DeKalb has officially gone to the dogs.

With 1,044 dogs of 122 different breeds, the Greater DeKalb Kennel Club hosted its second annual dog show in the NIU Convocation Center Sunday and Monday. Judges named James Moses’ champion German shepherd Best in Show.

Judges appraised seven categories of dogs: hound, toy, sporting, working, terrier, non-sporting and herding.

They judged on aesthetics such as hindquarters, coat and texture as well as physical temperament, said Tim Plezbert, president of the Greater DeKalb Kennel Club.

Plezbert helped with the first show last year and said he plans to host dog shows every year for the rest of his life.

“It’s a good learning experience for all the laypeople not involved in dog shows,” Plezbert said.

The dogs’ owners jog the dogs around a square, green, artificial grass material in front of the judges.

“This is a sport. You got one chance in the ring, and that’s it,” Chicago native Lynn Kapus said.

At least one contestant felt there’s more to it than that.

“There’s also politics in dog shows,” said Sarah Paquette, an Ontario, Canada resident, commenting on the relationship between the judge and the handler.

Judges awarded the best of breed to the best dog in each of the categories. And to the winners go the spoils – a ribbon, a photograph and award points.

Dale Hayes’ vizsla, Champ, won for best of breed. The short-hair, brown dog has won 20 previous Best of Breeds, Hayes said.

Each award designation entitles the dog to a specific point total. After 15 points, the American Kennel Club awarded Champ the designation of champion, Hayes said.

Lynn also had a champion, a Chesapeake Bay retriever. She nicknamed her dog Bart, after Bart Simpson. The dog’s full name is Silvercreek Bad to the Bone.