Events at the Shows
Conformation/Breed Judging
Conformation is one of the most popular American Kennel Club (AKC) events, and it’s more than just a beauty pageant for dogs. While the dogs have to be groomed impeccably, the competition lies in how well each individual dog conforms, or matches up to, the breed standard as established by the AKC. The event is open to all breeds recognized by the AKC, and can range from specialty shows focused on a particular breed or class of dog, or a more general show where dogs of any recognized breed can enter.
Why is conformation important? Because the closer a dog’s appearance to the breed standard, the more likely that dog is to produce puppies that also meet the standard and have other desirable genetic traits. It’s also the reason mixed breeds, and spayed or neutered purebreds are ineligible to compete in this event.
Meet the Breeds Seminars
Looking to get a new pooch for yourself or your family? Meet the Breeds is a valuable resource to a potential pet owner who is searching for the right kind of dog for his particular lifestyle. Experts present scores of breeds from the common to the exotic. Learn about the advantages and disadvantages of owning certain breeds before selecting a dog for your family. Watch this website or posted lists at the Show for the detailed presentation schedule.
Flyball
Flyball is one of the most exciting events at the Shows. It’s a competitive canine relay race in which two teams, comprised of four dogs (and two substitutes), compete side by side against one another over a 51-foot-long course. As soon as the signal goes off, each dog dashes over a line of low hurdles to reach a box. Once there, they use their paws to push a spring-loaded pad and release a tennis ball into the air that they catch and bring back to their handlers. Once back to the starting line, the next dog takes his turn. Once each dog has completed its run, the team with the fastest time wins.
Canine Musical Freestyle
Canine Musical Freestyle is a choreographed musical program performed by both dogs and their handlers. The object of musical freestyle is to display the dog and handler in a creative, innovative and original dance, using music and intricate movements to showcase teamwork, artistry, costuming, athleticism and style in interpreting the theme of the music. Canine freestyle is a showcase that truly demonstrates the joys and fun of bonding with your pet.
Barn Hunt/Find the Rat
Barn Hunt is a popular, independent sport that is quickly growing across the country. These trials are meant to test the proper working drives of dog breeds whose traditional roles were to rid homes of damaging vermin. Dogs win points for the number of rats they scent in the course and for overcoming obstacles such as tunnels and climbs.
“Find the Rat” is a brand new event at the Houston Dog Shows this year. In “Find the Rat,” the course will be a modified Barn Hunt Instinct Course, with 3 tubes: one with a rat, one empty and one with litter. The dog will have 1 minute to indicate which tube has the rat. If they complete the task, the dog will receive a ribbon stating “We Found The Rat”. Dogs participating in “Find the Rat” don’t need an official BHA registration number.
The BHA is devoted to creating a fun and safe sport for dogs and also holds rat care at the highest level of consideration.
Regular Barn Hunt trials will take place Saturday, July 20, and Sunday, July 21. For fee information and to register for regular Barn Hunt trials, please click here. Registration for regular Barn Hunt trials will not be available at the event. “Find the Rat” trials will take place Friday, July 19, at the Barn Hunt ring in Hall A from 1 to 5 p.m., and Saturday, July 20, from 3 to 6 p.m. There is a $10 fee per run. Registration for “Find the Rat” is available at the dog shows.
Creative/Breed Grooming
Breed grooming focuses on making sure a dog is flawlessly groomed to highlight its conformance to breed standards published by the American Kennel Club (AKC).
Creative grooming is a very different competition from breed standard grooming, and it’s more than adding a cute bow or bandana to complement your dog’s appearance. Many creative groomers create works of art out of their dogs using stencils, chalk, temporary and animal-friendly dyes, and creative haircuts to showcase eras or tell a story.
AKC’s My Dog Can Do That!
AKC’s My Dog Can Do That! is a lively event intended to give new dog owners a taste of dog training and companion dog sports. Owners can bring their dog and try out an Agility or Rally course with assistance from a professional trainer.
At the Houston World Series of Dog Shows, this is an event where you can bring your own dog from home to participate. Entry is free with purchase of a Show ticket.
Dr. Mari Jon Filla Student Art Show
The Dr. Mari Jon Filla Student Art Exhibit is made up of art from students of all ages. They begin their projects each spring, each creating their personal point of view on “Man’s Best Friend.” The artwork is made up of drawings, paintings and mixed media works, depending on the artist’s preference and style. After submitting their projects, each grade has its winners selected and the art is shown at the Shows for visitors and exhibitors to admire.
To get more information about next year’s art competition, please visit our Contact page and select “Dr. Mari Jon Filla Student Art Exhibit” in the dropdown to contact the Art Show Committee.
