Guide to Showing at the Canadian Kennel Club

Founded in 1880, the Canadian Kennel Club, known as the CKC, considers itself a leader in advancing the quality of purebred Canadian dogs through shows, competitions and trials for its 25,000 members. The CKC show circuit combines strict purebred regulations with etiquette and showmanship among canines and their handlers. Each dog must meet specific physical standards in the show ring, which vary by breed. For purebred owners interested in showing their dogs, the CKC offers opportunities but demands strict compliance with its regulations.

  1. Show Registration

    • The CKC offers two paths for show participation. The first option is for owners who already registered their dog with the Canadian Kennel Club by providing the necessary lineage documentation and breeder certification. In this case, entering your dog simply requires submitting an entry form and the necessary fees through the CKC website. The second way to enter a show is by obtaining a performance event number, also known as a PEN, which lets dogs that are not registered with the CKC compete. Obtaining a PEN requires submitting two standing photos of your dog; a statement from your vet verifying your dog̵7;s breed and that the dog is neutered or spayed; a registered microchip number; and a statement explaining why your dog is unable to be registered as a full member of the CKC.

    Entering the Ring

    • Prior to entering the show ring, an official divides all dogs into groups by breed and sex. Viewing dogs in groups helps judges compare dogs with their breed peers. The judges will signal dog handlers to enter the ring. You must lead your dog out to to the show ring using a traditional, nonextendable leash. You may not carry your dog into or out of the ring, regardless of his size. Seeing your dog in motion allows judges to assess his gait, stride and demeanor.

    Show Ring Behavior

    • Obedience and well-mannered behavior toward the judges and the other canine contestants is paramount throughout the event. Local breed clubs often offer obedience training and classes tailored specifically to CKC show procedure. Your dog must obey verbal commands without any prompting or assistance. For example, you can̵7;t nudge your dog in a certain direction or position his body by lifting his paws. Correcting your dog̵7;s behavior in the ring is also prohibited. Judges will deduct points for any of the above behavior violations or if the dog behaves poorly by barking, nipping, jumping or pulling.

    Point Systems

    • The CKC show point system reflects points earned during a single show and your dog̵7;s competition placement over several shows, known as championship points. Judges add or deduct points based on a dog̵7;s performance during a single event. Championship points reflect a dog's placement at an event. For example, receiving the Best in Show title gives your dog more championship points than earning Best in Breed. Qualifying for the Grand Champion title requires 100 championship points and earning of the Good Canine Citizen Certification.