Conformation Judges: Applications and Announcements

The American Kennel Club has long directed special attention to the judging approval process with particular emphasis on the improvement of judging. Quality judging is based upon breed expertise combined with knowledge of the governing Rules, Regulations and Guidelines achieved through lifetime experience and judges education.

The responsibility of presenting a clear, comprehensive, well-documented application rests with the applicant. It is the applicant's obligation to establish competency. The judging approval process must provide flexibility to recognize judging abilities among the applicants and to act accordingly. Self-motivation is critical to achieve competence in judging. It is also vital to understand the significant investment of both time and effort is required. All qualified, knowledgeable and dedicated individuals are invited to participate.

The application process strives to obtain pertinent and reliable information upon which valid decisions may be based. It is hoped that the element of confidentiality will encourage our obtaining information.

Judges Applications

• Irish Red & White Setter, Norwegian Buhund and Pyrenean Shepherd
• Adjunct Application
• New Judge Application and Procedures
• Additional Breed Application and Procedures
• Additional Breed Component Criteria
• Junior Showmanship Application
• Requesting Regular Status Form

Announcements

• Requirement for New Breed Applicants Requesting Regular Status
• Questions and Answers
• Judging Approval Process - Effective January 1, 2007
• Table-Ramp Breeds
• Use of Ramps: A Clarification
• Varieties - Unique Treatment
• Visiting Judges Policy
• 2008 Low Entry Breed List
• Provisional Assignments - Low Entry Breeds
• Rules, Policies and Guidelines for Conformation Dog Show Judges