Kennel Club Breed Standards

The basis of breed shows is the judging of pedigree dogs against the 'Breed Standard', which is a picture in words that describes each breed of pedigree dog. For all licensed breed shows, the Kennel Club Breed Standards must be used for the judging of pedigree dogs.

The Breed Standards are owned by the Kennel Club, and all changes are subject to approval by the Kennel Club General Committee. New Breed Standards, for newly recognised breeds, are drawn up once the breed has become sufficiently established within the UK. Careful research is conducted into the historical background, health and temperament of any new breed before Kennel Club recognition is granted. The Kennel Club currently recognises 210 breeds. Upon recognition, breeds are placed on the Imported Breed Register until they are deemed eligible for transferral to the Breed Register.

Recognition of new breeds

There are many different breeds of dog for you to meet at Discover Dogs, held in London each year, each with their own special characteristics. Each breed of dog belongs to a group of similar breeds, which may be investigated below.

Hound
Working
Gundog
Terrier
Utility
Pastoral
Toy