Local dogs compete at National Dog Show

SALISBURY, Md.- Millions of Americans watch the National Dog Show Thanksgiving Day, but few know what it takes to be the top (dog).

Nearly 2,000 of the top AKC-registered dogs in the country compete, representing nearly 200 breeds, divided into seven categories. Dogs are judged not just on their appearance but on a combination of factors, including temperament and structure. These events serve as a platform to assess whether a dog aligns with the purpose for which its breed was originally created.

The National Dog Show is one of the few benched shows in the country, which means public can interact with dogs, learn about different breeds, and explore the possibility of bringing a furry friend into their homes. 

Jane Fowler with the Mispillion Kennel Club has competed in the National Dog Show with her dachshunds, and been taking part in dog shows for 50 years. She says benched shows help the public learn what type of dog is best for them.

"The breeders there are very helpful and will talk to you about getting a particular breed," she says. "Sometimes a family will like a breed, but it might not be suitable for you know, how older children are or where they live, how much exercise they do. Do they work or not, and so forth. A good breeder will guide you that way."

One of the dogs with local ties competing at the National Dog Show is Sage, a miniature poodle who is nationally ranked. She has 28 Best in Show titles, and her great-grandmother Surrey Spice Girl won the prestigious Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show in 2002. Sage's handler, Kaz Hosaka also handled Surrey Spice Girl, and now calls Rehoboth Beach home.

The Salisbury Maryland Kennel Club has active training classes for people interested in learning how to show their dogs. Fowler says classes include how to walk the dog in the ring, teach them to present themselves, and more. She notes how it's truly a family sport, with chances for younger dog enthusiasts to compete as well.

Todd Clyde, who along with his wife April, judges dog shows as well as competes, notes it's an incredibly unique sport.

"It's one of the few sports where amateurs can compete against professionals," he says. "You get a good dog, you can beat him. So any any anybody can win. And it's just it's good fun competition."

Clyde says he's met people from all over the world and judged shows in Europe and Australia. He says he's made lifelong friendships and enduring relationships, both with the people and the dogs. He's raised his Airdale Terrier Penny since she was six-weeks old.

"You start when they're they're born and they're 12 ounces. Now she's 45, 50 pounds," he explains. "So the whole thing is you develop a relationship with each dog and each dog is different."

Some dog shows also include agility competitions and performance dogs. 

The National Dog Show airs 12 p.m. Thanksgiving Day on CoastTV.