Parade Goes to the Dogs as AKC Joins Raleigh Christmas Parade

More than 60,000 people met dogs representing the American Kennel Club during the Raleigh Christmas Parade.

The 65th annual event took place Nov. 21 along a 1.4 mile route that ran through downtown Raleigh, NC, and passed by the N.C. Capital Building.

More than 30 dogs marched in the event with their owners, comprised of AKC staff and area Fanciers.

Breeds representing every group participated, and a highlight was the Greater Swiss Mountain Dog who pulled a cart that was decorated for the holidays.

In addition, two mixed breed dogs marched in representation of the new AKC Canine Partners program, and the Foundation Stock Service was represented by two Rat Terriers.

Children along the route enjoyed petting the dogs as they passed by. The AKC mascot, Bailey, accompanied the group and also was a big hit with the youngsters in the crowd.

The AKC Community Events Team coordinated AKC’s first participation in the parade, which is sponsored by the Greater Raleigh Merchants Association.

The parade was televised live by WRAL-TV, the Raleigh CBS affiliate. Watch video.

Participating breeds included:

Australian Shepherd

Border Collie
Border Terrier
Bouvier des Flandres
Brittany
Brussels Griffon
Bulldog
Dachshund
English Cocker Spaniel
Flat-Coated Retriever

French Bulldog
Golden Retriever
Great Pyrenees
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog
Keeshond
Labrador Retriever
Pembroke Welsh Corgi
Polish Lowland Sheepdog
Rat Terrier

Rhodesian Ridgeback
Rottweiler
Toy Poodle
Vizsla
Welsh Terrier

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