- One of the largest dog shows in the UK
- More than 8,000 dogs will compete over four days
- Come and meet some of the UK’s most popular breeds of dog
- The opportunity to see rare native British and Irish breeds
- Many trade stands selling all things ‘doggy’
British and Irish native dog breeds, including some very rare ones, will be among the more than 8,000 dogs which will descend on Staffordshire County Showground in Stafford from 26th - 29th October for the popular Midland Counties Championship Dog Show – one of the largest events of its kind in the UK.
The show will see more than 200 breeds and their owners from all over the UK and beyond compete in a bid to qualify for the world’s biggest dog show, Crufts, which will be held at the NEC in Birmingham next March.
The pedigree dogs taking part will be judged on a number of factors in the ring, including temperament and that they are fit, healthy and happy dogs that are good examples of their breed, as they compete for the ultimate ‘Best in Show’ prize.
The show is one of the largest gatherings of dogs in the UK and will see rare British and Irish breeds competing, such as the Norwich Terrier, Bearded Collie, Dandie Dinmont Terrier, Curly Coated Retriever, King Charles Spaniel, Lancashire Heeler, Mastiff, Field Spaniel, Miniature Bull Terrier and Irish Red & White Setter.
These breeds are bred in such small numbers today that they are considered by the Kennel Club to be at risk of disappearing from Britain’s streets and parks. Alongside these breeds will be some of the more well-known breeds such as the Beagle, Miniature Schnauzer, Staffordshire Bull Terrier, Border Collie, Irish Setter, Whippet, Labrador Retriever, Boxer, Poodle, Dachshund, English Springer Spaniel and Pug.
The show is perfect for families researching the right breed of dog for them, and visitors will be able to meet the dogs themselves as well as talk to experts in each breed about finding a good breeder, what to expect from the breed, and training and care requirements.
Rodney Price, secretary of the show, said: “Ours is one of the biggest dog shows in the UK, so naturally we are very proud of that fact. It brings thousands of dog lovers to the area each year and we are expecting this year’s show to be bigger and better than ever.
“The show is a huge celebration of man’s best friend and visitors will get to meet lots of wonderful dogs throughout the weekend, find out more about dog showing and the various activities they can get involved in with their own dog, and browse the many dog products on the trade stands.
“Anyone thinking about getting a pedigree dog can come along and research their favourite breeds, as well as some of the lesser known breeds they may not even have heard of, and take the opportunity to meet the dogs themselves, which is definitely a favourite with families.
“Midland Counties has supported charities over many years, primarily Dogs for Good (www.dogsforgood.org) to whom we have donated £30,000 to their excellent work over the last five years. Midland Counties is fully sponsoring a puppy named Alvin through his first year of training with the charity which will be with us at the show once again so the public can find out a little more about their work.”
Pedigree dog classes are held across the seven dog groups. Thursday 26th October will see Hound and Pastoral breeds competing, followed by the Working and Terrier breeds on Friday 27th, the Toy and Utility breeds on Saturday 28th and the Gundog breeds on Sunday 29th. Sunday also sees the climax of the competition – Best in Show.
The show is one of 37 group and general championship dog shows licensed by the Kennel Club throughout the year, which enable dogs to qualify for next year’s Crufts.
Admission to the show is free, as is car parking. Only dogs entered in the show are permitted on the showground.
More information on the show can be found at www.fossedata.co.uk/downloads/pdf/MCOU_OCT_17_Schedule.pdf.