Top Tip #39
Make sure you always read the show schedule if you are entering a new class. It’s important that you keep track of your dogs wins at open and champ shows to ensure you don’t enter a class your dog is over qualified for and therefore risk having your reward taken away from you and getting a fine.
What is a match?
Matches can be held by a canine society, normally as an evening event once a month (Maximum of 12 in one year). They are good practice both for those hoping to attempt entering formal shows and for those who are interested in judging. But they are also equally and good (and fun) for more experienced show people. Matches are run for the benefit of members and you must be a member of the society to enter the match.
Entries are taken on the day and dogs are randomly drawn in pairs to compete against each other with the winner of each pairing going forward to the next round until a single winner is reached. A Best in Match and a Best Puppy in Match will be declared at the end of the night.
Judges can be of any level and many societies will choose to have a mixture of new judges and some experienced judges to give their members an opportunity to be judged by different people.
Dogs, which have won a Challenge Certificate or obtained any award that counts towards the title of Champion under the rules of any governing body recognised by the Kennel Club, are not eligible for entry in Matches.