SARA GETTYS/Yakima Herald-Republic Silky terrier Gabi keeps her eye on the prize, in this case a piece of chicken, as she practices with owner Casey Gilbert for this weekend's Yakima Valley Kennel Club annual dog show, which will be held at the Ahtanum Youth Park. During their last group practice session, held at the park, the dogs took turns on the small table used to assess the dog's conformation, one of the areas that will be judged in the competition. Behind Gabi, other competitors practice walking in the grass. Wednesday, May 31, 2006.

The dogs will be let out of the kennel this weekend for the annual All-Breed Dog Shows in Union Gap.

The Yakima Valley Kennel Club will host its 59th annual dog show Saturday and Sunday at Ahtanum Youth Park. More than 900 competitors are expected to wag their way from California, Canada and throughout the Northwest to showcase their chiseled heads, perfect coats and best woofs.

The free event will feature more than 150 breeds, including beagles, Chihuahuas, chow chows, Dalmatians, German shepherds, golden and Labrador retrievers, pinschers and spaniels.

Local dog owners had their last practice at the park Wednesday night.

The shows begin at 8 a.m. each day. If people want to see a specific breed, former kennel club president Richard Lewis recommends they get there early because some breeds may be shown only in the morning.

The kennel club is charging $3 for parking and will share proceeds with the city of Union Gap, club spokeswoman Annie Bringloe said.

The show will give owners an opportunity for their dogs to compete, and the community a chance to learn about breeds.

"I've seen many people make big mistakes buying dogs," Lewis said. "If people are thinking about getting dogs, this is the smart thing to do — come to the show."

The dogs will first face conformation and obedience judging. Conformation compares each breed's general appearance to set standards. Too much white fur or low-hanging ears, for example, could send some competitors to the doghouse.

Breed competitions and the Best in Show award will follow.

Event coordinators also scheduled American Kennel Club Canine Good Citizen Tests for $5. The tests will reward dogs for their good behavior and obedience, club member Anne Swindeman said.

Though the event is open to the public, nonregistered dogs aren't allowed in the show areas.

For more information about the weekend schedule, visit www.onofrio.com.

* Eloísa Ruano González can be reached at 577-7749 or egonzalez@yakimaherald.com.

If you go ...

* What: Yakima Valley Kennel Club's 59th Annual All-Breed Dog Shows

* Where: Ahtanum Youth Park, Union Gap

* When: Saturday and Sunday, starting at 8 a.m.

* Cost: Admission is free, but there's a $3 charge per car for parking.