All breed dog shows are extremely popular today and there are more out there than ever before. The Internet has brought the dog show into the modern world and widely advertised local and national dog shows, encouraging more individuals to take part. Many of the all breed dog shows that are advertised have several events that are followed by a grand final. Your dog will fit into one of the following categories:

• Herding/Pastoral – This category name speaks for itself really as all were bred for use on a farm or ranch, including the Collie, German Shepherd and Old English Sheepdog.
• Hounds – Greyhounds, Afghan Hounds, Bassets and Beagles are examples of breeds that fit into this category. They were often bred as sight or scent hunters.
• Non-Sporting – There is no commonality between this group as such and many refer to it as the “other breeds” group. However, many are bred purely as household pets. This group includes the Dalmatian, Poodle and Chow Chow.
• Sporting – This category includes Pointers, Setters and Retrievers, amongst others, because they were bred to hunt and retrieve game bird, hence the name!
• Terrier – There are many breeds that fit into this category, from the Lakeland to the Cairn to the Airedale. Many were bred to hunt rabbits and other small creatures or rid homes and commercial property of rats and other vermin.
• Toy – This is the group for the lapdogs and household companion breeds, including the Pug, Chihuahua and Maltese, amongst others.
• Working/Utility – The Akita, Boxer, St Bernard and Doberman all fit into this category because of their very nature. They have all bee bred to guard homes and commercial property, pull carts and rescue individuals.