Is It Expensive To Show Dogs?

Showing dogs, often referred to as “conformation showing,” is a beloved hobby for many dog enthusiasts. However, it can also be a serious endeavor, especially for those who aim to compete at high levels, such as prestigious shows like the Westminster Kennel Club or Crufts. Whether you're considering entering the world of dog shows for fun or striving for major wins, one key question comes to mind: Is it expensive to show dogs? The answer isn’t entirely straightforward. The cost of showing a dog varies based on numerous factors, such as breed, grooming needs, travel expenses, and registration fees. For those new to the sport, it’s important to have a full understanding of the different expenses involved to make an informed decision. Let's take a deep dive into what makes dog showing potentially costly and explore the various expenses, from entry fees to professional grooming, travel, and hidden costs.

The True Cost of Dog Shows: What Every Aspiring Exhibitor Should Know

Initial Investment: Purchasing a Show-Quality Dog

One of the first expenses associated with showing dogs is the cost of the dog itself. Not every dog is suited for conformation shows, which evaluate how closely a dog conforms to breed standards. Dogs bred specifically for showing—often called “show-quality” dogs—tend to come with a premium price tag. While the cost of a regular pet dog may range between $500 and $2,000, show-quality dogs can cost much more, especially if they come from top bloodlines with champions in their pedigree. It’s not uncommon for show-quality puppies to cost $3,000 to $10,000, depending on the breed and breeder reputation. Breeds that are rare or difficult to breed, such as French Bulldogs or Afghan Hounds, may push prices even higher. Furthermore, even if a dog has the potential to become a show champion, the buyer often pays extra for health testing, genetic screening, and limited breeding rights, all of which are important considerations when entering the competitive world of dog shows.

In some cases, aspiring exhibitors may opt to co-own a dog with the breeder, which can reduce the upfront purchase cost. However, this arrangement often comes with contractual obligations and limitations on decisions about the dog’s care, future breeding, or show schedule. Additionally, not all breeders offer show-quality puppies to just anyone—building relationships with reputable breeders can take time, and many breeders prefer to sell show prospects only to individuals with prior experience in the sport. In short, buying the right dog for the ring is more than a financial investment; it requires networking, research, and careful selection to increase your chances of success.

Entry Fees and Registration Costs

One of the most basic but recurring expenses in the world of dog shows is the cost of entry fees. Every show charges a fee to participate, and this can range anywhere from $25 to $100 per class, depending on the event's prestige and location. If you're attending multiple shows throughout the year to build your dog’s championship points, these fees can add up very quickly. For example, a serious competitor might attend two or three shows per month, spending anywhere from $600 to $2,000 annually just on entry fees alone. National and international shows, such as the American Kennel Club (AKC) National Championship or the Westminster Dog Show, may require even higher entry fees, and exhibitors must often meet certain qualification criteria to participate.

In addition to entry fees, you will need to register your dog with the appropriate kennel club to participate in recognized shows. Registering a dog with the AKC, the Kennel Club (UK), or other relevant organizations comes with a fee, and depending on the club, additional paperwork or DNA testing may be required to confirm the dog’s pedigree. If you plan on competing at a high level, you might also need to pay for title applications, such as registering a dog as a champion once it has accumulated enough points. Although each individual fee may seem manageable, the cumulative costs of registration, entry fees, and title applications can become significant over time, especially if you show multiple dogs.

Grooming and Handling Costs: Where the Expenses Really Add Up

Grooming is one of the biggest and most consistent costs associated with showing dogs. Many breeds require intensive grooming to meet show standards, and this can range from simple coat trimming to elaborate styling and dyeing. For instance, poodles need to maintain specific cuts, and breeds with double coats, like Samoyeds or Newfoundlands, require thorough brushing, bathing, and blow-drying before every show. While some owners choose to groom their dogs at home to save money, others hire professional groomers, especially if they are competing in prestigious events. Professional grooming services can cost anywhere from $50 to $300 per session, depending on the dog’s size and coat type. Grooming tools like scissors, clippers, shampoos, dryers, and brushes are also necessary investments, adding hundreds of dollars in equipment costs.

