Dog showing is a hobby that, it is fair to say, is regarded by many as a little bit outside of mainstream. It is often portrayed in the media in either a negative or slightly condescending way. On one level, conformation showing is a beauty contest and that is often the limit of how it is portrayed. Whilst the hobby does occasionally live up to some of its less flattering stereotypes there is a lot more goes into it than a bit of primping and preening on the day of a show.
The primary purpose of a dog show is to identify the best specimens of that generation of animals. Whilst many do go to enjoy a day out with their dogs, it is undoubtedly a competitive hobby. The thrill of a success in the show ring is addictive.