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Conformation History at AthleticDogs.com

The History of Conformation

Conformation is the oldest form of dog competition. Developed to find the best breeding stock for a particular type of dog, the standards for each breed have developed and evolved significantly over the years.

Most dog breeds come from an ancestry that was bred for a particular purpose - to help with the hunt, to keep the rat population under control, even to keep the owner’s lap warm and be a beautiful accessory. Whatever the purpose of the breed, certain characteristics make a particular dog perfect to fill the stated role.

Modern conformation competitions are based on the breed standards set by the specific purebred organizations. Characteristics from the dog’s coat and coloring to disposition and gait are evaluated against the standards expected of the perfect dog of that breed. The champion titles are earned by the dogs who have the set of genetics that most closely matches the ideal established by the organization.

It is likely that informal conformation events took place long before organized shows were developed. The top breeders of the early 1800s knew what to look for in breeding stock and many of today’s purebred lines were developed for very narrow, specific purposes.

The first modern conformation show was held in Newcastle-Upon-Tyne, England in June 1859. The only breeds represented at this first show were pointers and setters. It was essentially a marketing event for the top breeders of the time, and the champions quickly became the most sought after breeding stock in England and beyond.

Less than 20 years later, the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show was established. Since the first Westminster Show in 1877, the sport of conformation has grown steadily and swiftly. The event is now held annually at Madison Square Garden in New York City and boasts a total entry of over 2,500 dogs each year. Westminster is the second largest continuously held sporting event in the US.

The AKC (American Kennel Club) was established in 1884 and quickly became the premier purebred registry in North America. Today, the AKC sanctions more than 15,000 conformation shows each year. They boast around 500 clubs and over 4,000 affiliates.

The most prestigious dog show in the world, Crufts, was first held in the UK in 1891. Today, more than 20,000 dogs are shown at Crufts each year. The show runs over 4 days in Birmingham and the winner receives a solid silver Keddall Memorial Trophy....and a paltry €100 ($200). The dog fanciers that work their dogs to that point are clearly not in it for the prize money!

The AKC and CKC run thousands of conformation shows across North America each year. In addition, breed-specific organizations and other dog groups run conformation events year-round. If you are interested in joining the world of conformation, there are plenty of opportunities to do so!

Check out conformation products at the AthleticDogs.com store!