Prospective Dog Owners Encouraged To Take Compatibility Test Then “meet The Breeds”

PRLog (Press Release) - Nov 18, 2009 -
He’s called “man’s best friend” for good reason as the joys of dog ownership can be rewarding on many levels.  With more than 160 breeds registered with the American Kennel Club, there are many choices in terms of size, energy level, coat type and temperament.  To make sure you choose a dog that fits your lifestyle and that you can commit to for life, make sure you consider all your options.
If you are considering dog ownership, Eukanuba is offering an online compatibility quiz that will match you with the breed that best fits your lifestyle.  “BreedMatch” is a 16-question (multiple choice) test designed to uncover facts about how you live, what activities you enjoy, what you expect from your dog and how much time and energy you plan to devote to your companion.  Once completed, one “perfect” match and four alternates are offered.  Armed with this information, interested parties are encouraged to visit the “Meet The Breeds” exhibit at the 2009 AKC/Eukanuba National Championship to be held at the Long Beach Convention and Entertainment Center in Long Beach, Calif. Dec 12 & 13.  The show will spotlight 160 breeds from all over the world.  In addition to the AKC Meet the Breedstm , the 400,000-square-foot facility also will feature:
•   DOG SENSORY EXHIBIT  –For the first time you will be able to see, smell, hear and taste exactly as a dog does at this multi-sensory exhibit;

•   MASSIVE DOG MALL – More than 100 products including Swarovski crystal embellished collars, leads and apparel (for dogs and humans); fine designer jewelry (for pets and humans); dog art and collectables; eco-friendly pet collars and accessories; bronze portrait sculptures; handmade dog clothing; and doggie treadmills will be among the items available for purchase at the world’s largest specially constructed “dog mall”;

•   AKC MEET THE BREEDStm– You will be able to interact with almost 150 different pure breeds and learn about their personalities and temperaments, responsible dog ownership and which breeds best suit your lifestyle;

•    LUXURY POOCH PALACE EXHIBIT – 10 luxury pooch palaces – each designed by a different local nonprofit organization – will be displayed;

•   SUPER DOG COMPETITION – Watch Labradors, Collies and other breeds sail through the air into an indoor pool to see which one goes the farthest in this impressive competition;  

•   POLICE DOG DEMO – They track the scent of criminals, detect carefully hidden illicit drugs and assist in the apprehension of suspects and now these public servants will show off their skills;

•   INTERACTIVE EXHIBITS – Test your knowledge of the world of dogs by participating in a game show competition much like the popular television hit, “Jeopardy;”  

•   CELEBRITY APPEARANCE – World-famous Olympic gold medalist Shawn Johnson, an avid dog-lover, will be on hand to greet the public, answer questions about dog ownership, sign autographs and take photos.

The highlight of the two-day event will be over 3,000 of the world’s finest canines going head to head in various competitions all in pursuit of the Best In Show championship. Dogs and their handlers will participate in a range of events including the AKC Agility Invitational, AKC National Obedience Invitational and the breed competitions that will lead to the crowning of the champ.  The event is also host to the Eukanuba World Challenge featuring top dogs from more than 40 countries including some rare breeds such as Petit Basset Griffon Vendeen  and Xoloitzcuintli as well as more familiar ones like Labrador Retrievers and Dachshunds.  
Tickets to daytime events are $20 for adults, $15 ages 13-18, and under 12 free.  Tickets to the televised evening competitions on Saturday and Sunday are $15 for adults and $12 for those under 18.  Specially priced tickets for seniors also are available.
For more information or tickets visit www.akc.org.  Tickets also are available at the door or through Ticketmaster.