Free Texas Dog Show Draws Hundreds to Abilene

Abilene Hosts Big Texas Dog Show With Over 700 Competing Dogs

The Abilene Kennel Club is bringing back its Annual Dog Shows and Obedience/Rally Trials from Friday, May 16 through Sunday, May 18, at the Taylor County Expo Center. With more than 700 dogs representing 130 AKC breeds, this event draws competitors from across Texas and beyond.

Three Days of Dog Competition in Abilene

The weekend features three separate shows, one each day, covering both conformation (dog show) and performance trials (obedience and rally). All events are free to the public, though no baby strollers or unentered dogs are allowed due to space constraints. Visitors can come and go or stay for the full day of judging and events:

• Friday: 9 AM – 5 PM
• Saturday: 8 AM – 5 PM
• Sunday: 8 AM – 3 PM

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Saturday and Sunday also feature Junior Handlers and the National Owner-Handler Series. At noon on Saturday, the fan-favorite PeeWee Handler event lets kids ages 5–9 show off their skills with their pups.

The Abilene Kennel Club’s Longtime Legacy

While many locals may think the club is a newer addition, the Abilene Kennel Club has actually been around since 1958. That’s over 60 years of serving the Big Country by hosting dog shows, obedience trials, and community events.

The club is also a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that educates the public on responsible dog ownership, ethical breeding, and preserving breed heritage. During times of crisis—like the View wildfires, they’ve even stepped up to assist evacuees and their pets, offering safety and support at the Expo Center.

Not Just for Purebreds, All Dogs Welcome

Abilene’s Club is a proud member of the American Kennel Club, the organization behind the prestigious Westminster Dog Show. And here's something many folks don’t realize, mixed-breed dogs are welcome too through the AKC’s Canine Partners Program. These dogs can participate in all obedience and rally events.

So if you’ve ever wanted to experience a piece of the Westminster Dog Show without leaving West Texas, come out to the Expo Center this weekend. For more info, follow the Abilene Kennel Club on Facebook or visit AbileneKennelClub.org.