One of the main things we do as a club is organise dog shows for Chows. A dog show is a social event where you can exhibit your chow. When exhibiting a judge asses your chow against the breed standard through movement and conformation. The Chow Chow Breed Standard can be seen here. Every show has various classes some are age related while others are related to wins. There are 5 different types of shows you can attend.
Companion dog shows– are typically held in village fates and have a variety of novelty classes.
General open shows– these can have Chow classes are typically over one day with various breeds present. There are also premier shows which can qualify for Crufts. These are a good stepping stone to practice showing along with being god training for your chows.
General Championship shows– much like the general open shows there are various other breeds present. However, these are over a few days with more dogs in attendance. General Championship shows typically have utility breeds with another group on our day of showing. Chows can have CCs and several classes to choose from. If there are no CCs we would only have a few classes, but the group is still there for competition.
Single Breed Open show- these shows are run by breed clubs. We have several classes available to enter. It’s only Chows at these shows and it’s a good chance to socialise with more space available. These shows are typically well attended by younger chows. We have 7 breed clubs in the UK each one runs one or two open shows each year.
Single Breed Championship show- these shows are run by breed clubs. We have several classes available to enter. It’s only Chows at these shows and it’s a good chance to socialise with more space available. These shows have CCs on offer and attract a greater number of exhibitors due to the CCs. We have 7 breed clubs in the UK each club runs one championship show each year.
The RKC mentions– Championship shows are the highest level of dog show in the UK. Championship shows are open to all exhibitors, and are a higher level of competition. The two best of sex winners can win a Challenge Certificate (also known as CCs, or tickets). First to third in most classes will qualify the exhibit for Crufts. A judge will only award a CC if they believe an exhibit is to be worthy of the title ‘Champion’. Gaining three CCs (under three different judges) enables the exhibit to be awarded the title of Champion. A Champion is one of the highest accolades in the show world. Being a Champion entitles the dog to carry the letters Ch at the front of its name.
As mentioned dog shows are a social event. Yes, we exhibit our chows, we want to win, but we can’t all win. We leave the show with our pet, we get to take them home. We have good days and days where we miss out, this is how showing is. Talking with other exhibitors is valuable as we’re part of a community, showing our pets is a great experience.
If you’re looking at showing, talk to a local breed club they’re there to help you. You’ll need a brush and a lead at a minimum along with a water bowl. We can always get more equipment with time, people take trollies, tables, various brushes, hair dryers, towels, treats etc. You can start basic and get to know showing and gain things are you go. Within future shows you can see a list of events in the UK, please also look at dog training. When showing ensure your Chow is happy or someone to go over them (touch everywhere), including opening their mouth. Will they walk in a straight line/ walk a triangle with you.
Celtic Chow Chow Club 