How to Measure a Dog Using a Wicket

Dogs competing in certain performance events must be measured to ensure they are competing in the right height division. In addition, dogs of certain breeds must be measured prior to competing in conformation shows to determine whether they are at or under the maximum height required by their breed standards. A metal, wood, or PVC ̶0;wicket̶1; is used to measure the dog at the withers. It may be ̶0;fixed,̶1; meaning that the legs and the crossbar are one solid unit. Alternatively, a wicket may have a movable crossbar or a movable piece that drops down from the crossbar to rest on the dog̵7;s shoulders.

Things You'll Need

  • Tape measure
  • Board (optional)
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Instructions

  1. Measuring a Dog

    • 1

      Ensure that the wicket being used is appropriate for use during the event. If the wicket is being used to measure dogs prior to official events, it must be made according to the registry̵7;s requirements as described in the event rulebook. The wicket must be the correct the size for the dog it is being used to measure. Wicket heights are typically divided between toy-sized to small dogs, medium-sized dogs and large to massive breeds.

    • 2

      Set up the dog on the appropriate surface for its size, if required by the venue. For example, the AKC Rules, Policies, and Guidelines for Conformation Dog Show Judges rulebook requires that ̶0;dogs normally examined on a table should be measured on the table. Dogs normally examined on the ground should be measured on the ground.̶1;

    • 3

      Set the dog into the stance that is natural to its breed. Only the exhibitor/competitor or the steward is allowed to handle the dog; the judge must not set the dog in any way.

    • 4

      Set the wicket to the proper height for the breed or jump height for which the dog is being measured. Only the judge can set and confirm the wicket adjustment, using the tape measure sanctioned by the registry or provided by the club sponsoring the event. The exhibitor/competitor must verify the measurement once set and confirmed by the judge. The judge will place the wicket at the dogs̵7; hindquarters and slowly move it forward to the dog̵7;s withers (shoulders). He or she will set the wicket down at the highest point of the withers.

    • 5

      Establish that the dog is at or under the proper height that its class requires. Both of the legs of the wicket will touch the surface upon which the dog is being measured at the same time if it is at or under the appropriate height.