When Do You Know if Your Dog is 'Ready' To Enter? ...
This is a difficult one to answer.
What you don't want to do is enter before you or your dog are able to put together the required exercises, otherwise you may become disappointed, when you should be able to go in with the attitude of 'wow, my dog managed to complete that!'.
Try doing some of the exercises in really different/busy places (even the High Street!) to ensure you and the dog are ready for different environment of a busy show.
Hopefully your trainer will help you decide when you are ready.
Show nerves also play a part in if you are ready, as your nerves may affect how your dog performs too.
What you don't want to do is enter before you or your dog are able to put together the required exercises, otherwise you may become disappointed, when you should be able to go in with the attitude of 'wow, my dog managed to complete that!'.
Try doing some of the exercises in really different/busy places (even the High Street!) to ensure you and the dog are ready for different environment of a busy show.
Hopefully your trainer will help you decide when you are ready.
Show nerves also play a part in if you are ready, as your nerves may affect how your dog performs too.
What Age Do Dogs (or Handlers!) Have to Be to Enter? ...
- There is no age limit for owners/handlers, its open to anyone.
- Only dogs over the age of 6 months can compete in the classes.
- Dogs over the age of 4 months can be brought to the show, but must be entered 'Not For Competition' on the official entry form.
- Dogs under the age of 4 months cannot attend the show.
How To Enter A Kennel Club Obedience show ...
- Any dog entered (or any simply attending) must be registered with the Kennel Club.
- You need to enter a show a long time in advance of the actual show date (you cannot enter 'on the day').
- You cannot enter after the 'entries close date' has past.
- The length of time varies from show to show, but is generally between 4 and 8 weeks before the actual show date. Why is this such a long time? : Once entries are received by the organisers, they have to be checked and then a catalogue has to be compiled plus a draw made of the first 10 to work in each class/class part, as per Kennel Club regulations. All of this takes time and hence the early entry requirement.
- ObedienceUK and DTW list the show dates and the entry closing dates in their respective diaries (see links below).
- You must enter the lowest class you are eligible for (usually Introductory if you are completely new to the sport). You can also (if you wish to) enter another class which is usually the next level up from Introductory, ie Pre-Beginners, but you can choose which other class you want to go into. Some shows (not all shows) allow you to enter 3 classes so always check the schedule for how many class you can enter.
- Always check the Show Schedule for what classes they are holding. Some Shows start at Introductory, others might start with Pre-Beginner or even a Beginner. Therefore even if you are just starting out in this hobby at some shows you might have to enter Beginners as it is that particular shows lowest class, and therefore the lowest class you are eligible for.
How do I Register My Dog(s) ..
- If your dog is a Kennel Club recognised breed it might be possible to register on the Kennel Club Breed Register if you have a full Kennel Club Pedigree from the breeder. It is usual if you have bought a pedigree puppy for the breeder to register the puppies, so please check with your breeder for any possible existing Kennel Club registration name and number.
- If your dog is not already registered, then you will need to choose a 'posh' competing name for your dog (several options required by Kennel Club, maximum of 24 characters) and send off a form to the Kennel Club:
- All dogs that you take to the show with you need to be registered with the Kennel Club, even if they are not going to be competing at any show, this includes any older dogs or young dogs not ready for competition yet.
- Each dog that you take to the show needs to be individually registered with the Kennel Club (either Breed Register or Activity Register), ie registering one dog does not cover all your dogs.
- Each dog registered will be allocated a Kennel Club number - that number has to be put on all entry forms (often in box with 'KC ATC' in it) along with the dogs full registered name.
- KC ATC means 'Kennel Club Authority To Compete' - The 'ATC' part is relevant to overseas competitors, but standard Kennel Club Registration numbers go in the same box.
Note: If you have sent off your form but have not received it back from the Kennel Club (can take several weeks to return) and you need to enter your show .. then you still can:
- Use the name you applied for in the 'Reigstered Name of Dog' box, but at the end of the dogs name write in capitals 'NAF' (which means Name Applied For).
Find a Show Near to You ..
