Show dog or working dog

Showdog

The choice between a show dog and a working dog is an important decision that largely depends on what is expected from the dog, lifestyle, and what someone is willing to invest in the dog in terms of training and care. Although both types of dogs can be of the same breed, their characteristics, needs, and goals differ significantly. 

A show dog is a dog that is bred and trained to participate in dog shows. The main goal of a show dog is to display physical traits that meet the breed standards. This includes aspects such as structure, coat, movement, and overall appearance. Show dogs are often the result of generations of carefully selected breeding lines, where appearance is the top priority.

Advantages of a show dog:

• Aesthetics: Show dogs often have an impressive appearance thanks to their perfect build and well-groomed coat.

• Less physical challenge: Although they also need exercise, their physical endurance is often less developed than that of working dogs, which makes them more suitable for owners who do not have an extremely active lifestyle.

• Temperament: Show dogs often have a calmer temperament because they are less focused on work and action.

Challenges:

• Training: Training a show dog requires patience and dedication, especially to present the dog correctly in the show ring.

• Maintenance: A show dog requires a lot of care, especially when it comes to coat care and appearance in order to meet the high show standards.

• Breeding goals: Some show lines may pay less attention to health and working ability, because appearance comes first.

Curious about how dog shows work and interested in coming along sometime so everything involved can be explained during the show? Then get in touch to schedule a time to go together. 

Or looking for ring training to better learn how to present a dog? Guidance is also available to help find excellent trainers within or outside the region. For this, please get in touch. At the moment, almost every Tuesday evening involves driving from Amsterdam to Belgium for an hour of ring training!

Or interested in hiring a handler for a dog show? There is experience with handling personal Vizslas and those of others (with some pretty nice results!). At first it didn’t seem appealing at all, but after achieving international success with Brent & Cody, it became addictive. Brent is Dutch, Belgian and International Youth Champion, became Best of Breed in the intermediate class in January 2025 and received three qualifications for Crufts in Birmingham, the largest dog show in the world! And Cody recently earned his first youth point in the Netherlands. These shows are actually pretty fun ;-)

Working dog

A working dog, on the other hand, is bred and trained to perform a specific task. This can range from herding sheep to police or rescue work. The most important characteristic of a working dog is its ability to carry out active and physically demanding work. When breeding these dogs, the focus is more on intelligence, physical strength and stamina, rather than appearance.

Advantages of a working dog:

• High energy and stamina: Working dogs are built for action. They have a lot of energy and can work long hours without getting tired.

• Intelligence and training: These dogs are often very intelligent and driven, which makes them relatively easy to train for specific tasks or obedience.

• Health and work ethic: Because they are often bred for functional tasks, working dogs usually have stronger physical health and a solid work ethic.

Challenges:

• High energy needs: Working dogs need plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. Without this, they can become destructive or frustrated.

• Not always suitable as companion dogs: Because their drive to work is strong, some working dogs may be less suitable for families looking for a calm household pet.

• Less focus on appearance: Working dogs are bred for functionality, which can mean they sometimes meet the external breed standards to a lesser extent.

Making a choice

The choice between a show dog or a working dog should depend on personal goals and lifestyle. For those interested in dog shows where the aesthetics of a breed are paramount, a show dog may be suitable. Conversely, for anyone looking for a dog that can actively work and who wants a task-oriented, energetic companion, a working dog is likely a better fit.

It is important to take the dog’s needs into consideration, whether choosing a show dog or a working dog. Both types of dogs can be wonderful companions, but they require different levels of commitment and care.

KNJV tests, SJP’s, MAP’s, Field Trials... all tests for working dogs that are organized at set times in various locations. For anyone not yet familiar with this, it can be overwhelming to figure out where to train for these and how and where to register. Guidance can be offered to get started in this special world.

Field work has been the personal choice. Basic training sessions are regularly organized in a private field for anyone who wants to see if it might be something for them, and it is always possible to make an appointment to come along and watch a trial. These are often held on the outer edges of the Netherlands. For those interested, please get in contact.