Upcoming National Dog Show Klatovy 2026: Everything You Need to Know

For every dog lover, breeder, or ambitious exhibitor, participation in dog shows is not only an opportunity to present their four-legged friend but also a unique experience full of excitement, learning, and meeting new people. Among the significant events in the cynology calendar is the National Dog Show in Klatovy, which will take place on June 27 and 28, 2026. We have prepared a comprehensive guide for you to fully enjoy this event without unnecessary worries.

What is the National - Klatovy show?

The National Dog Show in Klatovy is a prestigious cynological event organized in the Czech Republic, focusing on evaluating dogs according to individual breed standards. Unlike international shows (where CACIB is awarded), national shows award the title CAC (Czech Beauty Champion). This means the show is ideal for dogs collecting points for national championships, or for beginners who want to experience the show atmosphere without the pressure of international competition.

What does this exhibition offer?

• Opportunity to earn titles: The main attraction, of course, are the CAC titles, which are crucial for obtaining the title of Czech Beauty Champion.
• Expert evaluation: Dogs are judged by experienced judges, specialists in specific breeds, who provide valuable feedback.
• Socialization: A great opportunity for your dog to meet other dogs and people in a controlled environment.
• Community: A place where breeders, exhibitors, and dog enthusiasts meet, exchange experiences, and network.
• Breed showcase: Even for the public, it's a fascinating display of various dog breeds, their beauty, and elegance.

The Klatovy show is open to all FCI-recognized breeds, ensuring a diverse and interesting array of exhibited dogs. It is intended for experienced exhibitors who have already achieved some success, as well as for complete beginners who want to get acquainted with the world of shows.

When and where does it take place?

Date: June 27, 2026 – June 28, 2026
Location: Klatovy, Czech Republic

Klatovy is a picturesque town in the Plzeň Region, known for its historical atmosphere and hospitality. The exhibition grounds in Klatovy are usually easily accessible and provide sufficient facilities for such an event.

How to get to Klatovy?

• By car: For Slovak exhibitors, the most common route is via highway D1 to Brno, then D2 towards Prague, and then D5 towards Plzeň. From Plzeň, it's just a short distance to Klatovy. For Czech exhibitors, the route is more direct along highway D5 towards Plzeň and further to Klatovy. We recommend checking the traffic situation and parking at the exhibition grounds in advance.
• GPS coordinates: The exact coordinates of the exhibition grounds will be published on the organizer's official website closer to the event date, but usually, it's enough to enter "Výstaviště Klatovy" into your navigation.
• Accommodation: Klatovy and its surroundings offer various accommodation options – from hotels and guesthouses to private apartments. Due to the popularity of the show, we recommend booking accommodation well in advance, ideally with the option of staying with a dog.

How to register for the show?

Registering for the show is a key step. Most shows in the Czech Republic and Slovakia today use online registration systems that are clear and efficient.

Registration procedure:

1. Find the official website: Follow the organizer's websites (usually Českomoravská kynologická unie - ČMKU or a specific club for the given breed) or specialized portals for show registration (e.g., Dogoffice.cz or Vystavovatel.cz).
2. Registration: If you don't have an account yet, register in the registration system.
3. Fill out the application:
   • Dog details: Dog's name, breed, date of birth, pedigree book registration number (PP number), sex, father's and mother's names.
   • Owner details: Name, address, contact information.
   • Show class: Select the correct class for your dog. More information on how to choose the right class can be found in our breed encyclopedia on dogbreedpedia.com (note: this link is an example, the real link would lead to a specific article on dogbreedpedia.com about show classes).
   • Attachments: Usually, you need to upload a scan of the dog's pedigree. If you are entering a dog in the champion or working class, you will also need scans of the relevant certificates.
4. Fees: After completing the application, you will be prompted to pay the show fee.
   • Closing dates: Shows usually have three closing dates (1st, 2nd, and 3rd closing). The earlier you register, the lower the fee. Fees increase as the show date approaches. Don't forget to check the exact closing dates on the organizer's website.
5. Confirmation: After successful registration and payment, you should receive a confirmation. Before the show, you will receive your ring number and other important information via email or post.

Important notice: Every dog must have a valid vaccination certificate (or pet passport) with valid vaccinations against rabies, distemper, parvovirus, and leptospirosis. Without it, you will not be allowed into the exhibition grounds!

What awaits the exhibitor on site?

Upon arrival at the exhibition grounds, it's important to know what to expect to minimize stress and maximize the experience.

