Because of their varied skills, working dogs are often entered into competitions, sports and other activities where they can compete against each other with or without their owners. These can range from standard conformation showing (Westminster Kennel Club's Dog Show and many others) to the annual Iditarod dogsled race in Alaska. Agility trials, timed obstacle course runs, and a host of other events are held for the working breeds. Dog racing, usually of Greyhounds, is a pastime in many places; betting and other activities related to the sport are similar to horse racing.

On a negative note, dog fighting is an illegal blood sport where tremendous amounts of money change hands, fostering its continuation underground throughout many parts of the world.