–AKC Adds New Titles in Conformation, Companion and Performance Events —
New York, NY– Since the start of the year, each event type – conformation, companion and performance – now offers its exhibitors a brand new AKC title. The conformation and performance titles will appeal to the long-time exhibitor while the companion title will help bring along the novice handler or inexperienced dog.
Last month, Conformation added the Grand Champion title. Judges now have the opportunity of awarding Grand Championship points to their Best of Breed and Best of Opposite winners as well as to additional AKC Champions with the Select Dog and Select Bitch award. We believe this title gives breeders and owners a new way to showcase the quality of their breeding stock to judges and other breeders and exhibitors alike. We encourage you to take advantage of the enhanced conformation title.
We are proud to announce that we already have the first AKC Grand Champion in history – a 4-year old Weimaraner named GCH Monterra’s Best Bet, MH – who finished his title in six consecutive shows. As an additional recognition for dogs that complete their Grand Champion title, they will also receive an invitation to the AKC / Eukanuba National Championship.
Starting this summer, Companion events will offer a new Beginner Novice obedience title. This title is an excellent competitive event for both the novice handler and dog. Most exercises, a blend from Rally and Companion Dog, are completed on-leash.
In the Performance area, Earthdog competitors now have the opportunity to earn a new title – the Endurance Earthdog – the first addition since the program’s inception in 1993. This EE title provides a new challenge for dogs that have earned their Master Earthdog title by requiring them to earn five double qualifications in master and senior. A Border Terrier named “Rosemary” recently earned the first ever EE title.
As you know, Parent Clubs also have a variety of breed specific sports and events. The Board recently approved a program to allow the recording of parent club performance event titles if AKC does not provide a test for these breed-specific skills. The Bloodhound Club of America is the first to apply for acknowledgment of its titles with their “man-trailing event”. If your parent club would like to participate in this new program please contact Performance Events AVP Doug Ljungren at DVL@akc.org.
As you can see, it’s an exciting time for AKC exhibitors. Whether you want to compete further, add more titles or participate in parent club events, we hope these new AKC titles will inspire you to reach higher goals, remain longer on the competitive trail, and provide you with more ways to bond with your dog.
Sincerely,
Ron Menaker
Chairman