In the world of cynological competitions, CACIB and CAC are prestigious titles awarded to dogs at shows organized under the auspices of the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI). These titles signify a dog’s quality and its potential for a championship career.

1. CACIB (Certificat d’Aptitude au Championnat International de Beauté)

CACIB stands for the International Certificate of Aptitude for the Beauty Championship and is awarded at international shows under FCI.

Who Can Receive CACIB?

It is awarded only to dogs in the following classes: intermediate class, open class, working class, and champion class. It cannot be awarded to young dogs (junior class) or veterans.

How to Earn the Title of International Beauty Champion?

A dog must win four CACIB titles in at least three different countries under judges from different nations. Additionally, there must be a minimum time gap of 12 months and 1 day between the first and last CACIB title won.

2. CAC (Certificat d’Aptitude au Championnat)

CAC stands for the National Certificate of Aptitude for the Beauty Championship and is awarded at national and international dog shows.

Who Can Receive CAC?

CAC is awarded to dogs in the following classes: intermediate, open, working, and champion class. This title serves as a step towards obtaining the National Champion title of a specific country.

How to Earn the Title of National Champion?

The rules vary by country, but typically a dog must win a certain number of CAC titles within a specific time frame. For example, in some countries, three to five CAC titles under different judges are required for a dog to become a national beauty champion.

Key Differences Between CACIB and CAC

Both titles are prestigious and lead to the highest cynological recognitions, with CACIB leading to the International Championship, while CAC enables the achievement of a National Championship in cynology.

The Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) is the leading global organization for cynology. It was founded in 1911 and is headquartered in Belgium. FCI is an internationally recognized body that sets standards for dog breeding, evaluation, and competitions worldwide. Its main goal is to promote and protect purebred dogs through controlled breeding and competitions.

Structure and Membership

FCI brings together national kennel clubs from more than 90 countries. Each member maintains pedigree records and organizes exhibitions in accordance with FCI rules. All members are divided into three categories:

– Full members – national kennel clubs with voting rights in FCI.

– Associate members – organizations that collaborate with FCI but do not have full voting rights.

– Partner members – organizations with limited cooperation with FCI.

Breed Classification

FCI classifies dog breeds into ten groups based on their function, origin, and specific characteristics:

1. Sheepdogs and Cattle Dogs (except Swiss Cattle Dogs)
2. Pinschers, Schnauzers, Molossians, and Swiss Cattle Dogs
3. Terriers
4. Dachshunds
5. Spitz and Primitive Types
6. Scenthounds and Related Breeds
7. Pointing Dogs
8. Retrievers, Flushing Dogs, and Water Dogs
9. Companion and Toy Dogs
10. Sighthounds

Each of these groups has specific standards recognized and maintained by FCI.

FCI and International Competitions

FCI organizes and regulates the largest cynological competitions in the world, including the World Dog Show and the European Dog Show. These events gather thousands of breeders and dog enthusiasts who present the best specimens of their breeds.

Influence and Importance of FCI

FCI establishes rules that ensure ethical breeding and the health of dogs. Its standards are used as references in many countries, even those that are not FCI members. Additionally, the organization promotes responsible ownership and fights against irresponsible breeding and the exploitation of dogs.

FCI is a key organization for everyone involved in cynology – whether they are breeders, cynologists, judges, or dog owners interested in exhibitions and competitions.

How to Find Schedules and Entry Forms for Dog Shows?

You have decided to enter your dog into a show. You meet all the requirements, but you cannot find the schedule or the entry forms. We will help make this process easier by providing essential information on how to reach your goal in the simplest way.

To find dog show schedules and entry forms at an international level, the following approach is recommended:

1. Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI)

FCI is a global organization that coordinates international dog shows. They publish the CACIB show schedule, which includes international shows awarding CACIB titles. These schedules can be found on their official website.

