Amended to November 30, 2025

Published by

The American Kennel Club

Mission Statement

The American Kennel Club® is a not-for-profit United States organization dedicated to upholding the integrity of its Registry, promoting the sport of purebred dogs and breeding for type and function.

Founded in 1884, the AKC® and its

affiliated organizations advocate for the purebred dog as a family companion, advance canine health and well-being, work to protect the rights of all dog owners and promote responsible dog ownership.

Page FOREWORD 1

AKC INTERNATIONAL SHOWS DEFINED.......... 2
MAKING APPLICATION TO HOLD AN INTERNATIONAL SHOW 3
DOG SHOW CLASSIFICATIONS............................... 4
APPROVAL OF JUDGES’ PANELS AND PREMIUM LISTS 17
RIBBONS, PRIZES, AND TROPHIES................... 18
PREMIUM LISTS AND CLOSING OF ENTRIES 20
JUDGES.............................................................................. 23
SELECTION OF SHOW SECRETARY AND SHOW VETERINARIANS 28
SHOW SECRETARIES................................................. 29
SHOW VETERINARIANS........................................... 31
INTERNATIONAL SHOW ENTRIES AND CONDITIONS OF DOGS AFFECTING ELIGIBILITY 33
THE CATALOG.............................................................. 41
BENCHING OF DOGS................................................. 43
MEASURING, WEIGHING, AND COLOR DETERMINATIONS WHEN FACTORS OF DISQUALIFICATION IN BREED STANDARDS OR ELIGIBILITY UNDER THE CONDITIONS OF A CLASS OR DIVISION OF A CLASS

CANCELLATION OF AWARDS.............................. 44

PROTESTS AGAINST DOGS.................................... 49
CHAMPIONSHIPS................................................... 51
SUBMISSION OF A SHOW’S RECORDS TO AKC…………………………………………………. 55
STEWARDS…………………………………………56
TRAINING COLLARS…………………………….58

FOREWORD

The American Kennel Club® was formed principally for the protection and advancement of pure-bred dogs.

The State of New York by Special Act of its legislature incorporated The American Kennel Club and granted it a charter in Section 2 of which the objects of the corporation are described to be “to adopt and enforce uniform rules regulating and governing dog shows, field trials and companion events, to regulate the conduct of persons interested in exhibiting, running, breeding, registering, purchasing and selling dogs, to detect, prevent, and punish frauds in connection therewith, to protect the interests of its members, to maintain and publish an official stud book and an official kennel gazette, and generally to do everything to advance the study, breeding, exhibiting, running and maintenance of the purity of thoroughbred dogs.”

Section 2 of this charter further states that “for these purposes it,” The American Kennel Club, “shall have power to adopt a constitution, bylaws, rules and regulations, and enforce the same by fines and penalties, which it shall have the right to collect and enforce by suit, or by suspension or expulsion from membership, or by a suspension or denial of any or all of the privileges of said corporation.”

Competition in conformation, performance and companion events can best demonstrate the progress that has been made in breeding for type, quality, and/or for practical use, stamina, and obedience. The American Kennel Club has therefore adopted bylaws, rules and regulations by which to govern and administrate these events; the clubs that wish to hold them; and the individuals who exhibit, compete or take part in them. This book contains such bylaws, rules and regulations as affect the above.

CHAPTER 1

AKC INTERNATIONAL SHOWS DEFINED

SECTION 1. An International Show is a show given by a foreign club or association pursuant to a written licensed agreement between The American Kennel Club (“AKC”) and the foreign club or association (“Club”) which will be held by the Club at which AKC championship points may be awarded (“AKC International Show License Agreement”).

SECTION 2. An AKC International Show with a limited entry, at which championship points may be awarded, may be given by a Club in the event said the Club considers it necessary to LIMIT the NUMBER OF DOGS or TOTAL ENTRY at its show due to the limitations of space. The total number of dogs or entries to be accepted together with the reason therefor, must be indicated on the cover or title page of the PREMIUM LIST. A specified closing date, in accordance with Chapter 6, Section 7, must be indicated in the premium list together with a statement that entries will close on said date or when the limit has been reached, if prior thereto. No entries can be accepted, canceled or substituted after the entry is closed.

CHAPTER 2

MAKING APPLICATION TO HOLD AN INTERNATIONAL SHOW

SECTION 1. Each Club shall pay an annual fee to the AKC to host International Shows, and an application fee for each International Show it holds in the same calendar year. The amount of the annual fee and individual application fee will be set forth in the AKC International Show License Agreement.

SECTION 2. The number of International Shows a Club in an AKC International Show License Agreement may hold in a calendar year and the dates and locations for such events are subject to the approval of the AKC.

SECTION 3. The Club must apply to the AKC on a regular official form, which will be supplied on request, over the signature of one of its officers, for permission to hold an International Show, stating in the application the day or days upon which, and the exact location where it desires to hold such show. This official form must be sent in time to reach the AKC at least 18 weeks before the closing date for entries of the International Show. This application will be referred to the AKC which will consider the same and notify the Club of its approval or disapproval of the dates and place selected.

SECTION 4. The AKC may grant permission to the Club to hold an AKC International Open Show, which shall be governed by the AKC International Open Show Regulations which shall be determined by the AKC Board of Directors.

SECTION 5. The Board of Directors of the AKC will not approve applications for International Shows where dates conflict, unless it be shown that the granting of such applications will not work to the detriment of either show.

SECTION 6. All Clubs at each AKC International Show must have available or access to; the current applicable AKC approved breed standards, the Regulations for AKC International Events, Rules Applying to Registration and Discipline, the Show Manual, and any other applicable rules, regulations and/or guidelines for the competitions being held.

SECTION 7. The duration of an International Show will not exceed two (2) days, unless permission is granted by the AKC for a longer period.

CHAPTER 3 DOG SHOW

CLASSIFICATIONS

SECTION 1. The following breeds and/or varieties of breeds, divided by groups, shall be all the breeds and/or varieties of breeds for which regular classes of the AKC may be provided at any International Show held under AKC rules. The Board of Directors may either add to, transfer from one group to another, or delete from said list of breeds and/or varieties of breeds, whenever in its opinion registrations of such breed and/or variety of breed in the Stud Book justify such action.

GROUP 1—SPORTING DOGS

BARBETS BRACCHI ITALIANI BRITTANYS

LAGOTTO ROMAGNOLO NEDERLANDSE KOOIKERHONDJE POINTERS

POINTERS (GERMAN SHORTHAIRED) POINTERS (GERMAN WIREHAIRED) RETRIEVERS (CHESAPEAKE BAY) RETRIEVERS (CURLY-COATED) RETRIEVERS (FLAT-COATED) RETRIEVERS (GOLDEN)

RETRIEVERS (LABRADOR)

RETRIEVERS (NOVA SCOTIA DUCK TOLLING) SETTERS (ENGLISH)

SETTERS (GORDON) SETTERS (IRISH)

SETTERS (IRISH RED & WHITE) SPANIELS (AMERICAN WATER) SPANIELS (BOYKIN)

SPANIELS (CLUMBER) SPANIELS (COCKER)

Three varieties:

Solid Color Black, Including Black and Tan Any Solid Color Other Than Black

Parti-color

SPANIELS (ENGLISH COCKER) SPANIELS (ENGLISH SPRINGER) SPANIELS (FIELD)

SPANIELS (IRISH WATER) SPANIELS (SUSSEX)

SPANIELS (WELSH SPRINGER) SPINONE ITALIANO

VIZSLAS WEIMARANERS

WIREHAIRED POINTING GRIFFONS WIREHAIRED VIZSLAS

GROUP 2—HOUNDS

AFGHAN HOUNDS

AMERICAN ENGLISH COONHOUNDS AMERICAN FOXHOUNDS

AZAWAKH BASENJIS

BASSET FAUVE DE BRETAGNE (eff. 12/31/2025) BASSET HOUNDS

BEAGLES

Two varieties:

Not exceeding 13 inches in height Over 13 inches but not exceeding 15 inches in height

BLACK AND TAN COONHOUNDS BLOODHOUNDS

BLUETICK COONHOUND BORZOIS

CIRNECO DELL’ETNA DACHSHUNDS

Three varieties:

Longhaired Smooth Wirehaired

ENGLISH FOXHOUNDS

GRAND BASSET GRIFFON VENDÉENS GREYHOUND

HARRIERS IBIZAN HOUNDS

IRISH WOLFHOUNDS NORWEGIAN ELKHOUNDS OTTERHOUNDS

PETITS BASSETS GRIFFONS VENDÉENS PHARAOH HOUNDS

PLOTT HOUNDS

PORTUGUESE PODENGO PEQUENO REDBONE COONHOUND RHODESIAN RIDGEBACKS

SALUKIS

SCOTTISH DEERHOUNDS SLOUGHIS

TREEING WALKER COONHOUND WHIPPETS

GROUP 3—WORKING DOGS

AKITAS

ALASKAN MALAMUTES ANATOLIAN SHEPHERDS BERNESE MOUNTAIN DOGS BLACK RUSSIAN TERRIER BOERBOELS

BOXERS BULLMASTIFFS CANE CORSO

CHINOOK

DANISH-SWEDISH FARMDOG DOBERMAN PINSCHERS DOGO ARGENTINO

DOGUE de BORDEAUX GERMAN PINSCHERS GIANT SCHNAUZERS GREAT DANES

GREAT PYRENEES

GREATER SWISS MOUNTAIN DOGS KOMONDOROK

KUVASZOK LEONBERGER MASTIFFS

NEAPOLITAN MASTIFFS NEWFOUNDLANDS PORTUGUESE WATER DOGS ROTTWEILERS

BERNARDS SAMOYEDS SIBERIAN HUSKIES

STANDARD SCHNAUZERS TIBETAN MASTIFFS

GROUP 4—TERRIERS

AIREDALE TERRIERS AMERICAN HAIRLESS TERRIERS

AMERICAN STAFFORDSHIRE TERRIERS AUSTRALIAN TERRIERS

BEDLINGTON TERRIERS BORDER TERRIERS BULL TERRIERS

Two varieties:

Colored White

CAIRN TERRIERS CESKY TERRIER

DANDIE DINMONT TERRIERS FOX TERRIERS (SMOOTH) FOX TERRIERS (WIRE)

GLEN OF IMAAL TERRIER IRISH TERRIERS

KERRY BLUE TERRIERS LAKELAND TERRIERS MANCHESTER TERRIERS

Two varieties:

Standard, over 12 pounds and not exceeding 22 pounds

Toy (in Toy Group) MINIATURE BULL TERRIERS MINIATURE SCHNAUZERS NORFOLK TERRIERS NORWICH TERRIERS PARSON RUSSELL TERRIERS RAT TERRIERS

RUSSELL TERRIERS SCOTTISH TERRIERS SEALYHAM TERRIERS SKYE TERRIERS

SOFT COATED WHEATEN TERRIERS STAFFORDSHIRE BULL TERRIERS

TEDDY ROOSEVELT TERRIER (eff. 12/31/2025) WELSH TERRIERS

WEST HIGHLAND WHITE TERRIERS

GROUP 5—TOYS

AFFENPINSCHERS BIEWER TERRIERS BRUSSELS GRIFFONS

CAVALIER KING CHARLES SPANIELS CHIHUAHUAS

Two varieties:

Long Coat Smooth Coat

CHINESE CRESTEDS ENGLISH TOY SPANIELS

Two varieties:

Blenheim and Prince Charles King Charles and Ruby

HAVANESE

ITALIAN GREYHOUNDS JAPANESE CHIN MALTESE

MANCHESTER TERRIERS

Two varieties:

Standard (in Terrier Group) Toy, not exceeding 12 pounds

MINIATURE PINSCHERS PAPILLONS PEKINGESES POMERANIANS POODLES

Three varieties:

