2026 is shaping up to be an exciting year for dog lovers across the UK.
From world famous dog shows to specialist working competitions and relaxed, family friendly festivals, there is something to suit every interest and every type of dog.
Whether you enjoy the spectacle of major national events, prefer the skill and tradition of working dogs, or simply want a sociable day out with your dog, this guide brings everything together in one place.
Enjoyment comes from understanding your dog’s limits, planning ahead, and setting realistic expectations for the day, something we focus on across the advice and resources shared at Bark Boutique.
The UK’s major national dog shows are the most recognisable events in the canine calendar.
These shows attract visitors from across the country and beyond, offering a mix of competition, education, and entertainment on a large scale.
They are well suited to anyone who wants to experience the full breadth of the dog world in one place, from pedigree breeds to skilled working disciplines and inspirational stories.
Crufts is widely regarded as the world’s largest and most prestigious dog show. Organised by The Kennel Club, it brings together thousands of dogs competing across breed judging, agility, obedience, flyball, and a wide range of showcase events.
Alongside the competition, Crufts places strong emphasis on education, responsible ownership, and celebrating the unique roles dogs play in our lives.
Crufts is spread across multiple halls and offers a full day experience for visitors.
Expect a lively atmosphere with something happening in every direction, from quiet breed judging rings to fast paced agility arenas.
Key highlights include:
Crufts suits a wide audience. Families enjoy the variety and spectacle, breeders and exhibitors value the competitive element, and first time dog owners often find it a valuable introduction to different breeds and activities.
Long time enthusiasts will appreciate the depth and scale of the event.
Crufts is busy, especially at weekends, and involves a lot of walking between halls. Planning ahead is essential.
Comfortable footwear, regular breaks, and checking the daily schedule in advance will help you make the most of your visit.
The venue is well organised and accessible, but the size of the event means it is best approached with a clear plan of what you want to see.
Crufts takes place on March 5–8, 2026 at the National Exhibition Centre in Birmingham. The venue is large, well connected, and designed to accommodate the scale and variety of activities that run across the four show days.
Discover Dogs is a dedicated feature within Crufts focused on education rather than competition, it gives visitors the opportunity to learn about a wide range of dog breeds in a calm, welcoming environment.
The aim is to help people understand temperament, lifestyle needs, and suitability, rather than simply appearance.
Discover Dogs is designed to feel quieter and more approachable than the main show halls. Visitors can move at their own pace, meet different breeds up close, and speak directly with knowledgeable owners and breed representatives.
Key highlights include:
Discover Dogs is particularly well suited to first time dog owners, families considering a dog, and anyone researching breeds before making a commitment.
It is also valuable for experienced owners who want to deepen their understanding of breeds beyond their own.
This area is popular throughout the day, but it is generally calmer than the main Crufts halls.
Taking time to speak with exhibitors and planning which breeds you want to see in advance will help you get the most from the experience.
Comfortable footwear is still recommended, as Discover Dogs is part of the wider Crufts venue.
Scruffts is the official crossbreed competition organised by The Kennel Club and held as part of Crufts.
It celebrates dogs of mixed heritage, focusing on personality, companionship, and the special bond between dogs and their owners rather than pedigree standards.
Scruffts has a warm, upbeat atmosphere and is often one of the most enjoyable parts of the show to watch.
The competition is friendly and accessible, with dogs competing in categories that reflect everyday life rather than formal show presentation.
Key highlights include:
Scruffts appeal to families, casual dog lovers, and anyone who enjoys seeing dogs celebrated for who they are rather than how closely they match a breed standard.
It is particularly popular with visitors who value inclusivity and personality over competition.
Scruffts classes can draw large crowds, especially during the final rounds.
Checking the show timetable in advance will help you plan your visit so you do not miss the sessions you want to see.
Seating can fill quickly, so arriving early is recommended.
Scruffts holds regional heats across the UK throughout the year, with the final taking place at Crufts in Birmingham on March 5–8, 2026. The format allows owners from many regions to take part before the finalists come together at the National Exhibition Centre.
The Kennel Club Hero Dog Award recognises dogs that have made an extraordinary difference through courage, dedication, or service.
The award celebrates dogs from a wide range of backgrounds, including assistance dogs, service dogs, and companions who have supported their owners through challenging circumstances.
This award is one of the most emotional moments of Crufts. Finalists are invited into the main arena to share their stories, highlighting the impact dogs can have on individual lives and communities.
Key highlights include:
The Hero Dog Award resonates with all visitors, regardless of their level of interest in dog shows. It is particularly meaningful for those who value the emotional bond between dogs and people, and for anyone interested in the real world roles dogs play beyond competition.
The Hero Dog Award presentation is usually scheduled at a specific time and attracts a large audience.
Checking the arena timetable in advance is essential if you want to attend. Allow extra time to reach the arena, as access routes can become busy shortly before the event begins.
The Kennel Club Hero Dog Award is presented each year during Crufts at the National Exhibition Centre in Birmingham. The ceremony takes place in the main arena, creating a fitting setting for the finalists and their stories.
