Region dog lovers will enjoy spending some time at a large scale canine event happening this weekend in Chicago.
The International Kennel Club of Chicago presents the 2015 International Cluster of Dog Shows Saturday and Sunday at Chicago's McCormick Place.
"It's a real family event," said Susan Olsen, IKC show chairwoman. Olsen said the benched all-breed dog show, which is one of the largest in the country, will include a variety of opportunities for guests to learn about various breeds.
'People can walk around as a family and converse with the people showing their dogs. If they're thinking about getting a dog, they can talk to someone who has the same breed they may be interested in," she said.
"It's a great time to learn about all the dogs. It's an educational show as well," Olsen said.
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In addition to judged competitions, guests will not only be able to pet and watch the dogs get groomed for competition but also shop for miscelleaneous products from pet clothes, art and jewelry to gourmet treats.
Other special features are Dancing Dogs; the Thunder Tunnel, where dogs show their skills running through an obstacle tunnel; Ask the Vet and various demonstrations.
In the competitive portion of the show, attendees can watch dogs compete for "Best in Show," "Best Puppy in Show" and other categories.
Show guests interested in seeing breeds from Pomeranians to Poodles will find many fascinating aspects to this show, which features more than 10,000 purebred dogs from 160 breeds.
Among special attractions will be junior dog judging which is open to kids 9 to 19 years of age. And don't miss the "Puppy Spectacular," starring puppies ages 6 months to 12 months.
Olsen said the organizers are expecting about 50,000 show attendees.
FYI: The 2015 International Cluster of Dog Shows runs from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday at McCormick Place Lakeside Building, 2301 S. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago. Tickets are $20 for adults and $15 for senior citizens. A two-day pass is available for $25/$20. Admission is free for children under 12 with the purchase of an adult ticket. Visit ikcdogshow.com