Prior to the show, judges of the show have already set standards. To choose dogs which match the set standards during the show is extremely difficult because the judgements made should be completely subjective. Not only is one dog compared with the other, but also compared to the judge's expectations and criteria of an ideal dog which can meet the breed standard almost perfectly. The dog show is organized to select a dog that fits almost completely the set breed standards, as the winner.

The breed standard is jotted down in a long list, which is called a conformation point - all the judges get together in a group and frame the conformation point. Certain common requirements remain the same for all competitions although conformation points can vary from one competition to another. Although the pet's color, pattern, length, type and quality are observed, in the final analysis the fur is still the most important factor. The layout, quality and quantity of the markings are also viewed carefully.

Healthy skin with no pigmentation is also one of the important criterions with the shape and color of the head also taken into consideration. The general attitude and temperament of each breed of dogs are also noted down. The judges will compare and take into consideration the mouth and structure of the teeth and how they align when the jaw is closed. Comparisons are made for the shape and color of the eyes and the shape and set of the ears, including the ratio of the length and height. The dogs entering competitions should be well groomed because the style of walking and gait and the shape of the tail and feet are closely observed. The name of each participating dog should be registered so that every dog's name is attached with the breeder's kennel name.

For the purpose of easy identification because every dog has a registered name as well as a call name, the kennel club uses the registered name while the owner refers to the pet using the call name. Challengers from different parts of the country never fail to take the opportunity to participate in the many dog shows held at these different levels. Because of the hierarchical nature of the contests , only dogs that have won at each show at each level are given points and deemed eligible for the next show.

These shows allow pets which have already won championship in other shows and the aim is to choose the best in the breed. Such shows improve the reputation of the dog, breeder and kennel with the price of the puppies of that particular dog sold for a surprisingly high price. The popularity of the champion breed increases rapidly when pet buyers crowd around looking for a pet that looks like the champion. Two acknowledged prestigious dog shows available are Crufts in the United Kingdom and the Westminster Kennel Club Show in the United States.