Many countries have Dog Clubs that hold regular dog shows. Dog shows give dog owners a chance to meet and talk to other dog owners and dog breeders as well as compete in the show.

There are dog shows have for pedigree and non-pedigree dog enabling any dog owner to participate in dog shows with their dog.

At pedigree dog shows dogs are judged against a standard for the breed of dog and at novelty dogs shows dogs may be judged on their uniqueness, overall health and temperament or some other criteria.