AKC events are competitions where dogs are judged against breed standards, and they happen year-round across the United States
The American Kennel Club (AKC) runs thousands of events annually — dog shows, agility trials, obedience competitions, and field trials. These are not casual gatherings. Each event has a published schedule, entry fees, and judges who score dogs against written standards for their breed. You enter your dog weeks in advance, pay a fee per event, and show up on the scheduled date. The AKC does not run every event directly; most are held by local clubs that follow AKC rules and use AKC judges.
If you own a purebred dog registered with the AKC, you can enter. Mixed-breed dogs cannot compete in conformation shows (where appearance is judged), but they can enter performance events like agility and obedience. Entry fees vary by event type and location, typically ranging from $25 to $75 per class, though some regional shows cost more.
Key Takeaways
- AKC conformation shows judge how closely your dog matches the official breed standard for appearance, movement, and temperament.
- Performance events like agility, obedience, and rally test what your dog can do, not what it looks like, and mixed-breed dogs can enter these.
- You find upcoming events on the AKC website's event search tool, which lists dates, locations, and entry important date months in advance.
- Entry requires advance registration — you cannot show up and enter on the day — and you pay per class or per event depending on the structure.
- Each event has a published judging schedule so you know what time your class will be called and can plan your day accordingly.
Conformation shows: how dogs are judged against breed standards
In a conformation show, a judge compares your dog to the written standard for its breed. That standard describes the ideal height, weight, coat color, ear shape, gait, and temperament. The judge does not score your dog on a numerical scale; instead, they place dogs in order — first, second, third, fourth — within each class. Classes are divided by sex, age, and sometimes by color or size within the breed.
Your dog competes against other dogs of the same breed in your class. If you place first in your class, you move to the breed ring, where all class winners compete for Best of Breed. Winners at that level can then compete for Best in Group (all terriers, all sporting dogs, etc.) and ultimately Best in Show. Most owners do not win; the point is to earn points toward a championship title. A dog needs 15 points to become a champion, and points are awarded based on how many other dogs you defeated.
Conformation shows require that your dog be registered with the AKC and that you have a handler — either yourself or a professional. The handler presents the dog to the judge, who examines the dog's teeth, coat, and movement. Handlers often wear formal clothing, and dogs are groomed to breed standard.
Performance events: agility, obedience, rally, and field trials
Performance events test what a dog can do rather than how it looks. In agility, your dog runs through a timed course of jumps, tunnels, weave poles, and other obstacles. The judge measures speed and accuracy — knocking down a jump or missing a weave pole adds faults. Dogs are grouped by size and skill level, so a beginner dog competes against other beginners, not against champions.
Obedience trials test whether your dog will sit, stay, come, and heel on command. The judge gives you instructions, and you direct your dog through a series of exercises. Points are deducted for mistakes like breaking a sit or not coming when called. Rally is similar but less formal — you and your dog move through a course with numbered stations, each showing a command you must perform.
Field trials are for hunting breeds and test a dog's ability to find and retrieve game birds or track scent. These events happen outdoors and require specialized training. Mixed-breed dogs can enter agility, obedience, and rally through the AKC's Canine Partners program, which registers mixed breeds for performance events only.
How to find and enter an AKC event
The AKC website has an event search tool where you enter your zip code and the type of event you want. Results show upcoming shows with dates, host clubs, entry important date, and links to the premium list — the official entry form and judging schedule. You read the premium, fill it out, and mail it with a check or enter online through the host club's website. Entry important date are typically two to four weeks before the event.
When you enter, you specify which class your dog will compete in. For conformation, this means choosing the class by sex and age. For performance events, you choose the level — Novice, Open, Utility, or Master depending on the event and your dog's experience. The premium list explains which class is right for your dog.
After you enter, the host club sends you a confirmation and a judging schedule showing what time your class will be called. Judging times are estimates; if many dogs are entered, your class may run late. Most shows run from early morning into afternoon, and you should plan to arrive 30 to 60 minutes before your class is scheduled.
