Members
The Weekly Brief
The best of SHOWSIGHT editorials, weekly wins, and breeder commentary — delivered to your inbox every Sunday morning.
For the first time in Bulldog Club of America National Specialty history, every dog participating in obedience and rally earned a qualifying score.
EAST PEORIA, Ill. — The Bulldog Club of America (BCA) celebrated a historic achievement at its 2026 National Specialty as every dog participating in obedience and rally earned a qualifying score, marking the first time in the event’s history that all participating dogs achieved this milestone.
The accomplishment took place during the National Specialty’s performance events at the Embassy Suites East Peoria Riverfront, highlighting the intelligence, trainability and versatility of the bulldog.
While bulldogs are widely recognized for their distinctive appearance and achievements in the conformation ring, their success in obedience and rally demonstrates the breed’s capabilities beyond traditional breed competition.
Both disciplines require communication, precision and teamwork between dogs and their handlers. Earning a qualifying score reflects dedicated training, preparation and a strong partnership.
“For the first time in our National Specialty’s history, every dog participating in obedience and rally earned a qualifying score. That is something truly worth celebrating,” said Brook W. Nugent, 2026 BCA National Show Chair. “This achievement speaks volumes about the dedication of our exhibitors and the abilities of our bulldogs. We are incredibly proud of every dog and handler who contributed to this historic accomplishment.”
The milestone is a testament to the commitment of performance exhibitors who continue to demonstrate the bulldog’s versatility and encourage greater participation in activities beyond the conformation ring.
The 2026 Bulldog Club of America National Specialty continues through Oct. 31 in East Peoria, Illinois, bringing together breeders, exhibitors and bulldog enthusiasts from across the country for a week of competition, education and celebration of the breed.
This historic accomplishment adds another memorable chapter to the National Specialty’s legacy and showcases what bulldogs and their dedicated handlers can achieve together.
For more information: www.bulldognationals.org
News
