UKC Shows

[RKCM]

The UKC shows are a wonderful place to start showing your dog in conformation. Here are some conformation shows listed by state:

http://www.ukcdogs.com/Upcoming.nsf/EventView?Open&Group=DogEvents&Type=M

Again, there are some outstanding UKC champions, but there are also some dogs that aren't. An AKC champion requires a higher standard and must have competition in their breed, or win in the group. A UKC champion can beat one dog and get points. This is why I said the quality is not the same in general. Like I have said, there are some great UKC dogs and some that could never win an AKC point. The AKC takes more wins, more dogs, and in general, higher quality to win. I did not mean to offend anyone for showing UKC. It is doing something with your dog and I'm all for that. In my opinion, A UKC champion can't always be an AKC champion, while few, AKC would not easily be an UKC champion. I am saying that based on a few UKC champions that I have seen advertised.

The UKC also has other events and is a great organization.

This is just my personal opinion and wanted to clarify my earlier posts.

[Shadowlands]

In AKC the animal is (should be) compared to the breed standard. Period.
In UKC, the animals are compared to each other. That is how it looks to me.
The States do things differently and Canada doesn't have UKC or anything simialr, we have only CKC so there is only one kind of champion. We also have owner/handlers alongside pros. However, I like the idea of UKC for a place to gain experience and confidence in bringing out the best in your dog in the ring. Given of course, your dog fits the breed standard and is worthy of being in the any conformation ring.
I have seen some dogs that shouldn't be in AKC ring and I have also seen some that are in UKC that should be in AKC. It works both ways and until/unless the two get together with some kind of common ground, this is not going to change.
In my opinion, the two should be using the breed standard to compare the dogs to. The only real difference should be UKC continue to disallow professional handlers and be only for novice/owner handlers.

[RKCM]

In AKC the animal is (should be) compared to the breed standard. Period.
In UKC, the animals are compared to each other. That is how it looks to me.
The States do things differently and Canada doesn't have UKC or anything simialr, we have only CKC so there is only one kind of champion. We also have owner/handlers alongside pros. However, I like the idea of UKC for a place to gain experience and confidence in bringing out the best in your dog in the ring. Given of course, your dog fits the breed standard and is worthy of being in the any conformation ring.
I have seen some dogs that shouldn't be in AKC ring and I have also seen some that are in UKC that should be in AKC. It works both ways and until/unless the two get together with some kind of common ground, this is not going to change.
In my opinion, the two should be using the breed standard to compare the dogs to. The only real difference should be UKC continue to disallow professional handlers and be only for novice/owner handlers.

Both venues use the standard to evaluate the dog but they do not receive their championship with the same measure. I am posting about conformation competition, not other events.

In the US, AKC is where breeders take their dogs to compare and find out what other breeders are doing in their breeding program. Compare their dogs, select a stud, or something to add to your bloodline. There are many dogs that your dog will have to go over to become a champion. It takes a little more and where the best of the best are competing but the standard is used to evaluate which dog conforms to that ideal in the judges opinion. Only one dog gets championship points and one bitch......they also award BOB and select pts. Select is for the Grand Championship title.

In the UKC, it is more handler friendly and many breeders use it as a prelude to give the dog experience before competing in AKC. Unfortunately, the general public does not know that the championships are not equal and some use that to sell puppies. UKC champions can finish in a weekend with NO competition. There are many pet dogs shown in this venue and I have never seen them withhold ribbons.

I can show you many pictures of dogs in the UKC that would be excused and posted boldly on website to make the dogs seem more than they are.....I have never seen an AKC champion of that quality ever receive a ribbon....and I've been to a lot of shows. The champions title is just not the same.

In saying that, there are a lot of breeders than begin dogs in the UKC. There are excellent champions in both venues, but one only has to look at the top 20 at the National to understand, the venues are not equal in merit.

