Conformation
The ASCA Conformation program is designed to promote the exhibition
of ASCA registered purebred Australian Shepherds and award those that
conform to the ASCA Breed Standard. This standard of judging was
accepted and approved by the membership in 1977.
In the last 5 years, over 100s of ASCA Sanctioned Conformation Shows
were held throughout the United States and Internationally.
The Conformation Program has two classifications in which to compete for
Championship points. One for Intact dogs and bitches; and another for
Altered (spayed/neutered) dogs and bitches. Both Programs utilize the
same rules and regulations, with one minor variance: to allow the
competition of spayed/neutered dogs within its own division. ASCA is the
first dog registry to actually allow altered dogs/bitches acquire
Championships.
To earn a Conformation Championship, whether Intact or Altered, ASCA
requires three major wins and a total of 15 points. A major win is one
where the show is large enough for the dog to earn at least three
points. Each Affiliate club is provided with a point schedule based on
the amount of dogs and bitches that are shown at their club each year.
These point schedules may vary from dogs and bitches shown, and from
year to year.
The prefix "Ch" and A-Ch before a dog's name denotes either Intact
Conformation Champion (Ch) of Record or Altered Conformation Champion of
Record (A-Ch).
Each year ASCA awards those dogs that have defeated the most dogs and/or
bitches by being awarded Best of Breed or Best of Opposite at a show
they have competed in. This Merit Year starts June 1 and runs through
May 31st. At the yearly National Specialty, Premiere awards are given to
a percentage of the chosen best dogs and bitches competing in the Intact
Best of Breed class and Altered Best of Breed class.
