Conformation shows evaluate how closely dogs match the breed standard. These events are important for maintaining breed quality and providing a venue for breeders to showcase their dogs.
In conformation shows, dogs are judged on their adherence to the breed standard, including structure, movement, temperament, and overall appearance. Judges evaluate each dog's conformation to determine how well they represent the ideal Labrador Retriever.
Conformation showing helps preserve breed type and quality. Dogs that excel in conformation typically possess the structural soundness and breed characteristics that make excellent breeding prospects. This helps ensure future generations maintain the qualities that make Labradors such wonderful companions.
Structure: Proper bone, muscle, and overall body proportions
Movement: Efficient, sound gait that demonstrates athletic ability
Head and Expression: Correct head shape with typical Labrador expression
Coat: Dense, weather-resistant double coat in proper colors
Temperament: Friendly, outgoing personality typical of the breed
Type: Overall appearance that says "Labrador Retriever"
Puppy Classes: 6-9 months and 9-12 months
Older Puppy Classes:12-15 months and 15-18 months
Adult Classes: Novice, Bred-by-Exhibitor (sometimes split between 12 & under and over 12 months), American-Bred, Open Black, Open Chocolate, Open Yellow
Specials: Dogs that have finished their championship
If you're interested in showing your Labrador, we recommend:
• Attending shows as a spectator to learn
• Having your dog evaluated by experienced breeders
• Taking handling classes to learn proper presentation
• Starting with match shows for practice
• Finding a mentor among our experienced members
AKC conformation points are awarded to dogs that place in AKC dog shows, with the number of points determined by the number of dogs competing in each breed and sex at that particular show. Dogs can earn 1-5 points per show, with 3, 4, or 5-point wins considered "majors" - and a dog must earn at least 2 majors among their required 15 total points to achieve their Championship title. The point schedule varies by geographic region and is updated annually based on the average number of dogs shown in each breed over the previous year, ensuring that breeds with higher entry numbers require more competition to earn the same points. Winners Dog and Winners Bitch each receive points based on the number of dogs they defeated in their respective sex, while Best of Breed, Best of Opposite Sex, and Best of Winners can earn additional points if they defeat more dogs than were required for the Winners awards. This system ensures that championships reflect both consistency in winning and the ability to win under significant competition, making the AKC Championship a meaningful measure of a dog's quality in conformation.
Try out our Points Calculator.
Try out our Grand Champion Points Calculator.
Florida has an active dog show circuit with events throughout the year. Our members regularly participate in shows across the state and often achieve significant wins with their beautiful Labs. We can help newcomers find shows and connect with handling resources.
Dogs can be shown by their owners or by professional handlers. Many of our members enjoy the challenge and bonding experience of owner-handling, while others prefer to use professional handlers to maximize their dog's potential in the ring. There's even an Owner-Handler Best of Breed for shows that offer NOHS as part of their show.
Conformation showing is about more than winning ribbons. It's an opportunity to meet other Labrador enthusiasts, learn about the breed, and contribute to the preservation of breed quality. Many lifelong friendships are formed through the sport of dogs.