination....................30 points
-
Heel Free (off leash) ........................40 points
-
Recall (return to handler and sit front)......30 points
-
Long Sit (1 minute)...........................30 points
-
Long Down (3 minutes) .....................30 points
Maximum Total Score....................200 points
In AKC competition the stand for exam is done off leash and in CKC competition
the Stand for Exam is done off leash and in CKC competition the Stand for Exam
is done on leash.
Novice Junior
A handling class for young people between the ages of 10 and up to their 14th
birthday who have not yet won three first place awards in a novice handling
class *with* competition.
Novice Senior
A handling class for young people between the ages of 14 and up to their 18th
birthday who have not yet won three first place awards in a novice handling
class *with* competition.
A competitive performance event whereby the dog and handler are judged on their
ability to execute a predetermined set of exercises which display the dog's
ability to adhere to certain commands. Dogs are scored on their tractability,
style, and execution using a *very* strict scale of 0 - 200 points. Dogs
achieving 3 qualifying scores ("legs") of at least 170 are awarded official
AKC/CKC titles as suffixes to their registered name. The three regular AKC/CKC
obedience classes - in order of degree of difficulty) are:
-
Novice (which earns the title of "Companion Dog" or "CD")
-
Open (which earns the title of "Companion Dog Excellent" or "CDX")
-
Utility (which earns the title of "Utility Dog" or "UD")
There are additional titles available for dogs competing at the highest levels,
such as UDX for dogs earning 10 qualifying scores in both Open B and Utility B,
and OTCH (Obedience Trial Champion). Obedience Trials can be held in conjunction
with all-breed conformation shows, or as independent events. The AKC is now in
the process of creating a special "juniors" obedience division to encourage kids
to get involved! Yeah AKC!
In Canada, 3 UD legs earns the title of OTCH. In the US 100 points must be
collected to earn the title of OTCH.
Occiput
A boney section of the skull located at the back of the topskull. Also known as
an Occipital Protuberance. This bone, during puberty, or if not situated
properly in an adult, creates an unattractive bump (or protuberance) in the
shape of the headpiece. Situated properly, it creates a slight dome to the
skull.
Open A/B
Mid-level obedience classes (off leash) which earn the suffix title of Companion
Dog Excellent ("CDX") when they earn three qualifying scores of at least 170 out
of 200 points (including earning at least 50% of available points for each
separate exercise) from three different judges. Obedience classes are divided
into two groups; (A and B) - "A" for exhibitors who have not yet added this
title to a dog's name that they have either handled or trained, and "B" or more
experienced exhibitors who have. Exercises include:
-
Heel Free and Figure Eight.............40 points
-
Drop on Recall.........................30 points
-
Retrieve on Flat.......................20 points
-
Retrieve over High Jump................30 points
-
Broad Jump.............................20 points
-
Long Sit - out of site.................30 points
-
Long Down - out of site................30 points
Maximum Total Score.......................200 points
Open Junior
A handling class for young people between the ages of 10 and up to their 14th
birthday who have already won three first place awards in a novice handling
class *with* competition.
Open Senior
A handling class for young people between the ages of 14 and up to their 18th
birthday who have already won three first place awards in a novice handling
class *with* competition.
Parent Club (aka National Breed Club)
The officially recognized national organization governing each specific breed's
independent specialty clubs. Parent clubs or "National Breed Clubs" are tasked
with being the official guardians of their breeds and their written standards
and stud book in this country, and to protect the welfare and integrity of their
respective breeds.
Pastern
The area between a dog's paws and it's lower arm, which - in the front - relates
to a human wrist area, and in the rear relates to a human's sole of foot. In the
rear, the pasterns are topped by "hocks" which relate to a human heel / ankle
bone. Often, this entire rear foot assembly in general is mistakenly referred to
as the "hock." A good way to understand and visualize the components of a dogs
foot / leg assembly is to sit in a chair barefooted and rest your weight on just
your bent toes. Your toes and ball of foot would be the dog's "paw" or foot;
your soles would be the pasterns, and your heels/ankle would be the hocks. See
also Stifle and Patella.
Patella
The knee joint of a dog's rear legs which allow the dog's legs to bend and flex
as they move. The patellar joint consists of bone, ligaments and muscle tissue.
A frequent disorder of this joint, Patellar luxation is a looseness or
hyperextension of the joining tendons which allows the kneecap to slip off of
its "runners" causing pain and inability to move correctly. Luxated Patellae can
be surgically corrected. LP is thought to be a genetically inheritable tendency,
but can also be caused by injury.
