A Conformation show, also referred to as a breed show, is a dog show in which a judge familiar with a specific dog breed, evaluates individual purebred dogs for how well the dogs conform to the established breed type, as described in a breed’s individual breed standard.

Such shows are useful to breeders as a means of evaluating dogs for breeding purposes. A conformation championship from a recognized national kennel club is generally considered a reasonably objective indication of merit, as it indicates that the dog has been found to be a superior example of its breed by a number of different judges on a number of separate occasions. Many breeders even consider championship a prerequisite for breeding.

There are also special classes for junior handlers aged 9-18, that encourages friendly competition and assists them in becoming excellent dog handlers.

The first modern conformation dog show was held in Newcastle-upon-Tyne, England, in June 1859, and the only breeds scheduled were pointers and setters.