An Overview Of The Eukanuba Dog Show

The AKC/Eukanuba National Championship is one of the biggest events on the dog show calendar each year. This show is similar to many others in its format and actual competition, but it is also quite unique in many other ways. Let's take a look at what makes the Eukanuba dog show so special.

What Makes It Unique?

There are several things that make the Eukanuba dog show stand out from the rest. Out of all of the other AKC sanctioned competitions, this is the only show that is organized and presented only by the AKC. It also offers more cash prizes that any other major dog show, with a total purse of well over $200,000.

The Eukanuba dog show is also the only major show where the entries are by invitation only. The invitations are handed out as follows. The top twenty-five dogs in every breed and variety that is recognized by the AKC are invited. This is based on the results of a specific qualification period from the previous year. Every Best In Show winner and Bred-By-Exhibitor champion from that period is also invited. The final group that receives invitations is the winner of each breed's specialty shows from the previous year.

The Eukanuba dog show also takes some time to recognize the people behind the dogs with the Breeder of the Year Award. This award salutes the accomplishments of certain individuals who have impacted various specific breeds. Another unique event offered by the Eukanuba dog show is the annual AKC Meet the Breeds. This is an opportunity for people to learn more about the dogs they have grown accustomed to watching in these competitions. Various informative presentations are given on specific breeds to educate the public. This is also the only major American dog show whose winners are invited to enter Crufts, which is the world's largest dog show and is held at The Kennel Club in England.

As far as the actual competition, the Eukanuba dog show is set up much like the other major competitions. A Best of Breeds winner is chosen from each recognized breed. These winners then move on to the group competition. There are seven groups, including sporting, hounds, working, terrier, toy, non-sporting, and herding. A winner from each group is then chosen to move on to the Best in Show competition. 

The Eukanuba dog show is one of the most popular and prestigious events of the year. Just getting into this event is an accomplishment. If you want to see a competition between the absolute best dogs in the country, then this is one show that should not be missed.