Thousands attend AKC dog show

Event brings $43 million to Orange County

ORLANDO, Fla. – Thousands of people and their dogs are in central Florida for the American Kennel Club National Championship Dog Show.

Dogs of all sizes, shapes and colors are taking over the Orange County Convention Center. It is the largest show in the country.

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AKC officials say that 30,000 people from all over the world are attending, and there are 4,700 dogs present as well.

All kinds of breeds are competing to be the best of the best. The canines and their handlers all have their sights set on the big trophy, Best in Show.

"They try to get the best of their dogs and their performance," Dr. Jerry Klein, chief veterinary officer for AKC, said.

But Klein says it is more than a competition. He calls it a "canine extravaganza."

"It's not just a dog show, but it has agility, AKC Meet the Breeds, obedience. There's something for everyone," Klein said.

Several dogs competed in dock diving. Attendees also got the chance to meet different breeds up close and figure out which dog is best for them, like the Newfoundland, or the Miniature American Shepard.

They can talk and meet the dogs and learn all about them and say, "This is something I want" versus they didn't know what it took to own, so they wouldn't know to make the right decision," Jeff Arent said.

"Also educating if you're going to spend money, buy it from a breeder and get a quality dog that's going to live out its life well," Deborah Fields said.

The convention center says the dog show has a $43 million economic impact.

"Because of Orlando, the show has gotten bigger and better, and we're thrilled to be here," Klein said.

 


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