Dog Show Terms: Sanctioned Match, Point Show, Puppy Match

Sanctioned Match: A sanctioned match is an informal meeting at which purebred dogs may compete but not for championship points. A sanctioned match may be held by any club or association whether or not a member of the American Kennel Club by obtaining the sanction of the American Kennel Club.

Point Show: A term used to designate a show where championship points are awarded. Actually the correct term is all-breed show. Since a match is also for all breeds if you said, "My dog won at an all-breed show," you might be asked, "Point show or sanctioned match?"

Puppy Match: The correct term should be sanctioned match, but since a sanctioned match (several different plans are acceptable) is not limited to puppies, a puppy match is usually more of a social event where puppies are exhibited. For instance: I have invited my friends in my breed to come to my home with a picnic lunch and their puppies and asked a friend in the breed to act as judge. This would be called a puppy match.