Miniature (in Non-Sporting Group) Standard (in Non-Sporting Group) Toy, not exceeding 10 inches

PUGS RUSSIAN TOY

RUSSIAN TSVETETNAYA BOLONKA (eff. 12/31/2025) SHIH TZUS

SILKY TERRIERS TOY FOX TERRIERS

YORKSHIRE TERRIERS

GROUP 6—NON-SPORTING DOGS

AMERICAN ESKIMO DOGS BICHONS FRISES

BOSTON TERRIERS BULLDOGS CHINESE SHAR-PEI CHOW CHOWS COTON de TULEAR DALMATIANS

FINNISH SPITZ FRENCH BULLDOGS KEESHONDEN LHASA APSOS LÖWCHEN

NORWEGIAN LUNDEHUND POODLES

Three varieties:

Miniature, over 10 inches and not exceeding 15 inches

Standard, over 15 inches Toy (in Toy Group)

SCHIPPERKES SHIBA INU TIBETAN SPANIELS TIBETAN TERRIERS XOLOITZCUINTLI

GROUP 7—HERDING DOGS

AUSTRALIAN CATTLE DOGS AUSTRALIAN SHEPHERDS BEARDED COLLIES BEAUCERON

BELGIAN LAEKENOIS BELGIAN MALINOIS BELGIAN SHEEPDOGS BELGIAN TERVUREN BERGAMASCOS BERGER PICARD BORDER COLLIES

BOUVIERS DES FLANDRES BRIARDS

CANAAN DOGS

CARDIGAN WELSH CORGIS COLLIES

Two varieties:

Rough Smooth

ENTLEBUCHER MOUNTAIN DOG FINNISH LAPPHUND

GERMAN SHEPHERD DOGS ICELANDIC SHEEPDOG LANCASHIRE HEELER

MINIATURE AMERICAN SHEPHERD MUDI

NORWEGIAN BUHUND OLD ENGLISH SHEEPDOGS

PEMBROKE WELSH CORGIS POLISH LOWLAND SHEEPDOG PULIK

PUMI

PYRENEAN SHEPHERD SHETLAND SHEEPDOGS SPANISH WATER DOGS SWEDISH VALLHUND

SECTION 2. No class shall be provided for any dog under six months of age. For all classes, the age of a dog shall be calculated up to and inclusive of the first day of an International Show. For example, a dog whelped on January 1st is six months of age on July 1st of the same year, 12 months of age on January 1st and 18 months of age on July 1st of the following year.

In a single International Show with multiple days of judging, the first day of the show is considered to be the first day on which there is regular conformation judging in accordance with Section 3 of this chapter.

SECTION 3. The regular classes of the AKC

Puppy
Twelve-to-Eighteen Month
Novice
Amateur-Owner-Handler
Bred-by-Exhibitor
American-bred
Open
Winners

These classes shall be divided by sex.

SECTION 4. The Puppy Class shall be for dogs that are six months of age and over, but under twelve months, that are not champions. Clubs may further divide the puppy class into two age groups consisting of six months of age and under nine months, and nine months of age and under twelve months.

SECTION 5. The Twelve-to-Eighteen Month Class shall be for dogs that are 12 months of age and over, but under 18 months, that are not champions. Clubs may further divide the Twelve-to- Eighteen Month Class into two age groups consisting of twelve months of age but under fifteen months, and fifteen months of age but under eighteen months.

SECTION 6. The Novice Class shall be for dogs six months of age and over, which have not, prior to the date of closing of entries, won three first prizes in the Novice Class, a first prize in Amateur-Owner- Handler, Bred-by-Exhibitor, American-bred, or Open Classes, nor one or more points toward their championships.

SECTION 7. The Amateur-Owner-Handler class shall be for dogs that are at least six months of age that are not champions. Dogs must be handled in the class by the registered owner of the dog. This class is restricted to exhibitors who have not, at any point in time, been a professional dog handler, AKC approved conformation judge or employed as an assistant to a professional handler. Additionally, members of the immediate family or household of a current professional handler are ineligible for this class (as defined in Chapter 11, Section 13).

Professional handlers are defined as any person who belongs or has belonged to a professional handlers’ organization, distributed rate cards, or otherwise advertised or represented themselves as handling dogs for pay.

SECTION 8. The Bred-by-Exhibitor Class shall be for dogs that are:

Six months of age or older as of the first day of the International Show;
Not Champions on the date of closing of entries for the International Show;
Individually registered with the AKC as of the date of the International Show;
Owned or co-owned by any of the breeders of record as of the date of the International Show.

Clubs may further divide the Bred-by-Exhibitor class into two age groups consisting of Puppy, for dogs that are six months of age but under twelve months, and Adult, for dogs that are twelve months of age and older.

The person handling the dog in this class must be a breeder of record and an owner of record of this dog.

In any subsequent classes for which a dog from the Bred-by-Exhibitor class or divisions of it becomes eligible, there are no restrictions as to who may handle.

SECTION 9. The American-bred Class shall be for all dogs (except champions) six months of age and over, whelped in the United States of America, by reason of a mating which took place in the United States of America.

SECTION 10. The Open Class shall be for any dog six months of age or over.

SECTION 11. The Winners Class shall be divided by sex and each division shall be open only to undefeated dogs of the same sex which have won first prizes in the following classes and all divisions of: Puppy, Twelve-to-Fifteen Month, Fifteen-to- Eighteen Month, Twelve-to-Eighteen Month, Novice, Amateur- Owner-Handler, Bred-by-Exhibitor, American-bred or Open Classes. There shall be no entry fee for competition in the Winners Class.

After the Winners prize has been awarded in one of the sex divisions, the second prize winning dog, if undefeated except by the dog awarded Winners, shall compete with the other eligible dogs for Reserve Winners. No eligible dog may be withheld from competition.

The Winners Class shall be allowed only at International Shows where American-bred and Open Classes shall be offered. All other regular classes are at the option of the Club.

SECTION 12. The Club may provide other classes of AKC recognized breeds or recognized varieties of breeds as they may choose, provided they do not conflict with the conditions of the above-mentioned classes, are judged before Best of Breed competition, and that the dog is castrated or spayed is not a condition of the class. Such additional classes shall be divided by sex.

No class may be given in which more than one breed or recognized variety of breed may be entered, except as provided in these rules and regulations.

SECTION 13. A Club hosting an International Show that provides Winners Classes shall also provide Competition for Best of Breed or for Best of Variety in those breeds for which varieties are provided in this chapter. The awards in this competition shall be Best of Breed or Best of Variety of Breed.

The following categories of dogs may be entered in this competition:

Dogs that are Champions of Record.

Dogs which according to their owners’ records have completed the requirements for a championship but whose championships are unconfirmed. The showing of dogs whose championships are unconfirmed is limited to a period of 90 days from the date of the International Show where a dog completed the requirements for a championship according to the owners’ records.

Grand Championship points may also be awarded to Best of Breed or Best of Variety of Breed, Best of Opposite Sex to Best of Breed or Best of Variety of Breed, Select Dog and Select Bitch.

In addition, the Winners Dog and Winners Bitch together with any undefeated dogs that have competed at the International Show only in additional non-regular classes shall compete for Best of Breed or Best of Variety of Breed.

Winners Dog, Winners Bitch, and non-regular class winners that are not conformation Champions, are not eligible for Grand Championship points.

If the Winners Dog or Winners Bitch is awarded Best of Breed or Best of Variety of Breed, it shall be automatically awarded Best of Winners; otherwise, the Winners Dog and Winners Bitch shall be judged together for Best of Winners following the judging of Best of Breed or Best of Variety of Breed. If the Winners Dog or Winners Bitch was defeated in a non-regular class, it must compete for Best of Winners, but may not

be considered for Best of Breed or Best of Opposite Sex. The dog awarded the Best of Winners shall be credited with the number of points calculated for Winners Dog or Winners Bitch, whichever is greater. In the event that Winners is awarded in only one sex, or only one Winners is present in the ring at the time of awards, there shall be no Best of Winners award.

After Best of Breed or Best of Variety of Breed and Best of Winners have been awarded, the judge shall select Best of Opposite Sex to Best of Breed or Best of Variety of Breed.

Eligible for this award are:

Dogs of opposite sex to Best of Breed or Best of Variety of Breed that have been entered for Best of Breed competition
The dog awarded Winners of the opposite sex to the Best of Breed or Best of Variety of Breed.
Any undefeated dogs of the opposite sex to Best of Breed or Best of Variety of Breed which have competed at the International Show only in additional non-regular

A dog that has been defeated in any regular class or non-regular class for single dog entries in its breed or variety at the International Show is ineligible to compete for Best of Breed or Variety.

A dog that has been defeated by a dog of its own sex in any regular or non-regular class for single dog entries in its breed or variety at the International Show is ineligible to compete for Best of Opposite Sex to Best of Breed or Variety.

After Best of Opposite Sex to Best of Breed or Best of Variety of Breed has been awarded, the judge may choose Select Dog and Select Bitch.

SECTION 14. A Club holding an International Show may give seven group classes not divided by sex, such groups to be arranged in same order and to comprise the same breeds and recognized varieties of breeds as hereinbefore set forth in Chapter 3, Section 1. All dogs designated by their respective breed judges Best of Breed at the International Show at which these group classes shall be given shall be eligible to compete in the group classes to which they belong according to this grouping, and all dogs designated Best of Variety in those breeds with more than one recognized variety, shall be eligible to compete in the group classes to which they belong according to this grouping. All entries for these group classes shall be made after judging of the regular classes of the AKC has been finished, and no additional entry fee shall be charged for these classes. In the event that the owner of a dog designated Best of Breed or Best of Variety shall not

exhibit the dog in the group class to which it is eligible, no other dog of the same breed or variety of breed shall be allowed to compete.

SECTION 15. A Club giving group classes must also give Best in Show, the winner to be entitled “Best in Show.” No additional entry fee shall be charged for this class, and all the group winners must compete. The Club giving group classes must also give Reserve Best in Show, the winner to be chosen by the Best in Show judge from among those group winners in the ring, the winner to be entitled “Reserve Best in Show.” No entry fee shall be charged but the remaining group winners must compete.

SECTION 16. A Club holding an International Show, if it gives brace classes in the several breeds and recognized varieties of breeds, may also give seven brace group classes, not divided by sex; such groups to be arranged in the same order and to comprise the same breeds and recognized varieties of breeds as hereinbefore set forth in Chapter 3, Section 1. All braces of dogs designated by their respective breed judges as Best of Breed or Best of Variety as the case may be at International Shows at which these brace group classes shall be given, shall be eligible to compete in the brace group classes to which they belong according to this grouping. All entries for these brace group classes shall be made after the judging of the regular classes of the AKC has been finished and no entry fee shall be charged. In the event that the owner of a brace of dogs designated Best of Breed or Best of Variety shall not exhibit the brace of dogs in the group class to which it is eligible, no other brace of dogs of the same breed or variety of breed shall be allowed to compete.

A brace is defined as two (2) dogs of the same recognized breed or variety that are similar in appearance, performing in unison, and presented by a maximum of two (2) handlers. Both dogs competing in a brace competition must have at least one (1) common owner.

SECTION 17. If a Club holding an International Show shall give these seven (7) groups classes, it must also give a “Best Brace in Show” in which the seven (7) braces of dogs winning the first prizes in the seven (7) group classes must compete, but for which no entry fee shall be charged. The winner shall be entitled “The Best Brace in Show.”