2. National Kennel Clubs

Each FCI member country has its own national kennel club that organizes and publishes dog show schedules at the national level. Examples include:

German Kennel Club (VDH)

American Kennel Club (AKC)

Canadian Kennel Club (CKC)

The Kennel Club UK

Dogs Australia

Norwegian Kennel Club (NKK)

Russian Kennel Club (RKF)

Italian Kennel Club (ENCI)

Spanish Kennel Club

French Kennel Club

3. Specialized Portals and Platforms

There are independent portals that provide information about dog shows worldwide:

OnlineDogShows.eu – This platform allows online registration for European dog shows and provides details on upcoming events.

Best In Show Entry Service – This service offers a schedule of upcoming AKC shows, including all necessary registration details.

Jack Bradshaw Dog Show Superintendents – This organization provides supervision services for dog shows on the West Coast of the USA. Their website offers information on upcoming shows and access to entry forms.

Crufts – One of the most prestigious dog shows in the UK. Details about Crufts entries can be found on their official website.

4. Contacting Local Kennel Clubs

For specific information on shows in particular regions or cities, it is recommended to contact local kennel clubs or societies. These organizations frequently organize shows and can provide detailed information about registration and participation requirements.

Regularly following these sources will help you stay informed about the latest events in the world of dog breeding and ensure timely registration for desired shows.

How to Register a Dog for a Dog Show?

You’ve finally gathered the courage for you and your furry friend to participate in one of the many dog shows. Taking that first step is an achievement in itself! However, there are several other steps to follow, and they’re not always easy. But don’t worry—we’re here to help you go through the process as smoothly as possible.

Registering a dog for a show requires several steps, including essential ones such as preparing documentation, completing registration, and meeting the requirements set by kennel clubs.

1. Check the Entry Requirements

Before entering your dog into a show, make sure that:

– The dog is registered with a national kennel club (FCI, AKC, The Kennel Club, etc.).

– It has a pedigree if competing in conformation shows.

– It meets the minimum age requirement (usually 6 months for conformation shows).

– It has valid health documentation and vaccinations.

2. Find a Suitable Dog Show

Visit kennel club websites such as:

– FCI (Fédération Cynologique Internationale)

– AKC (American Kennel Club)

– The Kennel Club UK

– National kennel clubs

Check the event calendar and find the appropriate competition category for your dog.

3. Complete the Dog Show Registration

Registrations are usually done online through official organizers’ websites or via email.

Required details include:

– The dog’s name (as listed in the pedigree)

– Breed, gender, and date of birth.

– Pedigree number and issuing organization

– Competition category

– Owner’s details

Important: Registration deadlines are set in advance, so it’s best to register your dog as early as possible to avoid additional late entry fees.

4. Pay the Entry Fee

– Entry fees vary depending on the type of show and the country of the organizer.

– Payments are usually made online or via bank transfer.

5. Prepare Your Dog for the Show

– Regular bathing and grooming (especially important for breeds with specific coat standards).

– Training in proper posture and movement in the ring.

– Getting your dog accustomed to the crowd and noise of dog shows.

6. Arriving at the Show

On the day of the show, bring:

– Entry confirmation.

– Health records with vaccination proof.

– Grooming tools and supplies.

– Water and treats for your dog.

7. Participating in the Dog Show

Your dog enters the ring according to the schedule, where the judge evaluates it based on breed standards.
The best-ranked dogs earn titles (CAC, CACIB, Best in Show, etc.).

A successful registration and well-prepared dog increase your chances of achieving great results in the competition!

This spring brings many dog shows around the world. Here, we have highlighted some of the most exciting dog shows in Europe that will take place in April.

 Here are seven top dog shows happening in Europe in April 2025:

These events represent a mix of international and regional dog shows with diverse participation and prestigious awards.

We are especially looking forward to new events dedicated to the Presa Canario breed, such as the “Presa Canario Monographico 2025,” which will be held for the first time in Belgrade in February 2025. We will be writing about this and many other dog shows in the coming period.

