While the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show is the most famous dog show in the United States, it is not the only one. For many purebred dogs, such a strict, prestigious event may be well beyond their capabilities. However, this should not stop any dog from showing or aspiring to be a champion. There are countless dog shows across the country and around the world that can keep any show dog, regardless of ability, busy year-round. Many of these shows offer a more-relaxed environment, and focus a lot more energy on agility events and obstacle courses. They may also cater to a younger, hipper audience, with reduced tickets and more fan-friendly activities. The Rose City Dog Show, better known as the Rose City Classic, is a dog show that prides itself on offering fun for the whole family, and fun for every dog.

From Hounds to Huskies

The Rose City Dog Show annually judges over 4000 dogs for conformation events and hundreds more for agility competitions and obstacle courses. While it is one of the top American dog shows, it is not burdened with the prestige and history many shows, like the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show, have accumulated.

Held annually in Portland, Oregon, the show spans five days in January, and hosts various exhibitions and competitions all day, sometimes for over twelve hours. The Best in Show and Variety Groups competitions are held on Saturday night and are filmed; for those fans interested in American Kennel Club judging, this is the event to attend. However, many fans are more interested in the physical competitions other dog shows overlook, making the Rose City Dog Show the best show to attend.

The Rose City Dog Show hosts numerous AKC agility trials, and even serves as a try-out for the AKC/USA World Agility Team. This team competes annually at the World Agility Championships, making it the showcase of some of the fastest and most agile dogs in the United States. The Rose City Classic also offers AKC obedience competitions and training sessions, highlighting the importance of proper handling and the bond between dog and owner.

The Rose City Dog Show is one of the first dog shows to give obedience such a prominent position in the event. The AKC Rally and AKC Canine Good Citizen are competitions that encourage communication between handler and animal, and are fan-favorite events held almost every day of the show.  A dog-owner pair that passes obedience tests in responsible ownership and good dog manners can earn a Canine Good Citizen Certificate, recognized by insurance companies, landlords and other dog owners.

For fans in particular, the Rose City Dog Show offers an art competition for students sponsored by the Banfield Pet Hospital. Over 500 works by local students are presented each year, and the competition encourages children and young adults to develop their talents and their love for dogs. The Rose City Classic also attracted hundreds of vendors. From show dog supplies to jewelry and toys, these products are often offered at discounted rates.

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