Nation's largest dog show to be held in Orlando this weekend

American Kennel Club Dog Show to feature more than 9,000 dogs

ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. – More than 9,000 dogs will descend to Orlando this weekend for the 18th annual American Kennel Club National Championship dog show held at the Orange County Convention Center. 

The conformation dog show will feature 5,003 dogs and a set of judges who will ultimately vote on the dog that will take the $50,000 grand prize of Best in Show.

"This is more of a traditional dog show, which is really an evaluation of their breeding style, how their body looks, how they move, how they are shaped, how they are formed," said Brandi Hunter, the vice president of public relations for AKC. "See those guys behind me, they are trying to get into that big show."

Hunter points to a group of Tibetan mastiffs standing proud and tall as judges watch them for Thursday's pre-show competition. 

However, it's not all about showing off the prettiest dogs in the conformation shows. There are fun companion events open for the public to see, too. Those events include agility races, obedience competitions and the fan favorite of dock diving. 

"If you are looking for all of it, no better place than a million-square-foot space in Orlando," Hunter said. 

Also on Saturday and Sunday, families in search of a dog can come to the Meet the Breed section. There, breeders will have their dogs ready to show to the public. Hunter said it's more of an educational experience that's also a hit. 

"You can come in and really meet these dogs and see which one works for the family," Hunter said. 

The event is open to the public and tickets on Saturday and Sunday are $10 each. For more information and for the competition schedule, click here


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