Dog shows are big business in the U.S. — and RVing is a great way to travel to see one live. After all, most people who are interested in dog shows are pet owners themselves, and pet-friendly RV rentals make it possible to bring the whole family along for the fun.
And given that we’re just at the start of dog show season, with the National Dog Show coming up in November, the AKC National Championship in December and the iconic Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show in January and February, this is the perfect time to take a close look at the best ways to rent a pet-friendly RV. We’ll also go over all the basics for getting to each of these three major dog shows once you book your dream rental!
We’ll also share one of our cutest features: Dogs of RVshare — highlighting the pups who would be Best in Show for life on the road.
Whether you’re showing, spectating, or simply traveling with a dog who deserves first place in comfort, renting an RV is one of the best ways to attend major dog shows across the U.S. without leaving your four-legged companion behind.
Dog Shows to RV To: At a Glance
While we’re going to dive into all the details on the biggest dog shows to RV to in America below, here’s a quick at-a-glance table if you’re already in planning mode.
| Dog Show | Dates | Location | Tickets | Nearby Pet-Friendly Campgrounds |
| National Dog Show Presented by Purina | November 14–15, 2026 (broadcast on TV on Thanksgiving, November 26) | The Greater Philadelphia Expo Center, 100 Station Ave, Oaks, PA | Adult tickets $20 per day, plus fees | Ringing Rocks Family Campground, Tohickon Family Campground, French Creek State Park |
| AKC National Championship Presented by Royal Canin | December 12–13, 2026 | Orange County Convention Center, 9800 International Drive, Orlando, FL | Not yet available online; can be purchased day-of at the door | Wildwood RV Village, Seasons in the Sun RV Resort, Sun Retreats Orlando ChampionsGate |
| Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show | January 30–February 2, 2026 (different events on different days | Javits Center, 429 11th Ave, New York, NY, and Madison Square Garden, 4 Pennsylvania Plaza, New York, NY | Vary by specific event | Liberty Harbor RV Park, Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park Chautauqua County, Spacious Skies Woodland Hills |
Major Dog Shows Worth an RV Road Trip
If you’re reading this page, you’re probably already convinced that a dog show is well worth a road trip, especially in a cozy RV. Here are the top three biggest dog shows in the U.S., and all the details you need to make an unforgettable RV road trip out of them.
The National Dog Show Presented by Purina (Philadelphia, PA)
Held annually around Thanksgiving and broadcast nationwide, this show combines elite competition with holiday travel.
Additionally, the National Dog Show is the only “single-venue benched show,” which basically means that all the dogs will be there all day long so you can get up close and personal and learn more about your favorite breeds.
Dates: November 14–15, 2026 (broadcast on TV on Thanksgiving, November 26)
Location: The Greater Philadelphia Expo Center, 100 Station Ave, Oaks, PA
Tickets: Adult tickets $20 per day, plus fees
Nearby RV Camping Options in Philadelphia:
Why an RV helps: Chances are if you’re traveling to see this show, you’re going to add it onto a larger holiday travel plan. RVing makes it easy to visit multiple destinations without having to unpack and repack your bags, as well as providing a cozy and weather-proof stay no matter where you wander.
AKC National Championship (Orlando, FL)
This massive, multi-day event includes breed judging, agility, obedience, and thousands of dogs. Held in December in Florida, the AKC National Championship Presented by Royal Canin is also a great one to add to your existing southerly winter road trip plans.
Dates: December 12–13, 2026
Location: Orange County Convention Center, 9800 International Drive, Orlando, FL
Tickets: Not yet available online; can be purchased day-of at the door
Nearby RV Camping Options in Orlando:
Pro tip: Florida dog shows often mean warm weather, even in winter. RVs give your dog consistent climate control between events.
Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show (New York City Area)
One of the oldest and most prestigious dog shows in the world, the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show draws competitors and fans from across the globe. Established all the way back in 1877, it’s one of the longest-running dog shows — and also America’s oldest non-profit organization!
Dates: January 30–February 2, 2026 (different events on different days)
Location: Javits Center, 429 11th Ave, New York, NY, and Madison Square Garden, 4 Pennsylvania Plaza, New York, NY
Tickets: Vary by specific event
Nearby RV Camping Options in New York:
Why an RV helps: Hotels near NYC fill quickly, often with strict pet policies. An RV keeps you and your dog comfortable, even in a high-demand area.
Why is Renting an RV the Best Way to Travel With Your Dog?
Traveling to dog shows can be stressful, especially when your dog is also your travel companion. Renting a pet-friendly RV is a great way to make your dog feel more comfortable while away from home:
Familiar Space for Your Dog
Your dog stays in a familiar environment, reducing anxiety compared to hotels or flights. You can bring along their favorite toys, blankets, and bed for all the scents and comforts of home.
