Dog Events in the UK 2026: The Best Dog-Friendly Shows, Festivals & Days Out
If you’re planning more days out with your dog in 2026, you’re in luck.
From relaxed countryside festivals to fun, informal dog shows (think more Scruffs than Crufts), the UK is packed with dog-friendly events that celebrate dogs as part of the family.
Here’s your guide to the best dog events in the UK for 2026, plus how to make sure your dog enjoys them as much as you do.
Key Dog Events to Know - Your 2026 Guide
Dogstival
30–31 May 2026 - New Forest
A relaxed, outdoor festival dedicated entirely to dogs and their humans. Expect great live music and much more:
- Agility courses
- Live demos
- Dog-friendly shopping
- Food, music, and space to explore
All About Dogs Show
3 - 4 May 2026 (Hylands Park + other dates nationwide)
One of the UK’s biggest dog events, featuring:
- Training displays
- Have-a-go activities
- Breed meet-ups
- Shopping stalls
Greenwich Dog Show – London
24th May 2026 - Greenwich
A more local, laid-back dog show with lots of laid-back fun for you and your dog to enjoy:
- Fun competitions
- Community feel
- Open park setting
Goodwoof
16–17 May 2026 - Chichester, West Sussex
A premium dog event, great for owners who want more than just a show, this is about understanding your dog and focuses on:
- Dog wellbeing
- Behaviour and training
- Interactive experiences
Woofstock
12th -14th June - Powderham Castle in Exeter
This dog-friendly music festival is the perfect blend of live music and fun dog activities. You can go for the day or pack a tent and stay for the weekend to enjoy all of this:
- Live music
- Fun dog shows
- Displays and demonstrations
- Doggie-related stalls
The Big Bark
5th - 6th September - Towcester Racecourse, Northampton
This event is a celebration of all the things we love about our dogs. Set in the beautiful Northamptonshire countryside, you can enjoy a fun-packed weekend with your four-legged friend, including:
- Dog Shows
- Amazing performances
- Puppy zone
- Hands-on activities
Paws in the Park
16th to 17th May 2026 - Sussex Show
19th to 20th September 2026 - Kent Show
One of the UK’s most popular dog activity events, with plenty of high-energy and stimulating things to get involved in, including:
- Agility courses
- Water play
- Dog games and challenges
Edition Dog Live
17th - 18th October - NAEC Stoneleigh, Coventry
This is an indoor event, which is ideal for a day out in October. The venue is packed to the rafters with fun things to do and see. There are also doggie experts sharing tips and advice, as well as all this:
- Enrichment zone
- Fun dog shows
- Rescue support hub
- Grooming lounge
- And a pub for dogs!
How to help your Dog enjoy the events as much as you do.
Here’s what helps:
Give Them an Outlet Before It Builds
Let your dog release energy early, before they get overwhelmed.
Bring Familiar Activities
Something they recognise helps them settle faster.
Avoid Constant Stimulation Without Breaks
Give them space to decompress.
Let Them Do What Comes Naturally
Sniffing. Exploring. Digging.
When dogs have something they’re allowed to do, they cope far better.
You can read more about mental stimulation for your dog here.
Where DigDrum Fits In
Events are exciting, but they’re also a lot.
DigDrum gives your dog:
- A clear, familiar outlet in unfamiliar environments
- A way to self-soothe through digging
- A break from overstimulation
Instead of reacting to everything around them, they have something to focus on.
That means:
- A calmer dog
- A more enjoyable day out
- Less stress for both of you
Planning Your 2026 Dog Days Out
The UK has never had more dog-friendly events.
Whether you’re heading to a festival or your local dog show, the key isn’t just showing up. It’s making sure your dog can enjoy it too.
