Yorkie Information Center

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Showing Your Yorkie
                
Conformance events will judge your Yorkshire Terrier on how close the dog matches the official breed standard.
          
Agility dog shows can be so much fun, for both Yorkie and owner.  Your dog will jump over hurdles and navigate an obstacle course, while you offer commands.
What is Needed to Enter

In the United States, if you wish to show your Yorkshire Terrier in a Conformance Event with the AKC, your dog will need to be AKC registered.  For other events, such as Agility, you may enter your CKC or other registered Yorkie.

4 Types of Dog Shows

Conformation Event:  The dog is judged on how closely he or she matches the physical characteristics of the official Yorkie dog breed. It is important that your dog is groomed precisely.  One of the most important elements will be the dog’s coat; which must be long and flowing…in a “Show dog” style.   Other features will be judged as well such as: Bite, paws, bone structure and more. Each element is graded on a number scale.

Agility:  These events can be a wonderful way to bond with your dog, to train your Yorkie to listen to commands and to have a lot of fun.    Your Yorkie will compete against others to run through an obstacle course.  The dogs will be judged on how fast they complete the course and if they do what is required at each obstacle.  Courses are set up different at each event, but usually contain hoops to jump through, a balance beam, teeter-totter and more!  You run beside your dog, giving commands to help them navigate!

Obedience:  This is an event in which you can show off just how well you have your Yorkie trained.  Yorkie dog obedience shows will have you giving commands to your dog and be judged on how well you dogi listens to you!  One of the most challenging elements in these events is the “Stay” command.  You will command your dog to sit...you walk away...and then your dog must say where they are without chasing after you!

Free Style (Dancing with Dogs):  This is a truly wonderful event that is both entertaining to watch and very fun for both dog and owner to enter into. You and your Yorkie will “dance” together.  You choose the music...you choose the movements!  You usually have complete control on your “set”.  You may have your dog jump, twirl, ride on your leg as you slowly spin and so much more.  In the United States, regional shows are held all over the country and then the nationals are held once per year in Pennsylvania.

Before you Enter

Before you enter into an official event, you may wish to practice.  This can be done at "Matches".  Matches are events in which the outcome will not become part of your dog's official dog show record. 

The environment will be very similar to what is experienced at official events.  This is a perfect opportunity for both you and your Yorkie to become used to the show ring.  It is also a great way to network with other Yorkie owners, who are just starting out as you are.