Conformation point

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In dog breeding and showing, a conformation point is any one out of a long list of dog attributes known as the breed standard. This is a set standard, usually written, which is used to judge a given dog against the hypothetical ideal specimen of that breed. All the winners of Best of Breed (or Variety in some cases) compete in group competition with other breeds that do relatively the same thing. However, each individual dog in the group ring is being judged against its own breed's standard.

An incorrect conformation point is known as a fault.

Common conformation points

Coat, includes colour, type, length, pattern and tactile quality
Quality, quantity and distribution of markings
Temperament (should be characteristic of breed) and general attitude

Head shape; colour of head
Bite (how the teeth meet when the jaws are closed)
Eye shape and colour
Shape, set and carriage of ears

Size of animal
Ratio of animal’s height to its length
Skin health (and often pigmentation)
Gait (quality and style of stride and general movement)
Grooming, in breeds where that applies
Tail shape, set and carriage
Shape of feet

There are many other qualifiers, and many specifics within these. For example, in some breeds, skin must include an assessment of the quality of the wrinkles. In some breeds, an examination of the mouth includes measurement and judging of the flews, in most others, this does not apply.

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