Prize pooches push popularity of dog shows

Origins

Dog shows originated in the United Kingdom in the mid-19th century as a way of determining which dog could be crowned champion canine. Over the past century, they have gradually developed into gentle beauty contests, where the contestants' bloodline, appearance, posture and character are assessed.

In 1911, the Federation Cynologique Internationale-a collection of national clubs that is recognized as the world's largest canine organization-was established in Belgium, with its headquarters in the town of Thuin.

In 1971, the FCI held the first World Dog Show, which quickly became known as the "Olympics for Dogs" and helped canine pageants gain huge popularity across the Western world. Since the turn of the century, dog shows have become increasingly popular in China.

In 2006, the country's first professional canine organization-the China Kennel Union-was founded, and the shows it organized attracted large audiences. In the same year, the CKU was included as one of the 92 contracted partners of the FCI.

"Dog shows have enjoyed a boom time in recent years in China as purebred dogs receive greater recognition across the nation," said Wang Lijia, director of the CKU office in Changchun, capital of the northeastern province of Jilin.

"Pets are also family members. People now want more quality dog breeds in case some genetic disease may prevent a long relationship and companionship with the animal. So they come to shows to learn more about pedigree dogs."

According to Wang Lijia, when the CKI was established, there were about 10 dog shows in China a year, but the number has soared to 80 or even 100-plus as the events grow in popularity.

"In May, the FCI-hosted World Dog Show was held in Shanghai. Nearly 2,000 dogs from different countries and regions took part," she said. "It was a stage to show China's achievements in breeding techniques and the good conditions pedigree dogs enjoy in the country."

The dogs that took part in the show were top performers that had undergone strict assessment to win their titles. Those triumphs required great efforts from their owners, who also spent a lot of money to ensure success, she added.