Dexter Cattle Society
Showing Handbook
2014
For Exhibitors: For Judges: For Show Societies
There are effectively three separate sections to this Dexter Showing Handbook
(Judges, Exhibitors and Show Societies) it is essential to read all three sections.
This publication supersedes all previous Dexter Cattle Society showing publications
Please note:
Effective January 2014
The Dexter Cattle Society Breed Standard
(SHOWN ON PAGE 3 OF THIS HANDBOOK)
is the only standard that Dexter animals
will be judged against.
THE DEXTER CATTLE SOCIETY
Show points
How the points system works.
Show
Barnett
Animal
Dexterfarm Daisy
Dexterfarm Buttercup
Dexterfarm Salvia
Dexterfarm Ferdinand
Sex
F
F
F
M
Born 1.1.98
Dexterfarm Ferdinand
M
Placing
1 st
3rd
5th
1st
No forward Points
7
7
10
8
11
7
1
1
CH
29
23
Total
Forward
Total
(52)
Points
for Shield
Total for Champion (Dexterfarm Ferdinand) = 30 points
one point for coming first in his class and 29 for the Champion (Total number of animals at show)
Show
Bracknell
Animal
Dexterfarm Daisy
Dexterfarm Buttercup
Dexterfarm Salvia
Sex
F
F
F
Dexterfarm Daisy
Placing No forward Points
1 st
4
4
2nd
7
6
4th
9
6
F
R/CH
20
16
Total
Forward
Total
(26)
Points
for Shield
Total for Reserve Champion (Dexterfarm Daisy) = 14 points
four points for coming first in her class and 10 for the Reserve Champion
(Half the total number of animals at show)
The Bertadano Trophy/Shield is the calculated by adding the total number of points from each exhibitor’s best six
shows under six different judges.
21.09.2012
The Peyton Trophy (Best Female) and The Mayberry Trophy (Best Male) take into account all points gained at show
at which they were Champion or Reserve Champion.
In order to work out the Jackie Limb Trophy points for the best young bull, Judges should be asked to note on their
results sheets any bull under two years of age.
Points System
Number
forward in Class
10 points awards
9
8
7
6
5
4
3
2
1
Placed
1st
10
9
8
7
6
5
4
3
2
1
2nd
9
8
7
6
5
4
3
2
1
3rd
8
7
6
5
4
3
2
1
4th
7
6
5
4
3
2
1
5th
6
5
4
3
2
1
The Champion then gets the total number of animals forward awarded as points added to the points from the
class. The Reserve Champion gets half the total number of animals forward awarded as points added to the
points from the class.
Total No
Of Dexters Forward
At Show
30
25
20
15
10
8
4
Champion
30
25
20
15
10
8
4
Reserve Champion
points
15
12.5
10
7.5
5
4
2
2
points
THE DEXTER CATTLE SOCIETY
Breed Standard
The Dexter is a dual purpose breed with both beef and dairy qualities. In judging, both these
qualities will be taken into consideration.
Colour:
Wholly black, wholly red and wholly dun are of equal merit. A little white will not
disqualify but must be limited to:
Bulls: a small amount on the organs of generation and in the tassel of the tail.
There must be no white forward of the navel or on any other part of the
body.
Cows: a small amount on the udder and underline, in the tassel of the tail and on
the vulva. There must be no white forward of the navel or on any other part
of the body.
Type:
Both types of Dexter, i.e. short legged and non-short legged, are of equal merit.
However, extremes of either type are discouraged.
Head:
Short and broad, tapering gracefully towards a broad muzzle. Jaws wide enough to
accommodate well-placed teeth with an even bite. Eyes bright and prominent, with a
kind and placid expression.
Neck:
Deep and thick, but not too short or too long, blending well into the shoulder. Head
should be carried above the spine.
Horns:
Moderately thick, with an inward, upward curve. Removal of horns will not be
penalised in the show ring. Polled animals are acceptable, but must be notified in
writing.
Body:
Ample brisket giving plenty of room for the heart and lungs: well sprung ribs: wide
across the loin. Quarters thick and deep, broad and full hips, well rounded rump.
Straight topline with tail set level with spine.
