What major event in the 19th century accelerated the creation of standardized dog breeds?

The story behind the answer

Organized dog shows in the mid-to-late 19th century forced breeders and judges to agree on what each breed should look and act like, accelerating the creation of standardized breeds. To compare dogs fairly, clubs formed (e.g., the UK’s Kennel Club in 1873, AKC in 1884), stud books were kept, and formal breed standards were written—often as a direct result of show requirements.

Context: Before shows, most dogs were bred primarily for function—herding, hunting, guarding—with looser type. The show ring shifted emphasis toward consistent “conformation,” shaping the modern look of many breeds. Memory tip: “Showtime set the standard”—it was the spectacle of