- Handler’s Appearance ...............................10 points
- Exhibitors must follow dress code rules as established for the specific fair or event.
- Dog Grooming and Conditioning................. 20 points
- Hair Coat – The dog’s coat should be clean, not scaly, or matted, and free from loose hair. Special coat trims, such as those for poodles or terriers, will not give an advantage except for cleanliness and neatly brushed appearance.
- Total Absence of Parasites – The animal should not be a host to fleas, lice, mites or ticks.
- Ears – The animal’s ears should be clean.
- Toenails – The animal’s toenails should be properly trimmed.
- Teeth – The animal’s teeth should be clean and free of matter.
- General Health and Condition – This includes the animal’s weight and clear eyes free of matter.
- Handling – Showing of the Dog................... 50 points
- Movement of the handler and dog – The ability of the handler to show the dog to its best advantage. Smooth, straight, and flowing gait at the correct speed.
- Coordination between dog and handler – Reaction of the dog to the handler and communication between dog and handler.
- Proper presentation and control of dog.
- Adherence to directions and proper ring procedures – This includes proper ring etiquette and good sportsmanship both in and out of the ring.
- Disqualification – A handler unable to control the dog will be disqualified.
- Knowledge of Dogs..........................20 points
- Knowledge of dogs specific to the 4-H project and breed of the dog it most closely resembles. The judge will converse with and/or question the exhibitor about the project and the dog.
TOTAL………………………………………100 points