Canine Frisbee™ Exhibition
Dogs and their handlers do choreographed musical performances with the dog doing acrobatic leaps, rolls and jumps to catch a Frisbee™ disc. Don’t miss this chance to see what dogs of all different breeds can do as they work for applause, cheers and of course, treats.
Weight Pull
Weight Pull is a sport where dogs can test their strength, endurance and stamina. These dogs are fit into special harnesses that helps them pull a cart loaded with, on occasion, 80 times their own weight! Dogs will then have 60 seconds to pull the cart 16 feet to the finish line. The winner pulls the heaviest cart in its weight category at the fastest speed.
Malamute-only trials will take place Friday, July 19, from 7 to 8 p.m. Saturday and Sunday trials, held July 20 and 21 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., are open to any dog that can fit into the official harness. To enter your dog in the Saturday and Sunday open trials, you must register before 10:30 a.m. on the day of the competition. There is a pre-entry fee of $15 per dog if registration is mailed and received before July 19. Click here to view registration form. Registration at the Dog Shows will be $20 per dog. There are a few qualifying requirements to be able to participate. Click here to view.
C.A.P Designer Doghouse Competition & Silent Auction
Citizen’s for Animal Protection’s (CAP) “Best Little Doghouse in Texas” competition enters its 15th year in 2019. Located in the Designer Doghouses ring in Hall B, dog show attendees can see some of the most lux dog houses available, designed by Houstonians, to be auctioned off for charity. Auction proceeds benefit Houston’s CAP.
The “Best Little Doghouse in Texas” competition deadline to enter/reserve a space is July 1, 2019. You can get more information about the competition and download the registration form by visiting the Dog House Competition website.
Groomer’s to the Rescue
Groomers to the Rescue is a new event coming to the dog shows this year. Groomers to the Rescue will focus on creating well-groomed, clean trims for rescue dogs from local Houston shelters. This new event will give groomers the opportunity to use their expertise while handling these dogs with compassion.
The competition begins by having the groomer choose a canine model out of a random pull from a hat or bag. Prejudging of the participating pups will start and hour before the official contest time. Groomers will then have three hours to prep, bathe, dry, and groom their dog to the best of their ability. They will be judged based on the style suited for the pup’s conformation, coat type and degree of difficulty. Winners will be determined on the highest number of points given by the judges. There will be first, second, and third place winners
Groomers to the Rescue will be held on Thursday, July 18 in the Grooming Ring located in Hall B.
Houston's Rescues Have Talent Show
Saturday, July 20, starting at 12 p.m
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Events any dog can enter
- AKC’s My Dog Can Do That! – To register, bring your dog and yourself to the AKC My Dog Can Do That! ring in Hall B. Spots are available on a first-come, first-serve basis. There are no additional fees after you have purchased a ticket to the Shows.
- Barn Hunt – To register, dogs must have a Barn Hunt number and complete the registration online prior to the event. No registrations will be accepted at the event. Entry fees vary depending on class type. Click here for online registration and fee information. Click here for information on how your dog can obtain a Barn Hunt number.
- Barn Hunt’s “Find the Rat” – Registration for “Find the Rat” will be available at the event. Just head over the the Barn Hunt ring in Hall A. There is a fee of $10 per run.
- Weight Pull – Friday, July 19 trial will be for Alaskan Malamute ONLY. Saturday, July 20 and Sunday, July 21 trials are open to all breeds. Dogs must be registered 30 minutes prior to the trial’s scheduled start time. Pre-entry fee is $15 per dog if registration form is mailed and received before July 19, 2019. Registration fee at the event will be $20 per dog. Click here to view list of qualifying requirements. Click here to download registration form.
Get to Know Fido.
Looking to get a new pooch for yourself or your family? Meet the Breeds is a valuable resource to a potential pet owner who is searching for the right kind of dog for his particular lifestyle. Experts present scores of breeds from the common to the exotic. Learn about the advantages and disadvantages of owning certain breeds before selecting a dog for your family. Watch this website or posted lists at the Show for the detailed presentation schedule.
Held in the MTB Ring between Halls B and C on Friday, Saturday and Sunday during the Shows. A specific schedule will be added prior to the show so you can plan which sessions you want to attend.
Pro tip: it’s a great opportunity to interact with all kinds of dogs and is a fantastic event for children to learn more about dogs.
Fri, July 19, 2019
11 a.m. to 4 p.m., Continuous
Sat, July 20, 2019
10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Continuous
Sun, July 21, 2019
10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Continuous
Where do I park when I get to the Show?
