JUDGES DIRECTORY
The global cynology database of official FCI, AKC, and national dog show evaluators.
Understanding the Global Dog Show Judging System
Navigating the world of dog shows requires a deep understanding of the individuals evaluating your breed. Judges are officially licensed by major cynological organizations, such as the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI), the American Kennel Club (AKC), and The Kennel Club (KC). Each organization has strict educational and testing requirements before a judge is approved to award championship points or titles.
In the FCI system, judges are typically licensed by their national kennel club. They begin by qualifying for specific breeds, eventually progressing to entire FCI Groups, and in rare cases, achieving the prestigious status of an All-Round judge. The AKC operates on a similar progressive system, requiring extensive hands-on experience and mentoring before granting group approval.
For exhibitors and breeders, researching a judge is a critical part of show campaign strategy. Knowing a judge's background, their original breed, and their specific licenses helps exhibitors make informed decisions about where to travel and which dogs to present in the ring. Pair this directory with Championship Rules to understand what each show offers in terms of CAC/CACIB qualification, and Dog Show Portals to find the correct entry system for the country you are targeting.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an FCI All-Round Judge? +
An FCI All-Round judge is an evaluator who has passed examinations and been officially approved by their national kennel club and the FCI to judge all recognized breeds across all 10 FCI groups. This status requires decades of study and hands-on experience.
Can an AKC judge evaluate at an FCI international show? +
Yes, under specific conditions. AKC judges can officiate at FCI shows, and vice versa, provided there is a mutual agreement or official invitation approved by both the host country's kennel club and the judge's domestic organization. They can only judge breeds they are licensed for in their home registry.
What does "Group Judge" mean? +
A Group Judge is licensed to evaluate all breeds within a specific, designated group (e.g., FCI Group 1: Sheepdogs and Cattle Dogs, or the AKC Herding Group). They are qualified to judge both the individual breeds within that group and the overall Group competition (BOG/BIG) in the main ring.
Why are some judges restricted to specific countries? +
Judges often begin their careers licensed only for national-level shows (CAC) in their home country. To award international titles (CACIB), they must meet additional criteria set by the FCI or their governing registry to be added to the official international judges list.