Competitive and working dog events place the emphasis firmly on skill, training, and heritage rather than appearance.
These events celebrate what dogs can do, showcasing discipline, athleticism, teamwork, and the long standing working partnerships between dogs and their handlers.
They tend to attract a more focused audience and offer a very different atmosphere to large show ring competitions.
Agility competition tests speed, accuracy, and communication between dog and handler.
Dogs navigate a timed obstacle course that includes jumps, tunnels, weave poles, and contact equipment, all guided by the handler’s verbal cues and body movement. Precision and trust matter just as much as speed.
The atmosphere at the International Agility Festival is energetic and engaging.
Dogs move quickly and confidently through courses, with handlers directing every turn and transition. Crowds often gather around the rings, drawn in by the rhythm of the runs and the excitement of clear rounds.
Between classes, there is a strong sense of community, with competitors supporting one another and sharing training experiences.
This event is particularly suited to competitive handlers, owners involved in training and dog sports, and spectators who enjoy fast paced action and technical skill.
It is also a great introduction for anyone curious about agility as a sport and how it strengthens the bond between dog and handler.
The Field Trial Championships focus on traditional working dog skills rather than arena based competition.
Set in rural environments, these trials assess how dogs perform real working tasks, particularly those associated with gundog breeds.
The emphasis is on natural ability, training, and cooperation in a practical setting.
The pace here is calm and deliberate. Visitors will see highly trained dogs working closely with their handlers, responding to subtle cues and demonstrating control, patience, and precision.
The setting is usually quiet and open, allowing spectators to observe without distraction. It feels less like a spectacle and more like a window into the heritage of working dogs and countryside tradition.
Working Trials Championships combine obedience, tracking, and practical working exercises into one demanding competition.
Dogs are tested on control, scent work, agility style challenges, and their ability to follow commands accurately under pressure.
These trials highlight the strength of teamwork and clear communication.
Success relies on consistency, focus, and mutual trust rather than speed alone. For many visitors, this event offers a deeper appreciation of disciplined training and the impressive versatility of working dogs when guided with patience and skill.
The Royal Kennel Club Field Trial Championships take place each winter at selected rural estates across the UK.
The exact location varies from year to year, with venues chosen for their suitable ground, countryside setting, and ability to showcase skilled working dogs in a natural environment.
Community and family friendly dog events offer a more relaxed and sociable way to enjoy time with dogs.
These gatherings are designed to be welcoming and accessible, focusing less on formal competition and more on shared enjoyment, conversation, and celebrating dogs as part of everyday life.
They are ideal for visitors who want a pleasant day out without the intensity of large scale shows or technical sporting events.
The Greenwich Dog Show takes place in the historic surroundings of the Old Royal Naval College, creating a unique backdrop for a dog event.
The setting feels open and relaxed, with space to wander, watch, and enjoy the riverside atmosphere. The show blends light hearted competition with a strong community feel.
Alongside informal judging and fun classes, visitors can enjoy demonstrations, stalls, and the chance to meet other dog owners. It is the sort of event where people pause to chat, dogs are encouraged to enjoy the day, and participation feels as important as winning.
This balance of structure and casual enjoyment makes the Greenwich Dog Show particularly appealing to families and local dog owners looking for an easy going introduction to organised dog events.
Date – Sunday 24 May 2026
Location- Old Royal Naval College in London
Holyrood Dog of the Year is centred on celebrating dogs in everyday life rather than competitive achievement.
Held in the gardens of the Scottish Parliament, the event highlights the role dogs play as companions, helpers, and valued members of families and communities.
The atmosphere is warm and inclusive, with dogs recognised for qualities such as companionship, service, and the positive impact they have on the lives of their owners.
Stories and experiences are shared openly, creating a sense of connection between participants and visitors.
This event is especially well suited to those who value the emotional bond between dogs and people and enjoy seeing dogs appreciated for who they are, not how they perform in a ring.
Date – Monday 28 April 2026
Location – Scottish Parliament Gardens in Edinburgh
Westminster Dog of the Year takes place in a civic setting, bringing dogs and their owners into the heart of public life.
The focus here is on responsible ownership, community involvement, and the positive role dogs play within society.
Rather than formal judging, the event celebrates dogs that represent everyday companionship and commitment. The setting encourages conversation between visitors, organisers, and participants, creating an atmosphere that feels welcoming and grounded.
For many attendees, Westminster Dog of the Year offers a meaningful reminder that dogs are not just part of the home, but part of the wider community too.
Date – January 31 to February 3, 2026
Location – Javits Centre & Madison Square Garden
Schedule of events:
Jan 31 (Sat) – Masters Agility Championship Preliminaries (Javits Centre).
Feb 2 (Mon) – Breed judging (Hound, Toy, Non-Sporting, Herding) (Javits Centre) and Evening Group Judging (MSG).
Feb 3 (Tue) – Breed judging (Sporting, Working, Terrier) (Javits Centre) and Evening Group Judging/Best in Show (MSG).
