Dog showing can feel like learning a whole new language. Here’s a handy guide to some of the most common terms and abbreviations you’ll hear around the rings in New Zealand (and internationally).
General Dog Show Terms
Breed Standard – The written description of the ideal example of a breed, covering structure, movement, and temperament.
Conformation – How closely a dog’s structure and appearance match the Breed Standard.
Type – The overall look that makes a dog clearly identifiable as a particular breed.
Soundness – Correct structure and movement that allows the dog to function comfortably and efficiently.
Movement / Gait – How a dog moves at walk and trot, assessed for balance, reach, drive, and efficiency.
Temperament – The dog’s attitude and behaviour, including confidence and stability.
Condition – The dog’s physical fitness, muscle tone, and overall health at the time of judging.
Presentation – How the dog is prepared and handled in the ring, including grooming and handling skills.
Awards & Titles (NZ Context)
CC (Challenge Certificate) – Awarded to the best dog and best bitch of a breed at a Championship Show. Required to gain a Champion title.
BOB (Best of Breed) – Awarded to the best exhibit of that breed at the show.
BIG (Best in Group) – Awarded to the best exhibit within a group (e.g. Terrier Group).
RBIG/RIG (Reserve Best in Group) – Second place in the group.
BIS (Best in Show) – The top award of the entire show.
BISS (Best in Speciality Show) – The top award of the entire show, for a speciality show (breed-specific show).
RBIS/RIS (Reserve Best in Show) – Second-best exhibit of the show, for a speciality show (breed-specific show).
CH – Champion – in NZ achieved by winning the 8 Challenge Certificates (at least 1 after the age of 12months)
GRCH – Grand Champion – A dog having won 50 Dogs New Zealand Challenge Certificates plus three ‘Best in Show’ awards given under three different judges at ‘All Breed Championship Shows
SupCH/SGCH. – Supreme Champion. A dog having won 75 Dogs New Zealand Challenges and 5 All Breed BIS given under five different judges at ‘All Breed Championship Shows.
SPGRCH – Specialist Grand Champion. A dog having won 50 Dogs New Zealand Challenge Certificates plus three ‘Best in Show’ awards given under three different judges at eligible ‘Specialist Breed Championship Shows.|
ROM – Recognition of Merit. Awarded by the Bull Terrier Clubs of New Zealand. Required to obtain 7 points, with at least 5 points obtained at a Bull Terrier club speciality show and at least one 3 point award must be included in the total.
Judging & Ring Terms
Stack – The stance a dog is placed in for examination.
Free Stack – A natural stand without manual placement.
Go Around – When exhibitors move their dogs around the ring together.
Out and Back – Movement pattern used to assess front and rear soundness.
Triangle – Similar to out and back, but in a triangle shape to assess front, rear and straight movement.
Examination – The hands-on assessment by the judge.
Cut/Shortlist – Dogs selected by the judge to stay in the ring for final placements.
Line-up – The final group of dogs being considered for placements.
Show Journey - All Breeds
