TABLE OF CONTENTS

• Chapter 1: General Rules
• Chapter 3: Handlers in EBKC Events
• Chapter 2: Rules Applying to Exhibitors And Spectators
• Chapter 4: Order Of Events
• Chapter 5: Rules Applying To Licensed Classes
• Chapter 6: Licensed Classes And Entry Eligibility
• Chapter 7: Junior Showmanship
• Chapter 8: Non-Licensed Classes
• Chapter 9: Total Dog & Total Junior Awards
• Chapter 10 Handlers with Disabilities
• Chapter 11: Top Ten Competition
• Chapter 12: Conformation Titles
• Chapter 13: Awards, Trophies, And Ribbons
• Chapter 14: Rules Applying to Judges
• Chapter 15: Dogs And Exhibitors That May Not Be Entered Under A Judge
• Chapter 16: Judging Procedures
• Chapter 17: Definitions
• Inherent Rights & Powers of EBKC

What is a Conformation Show?

A Conformation show is a competition for purebred dogs where the dog is evaluated based upon how closely the dog conforms to its breed standard. This type of event is beneficial to both exhibitors who seek an evaluation of their dog’s conformation and breeders who wish to enhance their breeding programs by selecting dogs that encompass the function, temperament, and physical attributes of the breed.

Exhibitor Guidelines. Every exhibitor is expected to know the rules before competing and be ready to abide by them.

It is the responsibility of all EBKC host clubs and exhibitors to promote good sportsmanship and the family-friendly atmosphere of EBKC events. Exhibitors’ clothing should be neat and clean. Their apparel speaks to the respect they have for the sport, the event, and its proceedings.

Exhibitors’ dogs should be clean and brushed or trimmed, where necessary, to present a neat appearance in accordance with their breed standard.

All exhibitors must display good sportsmanship and respect for others at the event and in conjunction with public forums and social media. Experienced exhibitors should try to help new exhibitors; the future of the sport is in the hands of the beginner.

Exhibitors should take care when discussing a placement with the judge and accept their decision gracefully. Remember, it was the judge’s evaluation of the dog on that day.

Exhibitors should always keep their area clean, dispose of all dog waste appropriately and leave an event site in the condition they found it.

Finality of judges’ decisions. By entering any EBKC conformation event, the owner and/or handler of any dog agrees to accept the decision of the judge as final. The decision of a judge is their own opinion and not that of the European Bully Kennel Club

CHAPTER 1 GENERAL RULES

Section 1. Jurisdiction. The following rules and regulations governing EBKC licensed conformation shows and the awarding of EBKC Championship points and titles issued by European Bully Kennel Club are uniform and are not given on a local or geographical basis. All EBKC licensed conformation shows shall be governed by the Official EBKC Rules for All-Breed Events, the Official EBKC Conformation Rulebook, and the EBKC Misconduct and Discipline Guidelines for All-Breed Events.

Section 2. Who May Offer Conformation Events. Any EBKC licensed Conformation club may be approved to host single breed shows, group shows, or all-breed shows. EBKC reserves the right to grant, withhold or revoke event licenses at its own discretion.

Section 3. Club Equipment Requirements. A club hosting an EBKC licensed Conformation event must provide the following equipment:

• Ring supplies such as pens, pencils, calculators, and clipboards to be used by the judges and stewards.
• Wicket. The club must have an adjustable wicket that can be set at specific heights and used for measuring dogs that have height limits in their breed standard. Clubs may need to have multiple wickets to account for the varied heights of dogs.
• Weight Scale. The club must have weight scale (digital preferred) that can weigh any dog that has a weight limit listed in their breed standard.
• Examination Tables. The club must have enough examination tables to cover each ring that requires the use of a table during the examination of a dog.
• Flooring. Indoor conformation events must be held on a non-slip surface. The club must provide a suitable and safe floor covering such as rubberized mats, carpet or artificial turf if necessary.

Section 4. Licensed Conformation Classes. Licensed classes are classes in which points may be earned towards titles and/or rankings.

• Regular Classes. Classes for all intact dogs.
• Junior Showmanship Classes. Evaluation of a Junior Handler’s ability to present a dog to a judge and demonstrate knowledge of the dog and breed being presented.

Section 5. Eligibility of Dogs. To be eligible to compete in licensed Conformation shows, dogs must meet the following requirements:

• Be at least six (6) months of age on the day of the event.
• Be permanently registered with EBKC or have a valid Temporary Listing (TL) number
• Have a Performance Listing (PL) number or Limited Privilege (LP) number or on the day of the event. (PL/LP numbers are accepted for Junior Showmanship events only).
• At a Pre-Entry only event, the dog must be Permanently Registered, have a valid TL or a valid PL/LP number by the pre-entry deadline date of the event.

Dogs entered into the non-licensed Novice Puppy class do not need to have an EBKC number but may be shown on their EBKC Litter Registration number, Permanent Registration number or Temporary Listing (TL) number.

Section 6. Dogs Ineligible for Entry in an EBKC Licensed Conformation Event. The following dogs must not enter and/or compete in a Conformation event, even if otherwise eligible for other events and may be refused entry by the host club.

• Dogs that are not permanently registered.
• Dogs that have been disqualified by a judge at a EBKC licensed event in accordance with the Official EBKC Rules for All-Breed Events, Chapter 1, Section 13.
• Blind dogs. A blind dog is defined as having no useful vision.
• Dogs missing all or part of a limb, or dogs that have more than 4 limbs.
• Lame dogs. A lame dog is defined as a dog demonstrating impaired locomotion, so as to limp or move with difficulty.
• Females in season must not be exhibited in Junior Showmanship. If a female comes into season, a Junior may substitute for a dog that meets all requirements listed in Section 5. If the substituted dog is already entered, an entry correction form must be provided. If the substituted dog is not already entered, an entry form must also be provided to the Event Secretary before exhibiting.
• Dogs that appear to be ill or dogs with sutures, bandages, adhesive or any other material that is indicative of or related to any surgical or medical procedure
• Dogs under the influence of a performance or behavior altering drug.

Any dog found to be participating in a EBKC licensed Conformation event in any condition described above must be given a mandatory excusal by the judge.

Section 8: Dog Temperament and Behavior. Owners of EBKC registered dogs are responsible for the behavior of their dogs at EBKC events. Dogs participating in EBKC events are expected to have stable temperaments appropriate to their breeds and to be sufficiently well trained so that no dog’s behavior interferes with the judge’s ability to evaluate the dog or its performance. Owners or designated handlers are expected to ensure that their dogs present no threat to persons or other dogs attending the event.

A judge must excuse a dog when the dog’s behavior significantly interferes with the judge’s ability to evaluate the dog or to evaluate the dogs of other exhibitors. This includes, but is not limited to, such behavior as not standing for examination or refusing to walk. A judge must excuse a dog when the dog’s demeanor gives the judge reason to believe that the dog may not be safely examined or appears to be a serious threat to other dogs in the ring. In such cases, the judge must mark the dog “Excused” in the judge’s book and state the reason for the excusal. The judge’s decision on such matters is final.

Section 9. Eligibility of Owners/Handlers. Conformation handlers may be any age provided the handler is able to control the dog. Handlers are not required to own the dog to enter or compete. The Breeder/Handler class is reserved for dogs who are exhibited by the Breeder of Record or their immediate family. A judge may excuse a dog at any time if they believe the handler is unable to control the dog. The judge’s decision is final. Junior Handlers competing in Junior Showmanship must enter their appropriate age class.

Section 10. Handlers with Disabilities. Only one person may handle a dog in the ring/competition area (with the exception of Belgian Shepherd Dogs being handled using the Assisted Animated Critique). Handlers may use a wheelchair, crutches, cane or any other means of mechanical assistance in the ring. The judge may also make reasonable modifications to the extent that it assists the handler. No modification may be made that gives any advantage to the handler’s dog or that changes the dog’s part of the required exercise/performance in any way. If necessary, assistance may be given to place or remove a dog from the examination table by another person.

Section 11. Requirements for Entering a EBKC Licensed Event. Dogs must meet the eligibility requirements for entering a Conformation event. Dogs that are entered and compete in EBKC licensed events that do not meet all eligibility requirements will have their wins invalidated. No dog may be entered in any class for exhibition only.

Section 12. Invalid Entries. Any dog exhibited in a licensed Conformation class and whose entry is subsequently determined to be invalid after the event, shall receive no points but shall count as having competed. Exhibitors are responsible for the information contained on their entry form(s) and for ensuring they are competing in the appropriate class(es) for which the dog is eligible. Dogs competing in the incorrect class(es) shall be invalidated. Exhibitors are responsible for exhibiting a dog in the class it is eligible for. If there is an error on a judge’s book, exhibitors must notify the ring steward and/or the Event Secretary immediately. An entry is still invalid if an exhibitor exhibits the dog in the wrong class due to an error on the judge’s book. Exhibitors are permitted to review all Judge’s Books at an event to ensure their accuracy.

Section 13. Official EBKC Entry Form. Entries to all events must be submitted using the most current Official EBKC Entry Form. Entry forms must be complete when submitted to the Event Secretary, including a valid EBKC Permanent Registration number, EBKC Performance Listing (PL)/ Limited Privilege (LP) number or EBKC Temporary Listing (TL) number. Incomplete or unsigned entry forms, or entries unaccompanied by entry fees, are invalid and are to be refused by the Event Secretary/Event Manager. The entry form used to enter the event and signed by the exhibitor specifically states that the exhibitor is familiar with EBKC rules and regulations and agrees to abide by them.

Section 14. Entering a Breed with Varieties. The person completing an entry form for a variety breed must provide the variety of the dog in the space provided.

Section 15. Entering Multiple Dogs in an Event. Exhibitors who enter more than one dog in a Conformation event must be prepared to provide an additional hander if the dog(s) are called to exhibit at the same time. The additional handler must not exhibit in the Breeder/Handler class unless they are the breeder or breeder’s immediate family member.

CHAPTER 2

RULES APPLYING TO EXHIBITORS AND SPECTATORS

By entering a EBKC event, the exhibitor is inviting the opinion of the Judge and must accept the Judge’s decision as final. EBKC exhibitors and spectators are expected to display good behavior and good sportsmanship in and out of the ring. Judges may excuse exhibitors from their ring for violations of these rules or conduct that interferes with the event and event participants. Event committee members and host club officers may excuse exhibitors or spectators from the show grounds for violations of these rules or conduct that interferes with the event and event participants.

Section 1. Judge’s Placements. The decision of the Judge is their opinion and not that of the European Bully Kennel Club Exhibitors are encouraged to discuss placements with judges but may not argue about the Judge’s placements.

Section 2. Judge’s Evaluation of Dentition. At the discretion of the judge they may either look at a dog’s bite themselves, or ask the exhibitor to show the bite. Judges may make that decision based upon breed, individual dog, and circumstances and will not necessarily use the same method for examining the individual bite of each dog or for each breed. If an exhibitor would rather show the bite to the judge, the judge should honor that exhibitor’s request to show the bite.

