The official term for dog shows is conformation — as in, the act of conforming or producing conformity. While a dog show may look like a beauty pageant, it’s not. Dogs are not being compared to each other; they’re being measured by how closely they conform to the standard of their particular breed. Why? Because the closer a dog’s appearance is to the breed’s standard, the better that dog’s ability will be to produce puppies that meet the standard. It’s also the reason why mixed breeds and spayed or neutered purebreds are ineligible to compete in conformation.

Developed in the 1930s, Obedience is one of the AKC’s oldest sporting events, and it’s open to all dogs. From walking on- and off-leash to retrieving and jumping, or demonstrating your dog’s ability to stay, Obedience trials feature dogs that are well-behaved at home, in public places, and in the presence of other dogs. It is essential that the obedience dog demonstrates willingness and enjoyment while it is working with the handler.

Think of an AKC Rally event as any team sport: You and your dog navigate a course, side-by-side, as you steer him through a course of 10-20 different signs. Each of these signs provides instructions regarding the next skill that is to be performed.

Although each performance is timed, having a good race time is not the goal; it’s all about working as a team while performing the skills, with the dog under control.

The AKC 4-6 Month Beginner Puppy Competition is a relaxed, stress-free way to make your debut in the dog show world. Plus, it gives both of you a fun way to socialize — with other dogs and other dog lovers.

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Puppyhood is such an exciting time for you and your pup. It’s when the love you’ll share forever starts. It’s when you begin developing the bond that will make you an inseparable “us.”

Fast CAT® – which stands for Coursing Ability Test – is a timed 100-yard dash where dogs run one at a time, chasing a lure. It’s over before you know it — and it’s nothing short of awe-inspiring to watch your dog run at top speed, ears back, eyes focused, legs strong. And if your dog is really fast, you might earn bragging rights if their name makes onto our list of top 20 fastest dogs by breed! All dogs can participate in Fast CAT, whether purebred or mixed breed.

We're thrilled to announce that we will be hosting our 2nd Annual Health Clinic at our Memorial Day Cluster in May 2025!

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We will have an eye clinic, heart clinic, and the ICSB. Please visit our Health Clinic page for more information about scheduling your appointment.

Every year, a variety of local and regional vendors come to the Memorial Day dog shows. From dog toys, to grooming supplies, to professional and customizable clothing, sweet treats, and coffee drinks, we've got it all.

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In between watching all the beautiful dogs, shop small and support our vendors!