The Great American Dog

Meet one of the starts of the Great American Dog Show

CHICAGO (CBS)-- The Great American Dog Show returns to Chicago this weekend.

Meet the CBS 2 morning team dogs ahead of The Great American Dog Show

CBS 2 is a proud sponsor of the competition that kicks off Friday, Aug. 25, from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. It continues Saturday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sunday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

The Great American Dog Show: Breeds in the show

If you can't go in person, catch competition moments and behind-the-scenes exclusives on the CBS News Chicago livestream Friday through Sunday.

Meet the dogs of The Great American Dog Show

Tickets are on sale now.

As we showcase the event, CBS 2's Marie Saavedra got a look at the pooches putting in work at Chicago's All Fours Dog Training. They've put in hours and hours practice, running drills and following orders. Now these dogs are days away from the spotlight.

CBS 2's Jackie Kostek got an inside look just hours ahead of the start of the show. She spoke with a dog show judge who said preparations include months of training before the dogs are ready for the show.

Between the skills and the groomed hair, this is a long process.

Getting ready for The Great American Dog Show

"You can expect to have a really good time here," judge Sarah Krickeberg said.

Elyssa Kaufman

Elyssa is a Digital News Producer. She covers breaking news for CBSChicago.com and manages the station's social media sites.