Best in Show - Otherwise Known as Conformation

What is it: Many people have seen the movie, while others may have seen Westminster, or the National Dog Show on Thanksgiving on TV. Conformation is where a dog is evaluated based on their overall structure and appearance and how they conform to their breed’s written standard. For the Alaskan Klee Kai, each dog is reviewed by the judge while the dog is standing on a table. They are then asked to gait in a pattern set by the judge, in order to observe how they move. The purpose of a conformation show is to have your dog evaluated by an impartial third party, to ensure the goal of improving the breed over time. Whether you plan to breed, want to support your breeder by proving that their lines meet the standard, or just want to get into a new activity with your dog, we recommend conformation handling classes for all dogs because it's terrific opportunity for socialization and provides a baseline training for the dog to be handled by a stranger (a skill that will be useful in everyday life as well as in many other dog sports).

In AKC, the Alaskan Klee Kai can be found in the Foundation Stock Service (FSS) program. This is the first step to becoming AKC recognized. AKK compete in what are called “Open Shows” and earn points toward a Certificate of Merit. In UKC, Alaskan Klee Kai are shown in the Northern Group and work to earn Champion, Grand Champion titles, and more.

Venues and Rules

For the Alaskan Klee Kai, we have two main conformation venues: AKC and UKC. There are also a few more listed, and each has their pros and cons.

Tools and Training

 For conformation, you will need a thin collar (usually a snake chain, thin martingale, or something similar) and a thin leash (usually about as thick as a shoelace and can be made of leather, nylon, etc.). 

It is best if you can find a ln in-person conformation instructor to teach you the ropes. However, there are some great online resources including a full session of classes, tutorials, or even YouTube videos. You will also want to learn how to groom your dog to ensure they are presentable in the show ring. 

Benefits for you and your dog:

  • Build a Great Skill Set - while your dog may never be a conformation superstar, learning how to stand still on a table while a stranger touches them is a great tool to have in your repertoire if you need to go the vet or a groomer. It also is great practice for loose leash walking. Standing for exam is also a skill that's required in higher levels of rally obedience and obedience, so start setting your dog up for success! 

  • Confidence Building - Your dog will learn to be still and confident both on the table and on the ground. In addition, you will gain confidence when it comes to being in the conformation ring with other dogs. This is one of the few sports that other dogs will be in the ring together.

  • Learning Opportunities - Going to a conformation show is a great way to meet breeders, dogs, and make friends. It gives you the opportunity to ask questions and learn more about the breed.

Thurisia Dog’s Do It All!

Thurisia’s Involvement: Thurisia has been involved with conformation showing since our inception. Our goal is to ensure structurally sound Alaskan Klee Kai, and conformation shows allow us to get great feedback on our dogs. Thurisia is proud to own and have produced many Grand Champions in UKC and a number of Certificates of Merit for AKC. We thank all of our owners for getting out there to show that we have generations of structurally sound dogs. Some of our show dogs include, but are not limited to:

  • Isla - UKC Emerald Grand Champion and AKC Certificate of Merit 3

  • Potion - UKC Grand Champion and AKC Certificate of Merit

  • Attila - UKC Grand Champion and AKC Certificate of Merit

  • Lyra - UKC Grand Champion and AKC Certificate of Merit

  • Arwen - UKC Grand Champion and AKC CM Pointed

  • Halo - UKC Grand Champion and AKC CM Pointed

  • Kirjava - UKC Grand Champion and AKC CM Pointed

  • Miko - UKC Champion