What Is the Westminster Judging Program
The Westminster Kennel Club judging program oversees the evaluation of dogs at the Westminster Dog Show. Licensed judges assess conformation against official breed standards to determine winners in each category.
How Judges Are Selected and Licensed
Judges are typically licensed by the American Kennel Club or equivalent bodies and often have extensive breeding, handling, or judging experience. Selection is based on expertise, reputation, and adherence to official judging guidelines. For details on requirements, visit AKC Judging Information.
What the Judging Process Involves
During evaluation, judges examine each dog’s structure, movement, and overall type. They compare entries within a breed group, select winners, and ultimately choose the Best in Show. The process follows rules set by the Westminster Kennel Club and the hosting organization.