As far as handlers, most dogs in the AKC shows are shown by their owners. They win too. Professional handlers are usually cheaper because of the expense of travel the amt of time and distance in finding those 2 majors.....The top dogs in the AKC shows are usually breeder owners that know the breed and can present the dog well. They are called professional if they ever show someone else's dog for money. Most of the best are breeders themselves and you couldn't pay them to take in a poor example of the breed. Guess, that's just my personal opinion. I'd say sour grapes.........but both AKC and UKC have great venues for this breed. AKC is by far the showcase of the conformation champions.......

[Glengate]

Canada doesn't have UKC or anything simialr, we have only CKC so there is only one kind of champion.

There ARE UKC shows in Ontario a couple of weekends a year (July and November) in the Caledon area held by the Maple Leaf Kennel Club. There are several people that I know with CKC champions that also take part in the UKC shows and have finished there as well. They also have UKC rally and obedience trials.

I don't know about the other provinces so much, but I also know there are UKC events in Alberta as one of my puppies out there is active in UKC rally and obedience. He has 2 legs of his UKC CD and he has his URO1.

[Shadowlands]

There ARE UKC shows in Ontario a couple of weekends a year (July and November) in the Caledon area held by the Maple Leaf Kennel Club. There are several people that I know with CKC champions that also take part in the UKC shows and have finished there as well. They also have UKC rally and obedience trials.

I don't know about the other provinces so much, but I also know there are UKC events in Alberta as one of my puppies out there is active in UKC rally and obedience. He has 2 legs of his UKC CD and he has his URO1.

Really? I had never seen a UKC event advertised anywhere. Nor had I heard of one this side of the border. Thanks. I will have to do some inquiries.
:p

[RKCM]

The obedience club I belong to puts on several AKC and UKC performance events yearly. Those seem to be excellent events and championships earned on what the dog actual does in the event. And both worthy of titles.

[prydwynn]

I agree 100 % on the obedience part to AKC and UKC. I think they are very much equal.

As to conformation, apple and oranges from AKC to UKC. Both venues should judge against the standard. Stand at a UKC for a few minutes and you can see that that is not so.

An AKC CH could very easily go to UKC and earn a CH title. I think very few if any UKC CH's could go to AKC and come away winning.

I think if you want to do only UKC, that is fine. Where my problem is where those UKC only CH's breed and their puppies are higher in price than an AKC CH produced puppy.

I don't mean to offend or hurt anyone. This is my opinion only.

I put UKC, IABCA titles on my dogs. I first put the AKC title on then go to the other. I also start puppies out at UKC or IABCA. They are great for a learning experience.

[Rhiannon]

Kristen has a bitch that has her UKC Grand Championship. Totally different type of show than AKC shows. It is a nice starting place for people to feel more confident in their training of their dogs and polishing of their show skills. Atmosphere seems to be more relaxed. I have gone to one of the events and really enjoyed the dock diving event. I think that is what it is called. It was incredible to see the dogs do that. I think you all have pretty much covered the points of the two venues pretty good. I agree good shows for training of puppies as well.

[Panama]

I've exhibited in AKC, UKC & IABCA shows. Personally, the UKC atmosphere is so much more friendlier. IABCA comes up behind that where I've met some outstanding AKC people that probably never would've spoken to me if we were at an AKC show.

The day a Roman Nose with a gay tail and ears that had to be held erect was put up over my male, I'd seen enough for the time being, and haven't been back to an AKC show yet. The judge saw a professional handler and little 'ole me. We smiled, took our 2nd place ribbon and congratulated the winning handler.

I don't know how long the UKC has had the Grand CH title available, but I do believe AKC just started offering it last year.

At UKC shows, whether it's your 1st time exhibiting or your 100th... everyone is always helpful and pleasant.

I do agree though, some of the dogs being put in IABCA Shows are getting worse all the time. I've been looking at a few of their rosters, and many of the shows are stacked with sometimes 3 or more dogs from the same breeder or owner.
And on the flip side, I know dog with a slightly bitchy head and a gay tail (I'm taking HIGH NOON) that is 1 major away from his AKC title. (???) So, in ALL venues it's apparent that sometimes it isn't always the "best of the best" being put up.
Just my .02

[RKCM]

I've exhibited in AKC, UKC & IABCA shows. Personally, the UKC atmosphere is so much more friendlier. IABCA comes up behind that where I've met some outstanding AKC people that probably never would've spoken to me if we were at an AKC show.