Points
In conformation ("breed") competition, CKC & AKC award between one and five
points towards their Champion of Record title - depending on the regional point
schedule and/or how many dogs defeated - to both the Winners Dog and Winners
Bitch of each breed entered at a show.To receive the title of Champion in Canada
a dog must earn at least 10 points, winning points from at least e judges. To
receive the title of Champion in US, a dog must earn at least 15 points; at
least 6 of which must come from two different judges, and be "majors." A "major"
is a substantial achievement earned by defeating a large number of dogs relative
to that breed. A major consists of either 3, 4, or 5 points. In obedience
competition, points are awarded towards the Obedience Trial Champion title based
on scores and the number of dogs defeated. 100 points earns the title of OTCH in
the US. Points are also given out to qualifying scores in the Open and Utility
level and accumulate within a calendar year to determine placing within the
breed and within the group. While earning each title scores are given to the dog
and handler. Any score over 170 points earns a qualifying "leg" towards their
title. Three "legs" and the dog earns the title associated with the scores. In
junior handling competition, points are garnered by the number of competitors
defeated. In the most widely recognized scoring system, which AKC is in the
process of beginning to track, one point is awarded for each competitor you
defeat. (You do not count yourself, as you did not defeat yourself). The Best
Jr. Handler receives one point for each other competitor entered and defeated
that day.
The "breastbone" on a dog. Located on its forechest midway between its point of
shoulders, a somewhat protruding post sternum is desirable in most sporting,
working, and herding breed - as it is thought to indicate a chest cavity large
enough to accommodate lungs and heart expansion as they work in heavy physical
activity.
A publication created by the show superintendent or secretary which is mailed to
prospective exhibitors, listing the show giving club, the date and location of
the show, the judges, classes and awards ("premiums") offered, etc. Premium
lists contain forms and fees for entering, and list the closing date by which
entries must be received. You may request a specific premium list by contacting
the show superintendent or secretary for the show you are interested in. The
name of the super/sec for each individual show in Canada is listed in the CKC
Dogs in Canada magazine. The names of the super/sec in the US for each
individual show is listed in the AKC gazette.
Produce
The offspring of a brood bitch.
Regional
A grouping of states with similar numbers of entries, which AKC designates as a
Region for calculating point schedules.
Reserve (or Reserve Winners)
See "Winners Bitch" and/or "Winners Dog" descriptions below.
Ring Steward
A judge's assistant who is tasked with coordinating the logistics of getting the
exhibitors and their dogs into and out of the rings efficiently. Stewards check
in the exhibitors, answer questions about ring procedures, call in the classes,
prepare the ribbons and trophies for distribution, and maintain their own marked
catalogs as back-up documentation for official placements. Stewards are
responsible for the smooth operation of their rings, and the comfort of the
judges they are assigned to assist. Some Stewards are club volunteers while
others are paid for their professional services.
Roadwork
To exercise and condition a dog usually by walking, jogging, or biking.
A show official (usually an individual person) licensed by the CKC or AKC, and
hired by the show giving club to act as the coordinating management for the
show. The secretary usually generates and distributes the premium lists,
receives the entries, creates the catalogs, provides the equipment and materials
needed, keeps all the records and generates the reports for CKC.
Set Up
The area on the show grounds in which you establish your home-base for grooming
and holding your dogs while you are not in the ring. Pray for a space close to
the rings with an electrical outlet!
Sidegait
The movement of a dog as it is seen from the dog's side. Look for how
effectively it tracks, and how appropriately it reaches with it's front legs,
and drives off of it's rear.
Slicker
A small grooming tool with a rectangular head on the end containing fine teeth
with bent tops which is used to separate and brush out topcoat and furnishings
such as hock hair.
Special
Slang for a Champion of Record who is being actively campaigned.
Specialty
A show consisting of only one breed, given by a "Specialty Club." Specialty
clubs are groups of individuals (breeders, exhibitors, pet enthusiasts, etc.)
who share a passion for a specific breed of dogs, and who host events specific
to promoting that breed. Specialties usually draw a large entry of dogs, and
wins garnered from specialties are very high visibility within the national
family of that breed's fanciers.
Stack
To cause your dog to stand in a manner that best displays it's virtues. In most
breeds, the dog's forelegs are stacked in alignment with their withers, and
their rear pasterns are squarely aligned and presented at a 90 degree angle from
the floor. There are exceptions by breed i.e. German Shepherd Dogs, etc. One may
"Hand stack" their dog by manually placing each foot in it's best position, or
else "Free stack" by using a hands free method of using bait, verbal commands,
body language, or lead correction to get the dog to stack itself.