Dog festivals and experience days are less about judging and competition and more about enjoyment, learning, and spending quality time together.
These events focus on atmosphere, conversation, and shared experiences, making them appealing to dog owners who want a relaxed day out rather than a formal show environment.
Goodwoof has a strong lifestyle feel, set within the grounds of the Goodwood Estate.
The event blends countryside charm with modern dog culture, creating a space where education and enjoyment sit comfortably side by side.
Visitors can expect a thoughtful mix of talks, live demonstrations, and interactive experiences.
Topics often cover training, health, behaviour, and wellbeing, delivered by knowledgeable speakers in an accessible way. There is a calm, considered pace to the day, with plenty of space to explore, watch demonstrations, and take part without feeling rushed.
Goodwoof is particularly appealing to owners who enjoy learning more about their dog while also soaking up a relaxed, outdoor setting that feels curated rather than crowded.
Date – 16 and 17 May 2026
Location – The Kennels, Goodwood
Dogstival embraces the spirit of a true festival, set across wide open outdoor spaces in the New Forest. The emphasis is on fun, freedom, and letting dogs enjoy the day alongside their owners.
The atmosphere is lively yet easy going, with plenty of room for dogs to move comfortably. Activities are designed to be inclusive rather than competitive, encouraging participation at a pace that suits each dog.
Visitors often spend the day wandering between demonstrations, stalls, and activity areas, stopping to relax and enjoy the surroundings.
Dogstival works well for owners who want a sociable day out where dogs are welcome to be dogs, enjoying fresh air, open space, and a sense of shared celebration.
Date – 30th & 31st May 2026
Location – Burley Park
The All About Dogs Show stands out for its touring format, with events held at multiple locations across the UK throughout the year. This makes it one of the most accessible dog events, allowing owners to attend without long travel or overnight stays.
Each show follows a familiar structure, combining demonstrations, shopping areas, talks, and interactive activities. The layout is designed to be easy to navigate, and the atmosphere is friendly and welcoming, particularly for first time visitors.
Because of its regional approach and practical focus, the All About Dogs Show appeals to a broad audience, from new dog owners to experienced households looking for a relaxed, informative day out close to home.
Trinity Park, Suffolk – April 5th & 6th 2026
Newbury Showground, Berkshire – April 11th & 12th 2026
Newark Showground, Nottinghamshire – April 26th & 27th 2026
Hylands Park, Chelmsford, Essex – May 3rd & 4th 2026
Norfolk, Showground, Norwich – August 30th & 31st 2026
Knebworth House, Hertfordshire – September 12th & 13th 2026
With so many dog events taking place across the UK, it helps to think of the calendar in seasons rather than individual dates.
This approach keeps planning simple and allows you to choose events based on atmosphere and setting, not just timing. It also avoids unnecessary detail while still giving a clear picture of when different types of events are most likely to happen.
Spring tends to be dominated by education focused events and major national shows.
This is when Crufts takes place, alongside exhibitions and talks that appeal to people interested in learning more about breeds, training, and responsible ownership.
The season suits indoor venues and structured schedules, making it ideal for large scale shows and information led events.
Summer brings warmer weather and longer days, making it the peak season for festivals and outdoor shows. Events during this time often focus on enjoyment, socialising, and spending time outdoors, with plenty of space for relaxed activities.
Dog festivals and touring shows are most common during these months, offering a more informal and sociable atmosphere.
Autumn is closely associated with working trials and championship events. As the pace of the year slows, the focus shifts toward skill, discipline, and heritage.
These events are often held in quieter, rural settings and attract visitors interested in traditional working roles, training, and performance rather than spectacle.
Thinking about events in this seasonal way helps you plan ahead without feeling overwhelmed by dates, allowing you to choose experiences that suit both you and your dog throughout the year.
Attending a dog event is far more enjoyable when a little planning is done in advance. Large shows and festivals can be busy, noisy, and unfamiliar, especially for dogs that are new to these environments. Thinking ahead helps you focus on the experience itself, rather than managing last minute stress on the day.
A good starting point is to plan around your dog’s temperament and needs. Some dogs thrive in lively settings, while others are happier with shorter visits or quieter events.
Choosing the right event, and preparing properly, makes a noticeable difference to how relaxed and confident your dog feels throughout the day.
A few practical things to consider before you go:
Approaching dog events with preparation and flexibility allows you to enjoy the day at your own pace. When your dog feels comfortable and supported, these events become memorable experiences rather than something to rush through.
Dog events can be a wonderful way to learn, socialise, and celebrate life with dogs, but the most important consideration is always the dog beside you.
Choosing events that match your dog’s personality, energy level, and confidence helps ensure the experience is positive for both of you. Some dogs thrive in busy, lively environments, while others are happier with quieter, slower paced events or shorter visits.
It is worth remembering that not every event suits every dog, and that is perfectly fine.
Enjoyment comes from understanding your dog’s limits, planning ahead, and setting realistic expectations for the day.
When you approach events with flexibility and care, they become opportunities to share new experiences together, build confidence, and create memories that feel rewarding rather than overwhelming.
