Information on Conformation

So what is conformation?  Well dogs are judged on their quality, not dissimilar to a beauty competition.  Each breed has a breed standard to conform to.  Each dog at a show is judged to this standard.  The one the judge feels is the best fit is the winner.
 

So you want to start showing?  The first thing you need to do is get a dog.  Find a respected breeder and talk to them about buying a potential show puppy.  They will help you choose a puppy they feel has the possibility to do well in the show ring (please remember there’s is no dog that can be said to be a future champion at the age of 8 weeks)
 

Once you have found your puppy you want to find a ring craft class local to you.  There you will learn how to show your dog.  A valuable thing for when you hit the show scene.  Also, before you puppy has its first show go and visit a few shows in your area, watch and learn.  Talk to people about showing.
 

You cannot enter a puppy into a show before it is 6 months old, so between finding your puppy and going to your first show you have plenty of time to find out more about showing.  If your breeder also shows don’t be afraid to ask them on grooming tips and what equipment you will need to acquire, or ask anyone else in the breed.  Most people are willing to help.
 

If you do go into showing, or any other dog “sport”, or just a pet, good luck, have fun and enjoy the love your dog will give you.
 

For information on the types of shows click here

For information on the classes you can enter click here

Standing your Australian Shepherd. There are two ways in which you can stand your aussie. Either high lead control with the handler towards the side or low lead control with the handler to the front.  See the pictures below;
Free standing where the handler is in front of dog.  Note although the lead looks tight, it isn't.	Here the dog's head is held up using the lead.  the handler is knelt front/side trying to get the dogs attention
Moving your Australian Shepherd. A majority of Aussies have a fast moving gait (movement) in the trot.  It is the trot that the judge is looking for.
	An Aussie in the perfect trot.  See how the back leg lands where the front leg was?  Each dog will move in this trot at different speeds.

Thanks to Ray McDonald for the photos

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