Section 3. Complaints About a Judge. Complaints about a Judge’s demeanor, knowledge of a breed or adherence to EBKC rules must be filed in writing with EBKC. The complaint must address specific details and provide the name of the judge, the name of the host club and date of the event. Electronic audio or video recordings will not be considered by EBKC when reviewing a Judge’s competency to judge a breed. No anonymous complaints will be considered.

Section 4. The Use of Bait in the Ring. The use of bait in the ring will be determined by the judge. If bait is not allowed, the exhibitor may not take any type of food, squeakers or toys in the ring. If bait is allowed, the Judge must allow food, squeakers, and toys equally in the ring. Bait must never be thrown or litter the ring. Any exhibitor found to be throwing bait or littering the ring surface may be subject to disciplinary action.

Section 5. Grooming. EBKC encourages exhibitors to emphasize the conditioning and training of their dogs and to avoid extreme grooming practices. A dog should be sufficiently clean and well-groomed to enable a Judge to properly evaluate the dog. Breeds with traditional trimming patterns should be presented in those patterns.

Except as allowed by a dog’s EBKC breed standard, exhibitors are prohibited from the following:

• altering coat color
• altering coat texture
• altering color of skin pigment
• using foreign substances
• altering ear carriage
• altering tail carriage
• any other surgical means used to alter the physical appearance of the dog

The use of grooming products. The use of items such as dye, hairspray, chalk, powder, aerosol sprays, dry shampoo and other such grooming products is strictly prohibited. Shampoo and conditioners are acceptable for use at shows.

• A non-aerosol spray bottle with water only or water mixed with a conditioner can be used on the dog at the event but may not be used in the ring.

o Hairless dogs may have unscented, oil-free, and colorless sunscreen applied to their skin to prevent sunburn.

• Exhibitors are prohibited from having or using combs, brushes, or other such grooming tools while in the ring.

o In extremely hot weather, a wet towel, or cloth dampened by water only, may be used to lay over the dog’s back, or to wipe underbelly, face, and pads of feet to keep the dog from overheating.

Judges who have reason to believe that a dog has grooming products on their coat/skin must excuse the dog and mark the Judge’s Book accordingly. The Judge’s decision on this matter is final.

Exhibitors who violate this rule may also be subject to disciplinary action by the host club and EBKC.

Section 6. Measuring and Weighing Dogs. There are several breeds whose standard requires a specific height or weight range.

Judges have the right to measure or weigh any breed that has a height or weight disqualification or eliminating fault. Any exhibitor competing in the same class has the right to request a dog be measured or weighed. Judges will comply with an exhibitor’s request. The request must be made before the class judging is complete. If a dog is found to be outside of the parameters for height or weight, the judge must note the height or weight of the dog on the Judge’s Book and write the explanation of the DQ or EF in the comment section. The Judge’s determination of the dog’s height or weight is final. The exceptions to this rule are as follows:

• Puppies. Judges cannot disqualify a dog or assess an eliminating fault for any entry being shown in the Puppy Class (or Novice Puppy Class), for being under height or weight minimums.

Section 8. Double Handling. Persons outside the ring are prohibited from any intentional actions designed to affect the performance of a dog being judged in the ring. This prohibition shall apply equally to persons attempting to improve or to impair performance. The Event Committee may expel from the show grounds any person they reasonably believe is double handling. Judges may excuse exhibitors whose dogs they reasonably believe are benefiting from “double handling.” Only one person can handle a dog in the ring.

Section 9. Handler Changes. A handler can request a handler change from the ring steward if the dog has not yet been physically examined by the judge. Handler changes will be allowed at the judge’s discretion.

Section 10. Collars. Harnesses, pinch collars and hanging collar tags are prohibited in show rings. The use of electronic collars is strictly prohibited on the grounds of a EBKC conformation event.

Section 11. Performance-Altering Drugs or Supplements. The use of performance altering drugs or supplements is strictly prohibited. Owners and handlers are presumed to know the condition of their dogs and risk disciplinary action for exhibiting dogs under the influence of performance-altering drugs.

Section 12. Mobile Phones and Audio/Video Devices. Mobile phones, audio and/or video recording devices are strictly prohibited while inside the ring/competition area.

Section 13. Substitution of Excused Handlers. The judge must excuse a handler who exhibits poor sportsmanship. The judge has sole discretion whether to allow the dog of an excused handler to continue to participate in the show with a substitute handler.

Section 14. Handler Misconduct. A handler who abuses their dog anywhere within the event grounds, which includes, but is not limited to, the show ring, show building, exercise area, camping and/or parking areas, is subject to disciplinary action.

1. Misconduct that occurs in the ring. The judge must immediately excuse any handler that abuses their dog while in the show ring. The judge must mark the dog as excused and the reason in the judge’s book for the excusal.
2. Misconduct that occurs outside of the show ring. Any person witnessing a dog being abused on the event grounds may file a complaint in accordance with the Official EBKC Rules for All- Breed Events, Misconduct and Discipline Guidelines, category 1.
3. Poor sportsmanship that rises to the level of misconduct must be dealt with in accordance with the rules as set forth in the Official EBKC Rules for All-Breed Events and Misconduct & Discipline Guidelines, category 1. The handler shall not be permitted to exhibit until the hearing has been held. A different handler may exhibit any additional dogs the handler has entered. In this case the club is not required to refund entry fee(s) for said dog or any additional dogs the exhibitor has entered on that day regardless if the dogs were shown or not.

Section 17. Ring and event grounds clean-up. Exhibitors are required to clean up after their dog if it fouls the ring or the event grounds. The ring steward may bring cleaning supplies to the exhibitor and may hold the dog while the owner cleans the ring. Any exhibitor who fails to clean up after their dog in the ring or anywhere on the event grounds may be directed by the Event Committee to leave the event grounds.

CHAPTER 3 HANDLERS IN EBKC EVENTS

European Bully Kennel Club events are intended to be family-oriented recreation for owners of EBKC registered dogs. Accordingly, EBKC encourages the promotion of the owner/breeder handler and prohibits the use of professional handlers in conformation.

Section 1. Persons Allowed to Handle Dogs in EBKC Conformation Events. The following categories of handlers are allowed:

• Owner or co-owner. The owner or co-owner of a EBKC registered dog may enter and exhibit his/her own dog in EBKC events. In addition, the following immediate family members of an owner or co-owner may enter and exhibit the dog; spouse, parent, step-parent, child, step- child, sibling, grandchild, in-law. Professional handlers who own EBKC registered dogs may exhibit their own dog(s) in EBKC events.
• Breeder. The breeder and/or their immediate family, of a EBKC registered dog may enter and exhibit that dog in EBKC events, even if the breeder is not an owner or co-owner of that dog, provided that the breeder-handler is not a professional handler.
• Designated handler. Any individual who has been given permission to do so by a registered owner or co-owner of a EBKC registered dog may enter and exhibit that dog in EBKC events.
• Professional handler.
  Professional Handlers are allowed to show dogs in EBKC Licensed Events.

Section 3. Professional Handler. A professional handler is a person who exhibits dogs for compensation. This category includes any person who accepts any pay, gift, or remuneration of any sort in return for exhibiting a dog. A person is no longer considered a professional handler if he/she has not acted in this capacity in five (5) or more years.

Section 4. Remuneration. Remuneration includes, but is not limited to: payment for exhibiting a dog in a EBKC licensed event, or any other organization, reimbursement for lodging, mileage, travel, meals, other travel expenses, or any other expenses incurred at or traveling to or from a EBKC licensed event. Payment of entry fees by another exhibitor for dogs owned by the professional handler in return for handling services.

CHAPTER 4 ORDER OF EVENTS

Section 1. Accepting Day of Show Entries. Clubs may accept entries for an event at any time prior and up to the published closing time of entries on the day of the event. Once the closing entry time for an event has been reached, the club may not accept any additional entries into the licensed classes for that day.

Section 2. Start Time for Licensed Classes. For events that are advertised as pre-entry only shows, judging must start at the advertised start time. At all other shows, judging must start at the advertised start time, or as soon as possible thereafter if there are many day-of-show entries. No dogs are to be judged prior to the published start time.

Section 3. Start Time for Non-Licensed Classes. Clubs may take entries for non-licensed classes up until the judging time for the non-licensed class. Non-licensed classes may be scheduled immediately following Best of Breed judging for that breed.

Section 4. Presence of Dogs for Judging and Re-Judging. Dogs should be present at their ring at time of judging. Judges are not required to wait for dogs and should a dog miss its class, the Judge will mark the entry as absent. Once the class has been awarded there will be no re-judging of dogs. Once in the ring, dogs may not leave until the class is over or unless excused or disqualified by the Judge. If a dog is found to have been exhibited in the wrong class, the class shall not be re-judged. A dog exhibited in the wrong class may be re-judged in the correct class provided that class has not yet been judged and an Entry Correction Form has been completed and submitted to the Event Secretary. Once Best Male and/or Best Female have been awarded, a dog shall not be re-judged due to class error.

Section 5. Group Judging. At the discretion of the club, groups may be scheduled for judging in any order. Group competition may commence immediately after all breeds for that group have been judged.

Section 6. Best in Show. Judging for Best in Show shall start after all Group judging is completed.

Section 7. Scheduling Performance and Conformation Events When There is Only One Ring Available. When the show site only accommodates a single ring, and a club is offering both Conformation and a performance event, Conformation shall be scheduled last.

CHAPTER 5

RULES APPLYING TO LICENSED CLASSES

Section 1. Entry into Licensed Classes. No dog may be entered in more than one licensed conformation class in the same show, nor may dogs be entered into any classes in which they have not met the class requirements. Class winners must compete in the next level of competition through Best of Breed unless defeated, excused, disqualified, or if the dog becomes ill or lame.

Section 2. Determining Invalid Entries. Any dog shown in a licensed class and whose entry is subsequently determined to be invalid, shall receive no points but shall count as having competed. No points or awards shall be given to the second-place dog in any licensed class when the entry of a class winner is subsequently determined to be invalid. When the entry of a dog is subsequently determined to be invalid, and that dog has won the licensed class for which there is a Reserve award, (Best Male/Female of Variety, Best Male/Female, and Champion classes) given, all points may be given to the Reserve winner from that class. The reserve win may or may not include the competition win. Best of Winners, Best of Breed and Top Ten Points earned by the invalid entry will not be awarded to the Reserve winner.

Section 3. Class Changes. Class changes must be completed no later than one-half hour prior to the start of any regular judging on the day of the show by submitting the Official EBKC Class Change/Entry Correction Form to the Event Secretary. In the case of a club running two shows simultaneously, the club must post its class change policy at the entry table and the Event Secretary’s table on the day of the show or publish the class change policy in the Judging Schedule. Dogs may be moved from an age-based class to the Breeder/Handler or Open class. A dog may be moved from the Breeder/Handler class to the appropriate age based class if the Breeder of record is unable to exhibit the dog.

