CKC Breed Standards

The breed standard is the blueprint for the ideal specimen and includes size, weight, colour, coat, ear set, tail set, topline, feet, movement, temperament, structure, etc. A breed standard exists for each of the 187 breeds recognized by the Canadian Kennel Club. According to their historic function, the CKC allocates each breed into one of seven groups.

A conformation dog show tests how closely a dog conforms to the breed standard. In essence, the various entries in a dog show, whether they are a Chihuahua, A Labrador Retriever or an Irish Wolfhound, are not competing against each other; they are in a contest with their own breed standard. The breed standard outlines the ideal characteristics, temperament, and appearance of a breed, and ensures that a dog can carry out its original purpose. Breeders and judges should be mindful to prioritize dogs that are healthy and sound in both mind and body.