Best in Show

The Reliant Park World Series of Dog Shows is back in town this weekend, marking 31 years of the beloved canine competition. We can't think of a better or more enjoyable way to spend a hot Houston afternoon than inside the Reliant Center watching some fine canine athletic competitions.

Less strict and far more fun than its stuffy cousins, the Reliant dog show offers events such as flyball, agility and obedience, doggie dancing competitions and a student art show where Houston-area students from kindergarten to high school showcase their love for animals in paintings and sketches. There's even a Designer Doghouse competition, with proceeds going to benefit Citizens for Animal Protection.

In addition to the competitive events, there are educational exhibits such as the fantastic Meet the Breed seminars, where prospective pet owners can learn all about different breeds and their temperaments in a friendly, hands-on environment. Over 80 different dogs will be greeting people and acting as ambassadors for their breeds at the Meet the Breed seminar each day, which runs from 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Friday and 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. There will also be classes on proper grooming and overall doggie health throughout the weekend.

If you're looking to stock up on doggie goodies from both national vendors and local artisans, the McScotty Market has hundreds of booths on hand. Not only will you be able to score some healthy doggie treats, unique chew toys and custom doggie clothes, at least 60 area non-profits will also be on hand with educational material and adoption information.

If you've considered getting a special breed of dog from a breeder, please think twice about buying a dog and supporting a business that's too often fraught with mistreatment, abuse and breeders who only care about a profit. Instead, consider one of the many non-profit rescue organizations who offer the same breeds for adoption for a nominal fee. You can be a hero and provide a loving home to a dog who desperately needs it by rescuing a miniature Schnauzer, a Sheltie, a Shih-Tzu, a Yorkie, a pug, or one of many other dogs that are saved by these breed-specific organizations, many of which will be on hand this weekend in the McScotty Market area.

And as if all of these events and demonstrations weren't enough fun, the Reliant dog show will award three very special dogs with a Best in Show ribbon. On Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights, one dog will receive their prize in the Animal Planet Ring at 7:00 p.m. Best in Breed prizes will also be awarded throughout the show, with over 150 breeds (and 14,000 dogs!) being judged. Be sure to check out the schedule for Best in Breed prize times if you're looking to catch a specific breed.

Tickets for the Reliant Park World Series of Dog Shows start at $8 if purchased online through Ticketmaster and are $10 at the gate. Children under 12 are free when accompanied by an adult and seniors pay only $5. Parking is $8 per vehicle (cash only!), but Houstonist recommends taking the light rail to get there if you have the chance (Reliant Center is on the Holly Hall stop, which drops you off practically at the doorstep). The doors open at 8:00 a.m. every day, with Friday running until 9:00 p.m., Saturday until 6:00 p.m. and Sunday until 3:00 p.m.

Reliant Park World Series of Dog Shows
July 17th through July 19th
Reliant Center
One Reliant Park
832.667.1400

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Photo courtesy of flickr user jeffbalke.