CLEARWATER, Fla. – Clearwater is about to get a lot more athletic—and a lot furrier. The Purina Pro Plan Incredible Dog Challenge is officially kicking off its 29th season at Coachman Park on April 10 and 11. This Eastern Regional event marks the start of the 2026 circuit, bringing together elite canine competitors from 11 different states to battle for a spot in the National Finals held at Purina Farms in St. Louis this fall.
The two-day competition is a showcase of raw speed and coordination. Fans of the Prime Video series A Different Breed will recognize several of the featured athletes in the lineup.
The event features a variety of disciplines, including high-speed agility courses, lightning-fast weave pole racing, and choreographed disc routines.
One of the biggest draws remains the diving dog competition, where dogs sprint down a 50-foot dock before launching themselves into a 20,000-gallon pool to see who can catch the most air and distance.
Spectators looking to catch the action early can head to the park on Friday, April 10, for open practice sessions from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m., followed by the weave pole seeding races at 3:00 p.m.
The main event takes place Saturday, April 11, with the full slate of competitions running from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Located at 300 Cleveland Street, the event is free for the public to attend. Organizers encourage families to bring their own pets, provided they are well-behaved and kept on a leash.
The Incredible Dog Challenge is designed to highlight the unique bond between handlers and their dogs while putting world-class canine athleticism on full display.
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