Conformation Showing

The breed standard allows observers to understand differences in dogs in terms of how dogs' characteristics either reflect the ideal or deviate from it. BMDs come in many shapes, styles and sizes. In conformation shows judges evaluate and place dogs according of how well each dog matches up to the breed standard.

A well bred Bernese has the body structure and style that compliment the work for which the dog was bred. In the case of the Bernese, the standard describes a dog capable of performing a variety of tasks, a balanced dog intended to function as a working companion animal. The quality of coat and symmetrical tri-colored markings add to the breed's functional purpose and aesthetic appeal. The standard also describes the temperament of a Bernese. Bernese should appear as an alert, steady, calm and workable companion. Whether participating in or being a spectator at Conformation events, there is much to be learned about the variable qualities Bernese possess. And the dogs love the attention!

A foundation of training and presentation techniques is needed for those interested in participating in conformation shows. Presenting a dog and showing the spectators and judge the dog's best qualities is not as easy as it looks. Local all breed clubs and private training facilities offer conformation classes where novice handlers and dogs can polish their skills. Practice and conditioning the dog are two of the best ways to create a pleasant picture and showing in the conformation ring.

Showing dogs not only requires that a dog and handler be well prepared. When making decisions about how to manage a dog's show career an owner must consider time and expense involved in entering and getting to and from events, whether their dog is competitive among the group of dogs currently being shown and how their dog is performing. Every owner will view things according to their own priorities. Winning in the show ring is only a small part of dog shows. Dog shows are about seeing groups of dogs and learning to recognize each dog's strengths and weaknesses with an eye to making breeding decisions that influence the qualities a breed will come to possess.

Options for showing include handling your own dog or hiring a professional handler. Professional handlers have established ways of doing business with their clients. Some pick up dogs ringside from owners while others keep the dog for the weekend or for many weeks or months while the dog is being shown. Should you choose to hire a professional handler, especially one that will take your dog on the road to dog shows, make sure that you have a clear understanding of how your dog will be living while in the handler's care.

Professional handlers often can achieve winning results more quickly than novice handlers because they have spent years learning how to present each dog they handle to accentuate the dog's strong points. But please keep in mind that the BMD's exceptional connection to their own people makes competently presented dogs working to please their owners an absolute joy to observe. There is nothing more satisfying to increase connection between dog and owner than when an owner chooses to prepare and present their own dog. Whether showing a puppy, an adult dog or a veteran, the main thing is that dog and owner enjoy the show experience.

The BMDCSEW offers several fun matches with conformation showing during the year. Check our calendar of events for dates and locations.

Check out the AKC's website for show information; specifically look through events search.