Thoughtfulness and inclusivity within our language and club policies are important, even at dog events. This includes being thoughtful and inclusive to Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer (LGBTQIA+) dog owners involved in AKC sports and events.
In This Article
Any time of year is a great opportunity to think about ways to make our clubs, classes, shows, and events more welcoming and safe for LGBTQIA+ community members, from joining as spectators to participating with their dogs.
Why Inclusivity Matters in Dog Sports
Dog events bring people together through a shared love of dogs. While the focus is often on breeds, training, or competition, the experience is shaped just as much by how people treat one another.
An inclusive environment ensures all participants—regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity—feel safe, respected, and able to show up as their authentic selves. When clubs and events prioritize inclusion, they foster stronger communities and encourage broader participation.
The Person on the Other End of the Leash
When we start discussing diversity and inclusion in a dog-centered space, “I don’t care about people. I’m just here for the dogs” is a common phrase that comes up. Regardless of breed or sport, what brings us all together are the dogs. However, it’s equally important to recognize the importance of being inclusive and welcoming to the people handling those dogs.
Dog owners shouldn’t feel pressured to hide aspects of their identity to participate. Creating spaces where individuals feel comfortable being themselves helps build trust, connection, and a more positive experience for everyone involved.
Building More Inclusive Sports
Next time you’re at a club meeting or show, look around the room. Does everyone look like you? If the answer is yes, it can be important to think about why that might be. Are there things that you and your club can do to be more welcoming to people of color, LGBTQIA+ people, and people with disabilities? LGBTQIA+ people have always been involved in AKC dog events, but there are ways that we can be more sensitive and welcoming to welcome more of that community into the dog world.
To encourage a more diverse membership and participation, try to be more involved in your local community or add nondiscrimination statements to your club policies. Consider making your club’s logo rainbow-colored on social media in honor of Pride month, and make it clear that discriminatory language isn’t permitted in your group’s online forums and social media groups.
If your club offers handling classes, encourage those in attendance to wear clothes that complement their dog, but don’t focus on the specifics of what they should or shouldn’t wear because of gender. For example, women don’t have to wear dresses or skirts in the show ring. Seeing this kind of inclusive behavior from dog clubs can make LGBTQIA+ dog owners of all ages feel safer, more welcome, and included.
How to Be a Supportive Ally
Many LGBTQIA+ people have found the dog world to be a haven where they feel safe and supported. However, others have felt ostracized unless they hide who they are. If you’re involved in your club, work with your board to add nondiscrimination policies. You can also consider removing gendered language from forms and documents. These are small ways that we can signify to LGBTQIA+ people that your club values the diversity of members.
If you see someone new, introduce yourself! Normalize doing things like asking for someone’s pronouns when you meet new people. Don’t assume if someone says they’re married, that you know the gender of their spouse. Many dog owners are also considering which states they feel safe to travel to for events — ask how you can support them!
If you see someone acting rudely to someone, speak up! You might feel uncomfortable, but it’s part of good sportsmanship. It shouldn’t always be the marginalized person who should have to call out discrimination. By being someone who speaks up for equality, you’re showing LGBTQIA+ people attending your events that you’re a safe person to sit next to at a show or take a class from.
Taking that extra step to show someone you care about the person on the other end of the leash could change someone’s life for the better. Plus, you might even meet a new friend!
Key Takeaways
- Inclusive dog events support both the dogs and the people who care for them
- Small changes in language, policies, and behavior can create a more welcoming environment
- Avoiding assumptions and respecting identities helps build trust and community
- Clubs play a key role in setting expectations for respectful interaction
- Allyship includes everyday actions like welcoming others and speaking up when needed
Frequently Asked Questions
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Do inclusive practices change competition rules?
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No. Inclusivity efforts focus on improving the participant experience, not altering the rules of competition.
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What should I do if I see discrimination at a dog sporting event?
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If it’s safe to do so, speak up or report the behavior to event organizers. Addressing concerns helps reinforce a respectful environment.
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How can I be more welcoming at events?
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Introduce yourself to new people, avoid assumptions, and model respectful behavior. Small actions can make others feel comfortable and included.