Marlborough – One hundred different breeds of purebred American Kennel Club-registered dogs will compete for the coveted Best in Show award at two all-breed dog shows Saturday and Sunday, Aug. 15 and 16, at the Royal Plaza Trade Center, 181 Boston Post Road West (Route 20). These shows will be put on and managed by local AKC member club, the Wachusett Kennel Club.
President John Seeley of Harvard said, “Not only is this a fun activity for families but it is the perfect place to talk to breed experts about topics such as training, grooming and the right breed for your lifestyle. An AKC dog show is a great place to start your search for the right dog for your lifestyle and find a responsible breeder. It’s perfect for dog lovers or those who want to learn more about specific breeds they may be interested in sharing their home with in the future.”
The shows start at 8:30 a.m. both days with individual breed judging, then the best of each breed competes in one of seven groups starting between 2:30 and 3 p.m., culminating in the seven group winners going for Best in Show around 5:30 p.m. each day. Specific breed judging times can be found by downloading the weekend judging program at www.wachusettkc.org. Judges will fly in from all over the country, including one from Australia, to select the best quality specimens.
Special weekend events include obedience competitions both Saturday and Sunday, a rally trial and a “Novice Night” obedience trial Friday, Aug. 14, from 5-8 p.m., and a 4- to 6-month-old beginner puppy event Sunday afternoon starting at approximately 2 p.m. Vendors will also have booths selling unique and homemade dog supplies and gifts.
The Friday evening event is free to the public. Admission for Saturday and Sunday is $5 for adults; $2 for children under 12; and seniors 60 and older will be admitted free. Plenty of free parking is available, and food and beverages will be available during show hours at the Trade Center snack bar. This event is only for pre-entered dogs; do not bring your unentered dogs as they will not be allowed in the building.
