Multi-Dog Classes
Almost always at large specialty shows like a national specialty and sometimes at all-breed shows, classes may be offered in which a single entry may consist of more than one dog. These are sort of stand-alone classes and are judged before or after Best of Breed.
Brace Class: This is a class where two dogs, owned by the same person, are handled simultaneously by a single handler. The dogs are judged on their similarity as well as the quality and uniformity of movement. Short-legged solid colored breeds (like Pomeranians) have an advantage here, though I once saw a beautiful Saluki brace at a Houston KC show. Awards are made for Best Brace (at a specialty) and there may be a competition for Best Brace in Show at an all-breed show.
Team Class: Like the Brace Class, but with four dogs instead of two. I have long arms, but I can't imagine handling a team of Irish Wolfhounds!
Stud Dog: This class is an assessment of how well a stud has passed his quality to his offspring. The entry consists of the stud dog and from two to four of his get. The judgement is on the quality of the offspring, not on the stud himself, though he is examined for any disqualifying features. The get are examined and gaited just like any regular class. Stud dogs may be neutered.
Brood Bitch: Like the Stud Dog class, but with the brood bitch and from two to four of her produce. We have a nice picture somewhere of our Miss Dream (Am. Can. Ch. Lanel's Sweet Dream of Soyara) and her kids Thunder, Misty, and Lucy winning the Brood Bitch class at the Spring 1995 Midwest Borzoi Club specialty at the Detroit KC under Dr. Jim Sillers.
Specialty shows may also feature some exhibition-only classes, mostly for sentimental reasons. A Parade of Champions or Parade of Titleholders gives some of the old-timers a chance to get applauded and receive a "well-done-good-and-faithful-servant" rosette. The Borzoi Club of America national specialties have a Beloved Companion class. Some of the Borzoi here may be retired show dogs, others couch potato pets, and some may be rescue cases. All are loved and cherished.
None of these classes counts towards Best in Show, but provide a nice showcase for breeders to show their lines, exhibitors to display their handling skills, and the audience to enjoy the accomplishments of their breed.
Posted by Greg Hlatky at August 22, 2002 05:47 PM