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The Dogs! They're Everywhere!

By Marcus Gilmer in Arts & Entertainment on Feb 20, 2008 7:59PM

Who doesn't love dogs? Besides these two, we mean. Many of us here at Chicagoist have our own pups that we lavish with too much attention and expensive things to chew. There's nothing that warms our hearts after a long day at the office like the excited look and wagging tail of our canine companions.

2008_02_dogshow.jpgThat said, we've been fascinated with the show dog obsessives since the time our high school girlfriend's mother yelled at us for allowing her show dog to romp through mud the night before a show. And we're not the only ones. Still, if you love dogs, then a dog show might be just the thing to shake some of the winter blahs.

On the heels of the 2008 Westminster Dog Show, it's time for the International Kennel Club of Chicago to throw their annual bash. Starting today, McCormick Place will be home to more dogs than you can shake a stick at. Or ask to fetch said stick. Thousands of dogs representing 150 breeds will strut their stuff, all hoping to bring home that coveted "Best in Show" prize.

This year's edition kicks off today with the Great Lakes All Terrier Association's show. The show is open to the public from 4pm until 9pm with free admission. Tomorrow, the Park Shore Kennel Club show takes place. This show is also free admission and open to the public from 8am until 5pm.

The Blackhawk Kennel Club holds their competition on Friday and is open to the public from 8am until 5pm. Tickets are available only at the door. Admission for the Friday show is $13 for adults, $10 for seniors, $3 for children under 12, and children under 3 get in free.

The main event, the IKC's show, runs Saturday and Sunday, from 8am until 5pm both days. Again, tickets are only available at the door. Admission for the each weekend show is $16 for adults, $10 for seniors, $3 for children under 12, and children under 3 get in free.

Exhibitors will also be at the event Friday through Sunday, showing off the latest in Dog Technology we assume. More information, including parking info and even a $2 off coupon for the weekend shows, is available at the IKC website.

Image from the American Kennel Club website