International Kennel Club (IKC) Dog Show at McCormick Place Chicago

The dog world is abuzz with the Westminster Kennel Club win by Uno, the Beagle. Westminster Dog Show is the big championship show of the year. For dog lovers unable to go to Madison Square Garden in New York, it was fun to watch it on television. Canine fans in the Chicago area will get a chance for a live demonstration by champion dogs at McCormick Place in Chicago this weekend. The Benched Dog Show is a great opportunity to learn more about the dogs and breeds, whether you are an expert, or someone who is trying to educate themselves before buying a pet.

Spectators should brush up on tips about Dog Show Etiquette later in this article. Proper etiquette is important for a better experience for spectators, children, dog handlers and the show dogs themselves.

Kennel Club events take place Wednesday through Sunday. The Benched events will take place on Saturday and Sunday.

Great Lakes All Terrier Association - Wednesday, February 20

Park Shore Kennel Club - Thursday, February 21, Unbenched

Blackhawk Kennel Club - Friday, February 22, Unbenched

International Kennel Club - Saturday, February 23, Benched

International Kennel Club - Sunday, February 24, Benched

The International Kennel Club of Chicago Dog Show is one of the few remaining benched shows in America. The largest dog show in the Chicago area draws over 100,000 spectators. About 10,000 dogs compete at McCormick Place Convention Center Over 160 booths feature dog related products, including artwork, dog collars and more.

The four day show draws top dogs from around North America, including across the United States and Canada. The championship dogs compete for prizes and the top honors of Best in Group and Best in Show.

The dog show has three stages of competition. Each pedigree canine is judged in Best of Breed. In the first round of judging, dogs compete with other dogs of their breed. The winner of Best of Breed goes on to compete in one of seven groups in Best of Group. The seven winners of the Best in Group go on to compete in Best in Show.