Due to the popularity of champion classes at breed club shows, The Kennel Club is expanding the option to include them at all open and championship shows. This change, which will apply to single breed, group or general shows comes into effect immediately, though it remains optional.
The Show Executive Committee approved this expansion at a meeting recently. The introduction of champion classes at breed club championship shows dates back to 2018, following a recommendation from the Dog Show Promotion Working Party. These classes have been a popular addition to many breed club shows and it is hoped that it may help increase entries.
Including a champions class at any open or championship show is entirely at the society’s discretion and is not compulsory. The new option applies to single breed, group or general shows. The champion class is the same as any other class and the winning dog or bitch, provided it is unbeaten, can challenge for best of sex, relevant Challenge Certificate and Best of Breed. There is no requirement that a champion has to be entered in a champions class.
Any queries regarding the addition of champions classes should be emailed to dogshows@thekennelclub.org.uk. If a club or society has already issued and published a schedule – it cannot be amended to include this class.