Section 4. Entry Corrections. Exhibitors must complete an Official EBKC Class Change/Entry Correction Form to correct errors on the entry form. Requests for corrections to any entry form must be done prior to the judging of the breed. The exhibitor may correct the following:

• Dog’s EBKC number
• Dog’s registered name

In no case may the exhibitor correct both the dogs EBKC number and registered name on the same entry form. The Event Secretary must include the Official EBKC Class Change/Entry Correction Form with the original entry.

Section 5. Moving a Dog to a Higher Level of Competition. Any dog that has, according to the owner’s records, completed the requirements for a EBKC title may be entered in the next level of competition at the first event following the completion of requirements for the title.

Dogs completing title requirements at Show 1 may move to the next level of competition for Show 2, provided they follow the club’s move up policy and that their breed/class has not begun.

At EBKC licensed Conformation shows where two events are held concurrently, any dog completing the requirements for a title at Show 2 cannot be moved up to the next level of competition for Show 1. In this case, if an exhibitor chooses to compete in Show 1, he/she must do so in the lower class.

Exhibitors who move a dog to the next level of competition prior to being notified by EBKC that the dog has met the title requirement do so at their own risk. Dogs being shown on a Temporary Listing (TL) number will not be notified by EBKC that their dog has met any title requirements until their dog has been permanently registered.

Once a dog has been shown at the next level of competition, it may not be returned to a lower level unless the owner has been notified by EBKC that the dog is ineligible for the higher level or feels their move-up was in error.

When the owner’s records are incorrect, all wins earned while showing at the higher level of competition shall be invalid.

Once EBKC has notified an owner that their dog has earned the Champion or Grand Champion title, that dog is ineligible for any licensed age based class and must be shown in the class appropriate to its title.

Section 6. Recordkeeping. Owners are responsible for keeping accurate records of their dog(s) wins, points and titles. Owners may use the EBKC website to check their dog(s) records using the dog(s) EBKC number. Contacting the EBKC office to verify a dog(s) record by phone or email is also available.

Section 7. Deemed Notified. Once deemed notified (title certificate issued) by EBKC, owners/exhibitors who exhibit a dog in a class they are ineligible for shall have those wins invalidated. Owners/exhibitors who continually exhibit a dog in a class they are ineligible for run the risk of disciplinary action by EBKC.

CHAPTER 6

LICENSED CLASSES AND ENTRY ELIGIBILITY

For this chapter, the use of the word “dog” refers to both the males and females. A class dog refers to any dog that has not attained their Champion or Grand Champion title. “Licensed classes” refers to both Regular (Intact) and Altered (Spayed/Neutered) Classes.

Section 1. Dogs That May Compete in Licensed Conformation Classes.

• Purebred dogs that are permanently registered with EBKC as of the day of the show.
• Purebred dogs eligible for single registration that have a valid Temporary Listing (TL) number as of the day of the show.
• At a Pre-Entry only show, the dog must be Permanently Registered or have a valid TL number by the closing date of the event.
• Dogs that are at least six months of age on the day of the event.
• Intact if entering the Regular classes and Altered (spayed/neutered) if entering the Altered classes

Section 2. Dogs Ineligible to Compete in EBKC Licensed Conformation Classes.

• Dogs with Performance Listing (PL) numbers or Limited Privilege (LP).
• Dogs that have been altered and are entered in the Regular classes.
• Dogs that are intact and are entered in the Altered classes.
• Monorchid and Cryptorchid dogs entered in Regular or Altered classes.
• Dogs that have been disqualified by a judge more than two times for the same breed disqualification listed in its breed standard.
• Dogs that have been disqualified for attacking or attempting to bite a person.

Dogs disqualified for attacking are immediately rendered ineligible to compete at any EBKC events and the exhibitor shall forfeit all entry fees for any event where the dog has yet to compete. The exhibitor must secure the dog(s) and remain on the premises until the “Disqualified for Attacking” form has been completed in accordance with The Official Rules for All-Breed Events, Chapter 1, Section 13. Failure to sign the “Disqualified for Attacking” form by the exhibitor will not prevent the dog from being disqualified or from removing the dog’s eligibility for competition.

A dog must be disqualified two (2) times for the same breed disqualification by a judge before it becomes ineligible to compete. Breed disqualifications are recorded on the dogs permanent EBKC record.

Section 3. Licensed Classes. There are two types of licensed classes, Regular for intact dogs and Altered for spayed/neutered dogs. The following class structure applies to both Regular and Altered classes.

• Puppy Male/Female. For dogs six (6) months of age and under one (1) year of age, that have not attained a Champion or Grand Champion title.
• Junior Male/Female. For dogs one (1) year of age and under two (2) years of age that have not attained a Champion or Grand Champion title.
• Adult Male/Female. For dogs two (2) years of age and older that have not attained a Champion or Grand Champion title.
• Open Male/Female. For dogs six (6) months of age or older, that have not attained a Champion or Grand Champion title.
• Breeder/Handler Male/Female. For dogs six (6) months of age or older that have not attained a Champion or Grand Champion title. Dogs entered in this class must be handled by a breeder of record with EBKC, or by a member of the immediate family of a breeder of record.
• Champion. For dogs of both sexes that have earned their EBKC Champion title. This class is not separated by varieties.
• Grand Champion. For dogs of both sexes that have earned their EBKC Grand Champion title. This class is not separated by varieties.

Section 4. Order of Judging. At all-breed shows, classes will be judged in the following order for each breed and each variety. Variety breeds will be separated by variety for age-based classes. The Champion class and the Grand Champion class are not separated by variety and will have both sexes for each breed judged together. Except for the Champion and Grand Champion classes, all other classes shall be divided by sex and by variety when applicable. The Judge shall give up to four placements when appropriate for age-based classes. Where classes are divided by sex, all male classes shall be judged before female classes.

Section 4a. Order of Judging for Non-Variety Breeds

• Puppy Male, Junior Male, Adult Male, Open Male, Breeder/Handler Male
• Best Male, Reserve Best Male
• Puppy Female, Junior Female, Adult Female, Open Female, Breeder/Handler Female
• Best Female, Reserve Best Female
• Best of Winners
• Champion, Reserve Champion
• Grand Champion, Reserve Grand Champion
• Best of Breed

• Best Male. This class consists of the first-place winners of the Puppy Male, Junior Male, Adult Male, Open Male and Breeder/Handler Male classes. This class shall be offered for each breed. The judge will choose one winner from the dogs presented in this class to move on to the Best of Winners competition.
• Reserve Best Male. This class consists of the remaining Best Male competitors and the second-place class winner from the class where the Best Male was chosen (if there is one). The judge will choose one winner from the dogs presented in this class.
• Best Female. This class consists of the first-place winners of the Puppy Female, Junior Female, Adult Female, Open Female, and Breeder/Handler Female classes. This class shall be offered for each breed. The judge will choose one winner from the dogs presented in this class to move on to the Best of Winners competition.
• Reserve Best Female. This class consists of the remaining Best Female competitors and the second-place class winner from the class where the Best Female was chosen (if there is one). The judge will choose one winner from the dogs presented this class.
• Best of Winners. This class will only be held when both Best Male and Best Female have been awarded. The judge will choose one winner to move on to the Best of Breed competition. When Best of Winners competition is not held, the Best Male or Best Female will move on to the Best of Breed competition.
• Champion. This class is for dogs that have met the Champion title requirements. This class will not be split by sex. The judge will choose one winner to move on to the Best of Breed competition, and then will choose a Reserve Champion winner from the remaining dogs.
• Grand Champion. This class is for dogs that have met the Grand Champion title requirements. This class will not be split by sex. The judge will choose one winner to move on to the Best of Breed competition, and then will choose a Reserve Grand Champion winner from the remaining dogs.
• Best of Breed. This class consists of the Grand Champion class winner, the Champion class winner and the Best of Winners. If there is no Best of Winners then the Best Male or Best Female will be eligible for the Best of Breed competition.

Section 4b. Order of Judging for Variety Breeds

• Puppy Male of Variety, Junior Male of Variety, Adult Male of Variety, Open Male of Variety, Breeder/Handler Male of Variety
• Best Male of Variety, Reserve Best Male of Variety
• Best Male, Reserve Best Male
• Puppy Female of Variety, Junior Female of Variety, Adult Female of Variety, Open Female of Variety, Breeder/Handler Female of Variety
• Best Female of Variety, Reserve Best Female of Variety
• Best Female, Reserve Best Female
• Best of Winners
• Champion, Reserve Champion
• Grand Champion, Reserve Grand Champion
• Best of Breed

• Best Male of Variety. This class consists of the first-place winners of the Puppy Male of Variety, Junior Male of Variety, Adult Male of Variety, Open Male of Variety, and Breeder/Handler Male of Variety. The judge will choose one winner from the dogs presented to move on to the Best Male competition. This class shall be offered for each variety within the breed.
• Reserve Best Male of Variety. This class shall consist of the remaining first-place class winners that competed for Best Male of Variety and the second-place class winner (if there is one) from the class where the Best Male of Variety was selected. The judge will choose one winner from the dogs presented. This class shall be offered for each variety within the breed.
• Best Male. This class consists of all the Best Male of Variety winners. The judge will choose one winner from the dogs presented to move on to the Best of Winners competition.
• Reserve Best Male. This class shall consist of the remaining Best Male of Varieties and the Reserve Best Male of Variety from the variety where the Best Male was chosen (if there is one). The judge will choose one winner from the dogs presented.
• Best Female of Variety. This class shall consist of the first-place winners of the Puppy Female of Variety, Junior Female of Variety, Adult Female of Variety, Open Female of Variety and Breeder/Handler Female of Variety. The judge will choose one winner from the dogs presented to move on to the Best Female competition. This class shall be offered for each variety within the breed.
• Reserve Best Female of Variety. This class shall consist of the remaining first-place class winners that competed for Best Female of Variety and the second-place class winner (if there is one) from the class where the Best Female of Variety was selected. The judge will choose one winner from the dogs presented. This class shall be offered for each variety within the breed.
• Best Female. The class consists of all the Best Female of Variety winners. The judge will choose one winner from the dogs presented to move on to the Best of Winners competition.
• Reserve Best Female. This class shall consist of the remaining Best Female of Varieties and the Reserve Best Female of Variety from the variety where the Best Female was chosen (if there is one). The judge will choose one winner from the dogs presented.
• Best of Winners. This class will only be held when both Best Male and Best Female have been awarded. The judge will choose one winner to move on to the Best of Breed competition. When Best of Winners competition is not held, the Best Male or Best Female will move on to the Best of Breed competition.
• Champion. This class is for dogs that have met the Champion title requirements. This class will not be split by variety or sex. The judge will choose one winner to move on to the Best of Breed competition, and then will choose a Reserve Champion winner from the remaining dogs.
• Grand Champion. This class is for dogs that have met the Grand Champion title requirements. This class will not be split by variety or sex. The judge will choose one winner to move on to the Best of Breed competition, and then will choose a Reserve Grand Champion winner from the remaining dogs.
• Best of Breed. This class consists of the Grand Champion class winner, the Champion class winner and the Best of Winners. If there is no Best of Winners then the Best Male or Best Female will be eligible for the Best of Breed competition.

