At very large shows or specialty shows (either stand-alone or part of an all-breed show), a non-regular class may be offered for Veterans. A Veteran dog (or bitch) is defined as one which is 7 years or older on the day of the show. Because of their short lifespan, the limit is 6 years old for Irish Wolfhounds. At large specialty shows like the National Specialty, Veterans may be divided into age groups: 7-10 years, 10-12 years, and 12 years and older. Dogs in this class may be champions or non-champions.
Veterans Class is judged the same way as any other class, dogs and bitches judged separately. Yet while it is considered bad taste to applaud during breed judging (Afghan Hounds and German Shepherd Dogs excepted), it is considered bad taste not to applaud and cheer every Veteran. They deserve it. It is really heartwarming to see these elder statesmen competing, some of whom may not have been in a ring for years.
They are old now, their muzzles greying, their toplines flattened out, their movement stiff. Yet they perk up when they hear the tribute paid to them from ringside, their eyes brighten, and their step acquires a certain swagger. People at ringside can be seen wiping tears from their eyes and during a big Veterans class at a specialty show or sweepstakes the judge may be crying too.
Yet it's not all sentimental. Sometimes these old folks surprise you...