Newfoundlands compete with other purebred dogs in the sport of Conformation, the “beauty contest” of the dog world. In Conformation, dogs are evaluated on many aspects including their structure, movement, and coat to name just a few. The judge evaluates each dog on its closeness to the ideal Newfoundland as described in the breed standard. The judge then gives awards to the best male and best female Newfoundland that are not yet Champions. These awards translate into points toward the dog’s Champion title. Once a Newf has earned his or her Champion title, they can then go on to compete in Best of Breed for the Grand Champion title.

AKC Conformation Titles:

Champion (CH)
Grand Champion (GrCH)
Best is Specialty Show (BISS)
Best in Show (BIS)

Conformation Resources:

NCA’s Conformation Corner
AKC Newfoundland Breed Standard
Getting Started Showing Your Dog
Baray Events Upcoming Shows
Onofrio Upcoming Shows
AKC Conformation
AKC Show Superintendents
AKC Events Finder