No Airline Restrictions or Cargo Holds
Skip airline fees, size limits, and separation. Your dog rides right beside you.
Easy Access to Dog-Friendly Campgrounds
Many campgrounds near dog shows offer walking trails, dog parks, and open space.
Comfortable Downtime Between Events
After a long day at the show, your dog can relax in their own bed, crate, or favorite corner of the RV.
How Can I Find Pet-Friendly RV Rentals on RVshare?
RVshare makes it easy to travel with pets. Thousands of RV owners on RVshare allow pets, giving travelers a wide range of options near major dog show venues.
When searching:
- Enter your destination and travel dates
- Use the “Pet Friendly” filter to see RVs that welcome dogs (and sometimes cats!)
- Review each listing’s pet policy for size or breed limits and any additional fees
This filter helps ensure you book an RV that fits both your travel needs and your dog’s comfort.
How Do I Compare Pet Policies Across Leading RV Rental Sites?
While many of the leading RV rental sites offer pet-friendly rentals, it can be difficult to compare availability and specific policies one to one. The first step is to determine whether you’ll be renting from a traditional RV rental company or through a peer-to-peer marketplace like the one here at RVshare.
For traditional RV rental companies, you’ll need to check the website or with a rep to learn more about the pet policy. Usually, a single pet policy will hold across all rental RVs, as will any additional fees, restrictions, or steps.
On the peer-to-peer market, each RV owner can have their own pet policies. However, using the “pet-friendly” filter makes it easy to narrow down your options to ones that are friendly to Fido, even if the specifics may vary.
Tips for RV Camping With Dogs During Dog Shows
- Make sure the campground you book is pet-friendly (most are!)
- Bring vaccination records (some campgrounds require them)
- Pack grooming supplies for show-ready pups
- Use collapsible bowls and travel crates
- Respect campground leash rules and quiet hours
Dogs of RVshare: Best of Class on the Open Road
Meet the (unofficial) Best of Breed winners from the Dogs of RVshare:
These dogs prove that RV travel is pet-approved!
Key Takeaways
- RVing offers pets a familiar and comfortable space, is less stressful for them than flying, and has the added benefit of comfort for the whole family.
- The three major U.S. dog shows are coming up soon, so now is a great time to book your rental rig.
- On the peer-to-peer market, many RV owners allow pets, but it’s important to check for size and breed restrictions as well as any additional fees.
- Most campgrounds are pet-friendly, but it’s always worth checking ahead of time.
Best in Show: RV Travel With Dogs
From Westminster to the AKC National Championship, renting an RV makes dog show travel smoother and more comfortable for both humans and canines.
With pet-friendly RV rentals, nearby campgrounds, and the freedom to bring your dog along every mile, it’s easy to see why RV travel earns Best in Show for dog lovers.
Ready to plan your next dog-friendly road trip? Search pet-friendly RV rentals on RVshare and hit the road with your best friend.
Pet-Friendly RV Rentals: Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, many RV rentals allow pets. On RVshare, thousands of RV owners welcome dogs, and travelers can easily find pet-friendly options by using the “Pet Friendly” filter when searching for an RV.
Renting an RV allows dogs to stay in a familiar environment, avoids airline travel restrictions, and provides more space and comfort between dog show events. RVs also make it easier to stay near show venues and dog-friendly campgrounds.
Yes, many major dog shows are located near RV-friendly campgrounds. Events like the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show, The National Dog Show Presented by Purina, and the AKC National Championship all have multiple RV camping options within driving distance.
To find pet-friendly RV rentals near dog shows, search your destination on RVshare and apply the pet-friendly filter. Always review the listing’s pet policy for any size limits or additional cleaning fees.
Yes, RV travel is often less stressful for dogs because it avoids cargo holds, loud airports, and separation from their owners. Dogs can relax in a familiar space while traveling.
Bring vaccination records, grooming supplies, leashes, collapsible bowls, dog beds or crates, and any medications. Many RV travelers also pack outdoor mats and portable exercise pens for campground stays.
Most RV campgrounds allow dogs, though rules vary. Many offer walking trails or nearby dog parks, but leashes are typically required. Always check campground pet policies before booking.
RV travel works well for both competitors and spectators. Renting an RV provides flexibility, comfort, and pet-friendly lodging even if you’re attending purely as a fan.
Class C RVs, travel trailers, and Class A motorhomes are popular for dog owners because they offer more floor space, climate control, and room for crates or beds.
It’s best to book an RV several months in advance for major dog shows, especially events like Westminster and the AKC National Championship, as nearby campgrounds and pet-friendly rentals fill up quickly.
