A cluster of eight dog shows will take place at the Eastern States Exposition Nov. 24-27; four are conformation/obedience shows in the Better Living Center and four are agility trials in the Mallary Building.
The Thanksgiving Classic Cluster Dog Shows “have competitions in conformation (how closely they conform to their respective breed standards — basically if they look like they are supposed to) and in obedience and rally events (how well they perform in structured activities),” explained Thomas M. Davies, cluster coordinator.
These agility trials are among the largest in the country and have been called the “biggest show on dirt.”
“A dirt surface allows the dogs to safely attain their best performance without slipping and sliding,” Davies explained.
He expects between 8,000 and 10,000 dogs on the exposition grounds during the four days of the shows.
There are 212 American Kennel Club recognized breeds, and he estimates that most of them will be represented at the shows.
Most of the entries are from the Northeast, but some come from throughout the country and some from outside the United States.
People enjoy “seeing the myriad of different breeds, both in terms of their physical appearance and in their ability to perform,” Davies said.
There are trophies in some cases, “but the most sought after ‘prize’ is advancement to AKC titles,” he added.
In addition to the shows, visitors can learn about the many AKC registered breeds and talk with breeders and owners.
Admission to the family-friendly shows is free.
For more information, visit thanksgivingcluster.com or infodog.com/show/calendar.
