*COME ONE COME ALL
BYOD – BRING YOUR OWN DOGS TO
THE GREAT AMERICAN DOG SHOW
AT CANTIGNY PARK IN WHEATON
SEPTEMBER 5TH AND 6TH, 2026
Reasonable Priced Family Entertainment
Families, family dogs and pet lovers from all over Chicagoland can enjoy great, affordable, family-friendly entertainment and the thrill of world-class canine competition at the upcoming Great American Dog Show(GADS). The Show will be held September 5-6, 2026, at The Cantigny Park (1S151 Winfield Road, Wheaton).
The Show will be chalk full of premier show dogs and competitors from the 200 American Kennel Club (AKC) recognized breeds. The spirit of competition will come alive as America’s favorite animals compete for top prizes throughout the weekend.
Along with the competition, which will take place across multiple large rings, the event will showcase demonstrations of agility, scent work, trick dog, and more. A highlight of the shows will be a Greet the Breeds event showcasing lots of unique and recognized breeds. The two-day experience will include multiple vendors, sponsors and exhibitors providing area dog lovers with insights into the best new products and services to support the health, grooming, training, and wellbeing of their favorite furry friends. Other highlights and activities over the weekend include:
Dachshund Races – hot diggity dog! watch (and/or bring your own) oodles of the cutest Dachshunds race for top dog bragging rights
BYOD - Bring Your Own Dog Fun Run – join in the fun and watch your own (well-mannered and vaccinated) dog compete in a lively, outdoor, exciting event for all
Informative Meet Ups with the Experts -Trainers, Groomers and Vets on hand to consult and answer all your burning questions about your furry family members. Educational programming throughout the weekend to learn about the latest information about how to care for, feed, train and understand your pet.
Competitive Pee Wee Show– kids ages 5 to 9 can practice and learn about being a junior handler.
Join In the Healthy Dog Walk – a self-guided walk, complete with fun stops along the way and a chance to earn a medal and certificate of completion. Walk benefits with Anti-Cruelty Society.
Top Notch Competitions with World Renown Judges throughout the weekend including Best of Breed, Best in Group and Best in Show.
Specialty Shopping with numerous vendors showcasing the best of the best pet care products: treats, custom collars, fun collectables, personalized gifts and more.
Food Truck Row – treat yourself and your family to everything from ice cream, to tacos, to coffee to shaved ice
THE Kids Zone featuring a larger, more amped up area for kids of all ages featuring; face painting, coloring areas, stuffed animal obstacle course, and experts to teach kids how to care for their pets.
Cooling Pools for Furry Ones – let your pups frolic in the water in the park and stay cool on a hot summer day.
1-Day ticket pricing is as follows:
$22 General Admission$15 for Children (12 and under)$18 for Seniors and Veterans
For information about how to purchase tickets, and for more information about the event, including vendor information, visit greatamericandogshow.com.