It is rare for a champion show dog to live with his owner. Most of the time, a top show dog lives with a handler who cares for him and handles him in conformation shows. The handler is often the groomer as well. Show dogs require rigorous daily grooming and may even wear protective clothing to keep fine hair from fraying.
Show dogs work all year, competing in local and regional shows as they seek entrance into Westminster or Crufts, and vying to make it into the top standing of their breed. An award of Best of Show at Crufts or Westminster guarantees a comfortable living for the dog once he or she retires to breeding or studding.
There are several oversight organizations for conformation shows, including the AKC, the UKC, and the American Rare Breed Association. Outside of the U.S. are the Kennel Club, in Britain; the Canadian Kennel Club, and the FCI, which registers dogs throughout Europe.