Bulls: Well hung testicles of even size. Four well defined teats, well placed and
evenly spaced.
Cows: Udder should be well attached with high and wide rear attachment and a
strong median suspensory ligament. The four teats should be of medium
size, well placed on the udder, hanging plumb and of equal length. All four
quarters should be of equal size.
Legs:
Good width between both front and back legs. Legs should be of moderate length in
proportion to body size, squarely placed under the body and perpendicular when
viewed from the rear.
Feet:
Feet should be short toed, deep heeled and level soled. They should not turn
inwards or outwards.
Skin:
Loose and pliable. Hair short and sleek in summer, longer and thicker in winter.
Size:
Bulls: between 42 and 48 inches (106 and 121 cms) at the rump
Cows: between 38 and 44 inches (96 and 111 cms) at the rump
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THE DEXTER CATTLE SOCIETY
Section 1 – Rules for Exhibitors
All exhibitors of the Dexter Cattle Society and Dexter breed are reminded that they are
ambassadors for the breed and should conduct themselves in a professional manner at all times.
21.09.2012
1. Animals which are exhibited should be of a standard, condition and temperament which will
enhance the breed. An exhibitor is responsible for and must not show an animal that is lame,
shows signs of ringworm, warts or any other infectious disease and the judge will ask the steward to
remove the animal from the ring. Judges will judge Dexter cattle as a dual purpose breed and to the
Dexter Cattle Society breed standard.
2. IMPORTANT
IT IS A RULE OF THE DEXTER CATTLE SOCIETY THAT NO APPENDIX ANIMAL IS TO BE
SHOWN UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCES.
3. An exhibitor should avoid showing any animal which they know has been owned or bred by the
judge. If a link is ascertained the judge will not place the animal but the Show Society will call in
another judge to do so. It is easier for all concerned if the exhibitor takes the initiative and does not
present such an animal.
4. When parading a bull two handlers are required.
5. Any pedigree Dexter shown under agricultural show society rules only, and not complying with
the Dexter Society rules, will not be included in the Dexter Society’s show results, nor be eligible
for any Dexter Society show trophies and points.
6. Every exhibitor has a responsibility to ensure that all animals are fit to travel. Welfare of Animals
in Transit Act states that no animal should travel after 8 months gestation or within 7 days of
calving or until after any discharge has ceased. Calves should not travel until 7 days after birth,
unless a veterinary certificate has been issued. The Dexter Cattle Society Council cannot accept
complaints nor take action if a show society accepts a calving situation. If in any doubt, consult the
DEFRA leaflet on the Welfare of Animals in transit. Do not forget to fill in the appropriate
transportation documents.
7. No exhibitor shall, at any time, make a false declaration contravening in any way the rules and
regulations laid down by the show society. No exhibitor shall at any time, without informing the
show authorities, substitute an animal, contravening in any way the rules and regulations laid down
by the show society.
8. If an animal is distressed, unruly or dangerous the judge will ask the steward to remove the
animal from the ring
9. All animals must be in the ring on time for their class. Late arrivals will not be accepted
10. The only aid allowed in the show ring is a dedicated show stick used for the purpose of moving
feet or soothing the animal. Striking an animal with the stick is not permitted
11. Male animals under 12 months of age on show day may be shown on their birth notification ‘N’
herd book number but the exhibitor must make sure the judge is aware of the animal’s ear tag
number for the results book.
12. Should a formal complaint be made against an exhibitor it must be made in writing within 21
days of the event accompanied by a deposit of £25.00. Letters signed by more than one
complainant are not acceptable. The Dexter Cattle Society Disciplinary Committee will, after a full
investigation, inform the Dexter Cattle Society Council. The Dexter Cattle Society Council will take
appropriate action.
13. The Dexter Cattle Society Disciplinary Committee is made up of a member of the Dexter Cattle
Society Council (who is not a judge) a representative of the Judges (chosen by the judges
annually) and a member of the Society (who is not a judge)
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THE DEXTER CATTLE SOCIETY
Section 1 Exhibitors – Etiquette of Showing
Pedigree registered Dexter Cattle are judged
against the Dexter Cattle Society Breed Standard
as shown on page three of this booklet.