Another significant expense is hiring a professional handler. While some owners choose to handle their dogs themselves, many opt to hire experienced handlers, especially if they lack the skills to present the dog properly in the ring. Handlers charge per show or per weekend, with fees ranging between $75 and $500, depending on the show’s prestige and the handler's experience. Some handlers also expect additional payments for travel, lodging, and grooming, which can easily double or triple the cost. For exhibitors competing at high levels, hiring a top-tier handler is almost essential, as it significantly improves the dog’s chances of winning. However, relying on professional handlers can increase the financial burden of showing dogs, and this cost alone can deter some hobbyists from pursuing the sport more seriously.

Travel, Accommodation, and Related Expenses

Traveling to dog shows is another major expense, particularly for exhibitors aiming to accumulate points at various events across the country. Local shows might be more affordable, but to compete at the national level, exhibitors often need to travel long distances. Depending on the location of the show, this might involve driving for several hours, flying, or staying overnight in hotels. Fuel costs, airfare, rental cars, and tolls can quickly add up, especially if you attend multiple shows throughout the year. On top of travel costs, many shows require exhibitors to stay overnight near the venue, which means paying for hotel rooms. Some exhibitors try to cut costs by staying at pet-friendly motels or sharing accommodations with other competitors, but lodging expenses can still become a significant financial burden.

Additionally, exhibitors need to consider meals, parking fees at the show venue, and entry fees for spectators or additional family members. If you are traveling with a handler, you may also be responsible for covering their travel and lodging expenses. Frequent travelers may find it worthwhile to invest in a motorhome or camper to reduce hotel costs, but this comes with its own set of expenses, including maintenance, fuel, and parking fees. For international competitors, costs become even higher due to the need for airline tickets, pet passports, quarantine fees, and other logistics related to international travel. Ultimately, the cumulative cost of travel can be a limiting factor for exhibitors, particularly those who live far from major show circuits.

The Hidden Costs of Dog Showing: Training, Equipment, and Health Care

Beyond the obvious expenses, there are many hidden costs involved in showing dogs. For starters, show dogs require regular training to ensure they can move gracefully in the ring and stand still for examination. Some exhibitors choose to attend handling classes or private training sessions, which can cost between $50 and $150 per session. Specialized training tools, such as show leads, bait pouches, and ring-side grooming tables, also add to the expense.

Additionally, the health and well-being of a show dog are top priorities, which means routine veterinary care, vaccinations, and preventive treatments are essential. Show dogs need to be in peak physical condition, so exhibitors often invest in premium dog food, supplements, and specialized diets to maintain their dog’s coat, muscle tone, and energy levels. Veterinary visits can quickly become costly, particularly if a dog develops a health issue that requires treatment. Health-related costs may also include genetic testing and certifications, such as hip and elbow evaluations, which are often required to prove that the dog meets breed standards.

It’s also important to account for unexpected expenses. A dog may sustain an injury during a show, develop an illness that requires emergency care, or need special equipment if it has mobility issues later in life. These unforeseen costs can put additional financial pressure on exhibitors, especially if they do not have pet insurance. Furthermore, dogs competing at the highest levels often retire early, which means owners must decide whether to continue showing new dogs or take on the responsibility of caring for retired champions.

Conclusion: A Rewarding But Costly Passion

So, is it expensive to show dogs? The answer is a resounding yes, especially if you are committed to competing at high levels or aiming for championship titles. Between the initial purchase of a show-quality dog, grooming and handling fees, travel and accommodation expenses, and hidden costs like health care and training, the financial burden of showing dogs can become substantial. However, for many enthusiasts, the joy of participating in dog shows, the sense of achievement from winning titles, and the camaraderie among fellow competitors make the investment worthwhile. While there are ways to reduce costs—such as grooming your dog at home, handling your own dog, or limiting the number of shows you attend—serious exhibitors should be prepared to spend both time and money to succeed in this demanding hobby. Ultimately, dog showing is a passion-driven pursuit that requires careful planning, financial discipline, and a deep love for the sport. For those who are up to the challenge, the rewards, both emotional and competitive, can make every dollar spent feel worthwhile.