It’s that time of the year — the AKC Rally National Championship is coming to your screens! The 2026 competition will take place in Wilmington, Ohio, from July 18-19. If you’re not in the area and can’t catch the annual AKC Rally National Championship in person, you can still catch all of the action via livestream.
The AKC Rally National Championship is taking place in conjunction with the AKC National Obedience Championship. AKC Rally will be held on Saturday and Sunday, July 18-19, and Obedience will be held on Thursday and Friday, July 16 and 17.
What Is AKC Rally?
AKC Rally is a popular dog sport that’s only getting more fans by the year. It’s a newer dog sport that began in 2005, and a great team sport for owners and handlers. Dogs and their handlers navigate a course side-by-side, going through 10-20 different signs with instructions on a skill that is to be performed. It’s about teamwork, showing off your dog’s skills, and though it’s timed, speed is not the goal.
All dogs, regardless of breed or age, are invited to participate in AKC Rally. Purebreds and mixed-breed dogs alike! AKC Rally is a great starting point for people and dogs who are new to dog sports who still want a challenge.
How to Watch the AKC Rally National Championship
The 2026 AKC Rally National Championship brings together the best of the best AKC Rally teams to compete. The top scorers will be named the 2026 AKC Rally National Champion. All of the action will be livestreamed on AKC.tv and the American Kennel Club YouTube channel. View the full schedule of events for the AKC Rally National Championship so you don’t miss a beat!
How to Get Involved in AKC Rally
If you’re watching the AKC Rally National Championship and thinking of getting involved with your own dog, it’s the perfect time to start! AKC Rally is beginner-friendly, but challenging. Put you and your dog’s skills to the test by signing up for your local AKC Rally club, talking to your local club members about AKC Rally events, or going to an AKC Rally training class. You can even get started on your own at home to sharpen up your skills!
Don’t miss the 2026 AKC Rally National Championship! Watch the full event livestream on AKC.tv and YouTube on on July 18th – July 19th, and stay tuned to find out who will be this year’s AKC Rally National Champion.