Georgia dog clubs is home to dozen of dogs, catering to different breeds and activities. Whether you have a sporting breed that needs a job to do, or just want a social group for your furry friend, there’s likely a club for you.
Overview of Georgia Dog Clubs
Here’s an overview of some popular options:
- Obedience clubs – These clubs focus on training dogs for obedience competitions. Dogs work on mastering skills like heel, sit, down, come, and stay through positive reinforcement. Some well-known obedience clubs in Georgia include Atlanta Obedience Club and Augusta Dog Obedience Club.
- Agility clubs – If your dog loves to run, jump, and climb, check out an agility club like Atlanta Agility Club or Agility Dog Association of Middle Georgia. Dogs navigate obstacle courses, guided by handlers’ cues, while judges evaluate performance based on speed and accuracy.
- Breed clubs – Many dog breeds, from Beagles to Great Danes, have dedicated breed clubs in Georgia. These clubs promote and preserve breed standards and characteristics. They organize shows, events, and activities catering to specific breeds.
- Field trial/hunting clubs – Sporting breeds like Labrador Retrievers and Cocker Spaniels can take part in field trials and hunting tests through clubs like Dixie Cocker Spaniel Club or Georgia Pointing Dog Club. Dogs demonstrate their natural hunting abilities in simulated field conditions.
Getting involved in a club lets your dog take part in engaging activities while you meet fellow dog enthusiasts.
Check local listings to find a club that matches your dog’s energy, interests and breed. With a bit of research, you’re sure to find the perfect fit.
What Are The Top Georgia Dog Clubs?
If you and your canine companion want to socialize with other dogs and dog lovers, Atlanta has some great options when it comes to dog clubs.
Here are some top picks:
1. Atlanta Dogwood Dog Club
- The Atlanta Dogwood Dog Club has been around since 1884, making it the oldest dog club in the Atlanta area.
- They host two all-breed dog shows annually, along with obedience, rally, and agility trials.
- Monthly meetings feature speakers on dog-related topics and are open to the public.
- A great option if you want to dip your paws into the world of dog shows and trials.
2. American Kennel Club Meetup Group
- With over 1,300 members, this group coordinates frequent meetups all around Atlanta for dogs and owners to socialize.
- Activities include “yappy hours” at dog-friendly patio restaurants, hiking groups, play dates, and classes like nosework and agility for dogs.
- A good choice if you want to take your pup out around town to meet new friends.
3. Atlanta Dog Hikers
- Do you and your dog love spending time outdoors? The Atlanta Dog Hikers group is for you.
- Organizes group hikes 2-3 times per week in parks and trails around metro Atlanta. Ranges from easy walks to more challenging hikes.
- Great way to explore new trails with your furry hiking buddy by your side.
Check out a meeting or event at one of these dog clubs to find your new favorite hangout spot with your canine BFF.
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Georgia Dog Clubs for Sporting and Working Breeds
If your pup comes from a long line of hunters or herd dogs, a sporting or working breed dog club is a great way for them to socialize with other dogs of similar temperament and talent.
These clubs offer events and trials tailored to different skills like hunting, running, and agility.
- Hunting and Gun Dog Clubs. If you have a retriever, pointer, setter, or spaniel, join a club dedicated to hunting dogs. These groups offer training programs and simulated hunt tests so your dog can practice marking downed birds, locating game, and retrieving. They may also organize actual hunting trips.
- Herding Dog Clubs. For driven working breeds like collies, cattle dogs, and sheepdogs, herding clubs provide a constructive outlet. Your energetic pup will thrive learning how to properly move and control livestock. Clubs host fun herding instinct tests, lessons with experienced trainers, and trials to earn herding titles.
- Sled Dog Clubs. Does your husky or malamute live for pulling? Sled dog clubs will delight northern breeds who love to run and work as a team. Club events showcase the amazing stamina and teamwork of sled dogs on snow and dryland rigs. Some also offer “skijoring” where a dog pulls a skier.
Getting involved with a dedicated sporting or working breed club channels your dog’s instincts into positive pursuits.
You’ll meet kindred spirits who share tips on training, health, nutrition and more for your active breed. Most importantly, your dog will have a blast doing what they were born to do.
Georgia Dog Clubs for Companion and Toy Breeds
If you have a smaller breed of dog like a terrier, chihuahua, or pug, there are several clubs in Georgia that specialize in the care and companionship of small and toy breeds.
These clubs offer training, events, and the chance for your little pup to socialize.
1. Meetup Groups
Atlanta has a number of meetup groups focused on small dog breeds where members get together for walks, playdates, and photo shoots.
For example, Little Dogs Big Fun has over 600 members and organizes weekly adventures for their tiny pups. These casual groups are a great way to bond with other owners.
2. Specialty Clubs
More formal specialty clubs cater to specific small breeds. The English Toy Spaniel Club of Greater Atlanta holds shows, competitions, and educational seminars. Or check out the Papillion Club of Atlanta which connects local owners and provides breed information.
Many kennel clubs also have affiliates with programs just for companion and toy breeds. The Perimeter North Kennel Club offers a “Small Dog Recreation” class focusing on confidence building and social skills.
3. Rescue Groups
Don’t overlook breed-specific rescue groups when searching for your perfect small companion. Organizations like Atlanta Chihuahua Rescue or Georgia Pug Rescue rehome displaced pups while supporting responsible breeding. Adopting can be very rewarding!
Getting your petite pup involved with local clubs and groups provides mental stimulation and a chance to play with dogs their own size. Check out a meeting in your area today.
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FAQ’s About Georgia Kennel Club
When it comes to dog clubs, some people have a lot of questions. So let’s dive into some of the most common FAQs about the Georgia Kennel Club:
1. What is the Georgia Kennel Club?
The Georgia Kennel Club is the second oldest all-breed purebred dog club in the United States. It was founded in 1884 and holds annual dog shows and events to promote interest in purebred dogs and responsible dog ownership.
2. What types of dogs can I bring?
The Georgia Kennel Club welcomes all purebred, AKC-registered dogs to participate in club events like conformation shows, obedience trials, agility trials, and more. Mixed breed dogs are also welcome at many public education events.
3. Do I have to live in Georgia to join?
No. While the Georgia Kennel Club is based in Atlanta, anyone from the Southeast or beyond can become a member.
4. What are the membership fees?
Annual membership dues are very reasonable – only $25 for an individual or $40 for a family membership.
5. When and where do you meet?
The Georgia Kennel Club meets on the first Tuesday evening of each month (except July) at the Atlanta Obedience Club in Conyers, GA. Members gather at 7:30pm for refreshments and fellowship.
6. What if I can’t make the meetings?
No problem. Meeting attendance is encouraged but not mandatory. Many members participate primarily through club events, committees and our newsletter.