The day a Roman Nose with a gay tail and ears that had to be held erect was put up over my male, I'd seen enough for the time being, and haven't been back to an AKC show yet. The judge saw a professional handler and little 'ole me. We smiled, took our 2nd place ribbon and congratulated the winning handler.

I don't know how long the UKC has had the Grand CH title available, but I do believe AKC just started offering it last year.

At UKC shows, whether it's your 1st time exhibiting or your 100th... everyone is always helpful and pleasant.

I do agree though, some of the dogs being put in IABCA Shows are getting worse all the time. I've been looking at a few of their rosters, and many of the shows are stacked with sometimes 3 or more dogs from the same breeder or owner.
And on the flip side, I know dog with a slightly bitchy head and a gay tail (I'm taking HIGH NOON) that is 1 major away from his AKC title. (???) So, in ALL venues it's apparent that sometimes it isn't always the "best of the best" being put up.
Just my .02

There are good and not so good judges in both venues. This is why you research the judges and find out what they have put up in the past etc. Remember you pay for the judges opinion and it is just that, their opinion. If they put up a dog that you thought was not worthy and your dog dumped, you don't pay for that opinion again. You can look up every day the judges have put up on the AKC judges list on line. It's worth the time. You can't really judge the whole AKC show world by a few shows. It has been my observation that most judges want to find the best dog and are interested in the sport. All judging is subjective.

Having to have two majors (AKC) and being the best of many dogs according to the standard and according to the judges opinion, rules out at lot of dogs. That is way different than taking two of your own dogs and winning points in the UKC. It just takes more to become an AKC champion. Most dogs UKC CH that can compete in the AKC do so, and then, there are some UKC CH that could not win in an AKC. Some can do both.

Remember that most dogs in the AKC are shown by their owners and they can win but you have to present your dog like a professional. Many of the owner handlers in our breed are masters and when it comes to judging dogs of equal merit, you may be lacking. The old saying, you can't keep a good dogs down, applies. As owners, we think our dogs are the best or we wouldn't be spending the time and money showing. In the AKC, I wouldn't expect to win at a few shows but if the dog was worthy, not out of the competition everyday. Having a handler or well known breeder evaluate the dogs could be helpful in showing the dog or maybe considering having a handler. They will see things that as owners that love the dog may not. Some hire handlers because they can't travel with their dogs to all the shows required. Others want to have their dog presented by the best. But most show their own dogs in the AKC and they win just as often. Many breeders are considered handlers because they show dogs that they have bred etc......lots to consider here. The UKC requires you to show a dog you own. There is a difference there.

As far as friendly, I do know the UKC shows are more social but remember if the owner or handler maybe showing several dogs, they don't have time to chit chat until after the showing is over. Someone else is paying for their time and we have to be patient. In the shows I have been, all exhibitors have been friendly etc., but there are always exceptions. Congrats to the winners is always a good thing.....do unto others doesn't hurt because if you have a good dog, they will have their day.

In this post, I am speaking about conformation shows, not performance events, which are of equal merit. I love all events when people do something with their dog but the AKC conformation are the best of the best. Not meant to offend anyone, but just my personal opinion.

[RKCM]

I agree 100 % on the obedience part to AKC and UKC. I think they are very much equal.

As to conformation, apple and oranges from AKC to UKC. Both venues should judge against the standard. Stand at a UKC for a few minutes and you can see that that is not so.

An AKC CH could very easily go to UKC and earn a CH title. I think very few if any UKC CH's could go to AKC and come away winning.

I think if you want to do only UKC, that is fine. Where my problem is where those UKC only CH's breed and their puppies are higher in price than an AKC CH produced puppy.

I don't mean to offend or hurt anyone. This is my opinion only.

I put UKC, IABCA titles on my dogs. I first put the AKC title on then go to the other. I also start puppies out at UKC or IABCA. They are great for a learning experience.

Thanks for your insight. Very well put......

[Shadowlands]

Regardless of which venue gave what points to what dog...in the end it is the judges responsibility to judge on merit of each and every dog presented.

