Four dogs learn that being themselves is much more fun than winning Best in Show in this high-energy, illustrated chapter book series from the author and illustrator of the best-selling Dragon Masters and Diary of a Pug series. Welcome to Barksdale, where dogs live and work to achieve perfection. Each store owner prides themselves on being the "best groomer" or having the "greatest biscuits." And at Barksdale Academy, there is constant competition for the title of Best in Show for one puppy. They don't mind that Nova, Duke, Harley, and Peanut have never taken home the Best in Show trophy. However, they must cooperate in order to pass their agility test because either the entire pack succeeds or fails. Nova has persuaded her friends to join her in the training, but on the practise course, Harley continues chasing squirrels, Peanut can't get through the hoops, and Duke is reluctant to mount the high ramp. Nova's not doing much better ? she's so enthusiastic she keeps knocking the whole course over! Will the puppies succeed, or are they destined to live out their lives as underdogs? This series is ideal for readers who are just beginning to read chapter books independently or for anyone who enjoys a good underdog narrative because it has amusing antics throughout and black-and-white drawings on every page.