Section 5. Group Designation. Each breed is assigned to a Group based on its past and present function, historical origins, and region of development. There are eight (8) designated Groups: Guardian Dog, Terrier, and Companion Dog. A complete list of recognized breeds within each group is available in the EBKC Event Manual and on the EBKC website.

Section 6. Group and Best in Show Competition. Group and Best in Show must be judged by licensed judges. The club is responsible for preparing an individual group Judge’s Book for each group offered and a separate Judge’s Book for Best in Show.

• Each Group consists of the Best of Breed winners from those breeds belonging to that Group.
• Groups will be judged by a single judge. Up to four (4) placements within each Group may be awarded.
• Group competition must be offered by clubs hosting all-breed shows, regardless if all breeds were offered. Group competition is not required for altered dogs.
• Best in Show must be held for both regular and altered all-breed shows.
• The Best in Show competition may be judged by a single EBKC licensed Judge or by a panel of EBKC licensed Judges at the discretion of the Event Committee.
• The name of the Judge(s) shall not be made public until immediately prior to the start of judging for Best in Show.
• The Judge shall select a Best in Show winner and a Reserve Best in Show winner.

Section 7. Underdog Classes. Altered Classes may be offered at the option of the host club and must be indicated on the club’s Application For a Scheduled Weekend and published on the Events Calendar on the EBKC website.

The purpose of these classes is to enable owners of spayed and neutered dogs to get an evaluation of their dog’s conformation and to enable breeders to see a wider range of dogs resulting from breeding programs.

The altered classes and point system is the same as the classes for intact dogs. Equivalent titles from the other organizations cannot be substituted for EBKC Altered Champion and Altered Grand Champion titles.

When a dog is altered after earning points/legs towards a EBKC title of Champion or Grand Champion, the wins/points earned will be transferred from the regular title requirements to the altered title requirements. Altered classes will follow the completion of the breed’s regular classes and before any non-licensed classes.

CHAPTER 7 JUNIOR SHOWMANSHIP

Junior Showmanship is an evaluation of a Junior Handler’s ability to present a dog to a judge and demonstrate knowledge of the dog and breed being presented. There is a specific Junior Showmanship Rulebook that contains greater detail for Junior Competitors.

Section 1. Junior Showmanship classes are licensed and must be offered by all EBKC Licensed clubs offering conformation shows. Specialty clubs holding specialty events must offer Junior Showmanship Classes for their breed(s) only. Clubs licensed to offer EBKC conformation shows must use EBKC Licensed Judges to judge the class(es) and follow EBKC Junior Showmanship Rules.

Section 3. Eligible Dogs. Dogs do not have to be owned by the Junior Handler to be shown in Junior Showmanship.

• Dogs must be six (6) months of age or older on the day of the event.
• Dogs must be permanently registered, have a Performance Listing/Limited Privilege (PL/LP) number, or have a valid Temporary Listing (TL) number.
• Dogs may be purebred or mixed breed and may be intact, spayed or neutered.
• Females in season must not be exhibited in Junior Showmanship. If a female comes into season, a Junior may substitute for a dog that meets all requirements listed in Section 5. If the substituted dog is already entered, an entry correction form must be provided. If the substituted dog is not already entered, an entry form must also be provided to the Event Secretary before exhibiting.

Section 4. Junior Program. Participation in the EBKC Junior program is encouraged and is used to set the foundation for good sportsmanship and for developing an everlasting bond with their dog.

Children are not required to be a Junior Member to participate in any EBKC event. Those who wish to join the EBKC Junior Program may do so by meeting the following requirements:

• Age Requirements. The Junior Program is open to all children two (2) to eighteen (18) years of age. No person may continue to compete as a Junior after December 31^st of the year in which that person turns 18.

• Junior Member Application. Any person may become a member of the EBKC Junior Program by submitting a completed application to EBKC provided they meet the age requirements. Membership in this program is free. Upon receipt and acceptance of a completed application, each junior will be assigned a unique membership number. A junior membership pin is also available free of charge upon request.

Section 5. Determining Junior’s Age Class. The age of the junior as of January 1st of each year shall determine the class in which the junior competes for that entire year. If a junior reaches an age that advances them to the next age class during the competition year, they will not move up to the higher class until the following calendar year. An exception to this rule is made for the Pre-Junior that turns eight (8) years of age inside the Junior year. On the Junior’s 8th birthday, the junior may move from the Pre-Junior class to the Novice/Open Junior class. Once this move has been made the junior may not move back to the Pre-Junior class.

Section 6. Junior Showmanship Classes. The Junior Showmanship Classes are divided by the age of the Junior Handler and not by the breed of dog.

• Pee-Wee. This class is for children two (2) years and under four (4) years of age as of January 1st. A parent/guardian/adult must be present in the ring to assist children in the presentation of their dog ensuring that dogs are under control at all times. No placements will be given in this class. Clubs must offer an award or ribbon to each participant.

• Sub-Junior. This class is for children four (4) years and under six (6) years of age as of January 1st. A parent/guardian/adult may be present in the ring and can assist children in the presentation of their dog ensuring that dogs are under control at all times. No placements will be made in this class. Clubs must offer an award or ribbon to each participant.

• Pre-Junior. This class is for children six (6) years of age and under eight (8) years of age as of January 1st. Children entered in this class must be able to control the dog they are handling since parents/guardians/adults are not allowed to assist the children in this class. This class is to prepare the Junior for the licensed classes. This class is not eligible to compete for Best Junior Handler. The judge must give up to four placements when possible. Clubs must offer an award or ribbon for each participant

• Junior Classes. This class is for children eight (8) years of age and under thirteen (13) years of age as of January 1st, except for the Pre-Juniors moving up to the Novice Junior class when they turn eight (8) years of age. The judge must give up to four placements in each class. This age group is divided into two classes, Novice and Open.

• Novice Junior. This class is for true beginners in the sport. A junior handler may compete at the novice level until they are awarded a Best Junior Handler award over an Open Junior or an Open Senior, at which time they must move into the Open Junior class.

• Open Junior. This class is for any junior handler who wishes to enter and compete at the Open level. Once a junior has competed at the Open level they cannot compete at the Novice level.

• Senior Classes. This class is for children thirteen (13) years of age as of January 1st up to, and including, eighteen (18) years of age. Juniors seventeen (17) years of age who reach the age of 18 may continue to compete through December 31st in the same calendar year they turn 18. The judge must give up to four placements in each class. This age group is divided into two classes, Novice and Open.

• Novice Senior. This class is for true beginners in the sport. A junior handler may compete at the novice level until they are awarded a Best Junior Handler award over an Open Junior or an Open Senior, at which time they must move into the Open Senior class.
• Open Senior. This class is for any junior handler who wishes to enter and compete at the Open level. Once a junior has competed at the Open level they cannot compete at the Novice level.

Section 7. Best Junior Handler: Best Junior Handler class shall consist of the first-place winners from the Novice Junior Class, Open Junior Class, Novice Senior Class and Open Senior Class. The Judge shall select a single winner in this class. Pee-Wees, Sub-Juniors and Pre-Juniors do not compete for Best Junior Handler.

CHAPTER 8

NON-LICENSED CLASSES

The Non-Licensed classes listed below may be offered by any club that is licensed to host a Conformation show. No Championship points or Top Ten points shall be awarded in Non-Licensed classes.

Section 1. Judge Requirements. Non-Licensed classes may be judged by a licensed judge or by any other person who is a minimum of 21 years of age, and is knowledgeable about the class or classes being judged.

Section 2. Requirements to Enter a Non-Licensed Class.

• Purebred dogs that are permanently registered with EBKC as of the day of the show or,
• Purebred dogs that have a valid Temporary Listing (TL) number as of the day of the show.
• Purebred dogs entered into the Novice Puppy class may be shown on their EBKC Litter Registration number.
• Dogs do not have to have a EBKC number to enter the Non-Licensed Puppy class.

Section 3. Novice Puppy Classes. This class is for intact dogs that are three (3) months of age and under six (6) months of age. All Puppy classes shall be divided individually by breed and by sex. An individual Judge’s Book shall be prepared for each breed, consisting of the following classes:

• Novice Puppy Male. This class is not divided by variety and all novice male puppies will compete together. The judge shall give up to four placements, where possible, in these classes. The winner of the Novice Male class is eligible to compete for Best of Breed Novice Puppy.
• Novice Puppy Female. This class is not divided by variety and all novice female puppies will compete together. The judge shall give up to four placements, where possible, in these classes. The winner of the Novice Female class is eligible to compete for Best of Breed Novice Puppy.
• Best of Breed Novice Puppy. This class shall consist of the winners of the Novice Puppy Male class and the Novice Puppy Female class. The judge shall select a single winner in this class.
• Best Novice Puppy in Show. At the option of the club, a Best Novice Puppy in Show may be held and consists of all Best of Breed Novice Puppy winners. The judge may choose a Best Novice Puppy in Show, as well as a Reserve Best Novice Puppy in Show.

Section 4. Stud Dog and Brood Bitch Classes. Classes shall be divided by breed and judged separately by sex. These classes shall be judged on the quality of the progeny and not the individual stud dogs and brood bitches. Spayed bitches and neutered dogs are eligible to compete in these classes but not as progeny. Only the exhibitors of the stud dogs and brood bitches are required to wear armbands in these classes. An individual judge’s book shall be prepared for each breed, consisting of the following classes:

• Stud Dog. Each entry in this class shall consist of a stud dog and at least two but not more than four progeny sired by that dog. The progeny must be at least three months of age and may include both sexes. At least two of the progeny must be entered in the licensed classes. Stud dogs entered in this class may not be counted as progeny for their sires in the same

class. Entries shall be made in the name of the stud dog. The Judge shall give up to four placements, where possible, in these classes.

• Brood Bitch. Each entry in this class shall consist of a brood bitch and at least two but not more than four progeny produced by that bitch. The progeny must be at least three months of age and may include both sexes. At least two of the progeny must be entered in the licensed classes. Brood bitches entered in this class may not be counted as progeny for their dams in the same class. Entries shall be made in the name of the brood bitch. The Judge shall give up to four placements, where possible, in these classes.

Section 5. Brace Class. This class is divided by breed. Each entry in this class consists of two dogs of the same breed handled by a single handler. This class shall be judged on the basis of the overall quality of the entry and the similarity of the two dogs in type, size, and markings. The purpose of this class is to reward high quality within consistent type. The Judge shall give up to four placements, where possible, in this class. An individual judge’s book shall be prepared for each breed.