A clean white stock coat is necessary and clean appropriate footwear.
A Dexter Cattle Society tie should be worn by the stockmen, and stockladies should wear an
appropriate alternative.
It is the exhibitor’s responsibility to ensure their animals are prepared to show standard.
Clipping out of an animal is not allowed (except at a prime-stock show).
Dexters in milk are shown with full udders but should not be overstocked.
A clean, well fitted head collar/halter is necessary for each animal.
Be aware of the judge at all times, and when the judge is evaluating a particular animal answer any
questions the judge may have.
Stand clear from the animal without losing control, so that the animal can be judged.
Be aware that in the final line-up the judge may alter his placings.
At all times keep the cattle lines tidy. Ensure that cattle are not left unattended, and have feed,
water and bedding always available. Cattle cleanliness and welfare must be paramount in the
exhibitor’s mind at all times. Remember, you are responsible for your own animals.
Please give every assistance to new exhibitors. Showing has its serious side but it must also be
fun: try to communicate this, and accept both winning and losing in a gracious sportsman-like
manner.
Here are a few tips for the new exhibitor,
 Apply for and study the show schedule well in advance
 Get every animal used to being haltered and led
 Leave yourself sufficient time to load your vehicle, travel to the show, set up at the show
and prepare your animals prior to the judging commencing.
 Remember to take all necessary paperwork
All exhibitors must study the show schedule to check that the animals are entered in the correct
classes and comply with all the rules and regulations of the particular show.
Cattle must have access to food and water at all times
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THE DEXTER CATTLE SOCIETY
Section 2 – Rules for Judges
1. Judges accept no more than four show appointments in any one year, with a fifth in an emergency.
All shows will use the Show Appointments Committee. If invited to judge by a show, the judge will
inform the Show Appointments Committee immediately. Judges must not put themselves forward for
any showing appointment to do so the judge may forfeit their appointments for the following year.
2. No Judge shall at any time criticise or pass comment on a fellow judge’s adjudication.
3. All animals must be in the ring on time for their class. Late arrivals will not be accepted
4. Judges will judge Dexter cattle as a dual purpose breed and to the Dexter Cattle Society breed
standard. Judges will complete their Dexter Cattle Society show results paperwork and return to the
Society office within 7 days of the actual show
5. No judge shall procure or inspect a show catalogue until judging is completed. A judge must not visit
the cattle lines prior to judging. If a judge meets a known exhibitor around the showground before
judging, he should not engage in conversation beyond the greeting which courtesy demands.
6. No personal preference of colour, horns or leg length is allowed to affect judging.
7. Animals which are exhibited should be of a standard, condition and temperament which will
enhance the breed. An exhibitor is responsible for and must not show an animal that is lame,
shows signs of ringworm, warts or any other infectious disease and the judge will ask the steward to
remove the animal from the ring. Judges will judge Dexter cattle as a dual purpose breed and to the
Dexter Cattle Society breed standard.
8. If an animal is distressed, unruly or dangerous the judge will ask the steward to remove the animal
from the ring
9. If the judge has reason to believe that he has bred or owned any animal being paraded, the judge
shall not place the animal but proceed with the rest of the class whilst another judge is found to place
the said animal in the line-up. The substitute judge might ask for all the class to be paraded.
10. If a judge suspects that an animal has been faked in any way he shall refer the matter to the
steward who will then proceed according to the Show Society rules. Whether or not the case is proved,
the judge shall file a report to the Dexter Cattle Society Council without delay.
11. Judges should be aware that a dry cow is not a dry cow until she has ceased any form of milk
production. If an animal is found to be ‘in milk’ the judge should ask for the animal to be removed. A
judge must not try to prove that an animal is not dry by trying to draw milk.
12. Judges must complete the Dexter Cattle Society’s Judges Book correctly and send the results to
the Dexter Cattle Society office. All judges must record the ear tag number of all birth notified males
under 12 months of age entered and shown in show classes
13. Should a formal complaint be made against a judge, it must be made in writing within 21 days of the
event and accompanied with a £25 deposit. Apply for and study the show schedule well in advance,
check you are familiar with the rules of the Show Society. Letters signed by more than one
complainant are not acceptable. The Dexter Cattle Society Disciplinary Committee will, after a full
investigation, inform the Dexter Cattle Society Council. If a judge is found to be in breach of the Dexter
Cattle Society or Show Society rules or regulations, the Council may issue a verbal or written warning,
or in extreme cases, suspend the judge from the panel either temporarily or permanently.
