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Step 1
Meet the prerequisite criteria for application. Prospective judges must have exhibited dogs in conformation shows for at least 12 years, have bred 5 litters in the breed for which they are applying, and have bred 4 AKC champions in the designated breed. Those who are highly experienced with breeding and showing but do not meet the litter and champion requirements in a single breed can apply under slightly different criteria that require 25 years of exhibitor experience and divide the litter and champion requirements among two or more breeds.
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Step 2
Steward at 6 AKC dog shows during the 3 years prior to application. Stewards are the people at ringside who check in exhibitors, hand out armband numbers, call classes into the ring and keep things organized for the judge.
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Step 3
Judge at 6 AKC sanctioned matches. Matches are practice dog shows, where everything runs like a regular show but winners do not acquire points toward titles. You can contact hosting clubs to let them know that you want to judge at matches.
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Step 4
Watch the AKC video on the requested breed. The video details the breed standard and shows the dog moving, in order to coach the viewer on the desired structure and movement of the particular breed. Judging candidates are examined in detail on the breed standards of any breeds they apply to judge.
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Step 5
Pass the AKC exams on dog anatomy and dog show procedure. These are open book exams.
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Step 6
Interview with an AKC Field Representative. Representatives are regionally based, so there will be one in your area with whom to schedule the pre-application interview. They are interested in your experience with breeding and showing, and in your commitment to pure bred dogs.
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Step 7
Complete the AKC New Judge Application. Fill out the application and attach documentation of your pre-application exams, breeding and showing history and screening interview.
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Step 8
Receive provisional status and pursue continuing education. New judges initially are given provisional status, during which time they may take on judging assignments while closely monitored by the AKC representatives overseeing the shows at which they judge. Throughout a career, judges may apply for additional breeds enabling them to judge entire Groups and Best in Show. The AKC sponsors seminars, mentoring and other educational opportunities for judges who want to maintain or build on their expertise.