Park in the North Fannin Lot (Orange), which you can reach from Fannin via the Holly Hall entrance. The parking fee is $15 per day (CASH ONLY). To avoid this expense, we encourage you to ride Metro Rail and get off at Holly Hall stop to reach NRG Center.
Get the full list of parking options here.
Why should I come to the Show?
To be entertained
The Houston World Series of Dog Shows is one of the best entertainment values around. For only a few dollars, you can spend an entire day admiring thousands of beautiful dogs, shopping the vendor booths and enjoying such action-packed events as Flyball, Frisbee® dogs, Canine Musical Freestyle and more.
To be educated
Everything you want to know about buying, training and caring for your dog is presented under one roof. You can also talk face-to-face with experts on any dog-related topic and learn about more than 80 different breeds at Meet the Breeds. Every year, the events for nonregistered dogs vary. We encourage you to bring your pets and participate in these happenings.
To see top competitors
Many of the top-winning show dogs in the country, representing virtually every breed recognized by the American Kennel Club, will compete at the Houston World Series of Dog Shows. Here’s your chance to see rare breeds and extraordinarily well-trained performance dogs.
How much are tickets?
TICKETS – Available at the Door
WEDNESDAY ONLY
Free Admission
THURSDAY ONLY
$10.00 Adults 13 to 54 years of age
$ 5.00 Seniors age 55 and older
$ 5.00 Active and retired military personnel and family with ID
Free Children age 12 and younger with an adult
FRIDAY – SUNDAY
$15.00 Adults 13 to 54 years of age
$10.00 Seniors age 55 and older
$10.00 Active and retired military personnel and family with ID
Free Children age 12 and younger with an adult
Can tickets be purchased at the gate with a credit card ?
Tickets cannot be purchased at the gate with a credit card. Cash only.
However, there are ATMs in NRG Center.
When is the show?
Houston World Series of Dog Shows will take place at NRG Center July 17-21, 2019. To see when specific events take place, check out the Show Schedule to see times and locations within NRG Center.
What are the best events for kids?
While the entirety of the Houston World Series of Dog Shows is family-friendly and appropriate for adults and children of all ages, there are some specific events that may be of extra interest to children because they include music, movement or fast-paced competition. Some of the best ones to look out for include:
- Flyball
- Canine Frisbee™
- Canine Musical Freestyle
- McScotty Market
Can I rent a wheel chair or scooter at the Show?
Yes. To reserve ahead of time, please call 832-667-1482. See rates below. If guest goes over the 4-hour mark, it simply goes to a daily rate. Visa, Master Card, and Discover are accepted forms of payment. (Cash & Checks will not be accepted.)
- 1 hour: $10 for wheelchair, $20 for scooter
- 2 hours: $16 for wheelchair, $32 for scooter
- 3 hours: $20 for wheelchair, $40 for scooter
- 4 hours: $24 for wheelchair, $48 for scooter
- Daily Rental: $35 for wheelchair, $70 for scooter
What can I bring to the Shows?
Security Checkpoints: All items allowed into NRG Park facilities are subject to inspection. Bags larger than 11″ x 17″ and all backpacks will not be allowed. Lockers and storage areas are not available. Purses and diaper bags are subject to inspection.
Prohibited Items: For the safety concerns of patrons, NRG Center may refuse entry of individuals in possession of prohibited items including, but not limited to: video or audio recorders or similar devices, professional camera equipment or lenses over 12” in length, laser pointers, weapons/firearms, air horns/whistles or other noisemakers, sealed packages of any kind, bottles or cans, coolers or containers, fireworks, inflatable objects, outside food or beverage (Exceptions are made for medical reasons and children) No remote controlled vehicles, including cars and unmanned aircraft (drones), are authorized to operate on NRG Center property.
Can I open carry at the Shows?
For the safety concerns of patrons, NRG Center may refuse entry of individuals in possession of prohibited items including, but not limited to: weapons/firearms.
Food and Drink at the Shows
Can I bring my own food or drinks to the Show?
NRG Center does not allow any outside food or drink because of an exclusive contract with ARAMARK. ARAMARK’s concession stands, however, offer a wide variety of food (including vegetarian) and drink.
Is water available at the Shows?
Water fountains are available at NRG Center.
Are concessions available?
ARAMARK’s concession stands will be available and offer a wide variety of food (including vegetarian) and drink.
Can I bring food for my dog?
If you think your dog companion may become hungry while you are at the Shows, you may bring some of your own dog food and a bowl. As with water, collapsible bowls are recommended. Also, be prepared to clean up after your dog if necessary.
Etiquette at the Shows
May I bring my own dog to the Show?
The competitions at our show are only for dogs that have been pre-entered. If you are coming to receive a PAL evaluation, you must bring your dog. You may also bring your dog for special fittings of canine sportswear or collars. We do not offer any “social” activities for family pets so please do not expect to find the equivalent of a dog park.