The officially recognized written description of an ideal specimen of a specific
breed. This is the document judges are tasked to interpret when judging in the
breed ring, where dogs are judged as to how well they conform to this written
standard of excellence. Original breed standards are written by the national
parent clubs of each individual breed, and are then adopted by the Kennel Club
of the appropriate county, ie CKC/AKC.
Sternum
Steward
See "Ring Steward" above.
Stifle
The curved area on a dog's rear legs containing the thighs and patella (knee).
The actual bend of stifle regulates how much flexibility the dog will have to
drive off of its rear.
Stop
The skeletal junction on the skull's foreface between the back of the muzzle and
the beginning of the topskull. Collies and Afghans have very little "stop" and
Chihuahuas, Labrador Retrievers, and St. Bernards have a great deal of "stop."
A show official (usually a professional show managing company) licensed by the
CKC/AKC, and hired by the show giving club to act as the coordinating management
team for the show. The superintendent usually generates and distributes the
premium lists, receives the entries, creates the catalogs, provides the
equipment and materials needed, keeps all the records and generates the reports
for the appropriate kennel club.
Sweepstakes
A non-regular class, usually offered at specialty shows, which are specifically
designed to recognize outstanding young dogs and puppies. Winners of Best in
Sweeps, Best Opposite Sex in Sweeps, and often all of the class placement
winners, receive a portion of the entry fees as prizes for their placement.
Sweepstakes are the only classes where money prizes are normally awarded.
Tack
Equipment (collars, leads, grooming products, combs, brushes, shears, etc) used
to prepare and show a dog. Hopefully found in a "Tack Box" when not in use.
Topline
The spinal section of a dog from it's withers (top of shoulder blades) to the
end of it's croup (at the tail root).
Utility A/B
Highest level of obedience classes for people seeking to earn the suffix title
of Utility Dog ("UD") when they earn three qualifying scores of at least 170 out
of 200 points (including earning at least 50% of available points for each
separate exercise) from three different judges. Obedience classes are divided
into two groups; (A and B) - "A" for exhibitors who have not yet added this
title to a dog's name that they have either handled or trained, and "B" or more
experienced exhibitors who have. Exercises (all off leash) include:
-
Signal Exercise.....................40 points
-
Scent Discrimination Article #1.....30 points *
-
Scent Discrimination Article #2.....30 points *
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Directed Retrieve...................30 points
-
Moving Stand and Examination........30 points
-
Directed Jumping....................40 points
Maximum Total Score....................200 points
* The scent discrimination exercise is different in both Canada and in the US.
In Canada, there are 3 articles, wood, metal and leather. In the US only the
wood and metal are used.
In the US, there are A and B classes. Once the UD is achieved in the US,
competitors continue to compete for placements to accumulate 100 points to earn
their OTCH designation. In Canada, there is only the one Utility class. In
Canada, 3 legs earns the title UD and OTCH.
Veterans
A non-regular but competitive class for dogs at least 7 years old, designed to
honor those dogs who have maintained their structural integrity, health, vigor
and love of showing into their golden years. Boxes of Kleenex are mandatory at
ringside...trust me.
Westminster KC
A very prestigious all-breed /all-champions limited entry benched show held in
New York City's Madison Square Garden each February, The Westminster Kennel Club
show is legendary. The WKC show is the 2nd oldest sporting event in the United
States, younger only than the Kentucky Derby. A major social event as well, "The
Garden" is an event every dog lover should attend at least once. Normally
nationally televised over two nights. Also see "Garden" above.
Withers
The point at which the shoulder blades (scapulae) meet. This critical structural
point and its adjoining muscles and ligaments regulate how effectively a dog is
able to cover ground with the rest of its front assembly. the tightness or
looseness of the shoulders can make the difference between a sloppy thrown front
and a clean tracking one. The angulation that the shoulders make create the
transition between the neck and spine, and contribute to how easily a dog can
reach ahead of itself and how it carries it's head. The withers is also the
point at which actual HEIGHT of a dog is measured with a tool called a wicket.
The height of the dog needs to be determined for obedience, agility and flyball
competition as it will determine the jumping height of the dog.
Whelp
To give birth to a litter of puppies. A pregnant bitch is considered to be "in
whelp." When she is giving birth, she is said to be "whelping."
Winners Bitch
The class (aka "unfinished" or "non-champion") bitch who has defeated all other
class bitches of that breed at that show is the ONE female of that breed to be
awarded points towards her championship . The first place winners from each of
the bitch classes in that breed that day**, compete for Winners Bitch. **This
would be the 1st place 6-9 month Puppy Bitch, the 1st place 9-12 Puppy Bitch,
the 1st place 12-18 Junior Bitch, the 1st place Novice Bitch, the 1st Place
Bred-by Bitch, the First place Can-Bred Bitch, and the 1st place Open Bitch.