Section 6. Veteran Class. The purpose of this class is to reward dogs that maintain good breed type and good condition as they age, and to give other breeders an opportunity to see the top dogs of the past. Dogs must be a minimum of seven (7) years of age, or older. Spayed and neutered dogs are eligible for this class. The Veteran classes shall be divided individually by breed and by sex. An individual judge’s book shall be prepared for each breed, consisting of the following classes:

• Veteran Male. This class is not divided by variety and all veteran males of the same breed shall compete together. The judge shall give up to four placements, where possible, in these classes. The winner of the Veteran Male class shall be eligible to compete for Best of Breed Veteran.
• Veteran Female. This class is not divided by variety and all veteran females of the same breed shall compete together. The judge shall give up to four placements, where possible, in these classes. The winner of the Veteran Female class shall be eligible to compete for Best of Breed Veteran.
• Best of Breed Veteran. This class shall consist of the winners of the Veteran Male class and the Veteran Female class. The judge shall select a single winner in this class.
• Best Veteran in Show. At the option of the club, a Best Veteran in Show may be held and consists of all Veteran Best of Breed winners. The judge may choose a Best Veteran in Show, as well as a Reserve Best Veteran in Show.

Section 7. Special Exhibitions. These classes are optional and the club establishes the requirements for entry. Clubs are encouraged to include Conformation and Performance dogs. A club may call the class by whatever name it chooses but the name should reflect the requirements for entry, such as “Parade of Titleholders” or “Best of the Best in Show”. Special announcements about the dog’s accomplishments may be added to any special exhibition classes at the discretion of the host club. Clubs may offer rosettes, ribbons, or trophies to each participant.

CHAPTER 9

TOTAL DOG AND TOTAL JUNIOR AWARDS

Section 1. Total Dog and Total Junior Awards. A club offering conformation and at least one eligible performance event may apply to offer the Total Dog Award when submitting the Event Application as a non-licensed event. Clubs offering Total Dog must offer Total Junior. Participants for Total Dog and Total Junior must meet eligibility requirements.

Section 2. Combined Club Events. A club (or with written approval by EBKC, clubs holding events in conjunction with each other) offering conformation and at least one eligible performance event may apply to offer the Total Dog Award when submitting the Event Application. Clubs hosting more than one conformation and performance event on the day Total Dog awards are offered may consider all events eligible for Total Dog qualifiers.

• Eligible Dogs. Dogs that are permanently registered with EBKC as of the day of the show and dogs that have a valid Temporary Listing (TL) number as of the day of the show are eligible to compete for the Total Dog Award.
• Eligible Juniors. Any junior entered and participating in a licensed Junior Showmanship class and a Performance event is eligible to compete for the Total Junior Award.

Section 3. Requirements for Total Dog. Dogs must be entered in a licensed conformation class, (regular or altered), and a qualifying performance event on the same day, or as approved by EBKC.

• Conformation Event. A dog must compete in conformation and win one of the following classes, with competition. Note: Group 4 win only counts if there are five or more breeds in the Group class.
  • Best Male/Female of Variety
  • Best Male/Female
  • Reserve Best Male/Female
  • Best of Winners
  • Champion
  • Reserve Champion
  • Grand Champion
  • Reserve Grand Champion
  • Best of Breed
  • Group 1 through 4
  • Best in Show
  • Reserve Best in Show
• Performance Event Win.
  Earn a qualifying score/pass in a licensed class at a EBKC Performance Event.
  • Agility
  • Drag Racing
  • Lure Coursing
  • Nosework
  • Obedience
  • Weight Pull

Section 4. Requirements for Total Junior Award. A Junior Handler must be entered in Junior Showmanship and a qualifying performance event on the same day. The Junior must earn a class placement or award of merit, over another junior handler, in Junior Showmanship and qualify in the performance event to earn the Total Junior award.

• Eligible Junior Showmanship Wins. Compete in Junior Showmanship and earn a 1^st through 4^th place win with competition in one of the following classes;
  • Novice Junior
  • Novice Senior
  • Open Junior
  • Open Senior
• Performance Event Win. Earn a qualifying score/pass in a licensed class at a EBKC Performance Event. The performance events are the same as outlined under Total Dog.
  • For juniors participating in performance events. Please refer to the specific performance rulebook for any additional requirements or restrictions regarding a junior participant for total junior awards.

CHAPTER 10

Section 1. Types of Exhibition.

Customary Exhibition Procedure. This is also known as the standard conformation procedure where the handler stacks (poses) the dog for examination and gaits the dog in a prescribed pattern as directed by the judge. Eligible handler exhibits the entry without assistance from a third party.

Assisted Animation and Critique Procedure. There are two types of Assisted Animation and Critique Procedure (AA/CP), one being the Long Form and the other being the Short Form.

Section 2. Judging the using the Assisted Animation and Critique Procedure.

Judges will utilize “assisted animation” (for no more than three minutes per dog) to assess expression, carriage, etc., at some time during the judging of each dog in each class.

“Assisted Animation” involves two people. One is a designated handler who holds the dog’s lead and makes no attempt to stack or animate the dog. The other being the person who stands away from the dog, but does not leave the ring, and attempts to animate the dog by calling to it or making noises. During the Judge’s individual appraisal of each dog, the designated handler will hold the dog.

The designated handler may be:

• The primary handler of the dog (i.e. – the person noted on the official EBKC entry form as the handler of the dog); or
• An alternate – a person other than the primary handler. This could be the steward, or any other capable person designated by the primary handler.

The other person performs the assisted animation and the Judge appraises it. This allows the Judge to see the expression, carriage, and natural stance of the dog more clearly.

All regular EBKC Official Rules for All-Breed Events apply to this portion of the judging. Baiting with squeakers, toys or food is entirely at the Judge’s discretion.

The actual hands-on examination and gaiting of the dog are to be done only while the primary handler is in control of the dog, not during the assisted animation portion of the judging.

Exhibitors and spectators outside the ring are not, under any circumstances, to engage in animation activities. This is considered “double-handling” and is forbidden under the EBKC Rules and Regulations.

A suggested procedural guideline follows:

• The dogs for each class are brought into the ring in the order determined by the judge.
• The Judge will examine each dog in line for bite, dentition, temperament, etc.
• Each dog is brought out of line individually for its assisted animation evaluation. At no time during the assisted animation portion of the judging should the Judge attempt to physically examine (touch, hands-on) or evaluate the dog’s gait.
• When the Judge is ready to proceed to the movement evaluation portion, the primary handler will return to the dog, if a designated handler has been used. If not, the person who was performing the assisted animation will leave the ring. The primary handler will then move the dog as directed by the Judge.
• When the individual evaluations are complete, the Judge may choose to see some, or all of the class animated in order to finalize their decisions regarding placements. At this time, the Judge may choose to animate the dog themselves or ask a steward to do so. They may ask for individual dogs to be animated again using the assisted animation format, but this is not encouraged because of the amount of time involved.

Section 3. Rating System/Critiques. Judges will use a rating system and provide individual written critiques on each dog. The rating system includes: Excellent (EX), Very Good (VG), Acceptable (AC), and Non-Rated (NR). Critique forms are available for order from the EBKC website.

Ratings are separate from the usual EBKC placements and point allotments. The ratings may be published by the host clubs in their individual newsletters. Ratings are purely the Judge’s opinion of the dog on that day. The rating is given to each animal as it is assessed against the ideal described in the breed standards, not against the other dogs in its class.

Any or all of the ratings may be given in any one class. For example, one class may consist entirely of dogs rated Very Good or Acceptable. Another class may have two Excellent, one Very Good, and one Acceptable. Another class may have every dog rated Excellent.

While awarding placements, the Judge may provide verbal explanations for the order of placement to the exhibitor and/or public, but is not required to do so. At Multi-Breed shows, this practice should only occur if time permits.

Section 4. Definition of Ratings. Each rating may be modified by a plus (+) or minus (-) to further indicate the relative quality of the dogs. While awarding placements, the Judge may provide verbal explanations for the order of the placements to the exhibitors and/or public, but is not required or expected to do so.

• Excellent (EX). While recognizing that no dog is without faults or weaknesses, dogs receiving this rating should be of utmost quality overall and possess many fine attributes according to the EBKC breed standard.

• Very Good (VG). Dogs rated Very Good may receive a first-place award in their class, but it should be noted that this will award the dog class points for this win. In general, only dogs that are rated excellent should receive Championship points at that show. If the Judge withholds the points, the ribbons, and any award/trophy, are not to be given. Dogs receiving this rating may be:
  • Otherwise Excellent dogs in poor condition;
  • Dogs with some fine attributes, but lacking in quality in some area(s);
  • Dogs of good type, construction, and character, but not outstanding; or,
  • Dogs with a major fault which mars an otherwise Excellent specimen.
  • Acceptable (AC). Dogs rated Acceptable should not receive a first-place ribbon and should not earn points at that show. The ribbon and points should be withheld if it is the only rating given in the class. The Judge may give a single entry in a class second place in a class of one, or withhold all ribbons. Dogs receiving this rating may be:
  • Dogs that are adequate, marred by faults, and/or lacking in quality;
  • Dogs that are of incorrect/inadequate type.

• Not Rated (NR). Dogs receiving this rating may be:
• Dogs that severely lack necessary breed type
• Dogs that are excused or disqualified.

A dog rated lower than others in its class cannot place above them. For example, a dog rated Very Good may not receive a third place when a dog rated Excellent is placed fourth in the same class.

Section 5. Written Critiques. The Judge is encouraged to comment on all portions of the form, but due to time constraints and large entries, they may elect to summarize portions. (Examples: “An exceptional dog in body, angulation and character, whose round eyes detract from an otherwise excellent head piece.” -or- “A dog of lovely color and character that is otherwise terribly lacking in breed type, particularly in that is long in body, short on leg, and heavy in head.”)

Judges must not be too general to the extent that they provide little information to the exhibitor for educational purposes, nor information about their own judging. (Example: “Dog has good type and character, with a nice head.”)

Whenever possible, the Judge should attempt to explain the best and worst features of each dog. For example, under “Head” on the form, one might write “excellent.” but it would be advisable to include additional details such as “correct planes, well-chiseled, nice length of muzzle.” Or, instead of just listing “ears” as “OK,” it would be better stated as “well set, too long.” The Judge must indicate the rating given to each dog on the area indicated on the Critique Form.

CHAPTER 11

TOP TEN COMPETITION

There are two Top Ten ranking systems for dogs that compete in EBKC licensed regular Conformation classes. Top Ten Breed rankings are the top ten dogs of each breed based on the number of dogs within their breed they have defeated throughout the year. Top Ten Group rankings are the top ten dogs of each group based on the number of dogs within their group they have defeated throughout the year.

Section 1a. Top Ten Breed Points. Top Ten Breed points are automatically awarded at all EBKC licensed regular Conformation events to each Best of Breed winner who receives one point for each dog defeated in breed competition, if there are at least two dogs of any sex entered and shown in that breed.

Section 1b. Top Ten Group Points. Top Ten Group points are automatically awarded at all EBKC licensed regular Conformation events to each Group placement.

Group First winner will receive one point for each dog defeated within the entire group.

Groups Second, Third and Fourth will each receive one point for each dog defeated within the entire group minus the number of dogs in the breed(s) that were awarded higher group placements.

Section 2. Dogs Not Counted as Defeated. Dogs that have an award withheld, are excused or disqualified from competition do not count as dogs defeated and shall be deducted from the total number of dogs shown in the breed when calculating the number of Top Ten points earned. Top Ten points are calculated by EBKC based on the official event report submitted by the Event Secretary.