SECTION 18. A Club holding an International Show, if it gives team classes in the several breeds and recognized varieties of breeds, may also give seven (7) team group classes not divided by sex, such groups to be arranged in the same order and to comprise the same breeds and recognized varieties of breeds as hereinbefore set forth in Chapter 3, Section 1. All teams of dogs designated by their respective breed judges as Best of Breed or Best of Variety as the case may be at International Shows at which these team group classes shall be given, shall be eligible to compete in the team group classes to which they belong according to this grouping. All entries for these team group classes shall be made after the judging of the regular classes of the AKC has been finished and no additional entry fee shall be charged for these classes. In the event that the owner of a team of dogs designated Best of Breed or Best of Variety shall not exhibit the team of dogs in the group class to which it is eligible, no other team of dogs of the same breed or variety of breed shall be allowed to compete.

A team is defined as four dogs of the same recognized breed or variety that are similar in appearance, performing in unison, and are presented by a maximum of four (4) handlers. All dogs competing in a team competition must have at least one common owner.

SECTION 19. If a Club holding an International Show shall give these seven (7) group classes, it must also give a “Best Team in Show” in which the seven (7) teams of dogs winning the first prizes in the seven (7) group classes must compete, but for which no entry fee shall be charged. The winner shall be entitled “The Best Team in Show.”

SECTION 20. A Club holding an International Show may offer Junior Showmanship competition if it so chooses.

The classes and procedure shall conform to the AKC regulations governing Junior Showmanship as adopted by the AKC Board of Directors.

SECTION 21. The Miscellaneous Class shall be for purebred dogs of such breeds as may be designated by the AKC® Board of Directors. No dog shall be eligible to exhibit in the Miscellaneous Class unless the owner has been granted an AKC registration number in accordance with the AKC FSS Program.

The regular Miscellaneous Classes for each breed shall be Puppy, Bred-by Exhibitor and Open, with the same eligibility requirements in Sections 4, 8 and 10 of the Chapter respectively. These classes shall be divided by sex. All class winners within a breed shall compete for Best of Breed and Best of Opposite Sex to Best of Breed.

Each of the Miscellaneous Class Best of Breed winners shall be eligible to compete for Best in Miscellaneous Class. All entries for Best in Miscellaneous Class shall be made after the judging of the individual Miscellaneous breed classes and no entry fee shall be charged. In the event that the owner of a dog designated Best of Breed shall not exhibit the dog in the Best of Miscellaneous Class Competition, no other dog of the same breed shall be allowed to compete. There shall be no further competition for dogs entered in the Miscellaneous Class.

Winners of the Best of Breed in each of the individual Miscellaneous breeds will be awarded points towards the Certificate of Merit (CM) title based on the total number of dogs competing. Best of Opposite Sex to Best of Breed in each of the individual Miscellaneous breeds will be awarded points towards the Certificate of Merit (CM) title based on the total number of dogs of its sex in competition. The winner of the Best in Miscellaneous Class will be awarded points towards a Certificate of Merit based upon the total number of dogs that competed in all of the Miscellaneous Class breeds.

Upon completion of the CM title, a dog may continue to compete in the Miscellaneous Class so long as they are of an eligible breed.

The CM suffix title is an introductory title to AKC conformation events and will be superseded by the CH title when earned. The Certificate of Merit requires 15 points awarded in accordance with the following point structure:

Dogs Competing	Points
2	1
4	2
8	3
12	4
16	5

The CM title initials will be followed by a numeric designation indicating the quantity of times the dog has met the requirements of the CM title as defined above, e.g., 30 CM points = CM2.

The ribbon shall conform to Chapter 5, Section 2 of

these regulations and shall be the following colors:

First Prize - Rose
Second Prize - Brown
Third Prize - Light Green
Fourth Prize - Gray
Best of Breed - Orange
Best of Opposite - Lavender
Best in Miscellaneous - Pink and Green

At present, the Miscellaneous Class is open to the following breeds:

Alaskan Klee Kai

Basset Fauve de Bretagne (through 12/30/2025) Bolognese

Czechoslovakian Vlciak Dutch Shepherd German Spitz

Japanese Akitainu Kai Ken Norrbottenspets Peruvian Inca Orchid Portuguese Podengo Pyrenean Mastiff

Russian Tsvetnaya Bolonka (through 12/30/2025) Small Munsterlander

Teddy Roosevelt Terrier (through 12/30/2025) Yakutian Laika

CHAPTER 4 APPROVAL OF JUDGES’ PANELS AND PREMIUM LISTS

SECTION 1. After a Club enters into an AKC International Show License Agreement and has been granted permission by AKC to hold an International Show, it must send for approval by and in time to reach AKC at least 18 weeks before the closing date for entries of the International Show, a list of the names and addresses of the judges whom it has selected to judge its International Show, giving in each instance the particular breed or breeds of dogs and group class if any, which it is desired that each judge shall pass upon, and the name and address of the judge selected to pass upon Best in Show and Reserve Best in Show. No judge’s name shall be submitted to pass upon any assignment unless the judge has agreed in writing to accept that assignment.

The Club must not advertise or publish the name or names of any of the judges which it has selected until the complete list has been approved by AKC.

SECTION 2. Premium lists and entry forms must be published and available to prospective exhibitors at least FIVE (5) WEEKS prior to the closing date for entries of the International Show. Two copies of the premium list in English must be sent to the AKC at time of distribution.

SECTION 3. Premium lists and entry forms, in order to ensure uniformity, must conform to the AKC official size of from 5 1⁄2 x 8 1⁄2 inches to 8 1⁄2 x 11 inches and the entry form must conform in every respect with the official form.

CHAPTER 5 RIBBONS, PRIZES AND TROPHIES

SECTION 1. A Club holding an International Show under these regulations shall use the following colors for their prize ribbons or rosettes, in the regular classes of AKC, and the regular group classes:

First prize—Blue. Second prize—Red. Third prize—Yellow. Fourth prize—White. Winners—Purple.

Reserve Winners—Purple and White. Best of Winners—Blue and White.

Special prize—Dark Green.

Best of Breed and Best of Variety of Breed— Purple and Gold.

Best of Opposite Sex to Best of Breed and Best of Opposite Sex to Best of Variety of Breed—

Red and White. Select—Light Blue and White

Best in Show – Red, white, and blue, is the traditional color combination but any color or combination of colors is permitted.

Reserve Best in Show – any unassigned color or combination of colors.

and shall use the following colors for their prize ribbons in all additional classes:

First prize—Rose. Second prize—Brown.

Third prize—Light Green. Fourth prize—Gray.

SECTION 2. Each ribbon or rosette, except those used at sanctioned matches, shall be at least 2 inches wide, and approximately 8 inches long; and bear on its face a facsimile of the seal of the AKC, the name of the prize, and the name of the Club with numerals of year, date of the International Show, and name of city or town where show is given. However, ribbons or rosettes used for regular and non-regular class placements are not required to bear the date of the International Show and location of the show on the face, at the option of the club.

SECTION 3 If money prizes are offered in a premium list of an International Show, a fixed amount for each prize must be stated. All other prizes offered in a premium list of an International Show must be accurately described or their monetary

value must be stated. Alcoholic beverages will not be acceptable as prizes.

SECTION 4. The Club shall not accept the donation of a prize for a competition not provided for at its International Show.

SECTION 5. All prizes offered in a premium list of an International Show must be offered to be awarded in a regular procedure of judging and in accordance with this Chapter to the owner and/or breeder of the dog. Any prizes or trophies not listed in the premium list may be awarded with the permission of the Club, and the reason for the exception included in the show report.

SECTION 6. Prizes may be offered in accordance with this Chapter at an International Show for the following placing:

First, Second, Third, Fourth in the Puppy, Twelve- to-Eighteen Month, Novice, Amateur-Owner- Handler, Bred-by-Exhibitor, American-bred or Open classes, or in any division of these designated in the Classification.

First, Second, Third, Fourth in any additional class which the show-giving club may offer in accord with the provisions of Chapter 3, Section 12, and in the Miscellaneous class (at all-breed shows only).

Winners, Reserve Winners, Best of Winners, Select, Best of Breed or Variety, Best of Opposite Sex to Best of Breed or Variety.

At all-breed shows only: First, Second, Third, Fourth in a Group Class and for Best in Show, Reserve Best in Show, Best Brace in Show and Best Team in Show.

SECTION 7. At International Shows, prizes may be offered on a three-time win basis for the following awards, provided permanent possession goes to the owner and/or breeder winning the award three times, not necessarily with the same dog, and further provided such prizes are offered by the Club itself or through it for competition at its International Shows only: Best in Show, Reserve Best in Show, and Best in any one group class.

CHAPTER 6 PREMIUM LISTS AND

CLOSING OF ENTRIES

SECTION 1. The awards at a dog show will be officially recorded by AKC only if the certification of the Executive Secretary of AKC is published on the first, second, or third page of the premium list, stating that permission has been granted by AKC for the International Show to be held under these AKC regulations.

For each show given pursuant to an AKC International Show License Agreement, the words “AKC International Show” must be plainly printed on the title page of the premium list.

SECTION 2. The premium list shall contain the following:

AKC logo, pursuant to AKC International Show License Agreement
a list of the officers of the Club and its address
a list of the members of the Event Committee (there must be at least five (5)) together with the designation of “Chair” and the Chair’s address
the name(s) of the veterinarian(s) or name of local Veterinary Clinic and whether the veterinarian(s) will be in attendance throughout the show hours or “on call,”
the names of the judges, with the city and state of their residence, and their assignments
the name and address of the Show Secretary who has been approved by AKC
the entry fee(s)
whether the show is benched or unbenched
the exact location of the show
the date or dates on which it is to be held
the times of opening and closing of the show

International Shows whose entries are limited must have a defined date and time for the opening of entries that is to be prominently displayed in the premium list. For these events the premium list is required to be published at least 72 hours prior to the acceptance of entries.

SECTION 3. The general classification of recognized breeds and varieties of distinct breeds, divided into seven groups and in the same order as set forth in Chapter 3, Section 1 of these regulations added thereto, in their proper groups and alphabetical position, shall be published in the premium list.

SECTION 4. The Club shall assume the responsibility of paying all fees to the AKC set forth in the AKC International Show License Agreement.

SECTION 5. The Club may make such regulations or additional rules for the government of their shows as shall be considered necessary, provided such regulations or additional rules do not conflict with any rule of the AKC, and provided they do not discriminate between breeds or between dogs entered in show classes and those entered in obedience classes in the required hour of arrival and the hour of removal..

Such regulations or additional rules shall be printed in the premium list, and violations thereof shall be considered the same as violations of the rules and regulations of the AKC.

SECTION 6. No prizes may be accepted or offered by the Club unless they are published in the premium list of the show nor may any be withdrawn or the conditions thereof changed after they have been published in the premium list.

If the donor of a prize that has been published in the premium list of an International Show or in the separate list of prizes, shall fail to furnish the prize, the Club shall promptly supply a prize of the same description and of no less value.

The Club shall be responsible for all errors made in publishing offers of prizes and shall, in the event of error, award prizes of equal value. All prizes offered in a premium list of an International Show must be offered to be awarded in a regular procedure of judging to the owner and/or breeder of the dog. Any prizes or trophies not listed in the premium list may be awarded with the permission of the Club and the reason for the exception included in the show report.

SECTION 7. Every premium list shall specify the date and time at which entries for an International Show shall close. The premium list shall also specify the name and address of the Show Secretary who is to receive the entries. For all shows, the specified closing date and time must be no later than as outlined in the following schedule:

a show which opens on Friday, Saturday, Sunday, or Monday: entries accepted not later than noon on the third Wednesday prior to the
an International Show which opens on Tuesday: entries accepted not later than noon on the third Thursday prior to the show.
an International Show which opens on Wednesday: entries accepted not later than noon the third Friday prior to the
an International Show which opens on Thursday: entries accepted not later than noon on the third Wednesday prior to the show.
Clubs in a cluster of no more than five (5) consecutive days have the option of closing no later than noon on the third Wednesday prior to the last show in the

Whenever the closing day noted above falls on a postal holiday, entries received in any form up to 24 hours from the published closing date and time may be accepted.