Here are some of the most significant dog shows taking place in Europe and North America in the first quarter of 2025, along with basic information about each event:

Dog shows in Europe and North America during the first quarter of 2025

1. Nitra Christmas Cup (Slovakia)

– Location:  Nitra, Slovakia

– Dates: December 19-22, 2024

– This international dog show includes CACIB titles and special competitions like “Best Junior” and “Best in Show.” It also features a Slovak national breed showcase.

2. Maastricht Dog Show

– Location: Maastricht, Netherlands

– Dates: December 28-29, 2024

– A popular event that attracts numerous exhibitors and visitors, offering a platform for various breeds to compete.

3. Bruxelles Dog Show

– Location: Brussels, Belgium

– Dates: December 14-15, 2024

– This show is part of the Belgian dog show circuit and features a wide range of breeds and competitions.

4. Dublin National Dog Show

– Location: Dublin, Ireland

– Dates: December 14-15, 2024

– A significant event in the Irish dog show calendar that showcases many breeds and includes various competitions.

5. Stockholm Hundmässa (Stockholm Dog Fair)

– Location: Stockholm, Sweden

– Dates: December 14-15, 2024

– One of Scandinavia’s largest dog shows featuring a wide array of breeds and competitions including the Nordic Winner titles.

6. Helsinki Winner Show 

– Location: Helsinki, Finland

– Dates: December 7, 2024

– This is a prestigious Nordic Dog Show awarding titles like “Helsinki Winner 2024.” All FCI groups are judged, with separate events for puppies and juniors.

7. Vilnius Christmas Show 

– Location: Vilnius, Lithuania

– Dates: December 15-17, 2024

– This two-day international dog show celebrates a wide array of breeds with opportunities to win prestigious CACIB awards.

Bundessieger-Ausstellung

Location: Dortmund, Germany

Date: November 8-10, 2024

This prestigious event is one of the largest dog shows in Germany, featuring numerous breeds and attracting thousands of participants each year.

IDS (CACIB) Geneva

Location: Geneva, Switzerland

Date: November 17, 2024

The International Dog Show in Geneva is a significant event that showcases various breeds and offers a platform for international       competition.

International Dog Show Zagreb

Location: Zagreb, Croatia

Date: November 23, 2024

This show is known for its friendly atmosphere and competitive spirit, featuring numerous breeds and providing an opportunity for breeders to showcase their dogs.

Winter Wonderland & Ísland Winner Show

Location: Kópavogur, Iceland

Date: November 23-24, 2024

A unique event that combines winter festivities with dog competitions, attracting local and international participants.

Prague International Dog Show

Location: Prague, Czech Republic

Date: November 29 – December 1, 2024

Organized by the Czech Sinology Union, this international dog show features various breeds competing for prestigious titles.

Kielce National Dog Exhibition

Location: Kielce, Poland

Date: November 30 – December 1, 2024

This exhibition includes both national and international pedigree dogs competing for top honors, making it a key event in the region.

Animal Fair Stuttgart

Location: Stuttgart, Germany

Date: November 22-24, 2024

Known as Germany’s largest pet fair, this event features a wide variety of animals and includes dog shows among its many attractions.

Pet Expo & Show Bologna

Location: Bologna, Italy

Date: November 23-24, 2024

This pet event showcases various categories of pets and includes demonstrations and competitions for dogs.

TrioCACIB Show

Location: Prague, Czech Republic

Date: November 30 – December 1, 2024

This important international event features multiple breeds competing for prestigious titles and attracts participants from across Europe.

International Winners Show

Location: Leeuwarden, Netherlands

Date: November 30 – December 1, 2024

This show focuses on recognizing the best dogs across various breeds and is a highlight on the Dutch dog show calendar.

These events not only celebrate the beauty and talent of dogs but also provide opportunities for networking among breeders and enthusiasts across Europe.