You can find out dates of shows from various source:
- Online with ObedienceUK : Schedules page shows dates and venues of shows in the UK
- Online with Kennel Club : Dates of licensed shows - where is says 'show type' click 'All' arrow and select Obedience
Obtain a Show Schedule ..
Once you know the dates you can do, then you can obtain a schedule from various sources:
- Online with ObedienceUK : You need to subscribe to the site to be able to download schedules - when downloading a schedule, always download an entry form too.
- Online with With Your Dog
Read the Schedule ..
- Shows vary in what class they offer and in how many classes you can enter.
- Always read the schedule carefully to ensure you know what you can enter.
- Always check the shows stated 'Judging' time and plan to arrive at least one hour before that judging time. Again the judging time varies from show to show.
- Class prices will be shown on the front page, judges and classes usually shown on the 2nd page, rules and regulations for each show follow on, often with directions on the back page.
- Very occasionally shows require you to post them an SAE, so again ensure you read each schedule for individual show requirements.
Online Show Entries ..
- There is also the opportunity to enter online via 'With your Dog'
- Its free to join, you just register and you can fill in your dog(s) details prior to even needing them.
- You pay online on the site for your entries .. there is a charge per show entry.
Information Needed to Complete an Entry Form ..
Every dog you take with you to the Show needs to be individually registered with the Kennel Club, and so have a Kennel Club name and number (this includes dogs that may never compete).
Every dog you take with you to the Show needs to be listed on the Entry form with full details.
Every dog you take with you to the Show needs to be listed on the Entry form with full details.
- Dogs Kennel Club Registration Number (or KC ATC) (compulsory)
- Dogs Kennel Club Name (compulsory)
- Dogs Breed type (write XB if its a cross)
- Sex of Dog (state 'Dog' or 'Bitch')
- Dogs Date of Birth (write 'unknown' if you don't have details)
- Dogs Breeders Name (write 'unknown' if you don't have details)
- Dogs Sire & Dam registered name (write 'unknown' if you don't have details)
- Numbers of the classes you wish to enter (from Show Schedule) - You need to enter the lowest class you are eligible for as per Kennel Club Rules and Regulations & this is also explained in the schedule (check out the small print). The lowest class varies from show to show but will be one of the following depending on the show: Introductory or Pre-Beginner of even Beginners at some shows. Some shows allow you to enter 2 scheduled classes, others allow you to enter 3 classes - always check the schedule for the amount of classes you can enter, do not assume its 3 classes. There are occasionally 'special' classes which can be entered in ADDITION to the standard 2 or 3 classes.
- Any dog you are not taking into the ring, but you need to bring with you to the show also need their registration details on the entry form, in the class box you write 'NFC' for these dogs (NFC = Not for Competition). Note: Not for Competition dogs does NOT mean you can take these dogs into the ring and call it a training round, these dogs cannot take part in the show, they cannot go into a ring at all; they can just attend the show.
- Dog Owners name, address, phone number & email
- If you wish to overnight camp (if its available at the show) or if you wish to have a show catalogue on the day then tick the appropriate boxes and enclose the correct payment.
- Add a note to say you will look for your possible running order on line (this option saves the show alot of money in postage costs).
- Any running order will be shown on the schedules page of ObedienceUK or they will be emailed to you if you enter online at 'With Your Dog'.
- If you so wish you can also add a note requesting a certain judge in a certain class or if you prefer a running order in a certain class - however it must be pointed out that such requests do NOT have to be honoured by the Show.
- If sending your entry by post to the Show Secretary, it is always a good idea to enclose an SAE postcard type item, which the Secretary can return to you - that will confirm they have received your entry. Please write on the postcard your name and address on the one side and on the other write the name & date of the show and the classes entered, so when the card comes back to you its clear which show entry it relates to. If sending an entry online you will get an email confirmation sent back to you. Please take either the email confirmation or the postcard with you to shows as proof of entry in case there are any problems with your entry on the day.
- It is also advisable to obtain a 'proof of posting' receipt from the post office when posting your entry.
- If you are entering lower classes at a Championship Show there will be a box for merit points and also possibly a box saying 'return all entries if balloted out', leave these blank; both items are only relevant if you are entering the very highest class ie 'Championship C'.
