Pet owners across the United States now have the ability to have their canine compete in a dog show without having to leave the comfort of their own home.
During the second annual Dog Show USA — online at www.dogshowusa.com — any dog, Mixed Breeds and purebreds alike, can compete, with the public voting for the winner.
Unlike a traditional dog show, where judges evaluate individual dogs for how well they conform to published breed standards, Dog Show USA gives the public a chance to rate all of the dogs for their individuality. The competition includes 11 categories:
- Sporting Group
- Hound Group
- Working Group
- Terrier Group
- Toy Group
- Non-Sporting Group
- Herding Group
- Mixed Breed
- Cutest Dog
- Dog Owner Look Alike
- Best Dog Trick
The site allows pet owners to upload video and photo entries at no charge. Prizes include a trip to Philadelphia for The National Dog Show, a one-year supply of Purina Dog Chow, sweepstakes for a trip for four to Universal Studios in Orlando, Fla., iPods and grooming kits.
Starting Jan. 4, a panel of judges, including “Seinfeld” and “Dancing with the Stars” favorite John O'Hurley and dog show commentator David Frei, will select 10 finalists from each category.
Once these canines are determined, America can vote online. Dog Show USA will accept entries through the holiday season; winners will be announced online Feb. 26 and at the Chicago Dog Show.