Stampede Park goes to the dogs for Alberta Kennel Club’s Winter Classic

Around 500 dogs are participating in the 2026 Alberta Kennel Club Winter Classic dog show at Stampede Park.

Stampede Park has gone to the dogs this weekend in all the best possible ways.

The Alberta Kennel Club’s Winter Classic Dog Show is underway at the Agriculture building.

Over 500 pups and their human companions are competing daily.

They’re judged on things like rally obedience, canine good neighbour, and conformation -- with the coveted ‘Best in Show’ prize up for grabs.

Organizers haven’t held a Winter Classic since before the pandemic and are thrilled with the signups for the 2026 event.

“Come in and watch, do some shopping, see some purebred dogs, talk to people, talk to breeders, learn some things – yeah,” said Alberta Kennel Club board director Angie Saunders.

“It’s great to see dogs in person when you’ve only seen them in pictures – so there’s a wide spectrum of breeds to see,” she added.

The dog show runs until Sunday at 6 p.m., with free admission for children under 12.

Unless your dog is in the show, you’re asked to leave them at home.