CHAPTER 7 JUDGES

SECTION 1. Any reputable person who is in good standing with the AKC may apply for approval to judge any AKC recognized breed or breeds of purebred dogs, which in his or her opinion he or she is qualified by training and experience to pass upon, under the requirements for conformation judging approval as adopted by the AKC Board of Directors.

SECTION 2. AKC will not approve as a judge for any given show the Show Secretary, or the Show Veterinarian, or any club official, of said show acting in any one of these capacities, and such persons cannot officiate or judge at such show under any circumstances.

SECTION 3. Only those persons whose names are on AKC’s list of eligible judges may, in at the discretion of the AKC, be approved to judge at any show held by the Club, except that if it becomes necessary to replace an advertised judge after the opening of the show and no person on the eligible judges list is available to take his or her place, the Club may select as a substitute for the advertised judge a person whose name is not on the eligible judges list, provided such person is not currently suspended from the privileges of the AKC, is not currently suspended as a judge, and is not ineligible to judge under the provisions of Sections 1 and 3 of this Chapter.

SECTION 4. The Club or Show Secretary shall, in every instance, notify appointed judges of the breeds and group classes upon which they are to pass, and such notifications shall be given before the publication of the premium lists.

SECTION 5. The Club or Show Secretary shall not add to or subtract from the number of breeds or variety groups which a selected judge has agreed to pass upon without first notifying said judge of and obtaining his or her consent to the contemplated change in his or her assigned breeds or variety groups, and the judge when so notified may refuse to judge any breeds or variety groups added to his or her original assignment.

SECTION 6. A Club informed at any time prior to TEN DAYS before the opening day of its show that an advertised judge will not fulfill his or her engagement to judge shall substitute a judge in his or her place. The substitute judge must be approved by AKC, and the Club shall give notice of the name of the substitute judge to all those who have entered dogs in the classes allotted to be judged by the advertised judge. All those who have entered dogs to be shown under the advertised judge shall be permitted to withdraw their entries no later than one half-hour prior to the scheduled start of any regular conformation judging at the show, and the entry fees paid for entering such dogs shall be refunded.

Since an entry can be made only under a breed judge, changes in Group or Best in Show assignments do not entitle an exhibitor to a refund.

SECTION 7. Should a Club be informed at any time within 10 days before the opening of its International Show, or after its show has opened, that an advertised judge will not fulfill his or her engagement to judge, it shall substitute a qualified judge in his or her place and shall obtain approval of the change from AKC if time allows. No Notice need be sent to those exhibitors who have entered dogs under the advertised judge.

The Club or Show Secretary will be responsible for having a notice posted in a prominent place within the show precincts as soon after the show opens as is practical, informing exhibitors of the change in judges. An exhibitor who has entered a dog under an advertised judge who is being replaced may withdraw such entry and shall have the entry fee refunded, provided notice of such withdrawal is given to the Show Secretary prior to the start of the judging of the breed which is to be passed upon by a substitute judge.

SECTION 8. In case an advertised judge shall have judged part of the classes of a breed and then finds it impossible to finish, a substitute judge shall be selected by the Club. In that event, the awards made by the regular judge shall stand, and his or her substitute shall judge only the remaining entries in the breed. No dogs entered under the regularly selected judge shall be withheld from competition.

SECTION 9. A substitute judge shall finish the judging of the breed class or group he or she is adjudicating upon if he or she has begun to judge before the advertised judge arrives at the show.

SECTION 10. Any Club that holds an International show must prepare, after the entries have closed, and not before, a judging program showing the time scheduled for the judging of each breed and each variety for which entries have been accepted. If a substitute or additional judge has been approved Chapter 7, Section 6 or Chapter 7, Section 11, as appropriate, will be quoted listing the changes. The judging program shall indicate the number of dogs entered, state the time for the start of group judging, if any, and display the AKC logo pursuant to AKC International Show License Agreement. The program shall be based on the judging of about 25 dogs per hour by each judge. Each judge’s breed and variety assignments shall be divided into periods of about one (1) hour, except in those cases where the entry in a breed or variety exceeds 30. The final segment of a ring schedule may be expanded but may not exceed 50 dogs unless the entry is in a single breed or variety. The total number of dogs assigned to each judge will be indicated. Forty-five minutes to one (1) hour must be allowed for rest or meals if a judge’s assignment exceeds five (5) hours. A copy of the program and identification slip for each dog entered shall be mailed, published or made available to the owner no later than one (1) week before the date of the event. Two (2) copies of the program shall be sent to the Show Plans Department at the same time they are published or made available to exhibitors.

Printed documents may be utilized at the exhibitor’s request.

The judging program shall be published in the catalog. No judging shall occur at any show prior to the time specified in the judging program.

In case of emergency, the contact phone number of a club official at the show, with or without that official’s name, is to be listed in the Judging Program.

SECTION 11. The maximum number of conformation entries assigned in the breed judging to any judge, in one day, shall never exceed 175 except that a judge of a specialty show may be assigned a maximum of 200 entries. If the specialty is held as part of an all-breed show, the increased limit will only apply if the judge is not assigned any other breed, a Group or Best in Show and Reserve Best in Show.

If an International Show-giving club so elects, it may place a limit of its own choosing lower than any of the limits provided for in these regulations notifying AKC of its intention at the time the judging panel is submitted for approval. This limit will then govern the need for additional judges if, when the entries for the show have closed, any judge on the panel has drawn more dogs than the limit set by the club.

When the entries have closed, if the entry under any judge exceeds the above limits, the Club must select some other judge or judges to whom sufficient breeds can be assigned, to bring the total assignment of every judge within and as close as possible to the limit without removing provisional breeds listed in the judge’s contract without the judge’s agreement. The removal of any breeds is to be discussed with the assigned judge. If a judge is assigned four (4) or fewer breeds, the assignment shall be reduced first by reassigning to another judge sufficient classes from one (1) breed to eliminate the overload, with any non-regular classes in that breed being the first removed. The same procedure shall then be followed for as many breeds as necessary until the overload is eliminated. This will apply whether or not the breed in question involves varieties.

Notice must be sent to the owner of each dog affected by such a change in judges at least five (5) days before the opening of the show, and the owner has the right to withdraw his or her entry and have his or her entry fee refunded provided notification of his or her withdrawal is received no later than one half-hour prior to the start of any regular conformation judging at the show, by the Show Secretary named in the premium list to receive entries.

SECTION 12. A judge shall not exhibit his or her dogs or take any dog belonging to another person into the ring at any International Show at which he or she officiating, nor shall he they pass judgment in his or her their official capacity upon any dog which they or any member of their immediate household or immediate family (as defined in Chapter 11, Section 13) has handled in the ring more than twice during the preceding 12 months.

SECTION 13. A judge’s decision shall be final in all cases affecting the merits of the dogs. Full discretionary power is given to the judge to withhold any, or all, prizes for want of merit. After a class has been judged in accordance with these regulations, it shall not be rejudged. A class is considered judged when the judge has marked his or her book, which must be done before the following class is examined. If any errors have been made by the judge in marking the awards as made, he or she may correct the same but must initial any such corrections.

SECTION 14. A judge may order any person or dog from the ring, for the purpose of facilitating the judging. Judges are required to exclude from the rings in which they are judging all persons except the steward(s), show attendants assigned to the ring, and those actually engaged in exhibiting.

When a judge finds it necessary to excuse a person or dog from the ring under the provisions of this section, that judge shall mark the judge’s book “excused” and briefly describe the reason for this action.

When a judge finds it necessary to order an exhibitor from the ring for cause, that judge shall

mark the judge’s book “ordered from the ring” and briefly describe the reason for this action. This exhibitor’s dog is to be considered “excused.”

SECTION 16. A judge shall be supplied with a book called the judge’s book in which he or she shall mark all awards and all absent dogs. The original judges’ books at shows shall be in the custody of the judge, steward, or Show Secretary. No other person shall be allowed access to them. At the conclusion of the judging, the book must be signed by the judge, and any changes which may have been made therein initialed by him or her.

SECTION 17. A judge’s decision, as marked in the judge’s book, cannot be changed by the judge after filing, but an error appearing in the judge’s book may be corrected by the AKC after consultation with the judge.

SECTION 18. Only one (1) judge shall officiate in each Group Class and only one (1) judge shall select the Best in Show and Reserve Best in Show. A judge will not be approved to judge the breed, the Variety Group of which the breed is a part, and Best in Show and Reserve Best in Show at the same show, except in hardship cases.

SECTION 19. If a judge disqualifies a dog at any show, he or she shall make a note in the judge’s book giving his or her reasons for such disqualification. In computing the championship points for a breed, said dog shall not be considered as having been present at the show.

CHAPTER 8 SELECTION OF SHOW SECRETARY AND VETERINARIANS

Prior to receiving permission to hold an International Show, the Club must submit the name, complete address, and daytime telephone number of the Show Secretary (“Show Secretary”) contracted by the club to service the event whose responsibilities include receiving entries before the event and those defined by these regulations.

Prior to the publication of a premium list for an event, the club must arrange with a veterinarian(s) or local veterinary clinic to serve as the Show Veterinarian (“Show Veterinarian”). The name of the Show Veterinarian must be published in the premium list (as defined in Chapter 6, Section 2).

For unbenched shows, the Show Veterinarian may be either in attendance or “on call.” The Club must provide adequate contact information of the “on call” veterinarian to the Show Secretary.

CHAPTER 9 SHOW SECRETARIES

SECTION 1. Anyone in good standing with the AKC may act as Show Secretary of an International Show. There is no limit on the number of AKC International shows for which an individual may serve as Show Secretary

SECTION 2. As part of their duties, the Show Secretary shall have on hand at every show the various official AKC forms related to that event.

SECTION 3. Show Secretaries shall be prepared, at any show with a Show Veterinarian in attendance, to furnish the forms to be used by an exhibitor or handler who seeks a health examination of a dog. Upon the filing of the completed form, it shall be the show secretary’s duty to inform the owner or agent of the dog of the requirement that the dog be taken to the Show Veterinarian for the examination.

SECTION 4. At Benched shows, and at unbenched shows if the Club elects to have a veterinarian in attendance, the Show Secretary will be responsible for providing a suitable space which will serve as the Headquarters of the Show Veterinarian (“Veterinarian Headquarters”). At an indoor show, the space will be marked off in some adequate way and a sign “Veterinarian Headquarters” must be prominently displayed. At an outdoor show, the Veterinarian Headquarters must be arranged so that the veterinarians are afforded protection from the weather. At unbenched shows, with a Show Veterinarian “on call,” the Show Secretary’s Office shall serve as “Veterinarian Headquarters.”

SECTION 5. At benched shows, and unbenched shows if the club elects to have a veterinarian in attendance, Show Secretaries are required, with their International Show report, to list the names of all veterinarians who served at an International Show and give the hours that each veterinarian was present.

SECTION 6. The Show Secretary shall have the sole authority to enforce the rules and regulations having to do with the benching of dogs.

SECTION 7. The Show Secretary shall have the sole authority to excuse a dog from being shown on the recommendation of the veterinarian under Chapter 10, Section 5 (b) and to release dogs from an International Show prior to the published time for the releasing of dogs, except in the event that a dog has been dismissed from an International Show by a veterinarian under Chapter 10, Section 5 (b).

SECTION 8. The Club and Show Secretary of an International Show shall be held responsible for the enforcement of all rules and regulations relating to International Shows and must have for reference copies of these regulations.

SECTION 9. The Club will be held accountable for the maintenance of clean and orderly conditions throughout the precincts of the International Show during all hours when dogs are permitted to be present.

