Prince Albert hosted some of the finest dogs from across Canada and beyond for the Luck of the Irish Championship All Breed Show at the Prince Albert Exhibition Centre this past weekend. The event showcased top-tier canine competitors, with breeds ranging from Sporting to Herding vying for the prestigious Best in Show title.
Organized by the Prince Albert Kennel and Obedience Club, the event drew over 200 dogs, the maximum capacity for the show. Liana Maloney, the club’s show coordinator, highlighted the impressive participation, with competitors arriving from Ontario, Quebec, Nova Scotia, British Columbia, and even the United States. “We had a strong entry, and dogs from all over Canada came to compete,” Maloney noted.
Participants competed in seven distinct groups: Sporting, Hound, Working, Terrier, Toy, Non-Sporting, and Herding. Each breed was judged from the baby puppy class up to the championship class, with the top dogs advancing to their respective group categories. Ultimately, the highest-ranking dog from each group competed for the coveted Best in Show title.
Maloney, herself a seasoned competitor with 46 years of experience, entered her Shetland Sheepdog in the Herding Class. She emphasized that the competition fosters a spirit of camaraderie among both seasoned professionals and newcomers alike. “In this sport, there are no separate classes for amateurs and professionals. You can compete against experienced breeders or young newcomers, all under the same judges,” she explained. The event also featured a Junior Handler competition, helping nurture the next generation of dog show participants.
For breeders, dog shows like these serve as a critical avenue for promoting the health and quality of their breeds. Maloney stressed the importance of objective judging, which evaluates dogs based on a set of 100-point criteria, including physical features such as coat type, eye shape, and bone structure.
The show’s lineup included 12 judges from across the country, ensuring a comprehensive evaluation process. However, Maloney pointed out the significant costs involved for competitors, with entry fees, travel, and accommodation totaling up to $2,000 per participant. Despite the financial commitment, the event brings substantial economic benefit to the city, with competitors staying in local hotels and dining out throughout the weekend.
Looking ahead, Maloney encouraged the public to attend future events, including the summer show, which will be held in August. “We welcome everyone to come down and experience the world of dog shows,” she said. “It’s a chance to learn and share our passion for dogs.”
The Luck of the Irish Championship All Breed Show ran Friday through Sunday, with the next event scheduled for the days leading up to Labour Day, split between Prince Albert and Saskatoon.
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