There is plenty to do each day at the DKC shows, from the time the first dog walks into the ring at 9AM until Best in Show judging around 6PM. Of course, at the DKC everything revolves around dogs, and the scheduled events all reflect the amazing versatility of our canine companions.

Breed Judging
Each day, each of the over 150 breeds and varieties is judged individually according to the recognized standard of the breed. A standard is like a “blueprint” of the physical characteristics that makes each breed unique. A judge usually has his or her own interpretation of the standard, which is why the same dogs don’t always win each day. Dogs are judged on how they look and how they move, based on the purpose for which they were bred. This is what is called “conformation” judging, as the dogs are judged on how well they “conform” to the standard. It can help to think of breed judging as a beauty pageant for dogs!

If you would like to look a specific breed or two, the judging times and benching areas will be found in the Judging Program about a week before the show and will be linked here.

Group and Best in Show Judging
Breed winners proceed to judging in the seven groups, which are Sporting, Hound, Working, Terrier, Toy, Non-Sporting and Herding. The winner of each group proceeds to Best in Show judging, the last event of the day. Competing in the groups and Best in Show is very prestigious for dog show folks, and you will find dogs and handlers from all over the country, as well as local dogs, competing for the coveted Best in Show trophy. Come join the large crowd cheering for their favorite dogs. It’s as exciting as things can get in the dog show world!

Demonstration Events
Conformation is only one small part of what makes the DKC so special. At the Saturday and Sunday shows, you and your family will enjoy demonstrations taking place all day that display the amazing versatility, athleticism, intelligence and energy of our best friends. It seems each year, more and more events are added to the DKC shows. In 2008, plan on checking out the performance events such as agility, rally and obedience, as well as demonstrations such as search and rescue, herding, hunting, field training, coursing, terrier races, pet first aid, Leader Dogs for the Blind, Michigan State Police Canine Units and more!

Breed Seminars
Each year, four or five breeds are selected each day for our breed seminars. These 45 minute discussions are presented by breed experts and are always extremely well attended. For 2008, the featured breeds will include the Shetland Sheepdog, Akita, French Bulldog, Chesapeake Bay Retriever, Basenji, Bull Terrier, Pug, and a new breed, the Portuguese Podengo. In addition, each day there is a presentation we call “A Guide to Buying a Purebred Puppy” given by one of our club members. If you are thinking about purchasing a puppy in the near future, it is a seminar that shouldn't be missed.

Benching Area
Visit your favorite breed, or check out a new one, in the benching areas. Don’t be shy; this is the time to ask breeders about their dogs and the particular characteristics of their breed. At our 2004 shows we instituted bench side grooming, which was a huge success. Instead of grooming in a separate area, owners are now able to groom and prepare their dogs for the ring right at their bench. This allows you to talk to the breeders while they are busy at work, and also to see how much work is involved in grooming some of the coated breeds. In addition, owners of breeds not yet recognized by the AKC, that are known as the “rare breeds,” will display their dogs and talk about their respective breeds.

Vendors
If you are looking for something for your favorite dog, or your favorite dog person, you will find it in one of our vendor booths. A huge hall like Cobo holds a multitude of vendors, perfect for the dog-shopping junkie! From everything to dog art and jewelry, dog food and nutritional information, training and feeding equipment, books, toys and treats, the DKC vendors are sure to have what you are looking for.

Purina Pro Plan
Our sponsor Purina Pro Plan has its own educational booth, containing much nutritional information as well as an extremely helpful and friendly staff. Don’t leave without a free sample to take home to your dog or cat.

Nonprofit Organizations
Get information and literature on important work of the Veterinary School of Michigan State University, and visit the booths of several vital dog services and humane organizations in the Southeastern Michigan area.