Why is that not happening?

[prydwynn]

Regardless of which venue gave what points to what dog...in the end it is the judges responsibility to judge on merit of each and every dog presented.

Why is that not happening?

Oh that is a circle...where does the buck stop? :) With the judges, with the breeders where oh where?

I agree it is the judges responsibility. They are paid to evaluate. If what walks into the ring does not meet standard....withhold ribbons, titles, wins.

[Shadowlands]

Oh that is a circle...where does the buck stop? :) With the judges, with the breeders where oh where?

I agree it is the judges responsibility. They are paid to evaluate. If what walks into the ring does not meet standard....withhold ribbons, titles, wins.

Exactly. I wholeheartedly agree. It would also be nice to have a written critique, just my opinion of course. :)

[DoUrden]

Just as an FYI on this, I show in UKC just to show confirmation to the standard in my breeding program, and yes, I have seen judges withhold placements on a few occasions.

[Shadowlands]

Just as an FYI on this, I show in UKC just to show confirmation to the standard in my breeding program, and yes, I have seen judges withhold placements on a few occasions.

Good to know and thanks for the info. :)

[Panama]

I show in UKC also, and I have seen placements witheld.

(can't wait for our next UKC show either... getting antsy)

[Shadowlands]

I show in UKC also, and I have seen placements witheld.

(can't wait for our next UKC show either... getting antsy)

You are going to take pics right? Can't have her brothers and sisters being shown with no pics.

Hmmm...was that enough of a hint? :D

[Twiggy]

I have never exhibited in UKC conformation, however, have in obedience. At that time the major difference that I encountred between UKC and AKC obed, was a jump on the recall. AKC at that time had a stand recall. That jump could easily make or break the exercise. And with humor it took longer for the UKC CD than the AKC CD...Does UKC still require that jump? And also wanted to add, I like UKC!!!!

[DoUrden]

Yes, UKC stil requires the jump. I also like UKC and prefer to compete there vs in an AKC ring. Whether showing in conformation or performance events, I find the atmosphere much more to my liking. I'm also the VP of our local UKC club.

[Twiggy]

Yes, UKC stil requires the jump. I also like UKC and prefer to compete there vs in an AKC ring. Whether showing in conformation or performance events, I find the atmosphere much more to my liking. I'm also the VP of our local UKC club.Absolutely and not only is a more inviting atmosphere but it appears as there is more comraderie than in the A.KC ring. It seems that there was a time that the obedience ring in AKC wasa far more friendlier place but I really don't see that anymore. But then I haven't exhibited in UKC in some time. But I do have fond memories...Funny of how regardless, those will last forever! LOL...I wish there was more UKC Activity in this area!

[DoUrden]

Come on down to FL then! ;)

[Twiggy]

Come on down to FL then! ;)Definately would be a thought with the weather as it is today. I am so looking forward to spring, Phil or not. the dogs just love laying out in the yard while mama slaves away and plants the next garden they can theive from!!LOL..they have a fetish for tomatoes!!!

[Panama]

Wow, that sounds familiar!

[Twiggy]

Wow, that sounds familiar!Hey, wanted to correct one of my post...I do not have a Bronze level on my dog...after reviewing, it is only a Silver! That bothered me and I felt the need to correct it!

[TrinityDobes]

Definately would be a thought with the weather as it is today. I am so looking forward to spring, Phil or not. the dogs just love laying out in the yard while mama slaves away and plants the next garden they can theive from!!LOL..they have a fetish for tomatoes!!!

Twiggy, I have rasberry bushes and my guys are berry stealing theives!!! When I used to have a big garden they would help "harvest" the potatoes and the carrots!!!!

[Twiggy]

Twiggy, I have rasberry bushes and my guys are berry stealing theives!!! When I used to have a big garden they would help "harvest" the potatoes and the carrots!!!!

OUCH...They must be agile, mine probably wouldn't have hair left! I remember years ago, blackberry picking with my mother, I lost my balance, and the rest was to painful to even post...LOL...What made it worse, my mother couldn't stop laughing..