Section 3. Top Ten Competition Year. Top Ten points are calculated from January 1st to December 31st of each year.

Section 4. Publication of Top Ten Standings. Top Ten standings are regularly updated and will be posted on the EBKC website,

Section 5. Dogs Showing on Temporary Listing Numbers. Dogs that are showing on temporary listing numbers and have earned Top Ten points, must be permanently registered by no later than January 31st of the following year to be eligible for Top Ten rankings of their breed.

Section 6. Corrections to Top Ten Standings. Corrections in Top Ten points or standings for any competition year must be promptly reported to EBKC. Corrections to the Top Ten Standings received after January 31st of the following year shall not be considered.

Section 7. Top Ten Invitational. The ten top-ranked dogs in each breed and group may be invited to participate in a Top Ten Invitational competition held in the year following the competition year.

CHAPTER 12 CONFORMATION TITLES

Points or legs earned toward EBKC titles are awarded after EBKC has received and processed the official event report from the host club. EBKC will mail the appropriate title certificate to the owner on record, once a title has been verified. The owner of a EBKC registered dog is responsible to verify that their address is correct for all registered dogs. If an owner has moved, an Official EBKC Change of Address Form needs to be submitted to the EBKC Registration Department before the issuance of the title.

Section 1. Requirements for the Champion (CH) or Altered Champion (ALCH) title. The Championship points for each title are awarded in accordance with the Point Schedule below. To earn a EBKC Champion or Altered Champion title a dog must:

• Earn a minimum of 100 championship points.
• Earn three competition wins under three different judges.

Section 2. How Competition is earned for the Champion title. Only one competition win may be earned per show and will be counted under the judge who awarded the dog Best Male/Female.

Competition may be earned in one of the following ways:

• Win a minimum of Best Male or Best Female and defeat another dog of the same sex.
• Win Best of Winners over the opposite sex.
• Win Best of Breed over a Champion or Grand Champion.
• Win a group placement. Group 4 placements will only count as competition if there are 5 or more dogs in the group.
• Win a Best in Show or Reserve Best in Show over another dog.

Section 3. Champion Point Schedule for Regular and Underdog Classes.

• Bonus Points for Best Male and Best Female may be awarded. Please see the Bonus Point Schedule Below

• Bonus Points for Best Male and Best Female may be awarded. Please see the Bonus Point Schedule Below

• Best of Winners will receive the higher number of bonus points between the two sexes.

Section 4. When competition towards the Champion or Altered Champion may not be awarded. There may be times when a judge deems an entry not worthy of championship points. In these cases, competition may or may not affect the best of sex winner.

• If a judge withholds a first-place ribbon and awards a dog a second, third or fourth place in a class of one, this dog will count as having competed and shall count as competition for any other dogs entered in the breed.
• If a judge withholds all awards from a dog, then it shall not count as competition.
• Dogs that are excused or disqualified do not count as competition.
• A dog that is judged in a class, but whose entry is subsequently determined to be invalid, shall count as competition.

Section 5. Requirements for the Grand Champion (GRCH) or Altered Grand Champion (ALGRCH) title. Dog must earn a total of five (5) Grand Champion legs in any combination, under a minimum of three (3) different judges to receive the Grand Champion title. A dog must have earned the Champion title and be entered in the Champion class to be eligible for this title. Only one leg may be earned per show.

Section 5a. Grand Champion Legs:

• Win the Champion class and defeat two or more Champions of your breed or win Best of Breed and defeat two or more Champions/Grand Champions of your breed.

• Win Best of Breed over 5 dogs.

• Earn 2 Group 1 placements with 3 or more dogs competing.

• Win a Best or Reserve Best in Show with 5 or more dogs competing.

Section 6. Requirements for the Emerald Grand Champion (EGCH) or Altered Emerald Grand Champion (AEGCH) title. Dog must earn a total of five (5) Emerald Grand Champion legs in any combination, under a minimum of three different judges to receive this title. A dog must have earned the Grand Champion title and be entered in the Grand Champion class to be eligible for this title. Only one leg may be earned per show.

Section 6a. Emerald Grand Champion Legs:

• Earn 2 Grand Champion class wins over 2 or more Grand Champions.

• Win Best of Breed over 7 dogs.

• Earn 2 Group 1 placements with 3 or more dogs competing.

• Win a Best or Reserve Best in Show with 5 or more dogs competing.

Section 7. Requirements for the Ruby Grand Champion (RGCH) or Altered Ruby Grand Champion (ARGCH) title. Dog must earn a total of five (5) Ruby Grand Champion legs in any combination, under a minimum of three different judges to receive this title. A dog must have earned the Emerald Grand Champion title and be entered in the Grand Champion class to be eligible for this title. Only one leg may be earned per show.

Section 7a. Ruby Grand Champion Legs:

• Earn 3 Grand Champion class wins over 2 or more Grand Champions.

• Win Best of Breed over 10 dogs.

• Earn 3 Group 1 placements with 3 or more dogs competing.

• Win a Best or Reserve Best in Show with 5 or more dogs competing.

Section 8. Requirements for the Sapphire Grand Champion (SGCH) or Altered Sapphire Grand Champion (ASGCH) title. Dog must earn a total of five (5) Sapphire Grand Champion legs in any combination, under a minimum of three different judges to receive this title. A dog must have earned the Ruby Grand Champion title and be entered in the Grand Champion class to be eligible for this title. Only one leg may be earned per show.

Section 8a. Sapphire Grand Champion Legs:

• Earn 4 Grand Champion class wins over 2 or more Grand Champions.

• Win Best of Breed over 10 dogs.

• Earn 4 Group 1 placements with 3 or more dogs competing.

• Win a Best or Reserve Best in Show with 5 or more dogs competing.

Section 9. Requirements for the Diamond Grand Champion (DGCH) or the Altered Diamond Grand Champion (ADGCH) title. Dog must earn a total of five (5) Diamond Grand Champion legs in any combination, under a minimum of three different judges to receive this title. A dog must have earned the Sapphire Grand Champion title and be entered in the Grand Champion class to be eligible for this title. Only one leg may be earned per show.

Section 9a. Diamond Grand Champion Legs:

• Earn 5 Grand Champion class wins over 2 or more Grand Champions.

• Win Best of Breed over 10 dogs.

• Earn 5 Group 1 placements with 3 or more dogs competing.

• Win a Best or Reserve Best in Show with 5 or more dogs competing.

Section 10. When competition towards the Grand Champion or Altered Grand Champion title may not be awarded. If a judge withholds an award from other dogs entered in the Champion or Grand Champion class, in regular or altered competition (i.e., Reserve Champion), and a dog is declared the winner of the class, the other dogs shall not count as competition.

Section 11. Bench Show Eligible Breeds Competing in Conformation Shows. Breeds eligible for EBKC Bench Shows will receive different conformation title designations when competing in Conformation shows licensed by EBKC’s Show Operations Department.

Section 12. National Best of Breed (NBOB). This honorary title was created to recognize dogs who are awarded Best of Breed at their designated EBKC National Specialty. The NBOB title is added to the dog’s permanent record. Clubs under provisional national status are not eligible to give this award.

CHAPTER 13

AWARDS, TROPHIES, AND RIBBONS

Section 2. Awards and Trophies. Clubs may give such awards and trophies as they choose. Clubs may accept trophies donated by individuals or other organizations. These trophies may be designated for specific breeds or specific accomplishments. Awards and trophies must not be substituted for required ribbon and rosette awards.

Section 3. Required Ribbons and Rosettes. Clubs are required to offer ribbon awards for all regular classes, altered classes, group placements and best in show. All ribbons and rosettes must include the EBKC logo e event giving club. The date and location of the event are optional.

Section 3a. Ribbons: Clubs may choose to offer rosettes in place of ribbons at their discretion. Placement ribbons must be the designated color and all ribbons must measure a minimum of two (2) inches in width by six (6) inches in length:

• 1st place – red
• 2nd place – blue
• 3rd place – yellow
• Best Male/Female of Variety – any color
• Reserve Best Male/Female of Variety – any color
• Best Male/Female – any color
• Reserve Best Male/Female – any color
• Best of Winners – any color
• Champion – any color
• Reserve Champion – any color
• Grand Champion – any color
• Reserve Grand Champion – any color
• Best of Breed – any color

A generic Reserve ribbon may be used in lieu of Reserve Best Male/Female of Variety, Reserve Best Male/Female, Reserve Champion, and Reserve Grand Champion.

Section 3b. Rosettes. Rosettes must be the designated color and clubs may choose to offer rosettes that exceed the minimum size and streamer requirements.

• Best in Show – purple, gold and white, three (3) streamer rosette with an overall minimum length of twelve (12) inches.
• Reserve Best in Show – purple and gold, two (2) streamer rosette with an overall minimum length of ten (10) inches.
• Best Junior Handler – purple and gold – one (1) streamer rosette with an overall minimum length of ten (10) inches.
• Total Dog Qualifier – red, black and white – three (3) streamer rosette with an overall minimum length of ten (10) inches.
• Total Junior Qualifier – teal, black and white – three (3) streamer rosette with an overall minimum length of ten (10) inches.

Section 4. Optional Ribbons and/or Rosettes. Ribbons and/or rosettes for any award not indicated above (e.g. Novice Puppy) may be offered at the discretion of the event giving club and may be of any color or color combination not stipulated.

CHAPTER 14

RULES APPLYING TO JUDGES

EBKC Judges are approved based on their knowledge of dogs, their understanding of the EBKC rules, their dedication to the sport of purebred dogs, and their integrity. Judges are the role models for our sport and as such, are expected to adhere to the highest standards of conduct, both in and out of the ring. Judges should adhere to the EBKC Conformation rules, the EBKC Rules for All-Breed Events, all guidelines in the EBKC Judges Handbook and the EBKC Judges Code of Ethics.

Judges are the subject of scrutiny, both for the job they do in the ring judging dogs and how they conduct themselves in other roles, whether as spectators, club members or exhibitors. Becoming a judge brings with it an extra set of responsibilities, an obligation to conduct oneself in a manner that is above reproach. Integrity is part of the persona of the judge and there should never be an instance where a judge’s integrity is in question. The judge should avoid improper actions and situations as well as those situations and actions that could give the appearance of impropriety. Improper behavior whether real or perceived, will quickly erode the judge’s image.

Section 1. Judges’ Decisions. Judges’ decisions play a key role in determining future breeding stock. Conformation decisions must be based strictly on the evaluation of the dog according to the EBKC breed standard.

Section 2. Judges Attire. A Judge’s appearance should always be neat and professional. Judges should be prepared for adverse weather conditions and dress accordingly. Jeans, t-shirts, tank tops and flip flops are strongly discouraged.

Section 3. Socialization. Judges must avoid impropriety and the appearance of impropriety. Judges must keep socializing at events to a minimum, both in and out of the ring. Judges should be cordial to all exhibitors while maintaining a professional distance.

Section 4. Club Membership. If a Judge is judging at an event held by a club of which the Judge is a member, the club officers and members of the show committee should not exhibit dogs under that Judge, nor should a third-party exhibit dogs owned or co-owned by officers of the club or members of the show committee under that Judge.

