Mary Allen
Introduction: Why purebred dogs?
Purebred dogs are dogs that belong to a specific breed and have a documented pedigree. They have been bred for generations to meet certain standards of appearance, temperament, and behavior. These standards are established by breed clubs and recognized by organizations like the American Kennel Club (AKC). Dog shows are events where purebred dogs are evaluated against these standards, and the best of each breed are awarded prizes.
History of dog shows
Dog shows have been held for centuries, but they were not standardized until the 19th century. The first modern dog show was held in England in 1859, and it featured only sporting breeds. As the popularity of dog shows grew, more breeds were added, and the standards for each breed became more formalized. Today, dog shows are held all over the world, and they are a way for breeders to showcase their dogs and compete against others.
The American Kennel Club (AKC)
The American Kennel Club (AKC) is the largest registry of purebred dogs in the world. It was founded in 1884 and is responsible for maintaining the breed standards for over 190 breeds. The AKC also sanctions dog shows and obedience trials, and it provides resources for breeders and owners. The AKC is a nonprofit organization that is dedicated to promoting responsible dog ownership and breeding.