Did you know that more than 80 percent of show dogs are handled by their owners?

To celebrate the dedication and enthusiasm of owner-handlers, the AKC created the new AKC National Owner-Handler Series. This event allows owner-handlers to compete head-to-head against other owner-handlers. It not only makes showing more fun, it actually increases exhibitors chances to win at the breed, group, and best in show levels.

This non-titling competition will be held at select dog shows across the country. Competing in the AKC National Owner-Handler Series brings many benefits to exhibitors. Entering is simple and can be completed for no additional entry fee by checking the owner-handler eligibility box on the show entry form.

All owner-handled dogs are eligible to compete in Best of Breed, including Winners Dog, Winners Bitch, and winners of non-regular classes may participate.

You can also earn qualifying points toward the inaugural AKC National Owner-Handler Series end-of-year competition.

Dogs owned or exhibited by professional handlers, their assistants, and members of their household are not eligible to participate. ("Professional handler" is defined as any person who belongs or has belonged to a professional handlers' organization, distributed rate cards, or otherwise advertised or represented themselves as handling dogs for pay.)



Rankings
Rankings for the event are compiled based on the AKC National Owner-Handler Series point schedule for Best of Breed, Group, and Best in Show placements. The dogs that finish ranked in the top 10 (plus ties) for their breed in 2012 or 2013 qualifying years will be invited to compete in the inaugural AKC National Owner-Handler Series end-of-year competition which will be held in conjunction with the 2013 AKC/Eukanuba National Championship in Orlando, Florida. Additional information will be released closer to the show.

The rankings, points schedule, frequently asked questions, and more information on the AKC National Owner-Handler Series can be found on the AKC website at www.akc.org/ohs