SECTION 10. Any person acting in the capacity of the Show Secretary must abide by the eligibility requirements described in Chapter 11, Section 12 of these Regulations.

CHAPTER 10 SHOW VETERINARIANS

SECTION 1. Any veterinarian licensed to practice veterinary medicine in the jurisdiction where treatment is provided, and who is in good standing with AKC, may act as veterinarian of an International Show.

SECTION 2. The Show Veterinarian must be available during show hours to examine any dog that becomes ill or injured at the International Show during show hours or referred by the Club for examination. It will be the responsibility of the owner or owner’s agent to transport the dog to the veterinarian and for any cost associated with the dog’s examination, illness, or injury. “On call” veterinarians are not required to be present at the event.

SECTION 3. At benched International Shows, at least one (1) of these veterinarians must be in attendance during the entire show hours.

SECTION 4. Clubs that use “on call” veterinarians or veterinary clinics are required to:

Assure that services are available during the show hours and discuss the duties of the “on call” veterinarian prior to the event judging schedule;
Provide exhibitors with contact information and detailed directions to the facility in the judging schedule and at the

SECTION 5. The duties of the Show Veterinarian shall be to:

Render treatment to dogs in cases of sickness or injury occurring at the The associated expense shall be the responsibility of the owner or owner’s agent.
Examine dogs at the request of the Club and require removal from competition and the International Show premises of any dog deemed to endanger the health of said dog or the health of other dogs at the Any expenses incurred in the examination of the dog shall be the responsibility of the owner or owner’s agent of the dog.
Provide written reports of such decisions to the Club and the Show Secretary.
Provide written advisory opinions to the Club when requested.

Show Veterinarians are not to be called to treat dogs with non-emergency conditions or with no apparent contagious symptoms. Show Veterinarians may request payment from the dog’s owner or agent for services rendered.

SECTION 6. Show Veterinarians in attendance will be provided with a private area to examine and provide emergency care. The Club will establish a plan to communicate the need for the Show Veterinarian’s assistance.

SECTION 7. At benched International Shows, and unbenched International Shows if the Club elects to have a veterinarian in attendance, the Show Veterinarians will be expected to make full use of the area provided for them as a Veterinarian Headquarters. Where practical, at least one (1) veterinarian should be in attendance at the Headquarters during the entire time that the International Show is in progress.

SECTION 8. The Show Veterinarian shall abide by the eligibility requirements described in Chapter 11, Section 12 of these Regulations.

CHAPTER 11

DOG SHOW ENTRIES, CONDITIONS OF DOGS AFFECTING ELIGIBILITY

SECTION 1. No dog shall be exhibited in an AKC International Show held by the Club, unless it is individually registered with the AKC, or individually registered with a foreign registry organization whose pedigrees are acceptable for AKC registration. A dog with an AKC limited Registration shall be ineligible to be exhibited in a breed competition in an AKC International Show held by a Club.

An unregistered dog with an acceptable foreign registration that is individually registered with a foreign registry organization whose pedigrees are acceptable for AKC registration may, without special AKC approval, be exhibited in an AKC show to include an International Show that are held not later than 30 days after the date of the first AKC show or International Show in which the dog was exhibited, but only provided that the individual foreign registration and name of the country of birth, are shown on the entry form; and provided further that the same name (which in the case of a foreign-registered dog must be the name on the foreign registrations) is used for the dog each time.

Foreign dogs not individually registered with The American Kennel Club when first exhibited in an International Show or any other AKC dog show shall not be eligible to be exhibited in any International Show or AKC dog show that is held more than 30 days after the date of the International Show or AKC dog show in which it was exhibited, unless the dog’s individual AKC registration number is shown on the entry form, or unless the owner has received from The American Kennel Club an extension notice in writing authorizing further entries of the dog for a specified time with its individual foreign registration number. No such extension will be granted unless the owner can clearly demonstrate, in a letter addressed to the Show Records Department of The American Kennel Club requesting such extension, that the delay in registration is due to circumstances for which he is not responsible.

Such extension notice will be void upon registration of the dog or upon expiration of the period for which the extension has been granted if that occurs earlier, but upon application further extensions may be granted. Additionally, any unregistered dog with an acceptable foreign registration must be eligible for the individual class in which it is entered as outlined in Chapter 3 of these regulations.

SECTION 2. The Club must remit fees set forth in the AKC International Show License Agreement for every dog entered. If a dog is entered in more than one (1) class at an International Show, a fee is required for each additional entry of the same dog. The Club shall assume the responsibility of collecting all entry fees for the AKC. The fees set forth in the AKC International Show License Agreement shall be forwarded to the AKC along with all other required event results within seven (7) days of the close of the event.

SECTION 3. Every dog must be entered in the name of the owner(s) the dog at the time entries closed. The right to exhibit a dog cannot be transferred. If an entry is made by a duly authorized agent of the owner, the name of the owner(s) must be shown on the entry form. If a dog is owned by an association, the name of the association and a list of its officers must be shown on the entry form.

SECTION 4. To be acceptable, an entry must:

Be submitted with the required entry fee
Be on an Official International AKC entry form
Be signed by the owner or their duly authorized agent
Include the name and date of the Club
Include all of the following information on the dog:
- Breed
- Variety, if any
- Sex
- Name of class or classes entered (Classes must be entered in accordance with Chapter 3)
- Full/Registered Name of Dog
- Date of Birth
- Place of Birth
- Name of Sire
- Name of Dam
- One of the following:
  - AKC registration number
  - Or PAL number
  - Or foreign registration number and country (for an unregistered imported dog)
  - Or identification number issued by AKC
- Name of Breeder(s)
- Name of Owner(s)/co-owner(s)
- Name of Owner’s agent, if any
- Address of Owner

No entry may be accepted unless Show Secretary, named in the premium list to receive entries, receives such entry:

prior to the closing date and time as published in the premium list
and in the case of a limited entry, prior to the time the limit is reached.

All the requirements of the foregoing paragraph, and all other specific requirements printed in the premium list, must be met before an entry can be considered acceptable. Failure to meet these requirements may result in the loss of all awards earned at the event.

SECTION 5. No entry shall be made, and no entry shall be accepted by a Show Secretary, which specifies any condition as to its acceptance.

SECTION 6. No entry may be changed or canceled unless notice of the change or cancellation is received in writing by the Show Secretary named in the premium list to receive entries, prior to the closing date and time for entries. However, prior to the judging of the dog for which correction is required, the Show Secretary may:

make a correction in the sex of the dog,
transfer the dog within the divisions of the Puppy Class, the Twelve-to-Eighteen Month Class, the Bred-by-Exhibitor Class, or the Veterans Class,
transfer the dog between the Puppy and Twelve-to- Eighteen Month Classes or appropriate divisions

A dog determined to be ineligible, by its owner/ agent, for the class in which it has been entered may be transferred to an eligible Open Class at an International Show prior to the judging of any regular conformation class within the sex of that breed or variety, and that dogs which according to their owners’ records have completed the requirements for a championship after the closing of entries for an International Show, but whose championships are unconfirmed, may be transferred from one of the regular classes to the Best of Breed or Variety competition, provided this transfer is made by the Show Secretary at least one half-hour prior to the scheduled start of any regular conformation judging at the International Show; at a single International Show with multiple days of judging, the transfer must be made at least one half-hour prior to the start of judging on the first day of the show (as defined in Chapter 3 Section 2).

No dog may otherwise be transferred to another class. Owners are responsible for errors in the entry forms, regardless of who may make such errors.

SECTION 7. No entry shall be made under a kennel name unless that name has been registered with the AKC. All entries made under a kennel name must be signed with the kennel name followed by the word “registered.” An “exhibitor” or “entrant” is the individual, or, if a partnership, all the members of the partnership, exhibiting or entering in an International Show. In the case of such an entry by a partnership, every member of the partnership shall be in good standing with the AKC before the entry will be accepted; and in case of any infraction of these regulations, all the partners shall be held equally responsible.

SECTION 8. A dog which is blind, deaf, castrated, spayed, or which has been changed in appearance by artificial means (except as specified in the standard for its breed), or a male which does not have two (2) normal testicles normally located in the scrotum, may not compete at any International Show and will be disqualified; except that a castrated male may be entered as Stud Dog in the Stud Dog Class and a spayed bitch may be entered as Brood Bitch in the Brood Bitch Class. A dog will not be considered to have been changed by artificial means because of removal of dewclaws or docking of tail, if it is of a breed in which such removal or docking is a regularly approved practice which is not contrary to the standard. Neutered dogs and spayed bitches would be allowed to compete in Brace, Team, Veterans and all other single entry non-regular classes only at all- breed International Shows which do not offer any competitive classes beyond Best of Breed.

When a judge finds any of these conditions in any dog he is judging, he shall disqualify the dog marking his book “Disqualified” and stating the reason. He shall not obtain the opinion of the Show Veterinarian.

When a dog has been disqualified at an International Show as being blind, deaf, castrated, spayed or changed in appearance by artificial means except as specified in the standard for its breed, any awards taken by such dog at that International Show shall be canceled by the AKC and the dog may not again compete unless and until, following application by the owner to the AKC, that owner has received official notification from the AKC that the dog’s show eligibility has been reinstated.

When a dog has been disqualified under the standard for its breed, or when a male has been disqualified as not having two (2) normal testicles normally located in the scrotum on three (3) separate occasions, by three (3) different judges, such dog may not again be shown. When a dog has been so disqualified at an International Show, any awards taken by the dog at that show shall be canceled by the AKC.

A dog is considered changed in appearance by artificial means if it has been subjected to any type of procedure, substance, or drugs that have the effect of obscuring, disguising, or eliminating any congenital or hereditary abnormality, or any undesirable characteristic, or that does anything to improve a dog’s natural appearance, temperament, bite, or gait.

Even procedures, substances, and drugs which are absolutely necessary to the health and comfort of a dog shall disqualify that dog from competition if the former had the incidental effect of changing or even improving the dog’s appearance, temperament, bite, or gait.

There may be cases in which a veterinarian has prescribed some drug as being necessary for the health of a dog. In such cases, the veterinarian’s advice should be followed, but the dog should be withheld from competition in International Shows until all possible effects of the drug have worn off.

Procedures that would in and of themselves be considered a change in appearance by artificial means and make a dog ineligible for International Shows include, but are not limited to:

The correction of entropion, ectropion, trichiasis, or
Trimming, removing, or tattooing of the third eyelid (nictitating membrane)
The insertion of an eye prosthesis
Correction of harelip, cleft palate, stenotic nares, or an elongated soft palate resection
Any procedure to change ear set or carriage other than permitted by the breed standard
Restorative dental procedures, the use of bands or braces on teeth, or any alteration of the dental arcade
The removal of excess skin folds or the removal of skin patches to alter markings
Correction of inguinal, scrotal, or perineal hernias
Surgery for hip dysplasia, O.C.D., patellar luxation, or femoral head restriction
Alteration of the location of the testes or the insertion of an artificial testicle
Altering the set or carriage of the tail

SECTION 8-A. A dog that, in the opinion of the judge, menaces or threatens, or exhibits any sign that it may not be safely approached by the judge or examined by the judge in the normal manner shall be excused from the ring. When the judge excuses the dog, he or she shall mark the dog “Excused,” stating the reason in the judge’s book. A dog so excused shall not be counted as having competed. A dog recorded as “Excused for threatening or menacing” by a judge on three (3) occasions will be administratively disqualified by the AKC.

A dog that, in the opinion of the judge, attacks any person in the ring shall be disqualified. When the judge disqualifies the dog, he or she shall mark the dog “Disqualified,” stating the reason in the judge’s book.

When a dog has been disqualified under this Section, any awards at that International Show shall be canceled by the AKC, and the dog may not again compete unless and until, following application by the owner to the AKC, the owner has received official notification from the AKC that the dog’s show eligibility has been reinstated.

