How Best in Show Winners Are Chosen at American Dog Shows

In the United States, most formal pedigree dog shows assess each dog against the breed standards defined by the American Kennel Club (AKC) to identify the finest example of each breed in their respective classes.

Within these breed classes, dogs are often further sorted by age and sex, resulting in several first-place winners. These winning dogs then progress to compete in one of the seven AKC breed groups: Terriers, Sporting Dogs, Herding Dogs, Working Dogs, Non-Sporting Breeds, Hounds, and Toy Dogs. Winners from each group then move forward to the final Best in Show competition.

Judging Best in Show is unique since dogs from vastly different breeds and types are evaluated side-by-side. The judge relies on how closely each dog matches its individual AKC breed standard rather than comparing dogs directly. These standards include precise details such as body shape, size, head proportions, muzzle shape, coat texture and color, tail carriage, muscle definition, dental condition, and general health.

Besides physical traits, judges examine the dog’s gait, temperament, confidence, and performance in the ring. The dog must not only conform to breed specifics but also display typical breed behavior and soundness during the event. The judge draws on extensive experience and knowledge of breed characteristics, often referring to breed standards, to determine the top dog in each group and ultimately the overall Best in Show winner.

What kinds of dog shows feature Best in Show classes?

Best in Show contests take place at many formal American Kennel Club-sanctioned dog shows across the country, ranging from local club events to highly prestigious competitions like the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show. These events follow strict AKC judging protocols and feature qualifying rounds throughout the year.

Victors in Best in Show at major shows typically gain recognition and may qualify for entry into other national competitions. For many breeders and owners, winning Best in Show at the Westminster is a pinnacle achievement.

Which dogs qualify for Best in Show?

To reach Best in Show, dogs must first win their breed class and then triumph in their group competition. Only the champions of the seven AKC groups, including standard poodle puppies from the Non-Sporting group and pug puppies from the Toy group, advance to compete for Best in Show.

This rigorous filtering process guarantees that final contenders represent the highest standard of their breeds and groups, bringing together top-quality examples of canine excellence for final judging.

How do judges determine the Best in Show winner?

Judges carefully assess all group winners side-by-side during the final round. Unlike earlier stages, the comparison is not just against a breed standard but across diverse breeds, each with different builds and purposes.

The Best in Show winner is the dog that best embodies their breed’s unique standard, including structure, movement, temperament, and overall ring presence. This requires the judge to apply a subjective but informed evaluation, balancing detailed physical criteria with the dog’s behavior and performance on the day.

Condition and presentation on the event day carry significant weight in judging. Judges also name a Reserve Best in Show, the runner-up who made a strong impression.

Understanding the Seven Breed Groups by the American Kennel Club

The AKC classifies breeds into seven groups for competition purposes. These groups are:

• Hound Group: Breeds traditionally used for hunting by scent or sight, such as the Beagle or Afghan Hound.
• Working Group: Dogs bred for guarding, draft work, or rescue, including breeds like the Doberman Pinscher and Saint Bernard.
• Terrier Group: Energetic breeds developed originally to hunt vermin, such as the Jack Russell Terrier.
• Sporting Group: Dogs bred to assist hunters with retrieving and pointing game, including the Labrador Retriever and Golden Retriever.
• Herding Group: Breeds that manage and guard livestock, like the Border Collie and Australian Shepherd.
• Non-Sporting Group: A diverse group that includes breeds with various original functions, such as the Standard Poodle and Bulldog.
• Toy Group: Small companion dogs bred chiefly for friendship and companionship, including Pugs and Chihuahuas.

This grouping helps judges compare breeds with similar purposes or traits before selecting group winners who move to the Best in Show final.

What makes Best in Show judging so distinctive?

The Best in Show competition is more than selecting the most attractive dog. It celebrates dogs that perfectly reflect their breed’s ideal characteristics and true temperament. Judges embrace breed diversity and use detailed knowledge to measure how each finalist represents an exemplary and healthy specimen of their breed.

Achieving Best in Show status highlights exceptional breeding, training, and the dedication to conserving breed standards. It honors not just the dog but the responsible owners and breeders committed to preserving breed heritage.

Summary

In conclusion, Best in Show classes at American dog shows follow a thorough and well-defined judging sequence based on AKC breed standards. Dogs advance from class winners to group champions across seven American Kennel Club designated groups, and finally compete for Best in Show.

Judges employ their expert experience to evaluate how well each dog meets its breed’s standard, considering physical build, movement, temperament, and presence in the ring. This distinctive judging system respects breed variety and heritage while promoting ethical breeding and responsible pet ownership.

If you’re planning to get a standard poodle puppy or a pug puppy, always choose reputable breeders who focus on health, temperament, and quality suitable for both show and family life.