Frequently Asked Questions

Please contact us if you cannot find an answer to your question.

The Great American Dog Show happens twice a year! Our next dates are:

Fall: September 4-6, 2026.  Show hours are 8 AM – 6 PM each day.

Winter: January 8-10, 2027. Show hours are 8 AM – 6 PM each day.

Fall: Cantigny Park | 1S, 151 Winfield Road | Wheaton, IL 60189

Winter: Tinley Park Convention Center | 18451 Convention Center Drive | Tinley Park, IL 60477

All dog lovers!!  We provide affordable, family fun entertainment and education for dog lovers of all ages.  We have special features and activities for children and lots of educational opportunities to learn more about dogs, training, caring for them and what you can do with your dog at home.

Fall: The answer is YES! For the very first time the Great American Dog Show invites you to bring your well-mannered dog. We want you to enjoy the day with your family and best friend. We do require that your dog is in good health, up to date on vaccinations, and is always kept on a leash. We ask that you stay in approved areas and do not go under the show tent while dogs are being shown (You can still watch ringside from outside the tent!). We want everyone to be safe and have a great experience. The dogs at the show are working, and just like a performer at a concert, they need to be at their best, so we ask for your help in following our rules. Any dogs showing aggression, illness, or are not under control will be required to leave and no refund will be given. Also, please be aware of the weather and bring water and anything else you may need to keep your dog comfortable.

Winter: Unfortunately, no.  Only dogs who are entered in the show are allowed to come.

The entire great American Dog Show! The dog breed judging, the kids zone, Greet the Breeds (Saturday and Sunday only), Dog demonstrations (Saturday and Sunday only), all of our vendor and sponsor booths, and our food vendors.

The Great American Dog Show has an entire store filled with souvenirs to take home. You can also sign up for the Healthy Dog Walk and receive a certificate and commemorative medal. Additionally, we have a great assortment of vendors offering unique services and products not found in stores!

The show typically runs from 8AM-5PM or even later. There are activities going on all day so you could make a whole day of it. Most of our visitors spend between 3-5 hours.
Fall: Cantigny Park has on-site parking. The show site is adjacent to the main gate. The park charges a discounted parking fee of $16 for our event. That fee gives you access to the rest of the park besides the Great American Dog Show.
 
Winter: Parking at the Tinley Park Convention Center is free with your General Admission to the Great American Dog Show.