Huntington Beach Hosts Annual Dog Surfing Competition

News Summary

The 28th Annual Purina Pro Plan Incredible Dog Challenge in Huntington Beach showcased talented dogs of various breeds competing in surfing, agility challenges, and flying disc performances. The event attracted a large crowd of dog lovers as participants like Petey the West Highland Terrier and Faith the American pit bull terrier demonstrated impressive skills and emotional bonds with their owners. This competition served as a qualifying event for the national finals, emphasizing the extraordinary abilities of dogs while celebrating the joy shared between pets and their humans.

Huntington Beach

The 28th Annual Purina Pro Plan Incredible Dog Challenge western regional surfing competition captivated spectators in Huntington Beach, California, on June 20, 2025. The sunny weather, with a high of 88°F and winds from the west-northwest at 5 to 10 mph, set the perfect backdrop for this unique event that attracted large crowds of dog lovers and enthusiasts.

Dogs of various breeds, including Pembroke Welsh Corgis, Dalmatians, American Pit Bull Terriers, and Labradors, showcased their surfing skills, agility, and athletic talent. The competition not only highlighted canine surfing but also included agility challenges and freestyle flying disc performances, with a dog diving contest scheduled to take place where dogs leaped off a 50-foot dock into a pool of water.

Petey, a West Highland Terrier, secured first place in the Small Dogs category, showing impressive skill on the waves. Meanwhile, Charlie, a Labrador retriever owned by Jeffrey Nieboer, was spotted riding waves and excitedly pulling his surfboard after his performance. Rosie, a 2 1/2-year-old Labrador from Santa Cruz, California, also made headlines after successfully riding a wave ahead of Charlie. Eleven-year-old terrier Carson, though he did well catching a wave, did not win but was seen posing proudly with his coach, Jill Nakano.

James Will’s dog, Faith, a 13-year-old partially blind and deaf American pit bull terrier, was lovingly cradled by her owner prior to competing, showcasing the deep bond between dogs and their humans. This emotional connection resonated throughout the crowd, as pet owners and spectators alike cheered passionately for their favorite competitors.

The event kicked off at 10 a.m. and ran until 2:30 p.m. on June 21, 2025, leaving a lasting impression on all who attended. Dogs and their owners invested significant time and energy into training and preparation for the competition, treating their pets like professional athletes. Such dedication not only highlights the relationship between humans and dogs but also reflects the joy shared through athleticism and teamwork.

As part of the qualifications for the national finals in St. Louis, Missouri, this competition served as a platform for top-performing dogs to demonstrate their talents and potentially secure a spot at the prestigious championship event. The excitement and enthusiasm displayed by both participants and spectators created an engaging atmosphere, making the challenge a thrilling experience for everyone involved.

Overall, the Incredible Dog Challenge in Huntington Beach emphasized the extraordinary abilities of dogs while deepening the connection between them and their owners. With mixed reactions from the crowd, the event not only served as a competition but also reinforced the joy and pride that accompany sharing these moments with beloved canine companions.

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