1. Registration and catalog: Upon arrival, you must register (show the dog's pet passport) and you will receive a catalog with the ring number and judging schedule. Find your ring and a place to prepare.
2. Show classes: Dogs are judged in different classes according to age and achieved titles:
   • Junior class: 9 – 18 months
   • Intermediate class: 15 – 24 months
   • Open class: From 15 months without restriction
   • Champion class: For dogs with an already acquired beauty champion title
   • Working class: For dogs with a completed working examination
   • Veteran class: From 8 years
3. Judging (Evaluation):
   • Entry into the ring: When it's your class's turn, you will enter the ring with your dog.
   • Presentation in motion: The dog walks around the ring so the judge can assess its movement, temperament, and overall impression.
   • Stack: The dog stands in a show stack so the judge can assess its body structure, proportions, and angulation of limbs.
   • Individual assessment: The judge examines the dog up close, checking its teeth, coat, pigmentation, and in males, both testicles.
   • Critique: The judge dictates a critique, which you can have read to you.
4. Titles and awards at the National Show:
   • Grades: The judge will award the dog a grade: Excellent (V), Very Good (VD), Good (D), Sufficient (Dost.), Insufficient (N).
   • CAC (Czech Beauty Champion): Awarded to the best dog/bitch in the intermediate, open, working, and champion classes who received the grade "Excellent 1". To obtain the Czech Beauty Champion title, a certain number of CAC titles must be acquired (usually 4, of which at least two from different judges and at least one at an international show).
   • Res. CAC (Reserve CAC): Awarded to the second-best dog/bitch with the grade "Excellent 2" in classes where CAC was awarded.
   • Vítěz třídy (Class Winner): Awarded to the best dog/bitch in the junior class and veteran class who received the grade "Excellent 1".
   • Národní vítěz (National Winner): Usually awarded to the best dog/bitch among CAC title holders within one breed.
   • BOB (Best of Breed): The best adult dog and bitch of the breed (usually National Winner holders, if this title is awarded, or Champion/Open Class Winner with CAC), as well as the Junior Class Winner and Veteran Class Winner, compete for the BOB title. BOB is the best dog/bitch of that breed at the show.
   • BIS (Best in Show): After the judging in the rings is completed, final competitions take place. All BOB winners from the entire show, divided by FCI groups, compete for the BIS title. BIS is the most prestigious title and designates the most beautiful dog of the entire show.

Important: The CACIB (Candidate for International Champion of Beauty) title is NOT awarded at a national show; it is reserved for international shows.

Tips for beginners

If you're going to a show for the first time, it's exciting, but it can also be a bit stressful. Here are some tips on how to enjoy it:

1. Dog preparation:
   • Socialization: The dog should be accustomed to other dogs, people, and commotion.
   • Training: Practice walking on a leash (trotting and slowly), stacking (the dog should be able to stand calmly and show its teeth to the judge).
   • Grooming: Pay attention to the dog's coat, nails, and overall hygiene. Information on proper care for specific breeds can also be found on dogbreedpedia.com (note: this link is an example, the real link would lead to a specific article on dogbreedpedia.com about coat care or breeds).
2. What to bring with you:
   • For the dog: Pedigree, vaccination certificate/pet passport, show leash, water bowl, water, food/treats, blanket/bed, crate/cage, brushes, and grooming tools.
   • For you: Comfortable clothing (ideally something that blends with the dog's color so as not to visually distract from it), comfortable shoes, a chair, food and drink, catalog, pen, cash (for refreshments or purchases).
   • Good mood and patience!
3. At the show:
   • Arrive on time: You will have enough time to find your ring, prepare your dog, and acclimatize.
   • Observe: Watch how other dogs in your ring are judged. You will learn what the judge prefers.
   • Ask questions: If you don't understand something, ask experienced exhibitors or show staff.
   • Don't forget fair play: Be sportsmanlike, respect the judges' decisions, and congratulate the winners.
   • Enjoy it: The goal is to spend a nice day with your dog and gain new experiences. Don't be discouraged by the first setback – every show is a valuable experience.

Conclusion

The National Dog Show in Klatovy 2026 promises to be an unforgettable event for all participants. Whether you are an experienced exhibitor with ambitions to win further titles, or an enthusiastic beginner who wants to get acquainted with the world of shows, Klatovy offers an ideal opportunity. Prepare thoroughly, enjoy the atmosphere, and let your dog shine in the ring.

Don't forget to mark the dates June 27 – 28, 2026 and follow the official websites of the organizers for current information on registration and show details. We look forward to seeing you in Klatovy!