Dog showing, also known as conformation showing, is the most popular canine sport in the world, combining the precision of a sport with the passion of canine companionship.
Dog shows are competitive events, effectively knock-out competitions, where judges evaluate and rank dogs based on how well they conform to the official standard for each breed, and they’re a great place to meet other owners within the breed and to see dogs from different kennels, on top of competing with your dog. In 2024, over 100 English Toy Terriers competed at various Open Shows and Championship Shows across the UK.
Dog shows are a showcase for over two hundred breeds of pedigree dogs, and help educate exhibitors, breeders and the public about different breeds’ characteristics and needs. For breeders, these events help preserve breed standards and guide breeding decisions to enhance genetic health and conformation quality. For spectators, dog shows are a chance to witness the beauty and diversity of dog breeds up close. Many English Toy Terrier owners started their ETT journey at a dog show whether they show their dogs or not.
Find out more about showing your English Toy Terrier Dog
If you’re interested in showing your English Toy Terrier:
- Speak to your breeder – your breeder may show their own dogs so it is worth a chat with them to check if they can help to get you started.
- Join us on Facebook – the Club posts results and news from the show world so join us on Facebook for an insight into the latest from the ETT ring.
- Come to an ETT Show – we’re more than happy to try to arrange for a Club Member to meet you at a show so that you have someone with experience there to answer any questions. There are four Club Shows and many Open Shows and Championship Shows with ETT Classes each year held up and down the country.
- Find a Ringcraft Club – there are many ringcraft (show training) clubs all over the country – some are run informally by a group of show friends who practice together, others are run by RKC registered societies. To find a ringcraft club near you the best way is to ask us on Facebook – our members will be happy to recommend a Club that is near you.