All dogs need love, and Niles Main Street Association makes sure they get their due. The 25th Annual Niles Dog Show welcomes dogs of all sizes, ages and breeds—and their human companions—to enjoy a day dedicated to them on Saturday, July 19.
This year the Niles Dog Show has partnered with Furry Friends Rescue for the first time. The Bay Area based all-volunteer nonprofit organization will receive half of the proceeds raised from the event. “It’s been amazing having them as a partner,” said Gwen Dossey, Niles Dog Show committee chairperson.
A 9am pancake breakfast will start the day off right. Those who like friendly competition can register their dogs to strut their stuff in Best Costume, Best Dog/Owner Lookalike, Most Unusual Mix, and Prettiest Female and Handsomest Male contests. First place winners from each contest will compete for the coveted Best in Show award.
For those who aren’t so competitive, there will be 33 vendors and information booths including eight rescues with dogs available for adoption, local veterinarians and dog boarding. Pooches will also have a chance to get their portrait taken at Fine Canine Portraits and grab tasty treats from Woof Gang Bakery & Grooming. For humans, vendors also include Cousins Maine Lobster, Lazy Dog Restaurant, Mister Softee, Kona Ice and more.
Local author Pamela Adler will be returning to Niles Dog Show with her second book of the “Maddy and Mia” series which was inspired by her three-legged poodle, Mia. Although Mia passed away in January of 2024, Adler decided to honor Mia by finishing her second book after taking a seven month break after her passing. “Mia would be saying get off your butt and fight and finish the book,” said Adler. “Maddy and Mia: Growing Pains” follows Maddy and her furry companion as they navigate life changes, like becoming an older sister.
Although the real Mia will no longer be present the way she always was, Adler will be keeping her memory alive with a “Ms. Mia” plushie for kids to remember her. “It gives me some comfort to know that the kids are getting as close as they can to her,” said Adler. Along with both books available, Adler has made coloring that will be added for free with a book purchase.
The Niles Dog Show even has something for non-dog owners. The Niles Dog Show committee has an array of raffle prizes that would make anyone’s tail wag. Prizes include gift cards and certificates to Federico’s, Joe’s Corner, Papillon and Skillet’z Cafe, Dogfather and Secret Sidewalk Tattoo shops and Niles train weekend excursion tickets. “It’s just amazing the amount of people who have donated,” said Dossey when listing the local businesses.
“Bring your dogs, bring your kids,” said Dossey. And the best part, “free admission!”
Niles Dog Show
Saturday, July 19
Registration and pancake breakfast: 9am
10am – 3pm
Niles Community Park
37697 Third St., Fremont
do*****@***es.org
510.828.8787
Free admission
Pet registration: $25 advance, $30 day of show
