The Potomac
The spring show – nicknamed “The Potomac” – is the largest single-breed specialty in the world and spans almost a week. With entries sometimes approaching 2,000, this event is known to dog fanciers worldwide.
It is a celebration of everything Labrador Retriever – including an amazing B Match competition, Judges Education, Junior Showmanship, Health Clinic, Top Twenty celebration, Stud Dog Auction, Obedience, Rally, CGC, and Trick Dog.
Held in April in Frederick, MD, the show was awarded “Best Specialty Show” in 2019 by Dog News.
specialty Information
Tuesday, April 7, through Friday, April 10, 2026
HOTELS
We have secured a limited number of hotel room blocks in the area for exhibitors and vendors. These room blocks are expected to fill quickly, so we encourage you to book early. Once a room block is sold out, availability and rates will be subject to the hotel’s standard inventory, and guests may still be able to reserve rooms by booking directly with the hotel.
Please note that hotel pet policies differ by property.
Hampton Inn & Suites Frederick-Fort Detrick
Dog Friendly
Code: DOG
Booking Link
SpringHill Suites by Marriott Frederick
Dogs allowed in vehicle but NOT in the rooms.
Code:LRCP
GROUND TRANSPORTATION
Airport Xpress has been providing Frederick and Washington counties service to and from all major airports and train stations for over 22 years.
They will pick up people and dogs from all three local airports. They also offer local taxi service to get supplies or go out to dinner.
https://tristateairportexpress.com/
301-668-4000
Judges for the 2026 Spring Specialty
April 7-10, WALKERSVILLE & Frederick, MD
Faith Hyndman, Buckstone Labradors
— Best Of Breed
Linda McGillivray, Antonine Labradors (Scotland)
— All Dog Classes & Winners Dog
Guy Spagnolo, Driftway Labradors (New South Wales, Austrailia)
— All Bitch Classes & Winners Bitch
Angela Ewald, Wit’s End Labradors
–Dog Sweeps, Veteran Bitch Sweeps, Best in Sweeps, Veteran Bitch Sweeps, Veteran Best of Opposite Sex
Angela Rogalla, Brae Labradors
— Bitch Sweeps, Best of Opposite to Best in Sweeps, Veteran Dog Sweeps, Best in Veteran Sweeps
Richard Powell
— Non-Regular classes
Jessica Craun
— Junior Showmanship
Russell Hornfisher
Ted G. McCall
— Obedience and Rally
Testimonials & Past Events
“Springing into Potomac,” Dog News Magazine, May 2, 2025
“The Stud Dog and Brood Bitch classes are taken very seriously at Potomac. A couple of years ago I had 20 in the Stud Dog class. It probably was the most challenging assignment ever. The 20 stud dogs and their 60 get were quite a sight to see. The quality was so deep.” ~Desi Murphy
“Each year many foreigners come to Potomac just to watch the greatest Lab show in the world. I believe Potomac is the show with the most depth of quality anywhere. If you make the cut in any class, you get a pin saying, ‘Made the Cut.’ It means so much to anyone who makes the cut in any class.” ~Desi Murphy
“I would encourage anyone interested in learning about the Labrador to attend the Labrador Retriever Club of the Potomac Specialty held in Frederick, Maryland, in April. Usually, there is an entry of 1,000 Labradors from all over the world. The national club provides judges education and there are dozens of excellent breeders there to mentor those interested in learning.” ~Judy Chambers