After one Winners Bitch is selected, the bitch who originally took 2nd place to
her in the classes is asked to come in and compete with the remaining bitches
for "Reserve Winners Bitch." The winner of the "Reserve" is like a "runner- up"
and is only awarded points if, in the future, the Winners Bitch is found to be
disqualified for some reason and the award is disallowed. During the Best of
Breed competition, which is held after all class dogs (male and female) of that
breed have been judged, the Winners Bitch and Winners Dog compete with each
other for "Best of Winners." They may *also* be awarded Best of Breed or Best of
Opposite Sex to BOB against the other, already finished champions in the BOB
competition.
Same as above, but for males. Substitute "Dog" for "Bitch" where appropriate.
For details about what these terms and titles mean, check for definition above.
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AI-Artificial Insemination
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AKC - American Kennel
Club
-
ABC
- American Boxer Club
-
Am/Can-American and Canadian
-
-
BCC -
Boxer Club of Canada
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BCSWO-Boxer Club of South Western Ontario
-
-
BISS-Best In Specialty Sweepstakes (NOT Best In Specialty Show which is actually
a "Specialty BOB")
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BJH-Best Junior Handler - (See Junior Handling above)
-
BOH-Breeder, Owner, Handler
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BOS-Best of Opposite Sex to Best of Breed
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BW-Best of Winners (see Winners Bitch above)
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CD-Companion Dog (AKC/CKC obedience title from the Novice A/B class)
-
CDX-Companion Dog Excellent (AKC/CKC obedience title from the Open A/B class)
-
CERF-Canine Eye Registry Foundation (A group of board certified Veterinary
Ophthalmologists who maintain a registry of purebred dogs that the ACVO
Diplomats (members) examine and have found to be unaffected by major heritable
eye disease. CERF also maintains a research data base which consists of
information that is generated by all examinations done by ACVO Diplomats.
Reports generated from this resource help breeders and ophthalmologists identify
trends in eye disease and breed susceptibility. CERF is dedicated to educating
the public on matters involving canine eye disease. CERF provides a variety of
reports, the CERF newsletter and other eye disease materials to help educate the
owner/breeder on heritable eye disease questions, healthy breeding stock, and
breed- specific eye problems)
-
CGC-Canine Good
Citizen (AKC certificate (not an official title) indicating that the dog has
successfully participated in AKC's CGC test-a casual set of exercises testing
the dog's skills and basic obedience)
-
CH - Champion of Record (CKC/AKC title awarded to dogs who have been awarded at
least 10/15 points, including two majors in the breed ring, where their
conformation to the written standard of excellence for their breed is judged.
See "Champion" definition above)
-
FDX-Flyball
Dog Excellent title award to a dog that competes in flyball and earns 100
points.
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NA-Novice Agility (AKC
title awarded to dogs who completes 3 legs in AKC novice agility.
-
NAC - Novice Agility certificate earned by a dog who completes 3 legs in NADAC
novice agility.
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NOBC-Northern
Ontario Boxer Club
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OA-Open
Agility certificate earned by a dog who completes 3 legs in AKC open agility.
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OFA - Orthopedic Foundation for Animals - A research, diagnostic, and
registration organization of veterinary orthopedists whose mission is to
organize, collate and disseminate information concerning orthopedic and genetic
disease of animals. To advise, encourage control and establish programs to lower
the incidence of orthopedic and genetic diseases. To encourage and finance
researches in orthopedic and genetic disease in animals. The OFA is a diagnostic
service and registry for:
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Hip Dysplasia-canine and feline
-
-
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Craniomandibular osteopathy
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Copper Toxicosis-Bedlington Terriers
-
-
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Von Willebrand's Disease-Shetland Sheepdog, Doberman Pinscher, Scottish Terriers
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Phosphofructokinase Deficiency-Cocker Spaniel, English Springer Spaniel
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Progressive Retinal Atrophy-Irish Setter
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Pyruvate Kinase Deficiency-Basenji
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PHA-Professional Handlers' Association
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SAS-Subaeortal Arterial Stenosis a serious genetic disorder of the cardiac
system, causing heart murmurs.
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SHDCH-Scent Hurdle Dog Champion (CKC certificate awarded to a dog that competes
succesfully in Scent Hurdle Dog Racing)
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TD-Tracking Dog (CKC/AKC title awarded to dogs who have qualified in this first
level of Tracking Test)
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TDX-Tracking Dog Excellent (CKC/AKC title awarded to dogs who have qualified in
this highest level of Tracking Test)
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WB-Winners Bitch (see definition above in terminology section)
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WD-Winners Dog (see definition above in terminology section)
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