United Kingdom
Complete KC championship guide — Challenge Certificates (CC) and conditions verified from official regulations.
The championship system in the United Kingdom is administered by The Royal Kennel Club. Unlike the European FCI system which relies on CAC certificates, the UK uses the highly competitive Challenge Certificate (CC) system. CCs are only on offer at specific Championship Shows, and not all breeds have CCs on offer at every show. Always confirm current schedules directly with thekennelclub.org.uk before planning your campaign.
Eligibility Requirements
Before entering the ring
| Registration | Dog must be registered on the Breed Register with The Royal Kennel Club. |
| Foreign Dogs | Overseas competitors must obtain an Authority to Compete (ATC) number to show their dog in the UK. |
| Show Type | You must enter in open classes or breed-specific classes where Challenge Certificates (CCs) are on offer. |
| Champion Class | Unlike some other countries, the UK does not have a specific "Champion" class at most shows. Champions must compete in the Open Class. |
Standard Championship Track
The core title — UK Champion
| Standard Route | 3× Challenge Certificates (CCs) |
| Alternative Route | 2× CCs combined with 5× Reserve Challenge Certificates (RCCs) (Valid from 1 July 2023) |
| Judges | Standard: 3 different judges. Alternative: 7 different judges. |
| Age | At least 1 CC must be won after the dog is 12 months of age. |
| Confirmation | Once a dog has met the requirements, the title is awarded automatically, and a certificate will be sent to the owner. |
Find Shows in the United Kingdom
Use the DOGMASH Dog Show Map to find online entry portals and superintendents (like Fosse Data, Higham Press) for KC shows. Never miss a registration deadline.
Canine Organizations in the UK
National registries and breed-specific clubs
Frequently Asked Questions
How many CCs are needed for the UK Champion title? +
To earn a Champion title in the UK, a dog must win three Challenge Certificates (CCs) at championship shows, each awarded by a different judge. At least one of these CCs must be won after the dog is 12 months of age.
Can I use Reserve Challenge Certificates (RCCs) for the title? +
Yes. As of 1 July 2023, an alternative route to the title is winning 2 CCs (with at least one won over 12 months of age) combined with five Reserve Challenge Certificates (RCCs). These awards must be given by seven different judges.
Is there a Champion Class in the UK? +
No. Unlike FCI countries, the UK does not have a specific 'Champion' class at most shows. Champions must compete in the Open Class alongside non-champions.
Can foreign dogs compete for the UK Champion title? +
Yes, but overseas competitors must obtain an Authority to Compete (ATC) number from The Kennel Club before they can show their dog in the UK. There is no fast-track option; foreign dogs must earn the required CCs just like domestic dogs.
How do I apply for the UK Champion title once I have the CCs? +
You don't need to apply. Once a dog has met the requirements, the title is awarded automatically by The Kennel Club, and a certificate will be sent to the owner, usually within two to six weeks.
Continue Exploring
Step Into the Professional Ring
You know the rules. Now get the system. Our PRO-SERIES planners handle entries, health records, travel logistics and campaign scheduling in one editable document.