- You do not need to provide proof of dog vaccinations/worming etc when entering a show.
What if I Win Out of My Lowest Class ..
For the purpose of explanation only I am using Pre-Beginner as an example here:
- If you win 'out' your lowest class (example used = Pre-Beginners) (see 'Class Levels' for 'winning out' requirements) but have entered alot of shows in the near future then it is likely that you will still be competing in Pre-Beginners for the majority of your future shows.
- You can still be compete and hopefully be placed in future entered Pre-Beginners or if you wish you can (with judges permission) do a 'training round' to 'repay' your dogs previous good work in winning the class.
Clarification from Kennel Club 15/12/22
The following regulations have been amended to clear up confusion surrounding the change to the eligibility date for obedience competitions.
Amendment to Regulation G.23.h.
In estimating the number of awards won, all wins up to and including 25 days before the start of the competition shall be counted when entering for any class. For these purposes a competition shall be defined as all classes covered within the same schedule. In the event that a dog becomes eligible for the next class at a particular show, after the entry for that show has been sent, it is the competitor’s responsibility to notify the show secretary or the show processor at least 14 days before the date of the show. The dog should then be moved into the appropriate class(es). The dog must be moved into the corresponding number of classes as were entered at the lower class. If there are fewer or no classes available for the next class the competitor should be offered a refund of the relevant entry fees. The show organiser is not required to split a class should entries exceed the maximum of 60 as a result of this notification process.
The following regulations have been amended to clear up confusion surrounding the change to the eligibility date for obedience competitions.
Amendment to Regulation G.23.h.
In estimating the number of awards won, all wins up to and including 25 days before the start of the competition shall be counted when entering for any class. For these purposes a competition shall be defined as all classes covered within the same schedule. In the event that a dog becomes eligible for the next class at a particular show, after the entry for that show has been sent, it is the competitor’s responsibility to notify the show secretary or the show processor at least 14 days before the date of the show. The dog should then be moved into the appropriate class(es). The dog must be moved into the corresponding number of classes as were entered at the lower class. If there are fewer or no classes available for the next class the competitor should be offered a refund of the relevant entry fees. The show organiser is not required to split a class should entries exceed the maximum of 60 as a result of this notification process.
So how does moving up a class work?
See rule 23 in Kennel Club Year Book
See rule 23 in Kennel Club Year Book
- When you enter a show all wins up to and including the 7th day before the SHOW closing date shall be counted when entering for any class (new ruling from Jan 2022).
- Therefore if you have entered future shows in advance you need to look at the show date for their entries and then count back 7 days from that date.
- If you have won out of a level 14 days before show closing date then you need to contact the future show secretary immediately and ask for your entry to be changed at their show (ie Pre-Beginner changed to Beginner and possibly amend other classes if entered to higher ones too).
- Do not leave it for ages before notifying the Show Secretary of any class entry alteration, this needs to be done as soon as possible after your winning out (and must be at least 14 days before the show date) so that the Show Secretary can amend your entry form before it goes off to the printers after the show closing date.
- 2022 7 day eligibility Rule (Kennel Club wording):
In estimating the number of awards won, all wins up to and including 7 days before the show closing date shall be counted when entering any class. For these purposes a competition shall be defined as all classes covered within the same schedule. In the event that a dog becomes eligible for the next class at a particular show, after the entry for that show has been sent, it is the competitor’s responsibility to notify the show Secretary or the show processor at least 14 days before the date of the show. The dog should then be moved into the appropriate class(es). The dog must be moved into the corresponding number of classes as were entered at the lower class. If there are fewer or no classes available for the next class the competitor should be offered a refund of the relevant entry fees.
The show organiser is not required to split a class should entries exceed the maximum of 60 as a result of this notification process.
What is a Catalogue ..
A catalogue is an record of classes and dogs/owners entered at each show and it lists the following:
- An alphabetical list of all the owners names
- Their dogs entered and the classes each dog is entered in.
- Class (and their possible parts) lists with the dogs names that are in each class and each class part.
