Dog Competition History

Dog competitions featured early in the history of the Show, the first recorded occurring in 1869.  In newspapers the ‘splendid collection of dogs’ was praised, and a tan terrier, weighing three pounds, apparently attracted much attention.  Breeds listed as classes that year were: Bloodhounds, Newfoundlands, Retrievers, Pointers, Setters, Spaniels, King Charles Spaniels, Greyhounds, Italian Greyhounds, Kangaroo Dogs, Skye Terriers, English Terriers, Terriers, Bull Terriers, Bulldogs, Sheepdogs, St Bernards and Beagles.

The RAS has a long association with wider canine affairs in NSW. From 1919 the RAS were strongly linked to the Kennel Association of NSW, adopting their rules for the Easter Show and insisting on the registration of all dogs with the Association as a condition of entry.

In 1923 the RAS took over the Association’s clerical work and the keeping of the register.  The Kennel Association functioned until at least 1935, however, the conditions surrounding its ultimate demise are unclear.

The RAS Kennel Club (later known as RAS Kennel Control) then became the premier canine organisation in NSW. Established in 1948, it unified the dog world and saw to the administration around registration and the classification of purebred dogs, improving processes for both along the way.  In 1988 RAS Kennel Control changed its name to the NSW Canine Council in preparation for separation from the RAS in 1989, whereupon it resumed all the governance duties formerly undertaken by the RAS.  Today it is known as DOGS NSW.

The Dog Pavilion (Howie Complex) at Sydney Showground was designed specifically for the showing of dogs. It can house more than 600 dogs and can accommodate all breeds. The pavilion seats around 2,000 spectators and judging takes place on three outdoor lawns.

Some interesting dog competition facts:

·         The first sheepdog trials were held in 1879.

·         In 1895 there was a class for “Any other variety dog or bitch”. Exhibitor Albert Andrews entered Jack, described as “a dingo caught at Bega”.

·         In 1901 there was a class for “Dog biscuits, or foods best adapted for dogs”. It attracted two entries.

·         The Best in Show award was introduced in 1931.

·         The RAS also held dog competitions as part of the Annual or Sydney Sheep Show (1918-1974). These were predominantly sheepdog trials, however they occasionally included dog classes. The 1918 Annual Sheep Show included a Grand Dog Show, with classes for Kelpies, Cattle Dogs, Deerhounds and Airedale Terriers.

Timeline for the introduction of different breeds

Note: many breeds have not appeared continuously at the Show since they were first introduced. This list records the first time they are mentioned in the catalogues.