Breed standards
The basis of breed shows is the judging of pedigree dogs against the breed standard, which is a picture in words that describes each breed of pedigree dog.
For all licensed breed shows, The Kennel Club breed standards must be used for the judging of pedigree dogs.
The breed standards are owned by The Kennel Club, and all changes are subject to approval by The Kennel Club Board. New breed standards, for newly recognised breeds, are drawn up once the breed has become sufficiently established within the UK. Careful research is conducted into the historical background, health and temperament of any new breed before recognition is granted by The Kennel Club.
Upon recognition, breeds are placed on the Imported Breed Register until they are deemed eligible for transferral to the Breed Register. Read more about breed standards.