- A list of the stay times of every class and part is usually included.
- Some competitors find a catalogue useful to see what part they have been entered into, and the stay time list is also convenient.
- Others like to see where friends are entered or like to keep a record of their day out.
What is a 'Special Class' ..
A special class can be entered in ADDITION to the standard 2 or 3 usual classes.
Special classes vary from show to show. Some shows hold them, some don't.
The special classes have rules decided by the Shows holding them, you need to read the Show Schedule carefully to see if you are eligible for the special class or if you want to do the special class content.
Special classes vary from show to show. Some shows hold them, some don't.
The special classes have rules decided by the Shows holding them, you need to read the Show Schedule carefully to see if you are eligible for the special class or if you want to do the special class content.
What is a Running Order ...
Every class from Introductory through to Open C will have a drawn running order for the first TEN dogs in each part of each class level - this is compulsory.
It exists to get the class started.
The mathematical statistics and complexity of drawing 10 dogs for each class part is hard, please never complain about a drawn order.
Championship C class has a complete draw of all dogs entered.
It exists to get the class started.
The mathematical statistics and complexity of drawing 10 dogs for each class part is hard, please never complain about a drawn order.
- The printer or Show Secretary will make a draw for 10 dogs in each part to run as the first dogs in the class.
- Dogs drawn 1st to 10th in the running order will be displayed online (ObedienceUK - look for 'draw').
- If you have entered online then you will receive an email of the class running orders.
- If you are not online then the draw will be posted to you - but you need to state this on your entry form as it is now usually assumed everyone looks online.
- Online saves the show substantial postage costs.
- It is YOUR responsibility to check if you have a running order.
- If you enter two classes, then it is highly likely that you will consistently receive a running order at all shows you enter.
- If you enter more than one dog, you are almost sure to get a running order with one of them at all shows you enter.
- Sometimes due to size of classes you will get a running order even if you have only entered one dog in one class, this is unfortunate but occasionally cannot be avoided.
- If you miss your running order you have forfeited your chance of running in the class, however with permission of the judge and the Chief Steward you MIGHT be able to work after the 10th running order dog but NOT for competition (ie a training round).
Championship C class has a complete draw of all dogs entered.
- This draw is done by the Kennel Club.
- Every dog entered will have a pre-drawn running order (ie depending on entries all 60 dogs will be allocated a running order).
- Missing your running order means you cannot compete in the class.
What is a 'split' class ..
Every class in the Show Schedule is limited to 60 dogs being judged by one judge and so if more than 60 dogs are entered in a class (for example Beginners) then the class will be split into more than one part. The number of dogs in each Part of each class is totally dependent on entries. If only 30 dogs are entered there will only be one part with 30 dogs in it.
However if the show receives say 123 entries then there will be 3 parts of Beginners, ie on the day of the show (using the 123 entries example) you will have a Beginner Part 1, Beginner Part 2 and Beginner Part 3 - you could be in any ONE part with your dog.
Using the 123 entry example you would have 3 parts with 41 dogs in each part.
Therefore the amount in each class/part will vary from show to show according to entries.
The only exception to the class being split is Championship C, there is only ever one part for Dogs and one part for Bitches of this class and thus only one winner in Dog and one in Bitch.
However if the show receives say 123 entries then there will be 3 parts of Beginners, ie on the day of the show (using the 123 entries example) you will have a Beginner Part 1, Beginner Part 2 and Beginner Part 3 - you could be in any ONE part with your dog.
Using the 123 entry example you would have 3 parts with 41 dogs in each part.
Therefore the amount in each class/part will vary from show to show according to entries.
- Each part will have a winner and 1st to 6th placings available.
- Each part will have different dogs in it.
- Each part will have a different Judge, Ring Steward and possibly Scoreboarder.
- Each part will have a different pattern of heelwork, recall & retrieve according to the pre-planned round by the judge.
- Each part will have a different 'Stay' time.
- Each part will have a separate running order.
The only exception to the class being split is Championship C, there is only ever one part for Dogs and one part for Bitches of this class and thus only one winner in Dog and one in Bitch.
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