Section 5. Stewarding. Judges must not steward for a Judge during their judging of the same breeds they will be judging the same weekend.

Section 6. Submitting Entries. No judge may enter a dog owned by another person on a weekend they are judging.

Section 7. Judging Restrictions. Judges may not judge the licensed classes of the same breed more than once in a four-day period, or within a 200-mile distance between shows if the judge officiates for more than one club at a different site over the same weekend. This prohibition may be waived upon written request to EBKC for Judges assigned to judge a National Best of Breed class.

Judges may not judge a Conformation show and a Performance event on the same day.

Section 8. Breeder Judges. No Judge may pass judgment on a dog of which they are listed as a breeder or co-breeder in any Conformation class. The breeder or co-breeder is considered the owner of the dam at the time of breeding.

Section 9. Judging and Exhibiting. A Conformation judge is prohibited from exhibiting any dog in Conformation classes on the same weekend as their Conformation judging assignment at the event in which they have been hired.

A Conformation judge may enter and exhibit their dog in any Performance event held by the host club the day before, the day of, or the day after their Conformation judging assignment at any event for which they have been hired or in a scheduled weekend so long as their judging is not interrupted.

Section 10. Judging and Exhibiting Conflicts. A Conformation judge may not interrupt, disrupt, delay or reschedule an event in which he/she has entered a dog in, in order to fulfill or complete their judging assignment. Nor may a judge interrupt, disrupt, delay, or reschedule an event in which he/she is officiating in order to facilitate exhibiting their dog.

No club or judge may interrupt, disrupt, delay or reschedule any event for any judge to accommodate a judge exhibiting a dog on the same day he/she is judging for any reason.

Judges reported and proven to have interrupted, disrupted, delayed, or rescheduled an event to allow themselves to exhibit a dog or interrupted, disrupted, delayed or rescheduled an event in which they are officiating, to exhibit a dog, will face disciplinary action which could include the suspension of judging privileges for up to one (1) year and a fine up to EUR1000.

Clubs reported and proven to have interrupted, disrupted, delayed or rescheduled an event to allow a judge to exhibit a dog or allowed a judge to interrupt, disrupt, delay or reschedule an event in which the judge is officiating in order to exhibit a dog will face disciplinary action which could include the suspension of event privileges for up to 1 year and a fine up to EUR1000.

Judges accepting assignments in which they are considering exhibiting a dog and clubs hiring judges who wish to exhibit a dog at that event must give utmost thought and care to avoid conflicts of time.

The judge’s primary responsibility is to their assignment to judge. Should a conflict of time arise at an event on a scheduled weekend in which the judge is forced to choose between exhibiting and judging, the judge must fulfill the assignment the club hired them to fulfill and willingly and knowingly withdraw any entries in any event that presents the conflict.

Should a judge find a handler for the entered dog if there is a conflict of time, the dog may still be exhibited in the event in which it is entered. The chosen handler may not exhibit their own dog(s) to the judge for whom they handled on that day.

CHAPTER 15

DOGS AND EXHIBITORS THAT MAY NOT BE ENTERED UNDER A JUDGE

Section 1. Dogs Ineligible to be Exhibited Under a Judge.

• A dog that is owned or co-owned by that Judge.
• A dog that is owned or co-owned by a member of that Judge’s immediate family.
• A dog that is owned or co-owned by a person living in the same household as that Judge.
• A dog that has been bred or co-bred by the officiating judge.
• A dog that has been owned or trained by the Judge or that has lived in the Judge’s household, regardless of ownership, within three months of the date of the event.
• A dog that has been owned or trained by a member of the Judge’s immediate family or that has lived in the household of a member of the Judge’s immediate family within three months of the date of the event.
• No member of a Judge’s immediate family or household may exhibit a dog in a conformation event, regardless of ownership, on the same day where that Judge is officiating.
• For Junior Showmanship only, a Junior may handle a dog that is owned or co-owned by an officiating Conformation judge on any day, provided the junior does not exhibit the dog under that judge.

Dogs owned/co-owned by a judge may be shown in other types of events, including Junior Showmanship, on the same day. For example, a dog owned by a person judging a Conformation event may participate in a Performance event and/or Junior Showmanship hosted by same club on the same day, provided the dog is not handled by or shown to the Judge.

Section 2. Exhibitors Ineligible to Exhibit Under a Judge. Exhibitors who co-own a dog with an officiating Judge or with a member of an officiating Judge’s immediate family may enter and exhibit other dogs in a Conformation event if they do not meet any other restrictions.

• No member of a Judge’s immediate family or household may enter in a Conformation event on the same day(s) where that member is officiating. Immediate family/household members may enter any event without restriction on any other day the judge is not scheduled to officiate.

CHAPTER 16 JUDGING PROCEDURES

Section 1. Judge’s Authority in the Ring. The Judge may use whatever reasonable procedures he/she deems necessary to evaluate the dogs in an effective and efficient manner. All dogs within a breed will be examined in the same manner and all exhibitors will be given an equal opportunity to present their dogs.

Section 2. Baiting in the Ring. The use of bait in the ring will be determined by the judge. If bait is not allowed, the exhibitor may not take any type of food, squeakers or toys in the ring. If bait is allowed, the Judge must allow food, squeakers, and toys equally in the ring. Bait must never be thrown or litter the ring.

Judges must excuse any exhibitor they determine has thrown bait or littered the ring. The Judge will mark the dog as excused on the Judge’s Book and note the reason for the excusal. The Judge’s decision is final.

Section 3. Gaiting and Examinations. Judges will move every dog using the same gaiting pattern.

The judge may ask the exhibitor to show the dog’s bite or the judge may examine the bite themselves. Judges may make that decision based upon breed, individual dog, and circumstances and will not necessarily use the same method for examining the individual bite of each dog or for each breed.

Judge’s should honor an exhibitor’s request to show the bite.

Judges may not ask an exhibitor any questions regarding the dog being evaluated other than age.

Section 4. Discussion of Placements or Judging Procedures with Exhibitors. EBKC allows and encourages a judge to discuss their placements or judging procedure with exhibitors. Judges should allow time as necessary to answer exhibitors’ questions. If time does not permit judges to speak with exhibitors immediately following judging, a time may be arranged that is suitable for both the judge and the exhibitor for any questions to be answered. Judges are not expected to carry on any discussion with an exhibitor who they feel is becoming angry, aggressive, or verbally abusive.

Judges may end a discussion with an exhibitor at any time for this reason. The decision of the judge is final.

Section 5. Judges Book. Judges are responsible for the accuracy of the information in their Judges’ Books. Before signing a Judge’s Book, the Judge must verify that all placements and winners are written in the correct spaces. Upon the completion of a judging assignment, the Judge is to return the completed Judge’s Books to the Event Secretary. The Event Secretary must provide the Judge with a copy of their signed Judge’s Books prior to the Judge leaving the show grounds on the day of their last assignment. The Judge is required to keep copies of their Judge’s Books on file for a period of one (1) year after the judging assignment.

Section 6. Universal and Breed Specific Disqualifying Faults.

• Universal Disqualifying Faults. Viciousness, extreme shyness, unilateral or bilateral cryptorchidism and albinism are disqualifications for all breeds of dogs recognized by the EBKC. Judges must disqualify any dog that exhibits these faults and immediately dismiss the exhibitor and dog from the ring and mark the Judge’s Book accordingly. For viciousness or extreme shyness, judges must write an explanation in the comment section of the Judge’s Book of what behaviors the dog exhibited for the judge to determine that the dog was vicious or extremely shy.
• Breed-Specific Disqualifying Faults. The Judge must disqualify any breed of dog that has a disqualifying fault in accordance with the EBKC Breed Standard and immediately dismiss the exhibitor and dog from the ring. The Judge is to mark the Judge’s Book accordingly and name the specific disqualifying fault in the comment section.

When a dog has been disqualified, it is ineligible to continue competing at that show. However, the dog may continue to be shown at future shows.

Any dog that has been disqualified for the same fault under two (2) different judges shall be ineligible for entry in any EBKC Conformation event unless or until notified by EBKC that the dog’s eligibility for Conformation has been reinstated.

Section 7. Disqualifying Physical Faults. Dogs are to be disqualified from Conformation events when surgery or any other medical procedure has corrected any physical fault. This prohibition does not apply to any necessary medical procedure required to restore a dog to its previous normal condition, or to repair an injury, provided such procedure does not:

• Correct, alter, or obscure a condition that would otherwise render a dog ineligible for competition
• Improve an existing condition to enhance the dog’s appearance, gait or temperament.

When a dog has been disqualified for a physical fault, it is ineligible to continue competing for that show. However, the dog may continue to be shown at future shows.

Any dog that has been disqualified for the same physical fault under two (2) different judges shall be ineligible for entry in any EBKC Conformation event unless and until notified by EBKC that the dog’s show eligibility has been reinstated.

Section 8. Notice of Disqualification. When EBKC has received notice that a dog has been disqualified under this section for the second time, the owner of the dog will be notified by certified mail. The owner of the dog shall have 14 days from receipt of this notification to show why the dog should not be barred from all registration privileges. After reviewing any mitigating or extenuating evidence submitted by the owner, EBKC staff shall make a finding of facts and determine the penalty, and this ruling shall be final. The owner of the dog shall be notified of the outcome within 30 days of receipt of the owner’s response. Owners of dogs that are barred from registration privileges are required to return the dog’s EBKC Registration Certificate within 14 days of notice that the dog is barred. Failure to promptly return the registration certificate can result in disciplinary action. Dogs barred from registration privileges may not be transferred nor may litters produced by these dogs be registered.

Section 9. Mandatory Excusals. When a dog is excused for any reason, the Judge must immediately dismiss the exhibitor and dog from the ring. The Judges Book must be marked accordingly, and the Judge must write an explanation of the reason the dog was excused in the comment section of the Judge’s Book. The Judges decision on these matters is final.

Exhibitors are presumed to know the condition of their dogs and risk disciplinary action for exhibiting dogs with conditions that warrant a mandatory excusal.

Judges must excuse any dog being exhibited with sutures, bandages, adhesive or any other material that is indicative of or related to any injury, surgical or medical procedure.

Judges must excuse any dog that is lame, appears to be ill or is unfit for competition. The Judge’s Book must be marked accordingly and include the reason the dog was excused.

A Judge must excuse any dog that is blind or deaf and mark the Judge’s Book accordingly.

Judges have the right to excuse any dog they deem unfit. Dogs determined to be unfit are dogs whose physical condition affects its ability to safely compete, or whose condition is so compromised it is not fit for exhibition. This includes, but is not limited to, any dog that has visible, unhealed injuries, is emaciated or is obese. Injuries indicative of a dog’s natural work should be well-healed. Scars and blemishes due to hunting or working injuries as per a breed’s standard are not grounds for excusal.

