Sweepstakes Classes
The AKC Glossary defines the sweepstakes as being "A non-regular competition offered in conjunction with regular classes at specialty shows for puppies or veterans. Class divisions, requirements and conditions are established by the club." This definition is expanded by veterinarian M. C. Wakeman, at The Actual Dog Show site, which explains that the sweeps classes are for "6- to 18-month-old puppies and young adult." Although no championship points are awarded for sweepstakes wins, the entry money is often divided into cash prizes for the top winners.
Futurity Classes
Like the sweepstakes competition, the futurity is a series of special classes held for a single breed. Unlike the sweeps, however, the participants must be nominated before and shortly after birth to be able to compete. In addition, the dog's owner must pay a series of fees before the date of the futurity. The national breed club usually sponsors futurity competitions, which are held in conjunction with the breed's "nationals," the specialty show(s) held under the authority of the national breed club and that club's national registry. One example of such a show would be the American Brittany Club show, which conforms to the rules and breed standard published by the American Kennel Club.
Importance of Sweeps and Futurity Classes
The requirement to renew the litter or puppy futurity nomination requires the breeder or owner to repeatedly evaluate the dog(s) in question. In addition, sweeps and futurity classes are often judged by individuals who have repeatedly produced winning dogs in that breed over a period of years. Such scrutiny on the upcoming generation of show dogs and breeding stock performs an invaluable service for breeders
Read more: What Is the Difference Between Sweeps & Futurity in Dog Shows? | eHow.com
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