Any dog, that in the opinion of the Club, attacks a person or dog at an AKC International Show resulting in an injury and is believed by that Club to present a hazard to people or other dogs, shall be disqualified by the Club pursuant to this section. A report shall be filed with the Executive Secretary of the AKC. The disqualified dog may not again compete at any AKC event, nor be on the grounds of an AKC event unless and until, following application for reinstatement by the owner to the AKC, the owner receives official notification in writing from the AKC that the dog’s eligibility has been reinstated.

SECTION 8-B. A dog that is lame in any class may not compete in that class. It is the judge’s responsibility to determine whether a dog is lame. The judge shall not obtain the opinion of the Show Veterinarian. In situations where the judge determines a dog to be lame, the judge shall excuse the dog from the ring and withhold from the dog the awards for that class or competition. The judge shall mark his or her book “Excused—lame.” Dogs so excused will not count as having competed in the class from which it was excused. If the dog has completed previous classes at the event without being excused, it shall count for those classes and keep any awards from those classes.

SECTION 8-C. No dog shall be eligible to compete at any International Show, and no dog shall receive any award at any International Show, in the event the natural color or shade of natural color or the natural markings of the dog have been altered or changed by the use of any substance, whether such substance may have been used for cleaning purposes or for any other reason. Such cleaning substances are to be removed before the dog enters the ring.

If in the judge’s opinion any substance has been used to alter or change the natural color or shade of natural color or natural markings of a dog, then in such event the judge shall withhold any and all awards from such dog, and the judge shall make a note in the judge’s book giving his or her reason for withholding such award. The handler, the owner, or both, of any dog(s) from which any award has been withheld for violation of this section of the regulations, or any judge who shall fail to perform his or her duties under this section shall be subject to disciplinary action.

SECTION 8-D. Any dog whose ears have been cropped or cut in any way shall be ineligible to compete at any International Show in any state where the laws prohibit the same except subject to the provisions of such laws.

SECTION 9. No dog with a communicable disease shall be on the International Show grounds or premises. Exhibitors should follow their veterinarian’s recommendations to ensure that their dogs are free of internal and external parasites, any communicable disease, and have appropriate vaccinations.

SECTION 10. The Club must apply to the AKC on the Special Attraction Application for International Show form over the signature of one of its officers, for permission to hold a special attraction in connection with its International Show. The special attraction may engage dogs not entered in its International Show provided the written approval of AKC is first obtained.

SECTION 11. Only dogs that are eligible to be shown under AKC rules and regulations shall be allowed within the International Show precincts, except that dogs engaged as a special attraction with AKC approval may also be present.

There shall be no benching, nor offering for sale or breeding, nor any displaying of unentered dogs. These dogs shall be subject to all rules and regulations relating to health and veterinarians. The owners or agents shall be responsible for the care and safety of such dogs.

If, because of space consideration or other reason, a club wishes to restrict the presence of unentered dogs from some part or all of the International Show precincts, such restriction shall be stated in the premium list.

SECTION 12. Any person acting in the capacity of the Show Secretary, or any person residing in the same household with the Show Secretary shall not exhibit, act as agent or handler at the International Show, and dogs owned wholly or in part by him or her or by any person residing in the same household with him or her shall be ineligible to be entered at that International Show. The Show Veterinarian shall not exhibit, act as agent or handler at the International Show, and the dogs owned wholly or in part by him or her shall not be eligible to be entered at that International Show.

SECTION 13. No judge, or any person residing in the same household with a judge, shall exhibit, or act as agent, or handler at the show at which he or she is officiating as judge or any International Show held within 200 miles from three (3) days before through three (3) days after they judge. Dogs owned wholly or in part by such judge, or any member of his or her household shall be ineligible to be entered at such show, or any International Show held within 200 miles from three (3) days before through three (3) days after they judge.

Subject to the foregoing, members of a judge’s immediate family, as defined in this section who no longer reside in the same household may enter or handle a dog at an International Show, if the judge is not officiating over any competition, including a group class or Best in Show, for which the dog is entered or may become eligible.

No entry shall be made at any International Show under a judge of any dog which said judge or any member of his or her immediate household or immediate family has been known to have owned, handled in the ring more than twice, sold, held under lease, or boarded within one (1) year prior to the date of the International Show.

For the purposes of this section, the members of an immediate family are one’s spouse, domestic partner, parents, grandparents, children, grandchildren, siblings, mother-in-law, father-in-law, brothers-in- law, sisters-in-law, daughters-in-law, and sons-in-law; adopted, half, and step members are also included in immediate family.

Judges of all other special attractions held with an International Show should refer to the AKC Rules, Policies and Guidelines for Conformation Judges for any applicable exhibiting restrictions as they are defined by Board policy.

This provision prohibiting judges or those residing in the same household from exhibiting on the same day does not apply to the judge of the Four-to-Six Month Competition or to Junior Showmanship only judges. Such judges may also exhibit on the day(s) they judge.

SECTION 14. A Club which accepts an entry fee other than that published in its premium list, or in any way discriminates between exhibitors or entrants, shall be disciplined. The Club shall offer to any one owner or handler any special inducement, such as trophies, reduced entry fees, rebates, additional prize money, or any other concession, for entering more than one (1) dog in the International Show.

SECTION 15. The Club may decline any entries or may remove any dog from its International Show for cause, but in each such instance shall file good and sufficient reasons for so doing with the AKC.

CHAPTER 12 THE CATALOG

SECTION 1. Every Club shall provide a published catalog, which shall contain:

Exact location of the International Show
Date/dates Date(s) on which the International Show will be held
Show hours (opening and closing)
List of all officers and members of the Event Committee
Name, city, and state of all judges
Name and address of the Show Secretary
Name of the Veterinarian or Veterinary Clinic, and whether the veterinarian will be in attendance or on call
Name, city, and state of all exhibitors
Information on all entered dogs as described in Chapter 12, Section 4
Information on all entered Junior Handlers
Judging Program

SECTION 2. Every catalog must include the following on its cover or title page:

Name of Club
Date of International Show
The statement, “This show is held under American Kennel Club International Regulations”
AKC logo, pursuant to AKC International Show License Agreement

SECTION 3. For all International Shows given by a Club, the words “AKC International Show” must be published on the title page of the catalog.

SECTION 4. The catalog shall be published and available. The catalog, if printed, shall be in book form. It shall be from 5 ½ x 8 ½ to 8 ½ to 11 inches. It shall contain the following information for all entered dogs, arranged in this order:

Catalog (armband) number
Complete registered name of dog
One of the following for each dog:
- AKC registration number
- or PAL number
- or foreign registration number and country (for an unregistered imported dog)
- or identification number issued by AKC
Date of birth
Name of breeder(s)
Name of Sire
Name of Dam
Name of owner(s)/co-owner(s)
Name of owner’s agent (if any)

The city and state of the owner shall follow the owner’s name, or shall be included in a separate alphabetical list of all exhibitors contained elsewhere in the catalog.

The entries shall be catalogued by Groups, Breeds, Varieties, and regular classes in the order given in Chapter 3.

Information on dogs entered in single entry non- regular classes shall be listed between the information for the regular bitch classes and the information for the Best of Breed class.

Information on dogs entered in classes where a judge’s decision is based on the merits of more than one (1) dog shall be listed after the Best of Breed class. These classes include Brace, Team, Stud Dog and Brood Bitch.

The Board of Directors of the AKC may set additional requirements for format and content of the catalog.

SECTION 5. A current schedule of championship points for the appropriate division of the country for each breed shall be published in the catalog. Points are to be determined based on the location of the show site.

SECTION 6. All prizes/trophies offered in an International Show’s premium list shall be published in the catalog. If the condensed form of a premium list is used, all prizes/ trophies offered in a separate list shall be published in the catalog. No change shall be made in the description or conditions of these prizes or trophies.

CHAPTER 13 BENCHING OF DOGS

SECTION 1. At a Benched International Show, every dog that is entered and present must be at its assigned location throughout the specified hours for the benching of entered dogs at the International Show, except for necessary periods when it is actually being prepared for showing or is being taken to or from these places. The specified hours shall be the hours listed in the premium list when dogs must be at their benches.

SECTION 2. The Club may stipulate, in the premium list, reasonable additional regulations covering benching requirements for their International Show(s).

SECTION 3. Failure to comply with these regulations may cause cancellation of the dog’s winnings, and subject the owner, handler, and Show Secretary to a fine and suspension of license and privileges.

SECTION 4. Each Club may specify whatever signage and/or decorations will be allowed at the individual benches. No prizes or ribbons shall be displayed on the bench except those won by the dog at that International Show.

CHAPTER 14 MEASURING, WEIGHING AND COLOR DETERMINATIONS WHEN FACTORS OF DISQUALIFICATION IN BREED STANDARDS OR ELIGIBILITY UNDER THE CONDITIONS OF A CLASS OR DIVISION OF A CLASS CANCELLATION OF AWARDS

SECTION 1. Every dog which is present in the ring for a class in which it is properly entered must continue to compete in all competition in its breed or variety for which it is entered or becomes eligible, unless it has been excused, dismissed, disqualified, or found to be ineligible under these regulations.

SECTION 2. Any Club hosting an International Show must provide arm cards and shall see that every person exhibiting a dog wears, when in the ring, an arm card containing thereon the catalog number of the dog being exhibited; but no badges, coats with kennel names thereon or ribbon prizes shall be worn or displayed, nor other visible means of identification used, by an individual when exhibiting a dog in the ring.

SECTION 3. In those breeds where certain heights are specified in the breed standard as disqualifications, or in any class specifying height limits, the judge has the authority to determine whether any dog measures within those limits, provided the dog has not been previously measured during any competition at that International Show, excluding any special attraction competitions.

If, in the opinion of a competing exhibitor in the ring, the height of a dog in that ring appears to be outside the limits of the breed standard or the conditions of that class, such exhibitor may, before every dog has been individually examined and individually gaited, request that the judge measure the

dog, and the judge shall comply provided the dog has not been previously measured during any competition at that show, excluding any special attraction competitions.

If the judge finds that the dog’s height is within the breed standard or the conditions of the class, he or she shall mark and initial the judge’s book “Measured in.” If the judge finds that the dog’s height is outside the allowable limits of the breed standard, he or she shall disqualify the dog and mark and initial the judge’s book “Measured out – disqualified.”

A dog that has thus been disqualified by three (3) different judges may not again be shown.at AKC conformation or International Shows

If the judge finds that the dog’s height is not in accordance with the conditions of the class, he or she shall mark and initial the judge’s book “Measured out – ineligible.” A dog thus declared ineligible for its class shall be considered entered incorrectly and cannot be transferred to any other class at that show. A dog thus found ineligible by three (3) different judges may not again be shown in that class. In subsequent AKC conformation or International Shows, this dog may be entered in another class for which the dog meets the height limit or transferred to an eligible Open Class per Chapter 11, Section 6.

In all cases, the judge shall use a wicket that meets AKC requirements.

SECTION 4. In those breeds where certain weights are specified in the breed standard as disqualifications, or in any class specifying weight limits, the judge has the authority to determine whether any dog weighs within those limits, provided the dog has not been previously weighed during any competition at that International Show, excluding and special attraction competitions.

If, in the opinion of a competing exhibitor in the ring, the weight of a dog in that ring appears to be outside the limits of the breed standard or the conditions of that class, such exhibitor may, before every dog has been individually examined and individually gaited, request that the judge weigh the dog, and the judge shall comply provided the dog has not been previously weighed during any competition at that International Show, excluding any special attraction competitions.

If the judge finds that the dog’s weight is within the breed standard or the conditions of the class, he or she shall mark and initial the judge’s book “Weighed in.” If the judge finds that the dog’s weight is outside the allowable limits of the breed standard, he or she shall disqualify the dog and mark and initial the judge’s book “Weighed out - disqualified.”

