All-breed shows, as the name indicates, are for all AKC breeds. Most show dogs are competing for points toward their championship. To become an official AKC champion of record, a dog must earn a total of 15 points. However, the number of dogs required for points varies with the breed, sex and geographical location of the show. The AKC makes up a schedule of points each year to help equalize competition from breed to breed and area to area.
Dogs can earn from one to five points at a show.
A win of three, four or five points is called a major . The 15 points required for a championship must be won under at least three different judges, and must include two majors won under different judges. There are six regular classes in which dogs seeking points may compete. Judging in every breed proceeds along the same lines. The judge begins with the Puppy Dog class.