Breed Shows are a cornerstone for breeding approval in KlM-GNA. They provide evaluation of a prospective breeding candidate in order to maintain the physical characteristics expected in a Kleine Munsterlander based on the FCI standard of the breed. The key components evaluated are: 1) general appearance in relationship to a typical KlM 2) height and proportion conforming to the FCI Standard 3) correct bite and dentition 4) correct coat providing protection in the field, forest, and water 5) determination that there are no “eliminating faults” as defined by the FCI Standard and 6) fluid movement and structure enabling endurance and resistance to injury within the dogs required hunting tasks. In the end, most important is how well the dog is suited for the physical challenges of versatile hunting.

The evaluation of the dog includes overall compliance to the FCI Standard, measurement at the shoulder height, examination of the teeth, and movement of the dog on a loose lead at both a walk and a trot. Handlers should prepare both the dog and themselves for the show. Begin by training your dog to walk on a loose lead coming to a stop near the judge. The dog should be willing to stand still for measurement and examination of teeth, coat, and structure. The judge will open the mouth of the dog to examine bite and number of teeth. This should be practiced first by the owner/handler and then allowing strangers to examine the dog’s mouth as the judge will do. Finally, the handler should practice moving the dog on a loose lead. The judge will require the dog to move straight away and then back towards the judge at a walk and a trot. Next the dog will be trotted so that the judge can view the dog from the side. The judge may ask to see several trots so the handler must be physically able to do this with the dog. At the completion of the examination the judge will provide the owner/handler with the results of the evaluation, including the height measurement, bite and eye color evaluation and the overall findings of the evaluation. The dog will be assigned a rating for the conformation and coat. The minimum score allowed for breeding is G/G (good/good).

The following conformation scores are given:

• “Vorzüglich” (V) – Excellent, if the dog meets the breed and sex characteristics in nearly ideal, complete fashion,
• “Sehr gut” (SG) – Very good, if the dog has balanced proportions, is in good mental condition and possesses the typical breed characteristics – in short, an outstanding dog,
• “Gut”(G) – Good, if the dog has the main breed characteristics, but shows various faults,
• “Genügend” (Ggd) – Satisfactory, if the dog is close to the breed standard, however, without possessing its generally known characteristics or if its physical condition is unconvincing,
• “Disqualifiziert” (Disq) – Disqualified, if the dog does not conform to the breed standard, has significant problems with its teeth or other anomalies, shows aggressive behavior or has faults which might impair its health.