Section 10. Withholding Placements. Judges play an important role in the selection of future breeding stock. For that reason, EBKC Judges must not reward any dog that lacks sufficient quality to be a champion. In very large classes, such dogs are usually left out of the placements. In small classes, however, it is important that Judges deny placements to dogs that are so lacking in breed type and soundness that they should never achieve a champion title. Judges withholding placements for lack of merit must note this on the Judge’s Book and specifically address the elements where the dog fails to meet the standard. Judges must always take the time to discuss withheld placements with the exhibitor, either at the end of judging the class or the breed.

Section 11. Eliminating Fault. Judges are to withhold all placements and awards from any dog that has an eliminating fault according to the EBKC Breed Standard. The Judge must note this on the Judge’s Book, and specifically address the eliminating fault in the comment section.

CHAPTER 17 DEFINITIONS

Age of Dog. A dog’s age, for entry purposes, is determined by the date of the event. A dog born on January 1 shall turn six months old on July 1 of the same year. Dogs must be the in the correct age group for the class being entered on or before the date of the event.

All-Breed Show. A Conformation show that offers competition for all breeds eligible for EBKC Conformation shows. Shows that exclude specific breeds due to breed specific licensing requirements are still considered an All-Breed Show.

Altered. A dog made sterile by castration or spaying.

Altered Classes. Licensed Conformation classes for spayed/neutered dogs.

Best in Show: The chosen winner of a Conformation show that has defeated all the other dogs entered in that show.

Blind. A dog is blind if it has no useful sight.

Breeder of Record. The owner of the dam on the date of breeding is the breeder of record of all dogs whelped in the resulting litter.

Class Dogs. Intact or altered dogs that have not attained their EBKC Champion title.

Conformation Show. A show hosted by a EBKC licensed club at which the physical attributes and temperament of purebred dogs are evaluated by judges in accordance with these rules and the EBKC standards for each breed.

Corresponding Weekend Date. An event date based on the weekend it falls on within the year, not within the month. If a club offers an event on the 4th weekend of this year, then that club’s corresponding weekend date in all subsequent years is also the 4th weekend. To know the exact dates of a corresponding weekend date, clubs should refer to the Event Weekend-Number Date Table, available on the EBKC website.

Customary Exhibition Procedure. Also known as the standard conformation procedure where the handler stacks (poses) the dog for examination and gaits the dog in a prescribed pattern as directed by the judge. Eligible handler exhibits the entry without assistance from a third party.

Day-of-Show Entry. Entries that can be taken on-site before a show. Most EBKC clubs allow entries to be taken on the day of a show or trial. The opening and closing time for taking these entries is found on the Event Listing, on the EBKC website and in any official announcement for the show.

Disqualified. A dog that has been deemed ineligible for competition. This can be the result of a condition prohibited in the rules, such as an alteration to the dog’s natural state, an undesirable trait as listed in a breed standard, or a condition of or action by a dog that is prohibited under the rules of the European Bully Kennel Club A dog that has been disqualified from a Conformation show or Performance event pursuant to dog temperament may not participate in any further events unless reinstated by EBKC.

Eliminating Fault. A fault serious enough that it eliminates a dog from obtaining any awards in a Conformation event. Dogs with eliminating faults are not disqualified and maintain full registration privileges.

Entry Form. An official EBKC document required for entry into a EBKC licensed event. The entry form provides all the necessary information for the dog to be entered in the event as well as the owner information for the dog.

Excused. A dog that has been dismissed from competition by a Judge. Excused dogs may not continue to participate in the same show or trial, except when the dog is entered in additional classes or additional shows and/or trials. In a Performance event, an excused dog may compete in another class at the same trial. A dog excused from a Conformation class in Show 1 may be shown again on the same day in Show 2. It is also eligible for any Performance events on the same day.

Guideline. An indication or outline of recommended policy or conduct. Guidelines carry the full authority of an official EBKC rule and should be interpreted as such.

Immediate family. The spouse, parent, step-parent, child, step-child, sibling, grandchild, in-law of a person is considered an immediate family member.

Intact. Dogs (males/females) that have full reproductive organs present, including for males, two normal descended testicles.

Lame. Impaired locomotion so as to limp or move with difficulty.

Leg. A qualifying score toward a performance title, or a qualifying win toward a Grand Champion Conformation title.

Licensed Classes. Classes that are required to be offered at a EBKC Conformation show or Performance event from which dogs can earn points and/or awards.

Limited Privilege (LP) Program. The Performance Listing (PL) program has replaced the Limited Privilege program. LP numbers are still valid EBKC numbers.

Non-Licensed classes. Optional classes that may be offered at a EBKC Conformation show or Performance event. No champion points are awarded from these classes.

Performance Event. Events where a dog is judged based on performance rather than conformation. Agility, Obedience, Rally Obedience, Drag Racing, Lure Coursing, Nosework, Dock Jumping and Weight Pull are typical performance events.

Performance Listing (PL). A listing number that allows a dog to participate in EBKC Junior Showmanship and Performance events. Dogs may be mixed-breed, purebred dogs of unknown pedigree or with disqualifying faults as described in the EBKC breed standard or breeds not recognized by EBKC. PL listed dogs are not eligible for Altered Conformation events.

Pre-Entry. Entries that are accepted by a club up until a specified date before the show. Some EBKC clubs offer pre-entry in addition to day-of-show entry. These entries must be submitted by the pre- entry deadline, as outlined in the club’s Event Listing found on the EBKC website. Pre-entry rates are normally lower in price than day-of-show entries.

Pre-Entry Only. An event where a club determines they will not accept any day-of-show entries. For this type of event, the entry must be submitted by the pre-entry deadline as outlined in the club’s Event Listing found on the EBKC website.

Regular Classes. Licensed Conformation classes for intact dogs.

Specialty Show. A Conformation show for a single breed or multiple breeds based on their function, origin, and characteristics (e.g. Setters, Irish breeds, Coonhounds). Specialty shows can only be hosted by clubs that actively promote a breed/breeds as outlined in their by-laws.

Sportsmanship. Conduct that demonstrates proper consideration for fairness, ethics, respect, and a sense of fellowship with one’s competitors while exhibiting; responsibility, self-control and respect for both authority and opponents.

Temporary Listing (TL) Number. A Temporary Listing is a number issued to an eligible dog that is not permanently registered with EBKC, prior to the start of any licensed events. A TL number allows that dog to be entered and shown as a valid entry, receive wins and have those wins converted onto its record once permanently registered.

Third Party Entry Service. Any individual, group or association that allows an exhibitor to submit an entry for a EBKC licensed event and does not have direct connection with EBKC, EBKC licensed host club, or designated EBKC Event Manager.

Veteran Dog. A dog (male or female) over 7 years of age by the date of the show. Dogs 7 years of age and over are not required to compete as a Veteran Dog.

Wicket. A measuring device that is used to accurately determine a dog’s height. Height is determined by drawing a straight line from the top of the withers perpendicular to the ground.

Chapter 5, Section 2: Clarification that sunscreen may be used on hairless dogs when showing outside added.

Chapter 9: Total Dog and Total Junior awards moved to their own chapter.

INHERENT RIGHTS AND POWERS OF EBKC

*Revised December 18, 2009

European Bully Kennel Club® holds and has reserved to itself certain inherent rights and powers in connection with conducting its business, registering litters, transferring registrations of dogs, licensing events, and awarding titles. These inherent rights and powers include but are not limited to the following:

European Bully Kennel Club has the right to inspect all reports, scorecards and documents related to EBKC events.

Some, but not all, of the items subject to inspection are:

1. Scores;
2. Disqualifications of dogs for fighting or other reasons;
3. Errors by the recording person; and
4. Documentation excluded for any reason.

EBKC reserves the right to correct any mistakes found during such inspection whether or not the document has the signature of a Judge or Club Officer. EBKC reserves the right to itself and in its sole judgment and discretion, to take such actions and impose such sanctions as would:

1. Bar an individual from entering or participating in any way in any EBKC licensed event.
2. Bar an individual from transferring or registering any pups or dogs in that person’s name (joint or full registration) or to any member of that person’s family.
3. Bar an individual from receiving Championship points for any dog registered in that person’s name (joint or full registration).

By way of illustration, the following constitute some, but not all, of the situations calling for the above sanctions:

1. Falsification or alteration of a EBKC Registration Certificate, Pedigree, EBKC Easy Entry™ Card or any other EBKC document.
2. Falsification or alteration of any reports of wins issued to EBKC
3. Falsification or alteration of receipts issued by EBKC Judges.
4. Switching, wrongfully using or attempting to use a EBKC Registration Certificate, Pedigree, EBKC Easy Entry™ Card or any other EBKC document.
5. Selling or attempting to sell a dog with false or incorrect EBKC Registration Certificate or Pedigree.
6. Intimidating, threatening, or injuring a Judge, Club/Association member or official, event participant or spectator, or EBKC representative.

The six illustrations given above are only by way of example and EBKC reserves to itself its inherent right and power to impose such sanctions in any other circumstances deemed appropriate by EBKC.

Any individual who is found guilty by a court of law of a crime involving dogs will be barred from European Bully Kennel Club for an indefinite period. A person shall be considered guilty in a criminal proceeding if they are convicted by a judge, jury, or if they enter a plea bargain or other arrangement to plea to a lesser offense, or if their case is disposed of by any form of deferred adjudication; a person shall be considered guilty in a civil proceeding if they are held responsible or liable by a judge, jury, or if a compromised settlement is reached between the parties.

EBKC POLICY REGARDING PERSONS ASSOCIATED WITH FIGHTING DOGS

Any individual or group of individuals known by EBKC to promote, support, and raise dogs for fighting; knowingly sell, give or trade dogs that will be used in fighting; condone or be associated with the facing off, game testing, rolling or pitting of dogs; or arrested for attending and/or participating in a dog fight, will have the following actions taken against them by European Bully Kennel Club:

1. All dog registration privileges will be revoked for life.
   1. The person(s) will not be permitted to register any litter of puppies.
   2. The person(s) will not be permitted to transfer ownership of any puppies or adult dogs into their name.
2. The person(s) will be barred for life from participating in or entering any EBKC-licensed events. Their dogs will not be awarded any EBKC Championship points or titles even if handled by another person.
3. The person(s) will be barred for life from advertising in any EBKC publications.

Anyone aware of any persons currently involved in such activities as are listed above should report them to the European Bully Kennel Club

EBKC POLICY REGARDING SURGICAL PROCEDURES

In the case of dogs that have undergone surgical procedures, a veterinary certificate is required and must be presented upon request.

Dogs with docked tails or cropped ears are to be admitted in accordance with the legal regulations of their home countries and those of the country where the show takes place. The judging of docked and undocked or cropped and uncropped dogs must be done without any discrimination and solely in accordance with the valid breed standard. The organizing country’s regulations concerning showing docked or cropped dogs should be stated in the show schedule or on the entry forms as well as in the show regulations. Dogs that are docked/cropped due to a medical necessity may participate in an exhibition. The holder must prove this with a medical statement from the veterinarian. That statement states why, where, and when the dog was docked, and by which veterinarian.

These Updated regulations governing EBKC® Licensed Conformation Shows. Effective January 1, 2023