A Standard Poodle stands with its handler during judging at the 2023 Albany Dog Show in Western Australia. The handler positions the dog while a judge observes its presentation in the grassed show ring. The Poodle displays the distinctive clipped coat associated with formal breed showing. Its carefully shaped coat highlights the breed’s characteristic outline and elegant appearance. Conformation dog shows assess dogs against established standards for their respective breeds. Judges examine characteristics including structure, movement, proportions, coat and overall appearance. Handlers carefully present each dog so judges can observe these characteristics in the ring. Albany is a major regional centre on Western Australia’s south coast. Events such as dog shows bring breeders, handlers, competitors and spectators together from surrounding communities and further afield.