Every year, the events for non-registered dogs vary. We encourage you to bring your pets and participate in these activities. If you do bring your pet, please remember that many of the entered dogs have been exposed to many other dogs at shows around the country before arriving here. For your dog’s safety and health, he should be at least 6-months-old and have all the proper vaccinations including the new strain of canine influenza. They must be under control at all times. For good animal husbandry reasons, “community” water bowls are not provided. If you bring your family pet, please bring your own water bowl or cup and be prepared to clean up after your dog. Flexible leads are not allowed.
Can I interact with dogs at the Shows?
Before interacting with anybody’s dog at the Shows, you should always ask its owner’s permission. The owner will share any concerns about touching or interacting with their animal. If the owner says you cannot pet his dog, please respect his wishes. This is particularly important if the dog is a service animal.
Taking Photos at the Show
Spectators may take their own photos at the Shows, and share them personally with family and friends via email or social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram or Twitter. Selfie sticks are allowed, as long as they do not obstruct any walking traffic or interfere with a competition. We also ask that you limit the use of your camera’s flash while photographing competing dogs, as this may distract them from performing at their highest level.
If you share your photos on Instagram or Twitter, we’d love it if you would hashtag your photos with #hwsds or #comesitstay so we can see your photos and share them.
Anybody who is present in NRG Center may be photographed or featured in videos on social media without their express consent. If you see yourself in a photo online and wish it to be taken down for personal reasons, please contact the Show directly.
Shopping at the Shows
Can I buy a puppy or a dog at the Show?
We do not allow dogs to be sold or adopted at the Show. We do encourage you to meet reputable breeders at Meet the Breeds or visit the numerous rescue societies and clubs, and make an appointment to either purchase or adopt a dog.
What kinds of things are in the McScotty Market?
The McScotty Market features vendors who travel from all over the country, bringing pet-related products as well as more general home products for you to see, test and purchase. Every year the vendor breakdown is unique, but you should expect to find vendors who sell products like:
- Home goods focused on animals (signs, key rings, bandanas, shirts, etc.)
- Clothing for dogs
- Specialty baked goods designed specifically for dogs and their nutritional needs
- All kinds of collars and different types of leads and leashes
- Dog and animal carriers
- Supplies for cleaning up after your dogs
Photography at the Shows
Paragraph about how being at the show means you can be photographed
Can I use a selfie stick?
Selfie sticks are allowed, as long as they do not obstruct any walking traffic or interfere with a competition. We also ask that you limit the use of your camera’s flash while photographing competing dogs, as this may distract them from performing at their highest level.
Can I use a drone to take videos at the Shows?
No remote controlled vehicles, including cars and unmanned aircraft (drones), are authorized to operate on NRG Park property.
Is commercial photography or video allowed?
Commercial photography and video are generally not allowed at the Houston World Series of Dog Shows. If you are a photographer who is interested in taking photos at the Shows, you may apply for media credentials. If approved, you will be able to take photos and videos by appointment and in coordination with Show staff.
Can I use tripods or other photo/video accessories at the Shows?
Unless otherwise specified, tripods of any kind are not allowed, nor are drones or unmanned aircraft with video cameras attached. Lighting kits may be approved on a case-by-case basis, even if they are hand held.
SHOW SCHEDULE
This year’s event is July 17-21, 2019. All events are not held every year and are subject to change, so please check the Show schedule regularly.
Who can build a better doghouse?
See some of the most lux dog houses available, designed by Houstonians to be auctioned off for charity. Auction proceeds benefit Houston’s Citizens for Animal Protection (CAP).
The “Best Little Doghouse in Texas” competition enters its 15th year in 2019, and the deadline to enter/reserve space is July 1, 2019. You can download the registration form from CAP’s website.
PARKING AND DIRECTIONS
The Houston World Series of Dog Shows takes place at NRG Center, located in NRG Park at 1 NRG Park, Houston, TX 77054.
Parking Instructions
- From Fannin Street: enter through Holly Hall and park in the Orange Lot
- From Kirby: enter through McNee and proceed to park in the Orange Lot
- Exhibitors and Vendors: Use the McNee entrance from Kirby and proceed to either the Red or the Tan Lot.
- Parking is $15 per day Thursday through Sunday. Parking is free Wednesday when you mention you are going to the Houston World Series of Dog Shows
Metrorail
- Drive to the Fannin South Park & Ride lot at 1604 West Bellfort (located on Fannin just outside the 610 Loop South) and pay only $3 to park. See www.ridemetro.org for bus and rail fares.