SHIH TZU FANCIERS OF SOUTHERN CA

WHAT ROLE DOES THE JUDGE PLAY?

A judge examines each of the dogs and places them in accordance to how close each Shih Tzu compares with a mental image of the "perfect" dog as described in the breed's official standard. These standards include qualifications for structure, temperament, and movement. In short, they describe the characteristics that allow the breed to perform the function for which it was bred. 

WHAT DO THE DOGS WIN?

Each winner is given a ribbon by the judge. The color of the ribbon denotes the type of award the dog has won.  In addition, the Class, Breed, Group, Best of Opposite Sex and Best in Show winners are each given a trophy if donated by the members of the club or clubs who are putting on the show.

HOW DOES A DOG BECOME A CHAMPION?

Most dogs in competition at conformation shows are competing for points toward their championship. It takes 15 points, including  two majors (a win of three, four, or five points) under at least three different judges to become an AKC "Champion of Record." This is indicated by "Ch." before the dog's name.

At an AKC sanctioned dog show, a dog can earn from one to five points toward a champion title, depending on the number of males or females actually in competition for the breed. The 1999 AKC schedule of points for Shih Tzu are: 

    1 point   - 2 dogs/2 bitches

    2 points - 4 dogs/five bitches

    3 points - 5 dogs/8 bitches

    4 points - 7 dogs/10 bitches

    5 points - 12 dogs/14 bitches

Note: Male dogs are often referred to as dogs, while female dogs are referred to as bitches. When dog is used throughout the STFSC Website without a sex designation, we are referring to both dogs and bitches.-Editor's comment

Once a dog is a champion, it can compete for BEST IN SHOW.

WHO CAN ENTER THEIR SHIH TZU IN AN AKC SHOW?

Any Shih Tzu registered with the AKC, 6 months or older on the day of the show may compete. Spayed or neutered dogs are not eligible to compete in conformation classes at a dog show, nor are dogs with disqualifying faults or certain surgical procedures, as noted in the AKC Shih Tzu standard and surgical eligibility.

WHERE DO I START? 

If you have attended a dog show, you have taken an important first step in getting involved in the sport of showing your dog. If you haven't attended a show, make an effort to do so, before you consider entering your dog. Dog shows are advertised in local newspapers, on posters in local shops, on the radio, TV and the Internet. Most of the time, a phone number is given, so that you can call to get more information on the time Shih Tzu will be judged.

WHERE DO I LEARN TO SHOW MY SHIH TZU?

While visiting a show, inquire at the Shih Tzu Fanciers table about breed handling or showing a dog in the show ring. Often clubs have classes on weekends or evenings to teach you the basics. If the club doesn't offer classes, they will know where classes are held. 

The club may have information about match shows in your area. Matches  are fun shows, used for practice and training of dogs and their novice exhibitors. Although these "shows" award no points toward an AKC title, they are a great place to "get your feet wet" before entering a real show. 

It would be to your benefit to ask how you may go about joining the club. Shih Tzu clubs are involved in many activities besides putting on a dog show, and they welcome new members who want to lend a hand. You will get the chance to meet new people and share their knowledge and experiences. If you wish to join Shih Tzu Fanciers of Southern CA, go to our membership application, fill out the application and mail it with a check. STFSC puts on shows for  conformation and agility. We have included a list of all the AKC affiliated clubs across the U.S. for your convenience.

DO I HAVE TO SHOW MY DOG MYSELF?

If you don't wish to handle your dog yourself, you can hire a professional handler. Professional handlers charge a fee for showing dogs, so before hiring one, make sure you obtain a fee schedule. Talk to several handlers, get copies of their rate schedules and visit their facilities, if possible. Observe them in and out of the ring before you make up your mind. 

You will be entrusting a handler with your dog's care, so make sure you are comfortable with that person. If there is something you don't understand, make sure the prospective handler answers all of your questions before entering into any agreement.

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