history of dog shows

Dog shows began in the 19th century as events to evaluate and showcase different dog breeds’ qualities, emphasizing physical appearance, behavior, and adherence to breed standards. They standardize what a healthy, typical representative of each breed should look like. Over time, these shows evolved into organized competitions, with judges assessing dogs based on predefined criteria. The most famous is the Westminster Kennel Club Show, dating back to 1877. Dog shows promote responsible breeding, celebrate breed diversity, and foster a deeper understanding of canine standards among enthusiasts and the public alike.