How a show works
Entries, classes, gradings, titles and the show day – a guide for exhibitors.
A dog show is where a judge assesses how closely each Boxer matches the FCI breed standard no. 144. Here is how a show day works, which classes and gradings exist and what to bring.
1. Entering a show
Entries for SBK club and specialty shows are made online via MyDogShow – the link is shown with every show in the events calendar. Shows usually have two or three entry deadlines; the earlier you enter, the lower the fee. After the last deadline the class can no longer be changed.
2. Show classes
| Class | Age on the show day |
|---|---|
| Baby | 4 – 6 months |
| Puppy | 6 – 9 months |
| Junior | 9 – 18 months |
| Intermediate | 15 – 24 months |
| Open | from 15 months |
| Working | from 15 months, FCI working certificate |
| Champion | from 15 months, recognised champion title |
| Veteran | from 8 years |
| Honour | from 15 months, with a title (judged without CAC) |
3. The show day
- Arrival and veterinary check – present the vaccination record (valid rabies vaccination and any other requirements in the schedule).
- Check-in – usually 8:00 – 9:30. Your entry and pedigree are checked and you receive a catalogue number to wear.
- Judging in the ring – normally from 10:00. Males are judged first, then females, class by class from the youngest. Dogs are called by catalogue number, so keep an eye on your ring.
- In the ring – the class moves around the ring together, then the judge examines each dog individually: stance, teeth and bite, body, coat and colour, movement (trot around the ring and “up and back”). The judge dictates a written critique which you receive.
- Gradings and placings – each dog receives a grading and the first four in class are placed. Titles and certificates follow from the placings.
- Final competitions – Best Junior, Best Veteran, Club Winner, Best of Breed (BOB) and Best of Opposite Sex (BOS), followed by best brace, breeders’ group, child and dog and junior handling.
4. Gradings
- V – excellent (baby and puppy classes: VN – very promising)
- VD – very good (N – promising)
- D – good
- DOST – sufficient
- DISKV – disqualified and NEP – not judged
5. Titles and certificates
- CAJC – junior champion certificate (junior class, V1).
- CAC – Slovak champion certificate (intermediate, open, working and champion classes, V1); the runner-up may receive res. CAC.
- Club Winner / Specialty Winner – best male and best female among the CAC holders.
- Best Junior, Best Veteran.
- BOB – Best of Breed and BOS – Best of Opposite Sex.
Results from club shows count automatically towards the Boxerliga and the Club Champion title.
6. What to bring
- pedigree and vaccination record,
- entry confirmation (MyDogShow e-mail) and proof of payment,
- a thin show lead, bowl and water, treats,
- a blanket or crate, comb and towel, waste bags,
- a folding chair and something to eat – show days are long.
7. Tips for beginners
- Practise the show stance, showing the teeth and trotting on a loose lead at home.
- Arrive early so the dog can settle and you check in without stress.
- Watch the ring and catalogue numbers so you do not miss your class.
- Ask experienced club members – they are happy to help on the spot.
- Read the critique afterwards – it is valuable feedback for breeding.
Any other questions? Write to us via the website chat or the contact form.
