The Westminster Dog Show, held every February, is one of American dog-doms great events, attracting celebrities as well as ordinary dog lovers. Perhaps you were able to watch at least part of the show on television.

The first Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show was held in 1877 and has been held every year since, usually at Madison Square Garden. Except for the Kentucky Derby, it is America’s oldest continuous sporting activity. Over the years, about a quarter of a million dogs have entered this competition.

Since 1992, the only dogs allowed to compete in the show have already won their title of American Kennel Club champion of record. A champion of record has won at least fifteen championship points at qualifying dog shows.

During the two days of the show, 2500 dogs are judged. They are divided into groups: Sporting, Herding, Hound, Terrier, Toy, Working and Non-Working. About forty judges select the best in the breed and the best in the group. One judge selects the Best in Show.

The Westminster Dog Show is a benched show, so while the dogs are not being individually judged, they pose on special benches. This feature has an educational purpose as the dogs and owners interact with one another and with the public. At one time, most dog shows were benched, but nowadays the Westminster Dog Show is one of the few remaining benched dog shows in America.

The purpose of dogs shows like the Westminster Dog Show is to improve future generations of each breed. Breeders and owners watch carefully to see how each dog conforms to the standard for that breed. They may see an animal they want to own, or find mates for dogs they already have.

If you are thinking of buying a pedigreed dog, first read the breed standards that tell you how that breed should look and present itself. Once you are familiar with the standards, attending or watching dog shows like the Westminster Dog Show can flesh out those dry definitions and measurements.