Monday, November 20, 2006


All About AKC

The AKC/Eukanuba National Championship is the only major dog show that …

Out of thousands of AKC sanctioned events, is organized and held solely by the AKC, the nation’s oldest and only not-for-profit purebred dog registry.

Is strictly by invitation only. The top 25 dogs in every AKC recognized breed and variety, as well as every Bred-by-Exhibitor Champion and Best in Show winner during the qualification period, are invited to compete. In addition, the winner of each breed’s national specialty show is invited to compete.

Invites international competitors. In January 2006, international dogs from 20 countries as far away as Brazil, Malaysia, England and Japan participated.

Offers significant prize money – a total of over $225,000. In addition, special competition and prize money for AKC Bred-By-Exhibitor Champions is offered.

Celebrates the heart and soul of the sport of purebred dogs by awarding the AKC Breeder of the Year Award. Seven individuals are honored who have left a great impact on a specific breed. These breeders have dedicated their lives to improving the health, temperament and quality of purebred dogs.

Invites nearly 4,000 dogs to compete in three national AKC events taking place under the same roof. The AKC National Agility Invitational and the AKC National Obedience Invitational are held at the same time.

Showcases the AKC Meet the Breeds, an exciting annual event for families as representatives from up to 157 AKC National Breed Clubs, who share their knowledge and love of their chosen breed via informative displays and canine representatives.

Serves as the only all breed qualifying show in America for entry into Crufts – the world’s largest dog show. The Kennel Club (England) has designated the winners of Best of Breed, Best of Opposite Sex, Best Bred-by-Exhibitor and Awards of Merit at the AKC/Eukanuba National Championship as qualified to enter Crufts.

Offers sizable scholarship awards for its Junior Handler winners and requires a specific grade point average as part of the eligibility criteria. Junior handlers, between 9 and 18 years of age, are invited to demonstrate their expertise for an opportunity to receive a $2,000 scholarship.

Is televised live on Animal Planet. Don’t miss it – Saturday and Sunday, December 2 and 3, 2006

In the photo: The Irish Setter is an active, aristocratic bird dog, rich red in color with a substantial yet elegant built. Standing over two feet tall at the shoulder, the dog has a straight, fine, glossy coat, which is longer on the ears, chest, tail and back of the legs. In the field, the Irish Setter is a swift-moving hunter; at home, a sweet-natured, trainable companion.

At their best, the lines of the Irish Setter so satisfy in overall balance that artists have termed it the most beautiful of all dogs. Irish setters exhibit balance whether standing or in motion. Each part of the dog flows and fits smoothly into its neighboring parts without calling attention to itself.

The Irish Setter has a rollicking personality. Shyness, hostility or timidity are uncharacteristic of the breed. An outgoing, stable temperament is the essence of the Irish Setter.