The National All-Breed Puppy & Junior Stakes is a competition created especially for purebred dogs aged 6-18 months (Puppies 6-12 months/Juniors 12-18 months). The event is open to all AKC-registered breeds, including Miscellaneous breeds, and provides an opportunity for breeders and exhibitors to showcase their breeding program. This event creates a standalone moment in the AKC National Championship to focus on the future stars of purebred dogs.
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Who can participate?
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All AKC-registered breeds, including Miscellaneous breeds, who are aged 6-18 months on the date of the show.
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How will the competition work?
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Judging will begin at the breed level, divided into age classes as follows: Puppy 6-9 months, Puppy 9-12 months, Junior 12-15 months, Junior 15-18 months. Classes will be divided by sex. The eight class winners will compete for Best of Breed and will be crowned the AKC Royal Canin National (Breed) (Puppy/Junior) of the Year.“AKC Royal Canin National Airedale Puppy of the Year”
Best of Breed winners will compete in their respective group; first through fourth places will be awarded. Miscellaneous breeds will compete in their designated group. Each group winner will be crowned the AKC Royal Canin National (Group) (Puppy/Junior) of the Year.“AKC Royal Canin National Terrier Puppy of the Year”
Group winners compete to win Best in Stakes. This Best in Stakes winner will be crowned the AKC Royal Canin National All-Breed (Puppy/Junior) of the Year.“AKC Royal Canin National All-Breed Puppy of the Year”
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How do I enter the Stakes?
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The premium list will be available in late September. Entries will close on the same date as the AKC National Championship.
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Are AKC Champions allowed to compete?
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Yes. AKC Champions can compete in the Stakes.
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Are professional handlers allowed to compete?
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Yes. Anyone may show an eligible dog in the Stakes.
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What are Miscellaneous breeds?
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The Miscellaneous Class is an American Kennel Club designation for certain dog breeds that are currently in the AKC Foundation Stock Service (FSS) Program. The breeds have not been fully recognized and do not appear in the official Stud Book as an AKC registered breed. They may become fully recognized after substantial, sustained nationwide interest and activity in the breed exist. This includes an active parent club, with serious and expanding breeding activity over a wide geographic area.
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I’ve never competed at a dog show. Can my puppy enter? What do I do?
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Any AKC registered, intact dog aged 6-18 months may compete in the Stakes; entry is via the link on AKC.org.
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Can spayed or neutered dogs compete?
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No. Dogs must be intact to compete in the Stakes.
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What is proper attire for the competition?
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Proper ring attire is sporting casual.
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What type of leash do I use?
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The use of retractable leashes, prong or shock collars or rope leashes will not be permitted. An internet search of show leads and collars will give you an idea of what is acceptable to use in the ring. Also, multiple vendors will be on-site selling show equipment.
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How much training does my dog need to compete?
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The puppy should have basic leash training and proper socialization. If time allows, basic handling classes should be taken in your community.
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Will other Puppy Stakes be held at other shows?
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This event is being held exclusively at the National Championship.