Atlanta's going to the dogs this weekend

A handler stacks (positions) her dog for judging

This weekend, people have come from all over America to attend an event.

Is it connected to the new presidency? Nope.

Does it have something to do with that big football game on Sunday? Nope.

Could it possibly be that people have traveled so far for a dog show? Bingo...you win the prize!

There are people who think that dog shows are just the punch line to a very old, very bad joke, but in truth, they're a big business that still manages to be a family sport, they're an elite group that still welcomes newcomers into the fold, and they're a ton of fun.

This weekend, the Cherokee Rose Cluster of dog shows is at the Atlanta Expo Center South, on Jonesboro Rd. just outside the perimeter. The show hours are 8 to 5, though most breed judging will be done by 3. There are more than 50 vendors, selling everything from grooming supplies, crates and dog beds to dog art and dog outfits, often at prices far below pet supply stores.

For those familiar with the televised dog shows, there's something new to discover when the dog show comes to town: breed judging. At an AKC dog show, there are three levels of competition in the conformation part of the show: breed judging, group judging, and Best in Show. Typically, televised dog shows like Westminster Kennel Club show only the group judging and Best in Show, but most of the day at a dog show is consumed with breed judging. That's where one judge examines all of the non-champion males of a certain breed, then all of the non-champion females of the same breed, selecting one of each sex as his Winners Dog and Winners Bitch. Those two go back in the ring with the Champion dogs and bitches of that breed and compete for Best of Breed. The dog or bitch selected best in their breed is the one that stays for group competition later in the day.  This process occurs in about 20 rings simultaneously, with different breeds in each ring, until all of the breeds have a Best of Breed representative chosen to be in the groups.

Families looking to add a purebred to their home can't do much better than to attend a dog show or two, because the opportunity for networking with fanciers of their favorite breed can't be beat. The best use of a dog show if you're looking for a pure-bred best friend is to be at ringside shortly before judging is scheduled to begin for that breed, let the people waiting to show their dogs know you would like to talk with them after judging, and then watch the show. You will probably have questions about what went on in the show ring, and that's fine. You will also probably see a dog or two that catch your eye...try to talk to those dog's handlers or owners about the breed, about their dogs, and about your desire to learn more. As long as you wait until after judging, most people will be delighted to chat. As with any sport, there are always one or two rude ones, so don't let them discourage you. Keep asking questions until you find someone you "click" with who's willing to help.

In addition to the conformation part of the show, there's also Rally obedience and standard obedience competition. These are fun to watch, and might even convince you to try again with your own dog! And just a warning...watching Rally obedience can make you want to try Rally obedience, so be prepared to get hooked on that. Most exhibitors at ringside would be delighted to answer any questions you might have about what you're seeing, so ask away!

If you're going to the dog shows this weekend, here are some things to keep in mind:

1. Especially with really heavily-coated dogs, ask before petting. Be sure your kids know this rule too.

2. Unless your dog is entered, leave him at home. This is an AKC rule designed for the safety of everyone at the show.

3. Wear comfortable shoes and clothes you won't mind getting dog hair on.

4. If you plan to sit at ringside or stay and watch groups and Best in Show, take folding chairs, as they are not provided.

5. Watch where you step. The clean-up crew does a great job at this show, but you never know...with about 2,200 dogs in the building each day, accidents happen.

6. Take your checkbook or credit cards if you have pets at home...the vendors are fabulous. You'll see things that you won't be able to find anywhere else, and you'll see necessities at lower prices than at your local pet supply store.

7. Admission is free, but there is a fee to park: $5 for one day or $10 for all three.

To see the judging program so you'll know when your favorite breed will be judged, click here.

For directions to Atlanta Exposition Center South, click here.

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