Nearly 4,000 dogs to compete at AKC/Eukanuba National Championship

Posted on 04. Dec, 2009 by admin in Dog Activities, Dog Culture, Top Stories

STAFF REPORT
Copyright 2009 NoDogNo.com

Anyone with a dog has a reaction to a televised dog show. Owners of purebred dogs might secretly root for their breed to win the grand prize, while mutt owners might scoff at the whole spectacle. But as televised dog shows go, they sometimes lack in surprise. After all, it’s not exactly an unscripted episode of “Survivor” or a game of football.

So the American Kennel Club is right to try to add some jazz to this upcoming two-day show, which is Dec. 12 and 13 in Long Beach, Calif. Or presumably on the television in your living room. If your own dogs can tolerate all those other dogs scampering across the screen, you might want to tune in–there’s a chance you’ll be able to root for a real underdog this time.

In celebration of AKC’s 125th anniversary, the show has adopted an open format for 2009 (it will return to invitation-only in 2010), which means any AKC registered purebred unaltered dog six months of age or older has an opportunity to compete for top dog honors.

“With our partners, we’re thrilled to host one of the most well-respected dog shows in the world and to be able to commemorate the AKC’s anniversary with the open format at this year’s AKC/Eukanuba National Championship,” said Jason Taylor, external relations manager, Procter & Gamble Pet Care. “Every year the road to best in show is full of suspense for owners, handlers and breeders, and the open format allows for more surprises in the ring and opportunities for established champions and new contenders alike to make a run for the title of top dog.”

But is it a change that will actually add suspense to a show that is really nothing more than a beauty pageant for purebred dogs? Wouldn’t a trick or talent portion have a greater affect?

Either way, more dog handlers are taking advantage of the open call. This week, the American Kennel Club and Eukanuba announced that nearly 4,000 dogs will compete for more than $225,000 in cash prizes at the Ninth Annual AKC/Eukanuba National Championship. The two-day event is held in conjunction with the AKC Agility Invitational and the AKC National Obedience Invitational (entries of 457 and 109 respectively) making for a combined entry of almost 5,000 dogs competing in all events.

The AKC/Eukanuba National Championship is also host to the Eukanuba World Challenge, a unique event showcasing top canines from 41 countries all competing for prestigious international recognition. Rare breeds such as the Cesky Fousek, Thai Ridgeback and Bracco Italiano will compete against more traditional favorites such as the Doberman Pinscher, Poodle and Golden Retriever for the title of “World Challenge Champion” and a total of $15,000 in prize money.

“We are proud to celebrate AKC’s 125th anniversary with this unique show,” said Ron Menaker, show chairman. “With nearly 5,000 entries in the conformation, agility and obedience competitions, it’s the largest AKC dog show in 2009, and will be a memorable event for both spectators and competitors.”

The show will be televised by Animal Planet.

To purchase tickets, get more information about the show and sign up to receive updates on show results via Facebook and Twitter pages, visit www.akc.org/aenc.