Make sure your dog is eligible to participate. Before you invest a lot of time and effort in training your dog, you will want to make certain your dog will be allowed to take part in dog shows.
Only purebred dogs over six months old that are not spayed or neutered may take part in American Kennel Club (AKC) shows. That's because the purpose of these events is to judge whether your dog is good breeding stock.[1]
Your dog must also be registered as a purebred with the appropriate breed club and conform to all breed guidelines.[2] If you got your dog from a breeder, they probably gave you the certification paperwork showing your dog is registered. If not, you'll need to contact the appropriate breed club. The AKC has an online directory you can use to contact the club.[3]
If your dog is spayed or neutered, there are other events you can take part in. The United Kennel Club (UKC) has an "altered" class that allows these dogs to compete.[4]
If your dog is not a purebred, it can compete in shows organized by mixed breed dog clubs.[5]