What to expect on the day of an event
Arrive early to check in with the show secretary, who will have your entry information and assign you a number. For conformation, you receive an armband with your number. For performance events, you get a run order and may be assigned a specific time slot. Bring your dog's AKC registration papers or your Canine Partners number if you have one.
In conformation, you wait in the breed ring until your class is called. The judge will examine your dog and watch it move around the ring. The entire process takes a few minutes per dog. In performance events, you enter the ring when your turn comes, complete the course or exercises, and receive your score. Results are posted within hours, and you can request a copy of the judge's written comments.
Most events have a hospitality area with water and seating. Bring a crate or exercise pen for your dog, a leash, water and food bowls, and treats. The atmosphere is social — many handlers know each other and will chat while waiting. If you are new, other exhibitors are usually willing to answer questions about what to expect.
Entry fees, travel, and what it costs to show
Entry fees per class typically range from $25 to $75, depending on the event and location. A conformation show might have 5 to 10 classes available, so you could enter multiple classes for the same dog. Performance events usually charge per run or per day. Regional shows in major cities cost more than small local shows in rural areas.
Beyond entry fees, you may pay for a professional handler if you do not show your dog yourself. Handler fees vary widely but often run $50 to $150 per show. If you travel to shows, you will have hotel and gas costs. Many serious exhibitors budget $200 to $500 per show when you include all expenses, though local shows can cost much less.
Some people start with one local show to see if they enjoy it before investing in travel or a handler. Others join a local breed club, which often hosts smaller shows and can connect you with mentors who show you the ropes.
Titles and championships: what winning actually means
In conformation, a dog earns points toward a championship by defeating other dogs in its breed. The number of points awarded depends on how many dogs were entered — defeating 10 dogs might earn 1 point, while defeating 50 dogs might earn 3 points. A dog needs 15 points total, with at least 2 of those points coming from wins under different judges. Once a dog has 15 points and meets the requirements, it becomes a champion and can use "Ch." before its name.
In performance events, titles are earned by may have access to runs. A dog might earn a "Novice Agility" title by may have access to three times under three different judges. Higher titles like "Open Agility" and "Master Agility" require more may have access to runs. Titles stay with the dog's record permanently and appear on pedigrees and registration papers.
Titles are not required to show your dog. Many people enter events for the experience, to meet other dog owners, or to work toward a specific goal without ever pursuing a championship. The AKC tracks all results, so your dog's record is public whether or not you pursue a title.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a professional handler to show my dog?
No. You can show your own dog in conformation, agility, obedience, and rally. Many first-time exhibitors handle their own dogs. Professional handlers are optional and are often used by people who show multiple dogs or who want informed presentation, but they are not required.
Can my mixed-breed dog compete in AKC shows?
Mixed-breed dogs cannot enter conformation shows, which require AKC registration and are judged on breed appearance. They can enter performance events — agility, obedience, rally, and dock diving — through the AKC's Canine Partners program, which registers mixed breeds for performance competition only.
What if I miss the entry important date?
Most shows close entries on a set date and do not accept late entries. However, some host clubs offer limited same-day entries if space is available. Check the premium list to see if same-day entry is an option, or contact the show secretary directly. Planning ahead is safer than hoping for a last-minute spot.
How do I know if my dog is ready to show?
For conformation, your dog should be comfortable being handled by a stranger, able to stand still briefly, and walk on a leash. For performance events, your dog should know basic obedience commands. Many people attend a show as a spectator first to see what is involved, then enter their first show. Local breed clubs often offer training classes and mentorship for new exhibitors.
What happens if my dog gets injured or sick at a show?
Withdraw your dog from the event and contact the show secretary to request a refund or credit toward a future show. Most clubs will refund entry fees if you withdraw before judging begins. If your dog is injured during competition, tell the judge when ready and remove your dog from the ring. Veterinary care is your responsibility.