14. The Dexter Cattle Society Disciplinary Committee is made up of a member of a Dexter Cattle
Society Council (who is not a judge) a representative of the Judges (chosen by the judges annually)
and a member of the Society (who is not a judge)
15. Nominations for trainee judges are only accepted from full members of the Society of five or more
years standing. All judges must attend two out of three consecutive Judges Development Meetings.
16. Any judge whose subscription to the Dexter Cattle Society remains unpaid by 1st March shall be
automatically removed from the Judges Panel. Judges not wishing to renew their subscriptions may be
invited by Council to be an Invited Guest Judge. Note: The Invited Guest Judge who is not a current
Society member will not receive any benefits or information from the Society except for mailings to
Judges and the mileage expenses travelling to the Judges Development meeting held annually.
17. Any judge who fails to comply with the Bye Laws and Rules of the Dexter Cattle Society may
be removed from the Judges Panel.
6
THE DEXTER CATTLE SOCIETY
Section 2 - Etiquette of showing for Judges
Pedigree registered Dexter Cattle are judged
against the Dexter Cattle Society Breed Standard
as shown on page three of this booklet.
Judges are official representatives of the Society, and are required to conduct themselves
appropriately. It is not acceptable to smoke or chew whilst in the ring.
Judges will meet their stewards in good time
Exhibitors should be addressed with courtesy rather than familiarity.
Judges must ensure that no exhibitor could possibly be upset by their remarks or attitude.
A judge should treat every exhibitor in a professional manner and be careful with any remarks
made.
The judge should briefly explain his decision in the ring to the exhibitors. (Remarks should be as
brief as possible)
A judge needs to be smartly and appropriately dressed at all times. Gentlemen should wear either
a suit or a smart jacket. Ladies should wear a suit or a smart jacket and trousers or skirt.
All Dexter cattle will be handled by the judge who must examine the whole animal.
The judge should explain his decision in the ring to the exhibitors. Remarks should be as brief as
possible.
In judging groups of two or three, a judge should look for matched animals rather than a group of
all one breeding. Colours may be mixed but conformation is more important. Walking of groups
should be kept to a minimum and the judge should visit them in turn.
The judge will shake hands with all the exhibitors and personally hand out the rosettes, unless it is
requested that a special class sponsor is to do this.
The judge to visit the cattle lines after the judging is finished.
The judge must make sure that he talks with every exhibitor available.
Where judges are invited to claim show expenses from the show, they shall at all times be
reasonable and pertinent to the appointment.
7
THE DEXTER CATTLE SOCIETY
Section 3 - Responsibilities of Show Societies & Stewards
Pedigree registered Dexter Cattle are judged
against the Dexter Cattle Society Breed Standard
as shown on page three of this booklet.
The Dexter Cattle Society operates a ‘Show Appointments Committee’ system for Dexter Cattle
Society judges to ensure impartiality and fairness.
The Dexter Cattle Society forwards a Dexter Cattle Society Champion Rosette and Champion
Spoon for each show, being judged by a Dexter Judge, to the individual show judge prior to the
judges attendance at the show.
It is the show society’s responsibility to check the eligibility of the animals entered in the various
Dexter classes according to its own rules and regulations. In the event of an anomaly the steward
or other official should refer the matter to the exhibitor in good time to remedy the clerical or other
error.
If the show society feels that an exhibitor has deliberately set out to deceive, the matter should be
referred to the Dexter Cattle Society within 21 days of the show.
Please forward all official correspondence to:
Breed Secretary
Dexter Cattle Society
Charolais Pavilion
Avenue M
Stoneleigh Park
Warwickshire CV8 2RG
Tel: 02476 692300
Fax: 02476 692400
secretary@dextercattle.co.uk
www.dextercattle.co.uk
Revised February 2014
8