A dog that has thus been disqualified by three (3) different judges may not again be shown at AKC conformation or International Shows.

If the judge finds that the dog’s weight is not in accordance with the conditions of the class, he or she shall mark and initial the judge’s book, “Weighed out - ineligible.” A dog thus declared ineligible for its class or division shall be considered entered incorrectly and cannot be transferred to any other class at that International Show. A dog thus found ineligible by three (3) different judges may not again be shown in that class. In subsequent AKC conformation or International Shows, this dog may be entered in another class for which the dog meets the weight limit or transferred to an eligible Open Class per Chapter 11, Section 6.

In all cases, the judge shall use a scale that meets AKC requirements, including a platform of sufficient size as determined by AKC to safely accommodate all applicable breeds.

SECTION 5. The Club shall be responsible for providing suitable equipment meeting all AKC requirements for determining eligibility with respect to height and weight at every International Show. The Club may delegate this responsibility to the Show Secretary. International Shows shall be required to have at least one (1) complete set of wickets (two (2) sets for International Shows with entries of 1,000 or more and at least one (1) digital scale with a platform of sufficient size to safely accommodate all weighable breeds. A certified and stamped weight is also required.

SECTION 6. In those breeds where certain color(s), pattern(s), or marking(s) are specified in the breed standard as disqualifications, or in any class or division of a class where certain color(s), pattern(s) or marking(s) are required, the judge shall determine if a dog is to be disqualified or declared to be ineligible for the class, provided that such determination has not been previously made during competition at that International Show, excluding any special attraction competitions.

If, in the opinion of the judge, the dog’s color(s), pattern(s) or marking(s) require disqualification, the judge shall disqualify the dog, and mark and initial the judge’s book “Disqualified – Color(s) (or Pattern(s) or Marking(s))”. If, in the opinion of the judge, the dog’s color(s), pattern(s) or marking(s) do not meet the requirements of the class or division of a class in which the dog is competing, the judge shall declare the dog ineligible to compete in that class or division of class, and, he or she shall mark and initial the judge’s book, “Ineligible – Color(s) (or Pattern(s) or Marking(s))”.

If, in the opinion of any competing exhibitor then in the ring, the color(s), pattern(s) or marking(s) of a dog in the ring are disqualifications under the breed standard or do not meet the requirements of the class or division of a class, such exhibitor may, before every dog in the ring has been individually examined and individually gaited, request that the judge render an opinion of the dog’s color(s), pattern(s) or marking(s), and the judge shall comply provided that such determination has not been previously made during competition at that International Show. If the judge finds that the dog’s color(s), pattern(s) or marking(s) are disqualifications under the breed standard, the judge shall disqualify the dog and mark and initial the judge’s book “Disqualified – Color(s) (or Pattern(s) or Marking(s))”. A dog that has thus been disqualified by three (3) different judges may not again be shown at AKC conformation or International Shows.

If the judge finds that the color(s), pattern(s) or marking(s) of the dog do not meet the requirements of the class or division, specified by the breed standard, he or she shall mark and initial the judge’s book, “Ineligible – Color(s) (or Pattern(s) or Marking(s))”.

Any dog thus declared ineligible for its class shall be considered entered incorrectly and cannot be transferred to any other class or division at that show. In subsequent AKC conformation or International Shows, this dog may be entered in another class for which the dog meets the requirements or transferred to an eligible Open Class per Chapter 11, Section 6.

SECTION 6-A. In those breeds where certain physical traits (ear carriage, coat length, etc.) are specified as a condition of a class or a division of a class, the judge has the authority to make a determination as to whether a dog meets those requirements. If the judge finds that the dog does not meet the requirements of the class, he or she shall mark and initial the judge’s book, “Excused, ineligible for class.” Any dog thus declared ineligible for a class or division of a class shall be considered to have been incorrectly entered and cannot be transferred to any other class or division at that International Show. In subsequent AKC conformation or International Shows, this dog may be entered in or transferred to another class for which the dog meets the requirements or transferred to an eligible Open Class per Chapter 11, Section 6.

SECTION 7. If an ineligible dog has been entered in any International show held by a Club, or if the name of the owner given on the entry form is not that of the person or person(s) who actually owned the dog at the time entries closed, or if shown in a class for which it has not been entered, or if its entry form is deemed invalid, or unacceptable by AKC under these regulations, all resulting awards shall be canceled by AKC. In computing the championship points, such ineligible dogs, whether or not they have received awards, shall be counted as having competed.

SECTION 8. At the request of the owner or handler of an exhibit, any errors in the catalog and/or judge’s book at any International Show, which are contrary to the information appearing on the entry form of that dog for that International Show, shall be corrected in the judge’s book by the Show Secretary prior to the judging and in the marked catalog to be sent to AKC. Said dog may compete in all classes and for all prizes for which it was properly entered on the entry form.

SECTION 9. If an award in any class is canceled, including non-regular classes, groups and Best in Show, the dog(s) judged next in order of merit in all placements of that class shall be moved up. The award(s) to the dog(s) moved up shall be counted the same as if it had been the original award. If there is no dog of record to move up, the award shall be void.

SECTION 10. If the win of a dog shall be cancelled by AKC, the owner of the dog shall return all prizes other than ribbons to the Club within ten days of receipt of the notice of the cancellation from AKC. The Club shall in each instance of failure to comply with this regulation notify AKC of such failure and AKC, upon receipt of such notice forthwith shall suspend the exhibitor so in default from all privileges of AKC and notify the exhibitor so in default that it has done so, and said suspension shall continue until AKC is notified that restitution has been made.

CHAPTER 15 PROTESTS AGAINST DOGS

SECTION 1. Every exhibitor and handler shall have the right to request a veterinary examination of any dog within an International Show’s premises which is considered to endanger the health of the other dogs in an International Show. This must be in writing and signed by the person making the request to the event chair, whose duty will be to direct the subject dog’s owner or agent to take the dog to the Show Veterinarian if deemed appropriate. Any dog referred by the event chair for examination is excused from further competition at that event or any associated event the same day, the weekend, circuit, or the cluster until the Show Veterinarian examination is completed indicating the dog’s presence does not endanger other dogs at the event. Malicious complaints will be considered conduct prejudicial to the sport.

SECTION 2. Any person who is handling a competing dog in the ring in any conformation competition may then verbally protest to the judge before every dog in the class has been individually examined and individually gaited, alleging that a dog being shown in the competition has a condition which makes it ineligible to compete under Chapter 11, Section 8, or Chapter 11, Section 8-C, of these regulations or a condition requiring disqualification under the standard for the breed; except that a verbal protest alleging that the height or weight or natural color(s) and marking(s) of a dog requiring its disqualification under the breed standard or a determination of its ineligibility under the conditions of its class must be made under Chapter 14, Sections 3, 4, 6, or 6-A.

When such a protest is made, it shall be the judge’s responsibility to examine the dog for the alleged condition. If, following the examination, the judge determines that disqualification is required under Chapter 11, Section 8, or under the breed standard, he or she shall mark the book “disqualified” stating the reason. If the judge finds that the protest is not sustained, he shall note in the judge’s book the condition protested and his or her findings. He or she shall not obtain the opinion of the Show Veterinarian.

If the judge determines that the dog is ineligible to compete because of violation of Chapter 11, Section 8-C, he or she shall withhold any award to the dog and mark the judge’s book “Ineligible to compete—award withheld,” stating the reason for his or her decision.

A dog determined by a judge to be ineligible to compete under Chapter 11, Section 8-C, unless such determination is based on the use of a substance only for cleaning purposes, may not again be shown until an official record has been made by AKC of its true color(s) or marking(s). If the color(s) and marking(s) of the dog, as recorded, are such as not to be a disqualification under the standard of its breed, the dog’s show eligibility will be reinstated.

CHAPTER 16 CHAMPIONSHIPS

SECTION 1. Championship points will be recorded for Winners Dog and Winners Bitch, for each breed or variety listed in Chapter 3, Section 1, at International Shows approved by AKC pursuant to AKC International Show License Agreement, provided the certification of the Secretary as described in Chapter 6, Section 1, has been printed in the premium list for the International Show.

Championship points will be recorded according to the number of eligible dogs competing in the regular classes of each sex in each breed or variety, and according to the Schedule of Points established by the Board of Directors.

If the dog designated Winners Dog or Winners Bitch is also awarded Best of Breed or Variety, the dogs of both sexes that have been entered for Best of Breed or Variety competition and that have been defeated in such competition, shall be counted in addition to the dogs that competed in the regular classes for its sex in calculating championship points.

If the dog designated Winners Dog or Winners Bitch is also awarded Best of Opposite Sex to Best of Breed or Variety, the dogs of its own sex that have been entered for Best of Breed or Variety competition and that have been defeated in competition for Best of Opposite Sex shall be counted in addition to the dogs that competed in the regular classes for its sex in calculating championship points.

The dog awarded the Best of Winners shall be credited with the number of points calculated for Winners Dog or Winners Bitch, whichever is greater. If no points are credited to the dog awarded Best of Winners, the regular class dogs of both sexes shall be counted in calculating championship points. A maximum of one championship point can be awarded when combining sexes for the Best of Winners point calculation.

In counting the number of eligible dogs in competition, a dog that is disqualified, or that is dismissed, excused or ordered from the ring by the judge, or from which all awards are withheld, shall not be included.

SECTION 2. A dog which, in its breed competition at an International Show, shall have been placed Winners and which also shall have won its group class at the same International Show shall be awarded championship points figured at the highest point rating of any breed or recognized variety or height of any breed entered in the International Show and entitled to winners points in its group, or if it also shall have been designated Best in Show, shall be awarded championship points figured at the highest point rating of any breed or recognized variety or height of any breed entered and entitled to winners points in the International Show.

A dog in its breed competition at an International Show which has placed Winners, and which also has finished second, third, or fourth in its group competition at the same International Show, shall be awarded championship points figured at the highest point rating of any breed or recognized variety of any breed entered in the International Show and entitled to winners points in its group, exclusive of any breed or variety that placed higher in the group class.

A dog in its breed competition at an International Show which has placed Winners, and which has been awarded Reserve Best in Show at the same International Show, shall be awarded championship points figured at the highest point rating of any breed or recognized variety of any breed entered in the International Show and entitled to winners points in its group, exclusive of the group for which Best in Show was awarded.

The final points to be awarded under this section shall not be in addition to, but inclusive of, any points previously awarded the dog in its breed competition or under the provisions of this section.

SECTION 3. At International Shows in which the winners’ classes of certain breeds are divided into recognized varieties of those breeds, as specified in Chapter 3, Section 1 of these Regulations, the procedure for computing championship points shall be the same as if each recognized variety were a separate breed.

SECTION 4. Any dog which shall have won 15 points at AKC conformation or International Shows shall become a Champion of Record, if six (6) or more of said points shall have been won at two (2) shows with a rating of three (3) or more championship points each and under two (2) different judges, and some one (1) or more of the balance of said points shall have been won under some other judge or judges than the two (2) judges referred to above. A dog becomes a champion when it is so officially recorded by AKC and when registered in the Stud Book shall be entitled to a championship certificate.

SECTION 5. Champions of Record and dogs which have completed the requirements for a championship, but whose championships are unconfirmed, that are entered in Best of Breed competition, are eligible for Grand Championship competition.

Grand Championship points may be recorded for: Best of Breed or Best of Variety of Breed, Best of Opposite Sex to Best of Breed or Best of Variety of Breed, Select Dog, and Select Bitch. Grand Championship points will be recorded according to the number of eligible dogs competing in the regular and non-regular (eligible for Best of Breed/ Variety) classes of each breed or variety, as well as dogs competing in Best of Breed competition, according to the Schedule of Points established by the Board of Directors.

