Best in show: Top dogs prepare for Alberta Kennel Club Winter Classic

Some of Calgary's premium pooches are ready to show off at the Alberta Kennel ClubWinter Classic dog show this weekend.

It's one of two annual events where the best in show put their pedigree on display.

The dog show adheres to the standards of the Canadian Kennel Club,which recognizes 150 purebred dog breeds.

Love and passion for the dogs

"We do it for the love and passion for purebred dogs," said club president Wendy Hamilton-Petkau.

However, mixed breeds are also encouraged to participate in the rally obedience competitions, where a dogand its owner pass through a series of stations.

Each station is worth an allotment of points upon completion and judges may decided to deduct points along the way. A perfect score is 100.

All dogs welcome

"This is really about the relationship between you and the dog," said LeezaProkopishyn, spokesperson for the Alberta Kennel Club.

"We want to see that the dog is walking right there with you."

She said any dog can be trained to do shows, but they need to learn to not be distracted by the sights and sounds of a busy event.

The show runs through Sunday at Spruce Meadows.

Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for seniors and people under age 18.

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