May 26th, 2009 by admin

Established in 1911, the Federation Cynologique International (FCI) represents the world kennel club.’ This international body uniformity to the breeding, judging and showing of purebred dogs. Although the FCI originally included only five European nations: France, germany, Austria, the Netherlands and Belgium (which remains its headquarters ), the organization today embraces nations of six continents and recognizes well over 300 breeds of purebred dog. There are three titiles attainable through the FCI: the International Champion, which is the most prestigious; the International Beauty Champion; which is abased on aptitude certificates in different countries; and the International Trial Champion, which is based on achievement in obedience trials in different countries. Dogs from every country can participate in these impressive canine spectacles, the largest of which is the World Dog show, hosted in a different country each year, FCI sponsors both national and international shows. The hosting country determines the judging system and breed standards are always based on the breed’s country of origin.

The FCI is divided into ten ‘Groups.’ At the World Dog Show, the following ‘Classes’ are offered for each breed: Puppy Class (6-9 Months ), Youth Class (9-18 Months), Open Class (15 months or older) and Champion Class. A dog can be awarded classifications of very Promising, Promising or Not Promising. Four placements are made in each class. After all sexes and classes are judged, a Best of Breed is selected. Other special grou8ps and classes may also be shown. Each exhibitor showing a dog receives a written evaluation from the judge.

Besides the World Dog Show, you can exhibit your dog at specialty shows held by different breed clubs. Speciality shows may have their own regulations.

INFORMATION ON CLUBS

You can get information about dog shows from kennel clubs and breed clubs.

Federation Cynologique Internationale
14, rue Leopold II, B-6530 Thuin Belgium
www.fci.be

The Kennel Club
1-5 Clarges, St. Piccadilly, Londo WIY 8AB, UK
www.the-kennel-club.org.uk

American Kennel Club
5580, Centerview Dr. Raleigh, NC 27606-3390,
USA
www.akc.org

Canadian Kennel Club
89 Skywaty Ave., Suite 100, Etobicoke, Ontario
M9W 6R4 Canada
www.ckc.ca