Grand Championship Points will not be awarded for competition beyond Best of Breed or Best of Variety of Breed
Winners Dog, Winners Bitch, and Non-Regular Class winners that are not conformation Champions, are not eligible for Grand Championship

Grand Championship points for a dog awarded Best of Opposite Sex to Best of Breed or Best of Variety of Breed shall count all eligible dogs of their sex competing in Best of Breed or Best of Variety of Breed competition, in addition to the dogs that competed in the regular and non-regular (eligible for Best of Breed/ Variety) classes for their sex in calculating Grand Championship points.

A dog awarded Best of Breed will be credited with the number of Grand Champion points calculated for Best of Breed or for the Best of Opposite Sex, whichever is greater.

Grand Championship points for a dog awarded Select Dog or Select Bitch shall count all eligible dogs of their sex in Best of Breed or Best of Variety of Breed competition, less the dog awarded Best of Breed or Variety or Best of Opposite Sex to Best of Breed or Variety, in addition to the dogs that competed in the regular and non-regular (eligible for Best of Breed/ Variety) classes for their sex in calculating Grand Championship points.

SECTION 7. Any champion which shall have won 25 points at AKC conformation or International Shows shall become a Grand Champion of Record, if nine (9) or more of said points shall have been won at three (3) shows with a rating of three (3) or more Grand Championship points each and under three (3) different judges, and some one (1) or more of the balance of said points shall have been won under some other judge or judges than the three (3) judges referred to above, and at least one (1) Champion was defeated at three (3) shows. A dog becomes a Grand Champion when it is officially recorded by AKC and shall be entitled to a Grand Championship certificate.

Any Grand Champion which shall have won 100 Grand Championship points shall become a Grand Champion Bronze (GCHB). Any Grand Champion which shall have won 200 Grand Championship points shall become a Grand Champion Silver (GCHS). Any Grand Champion which shall have won 400 Grand Championship points shall become a Grand Champion Gold (GCHG). Any Grand Champion which shall have won 800 Grand Championship points shall become a Grand Champion Platinum (GCHP). After earning Grand Champion Platinum title, for each additional 800 Grand Championship points earned the Grand Champion Platinum title initials will be followed by a numeric designation indicating the quantity of times the dog has met the requirements of the Grand Champion Platinum title as defined above, e.g., 1,600 Grand Championship points = GCHP2. The AKC will identify dogs qualifying for these titles by the appropriate designations preceding their AKC name in all official AKC records. In each case, the higher title will supersede the preceding title in all official AKC records such that the highest title will be listed.

CHAPTER 17 SUBMISSION OF A SHOW’S RECORDS TO AKC

SECTION 1. The Club hosting an International Show shall pay or distribute all prizes offered at its show within thirty (30) days after the AKC has checked the awards of said International Show.

SECTION 2. After each International Show, a catalog marked with all awards and absent dogs, certified by the Show Secretary of the International Show, together with all judges’ books, and a report of the International Show, must be sent to the AKC so as to reach its office within seven (7) days after the close of the International Show. All original entry forms must be maintained by the Club or Show Secretary for a period five (5) years after the International Show, and these original entry forms must be available to the AKC upon written request by the AKC. Penalty for non-compliance by the Club shall be twenty-five ($25.00) US dollars, and five ($5.00) US dollars for each day’s delay beyond the deadline, and other such penalties as may be imposed by the Board of Directors of the AKC.

All fees will be submitted to AKC in accordance with the AKC International Show License Agreement.

CHAPTER 18 STEWARDS

A club hosting an AKC International Show should appoint a Chief Steward well in advance of the date of their show, whose duty it will be to invite

a sufficient number of experienced persons to act as stewards in the judging rings on the day of the International Show (“Chief Steward”). No person should be asked to serve as a steward who is currently not in good standing with the AKC or the Club. The Chief Steward should, as soon as practicable, confirm in writing, to each person who accepts an invitation to steward, the date and location of the International Show, the time at which they are to report for duty, and their particular ring assignment.

In preparing the schedule of ring assignments, the Chief Steward and other club officials should keep in mind that no person should serve as steward with a judge under whom he has an entry, or under whom, in the course of the day’s judging, such entry may become eligible to compete. If it becomes necessary during the International Show to reshuffle stewarding assignments, care should be taken to see that a person is not assigned to serve as steward with a judge if there is any possibility that the judge, later in the International Show, or weekend (when possible), will be passing upon an entry of the steward.

Persons should be selected who are familiar with judging procedures, breed classifications, and AKC rules and regulations. It should be borne in mind that a good steward makes the work of judging easier by relieving the judge of necessary detail; by assembling classes promptly, he will be able to keep the judging program on schedule and eliminate, to a large extent, delays between classes.

The Chief Steward should use his or her discretion in the assigning of more than one (1) steward to a ring, but it is advisable that two (2) stewards be asked to serve in those rings where judges have heavy assignments.

Stewards will notify the judge when all the dogs are in the ring for each class and call his or her attention to known absentees. Under no circumstances should a steward make any notation in the judge’s book or erase or strike out any notation made by the judge.

Stewards will be responsible for returning to the Chief Steward or the Show Secretary, upon the completion of judging, all prize money, trophies, and ribbons not awarded.

Stewards should have in mind that they have been selected to help the judge and not to advise him or her. They should carefully refrain from discussing or seeming to discuss the dogs or the exhibitors with the judge and should not, under any circumstances, show or give the appearance of showing the catalog to a judge. Stewards should not take, or seem to take, any part in judging.

When they are not actively engaged in their duties, they should place themselves in such part of the rings as will not interfere with the view of those watching the judging and should not permit persons to crowd about the ring entrance and interfere with access to the ring.

CHAPTER 19 TRAINING COLLARS

Special training devices that are used to control and train dogs, including, but not limited to, collars with prongs, electronic collars used with transmitters, muzzles, and head collars may not be used on dogs at AKC events, except as allowed by AKC Rules, Regulations, and Policies.

AKC recognizes that special training collars may be an effective and useful management device, when properly used, for controlling dogs that might be extremely active, difficult to control on a neck collar, or dog aggressive. These collars are also recognized as possibly useful for gaining control at the start of basic obedience training, essential education that dogs deserve and need.

There is a point at which owners should have sufficient control of their dogs to manage them on regular neck collars, without the use of special training collars. This is the point at which dogs are acceptable on the grounds of AKC competitive events and will have the opportunity to participate in those events.

All dogs must be presented on an acceptable collar and lead when competing at International Shows. An acceptable collar and lead is defined as a single lead and collar combination utilized for the presentation

of the dog. Examples of acceptable collars and leads include: slip collar plus lead (loop or snap), slide lead (i.e. resco), swivel lead, martingale (one piece), and martingale collar plus lead.

Special training devices and/or devices used to mask deficiencies in training, temperament or conformation are not acceptable and not permitted for use at International Shows; examples include collars with prongs, electronic collars, muzzles, harnesses and head collars. The use of multiple acceptable collars or lead and collar combinations simultaneously is considered use of a special training device and, therefore, is not permitted.

AKC CODE OF SPORTSMANSHIP AND CIVILITY

PREFACE: The tradition of competitive purebred dog events predates 1884—the year the American Kennel Club (AKC) was founded. Those involved in these sports share core values, including a strong commitment to sportsmanship and a welcoming, respectful culture that embraces the diverse community united by a love of dogs. These values are evident across all aspects of the sport: conformation, performance, companion, and family dog activities. Many believe that the enduring principles of sportsmanship and civility are key reasons the sport has thrived for over 140 years.

Recognizing that periodically reaffirming our shared values strengthens our community, the revised code will be shared widely to highlight the foundational values and principles that define the sport.

Sportspeople always place the welfare of their dog above all else.
Sportspeople prioritize the long-term health and preservation of their breed, making decisions that reflect a deep commitment to responsible breeding and ownership.
Sportspeople respect the history, traditions and integrity of the sport of purebred dogs.
Sportspeople conduct themselves in a manner that reflects positively on the sport, the American Kennel Club, and themselves.
Sportspeople appreciate, encourage and support all who associate with and participate in the sports by fostering an environment where respect, equity, inclusion, and courtesy are foundational.
Sportspeople understand, uphold and abide by all AKC bylaws, rules, regulations and policies.
Sportspeople contribute to a positive atmosphere at events by avoiding negative gossip, disparagement, or unsportsmanlike behavior.
Sportspeople extend their values of civility, fairness, and respect to all digital and social media platforms.
Sportspeople actively support the education and mentorship of newcomers, helping them learn the rules, values, and traditions of the sport in a respectful way.
Sportspeople recognize that they are role models in the sport, and strive to lead by example through humility, kindness, and ethical conduct.
Sportspeople treat fellow exhibitors, judges, officials, volunteers, spectators, and AKC staff with dignity and respect, regardless of experience, background, or differences in opinion.
Sportspeople are committed to fair play, honesty, courtesy, and competition, approaching both winning and losing with grace.
Sportspeople understand that strong competition and civility can—and should—coexist. They appreciate the quality of their competitors, and the effort put forth by others.
Sportspeople uphold their responsibilities to the sport of purebred dogs and refuse to let personal gain or self-interest influence their decisions or behavior.
The sportsperson judges only on the merits of the dogs and considers no other factors.
The sportsperson judge or exhibitor accepts constructive criticism.
The sportsperson exhibitor declines to enter or exhibit under a judge where it might reasonably appear that the judge’s placements could be based on something other than the merits of the dogs.
The sportsperson exhibitor refuses to compromise the impartiality of a judge.
Sportspeople are willing to share honest and open appraisals of both the strengths and weaknesses of their breeding stock.
Sportspeople decline to exploit any positions of authority or recognition for personal advantage.
Sportspeople appreciate those that have gone before them and realize they are responsible for maintaining and enhancing the sport for future generations.

The American Kennel Club 8051 Arco Corporate Drive, Suite 100

Raleigh, NC 27617-3390

To place a credit card order by telephone call: (919) 233-9767

www.akc.org

The American Kennel Club, Inc.

Regulations for American Kennel Club International Dog Shows

Regulations for American Kennel Club International Dog Shows

TABLE OF CONTENTS

CHAPTER 1

CHAPTER 2

CHAPTER 3 DOG SHOW

GROUP 1—SPORTING DOGS

GROUP 2—HOUNDS

GROUP 3—WORKING DOGS

GROUP 4—TERRIERS

GROUP 5—TOYS

GROUP 6—NON-SPORTING DOGS

GROUP 7—HERDING DOGS

CHAPTER 4 APPROVAL OF JUDGES’ PANELS AND PREMIUM LISTS

CHAPTER 5 RIBBONS, PRIZES AND TROPHIES

CHAPTER 6 PREMIUM LISTS AND

CHAPTER 7 JUDGES

CHAPTER 8 SELECTION OF SHOW SECRETARY AND VETERINARIANS

CHAPTER 9 SHOW SECRETARIES

CHAPTER 10 SHOW VETERINARIANS

CHAPTER 11

CHAPTER 12 THE CATALOG

CHAPTER 13 BENCHING OF DOGS

CHAPTER 14 MEASURING, WEIGHING AND COLOR DETERMINATIONS WHEN FACTORS OF DISQUALIFICATION IN BREED STANDARDS OR ELIGIBILITY UNDER THE CONDITIONS OF A CLASS OR DIVISION OF A CLASS CANCELLATION OF AWARDS

CHAPTER 15 PROTESTS AGAINST DOGS

CHAPTER 16 CHAMPIONSHIPS

CHAPTER 17 SUBMISSION OF A SHOW’S RECORDS TO AKC

CHAPTER 18 STEWARDS

CHAPTER 19 TRAINING COLLARS