Showing
All breeds of dogs shown under the Kennel Club rules within the UK are divided into 7 groups:
- Gundog
- Hound
- Terrier
- Working
- Toy
- Utility
- Pastoral
Each breed within each group has 3 types of status
- Full or champion status
- Rare Breeds
- Import register breeds
As from 2011 HWV have been allocated Challenge Certificates (CC’s). This means at some championship shows “CC’s” will be awarded. An HWV awarded 3 CC’s becomes known as a Show Champion (ShCH). In order to become a full Champion they need to be placed at a field trial or working test, or gained a show gundog working certificate.
At exemption shows only Kennel Club registered dogs are allowed to compete in the four breed classes and continue on to best in show. As a gundog the HWV would normally compete in an “Any Variety Sporting “class as well as the “Any Variety Puppy” and “Any Variety Open” classes which are open to all breeds. The novelty classes at an exemption show are open to all dogs, pedigree and mixed breed..
At open shows HWVs can compete in breed classes if scheduled at the particular show. If breed classes are not scheduled they can compete in Not Separately Classified classes (AVNSC). The number of classes varies from show to show. Best of Breed and Best Not Separately Classified can go forward to the gundog group and if chosen can compete for best in show.
At championship shows the same rules apply as in open shows regarding competing in the breed classes and NSC classes. Wins at Championship shows attract points towards the HWVA Annual Awards.