Welcome to our events page. You can email us at meg9@mail.com to ask to have your details published on this page. We are mainly focussed on dog shows near to our dog paddock in Lincolnshire, but you can ask to have details of any dog put on this page from quite literally anywhere in the UK.
Add your 2025 event! Email: megk9@mail.com
| Event Date | Event Location | Event Name | Other Info |
| Digby Village Playing Fields (Lincs) | Digby Dog Fest | ||
| Grosvenor Hall Care Home, Newark Road, Lincoln LN5 8QJ | Fun Dog Show | Register for the dog show from 10am, show starts at 11 am. £1 per dog per class, all profits to residents fund. |
The First Modern Dog Show
The first modern dog show, as we know them today, took place on June 28, 1859, in Newcastle-upon-Tyne, England. It was organized by Mr. S.E. Shirley and held in the cattle market on the town moor. The event was called the “First Annual Show of Sporting and Other Dogs,” and it showcased various breeds of dogs, primarily focusing on sporting and working breeds.
The show was a success, and it marked the beginning of organized dog shows, where dog enthusiasts and breeders could exhibit their dogs, compare breeding stock, and compete for recognition and awards. This event laid the foundation for the dog show culture that has since spread worldwide, becoming an integral part of the canine community and an important platform for promoting breed standards, responsible breeding practices, and celebrating the bond between humans and their canine companions.
What a typical companion fun dog show entails
A typical companion fun dog show continues to be a popular and enjoyable event for dog owners and their furry friends. These shows are usually more relaxed and casual compared to formal conformation shows and focus on fostering a fun and friendly atmosphere for all participants. Here are some common features you might find at a companion fun dog show:
- Fun and Lighthearted Competitions: Instead of strict breed standards and formal judging, fun dog shows often feature light-hearted competitions that showcase the unique and endearing qualities of each dog. Typical categories might include “Waggiest Tail,” “Best Trick,” “Cutest Puppy,” “Golden Oldie,” “Best Rescue Dog,” and more.
- Dog Agility Course: Many fun dog shows have a simple agility course often called “have a go agility”, set up for dogs to navigate. It may include jumps, tunnels, weave poles, and other obstacles to test the dog’s agility and willingness to follow commands.
- Obedience Demonstrations: Obedience demonstrations or contests can be part of the event, showcasing how well-trained dogs respond to various commands and perform basic obedience exercises.
- Dog-Owner Lookalike Contest: A light-hearted contest where participants are judged on their resemblance to their dogs in terms of appearance or behaviour.
- Best Dressed Dog: A popular category where dogs (and sometimes their owners) dress up in creative and fun costumes, often following a specific theme.
- Pet Vendor Stalls: The event might feature stalls or booths from local pet-related businesses, offering products and services such as dog treats, accessories, grooming services, and more.
- Dog Adoption Drive: Some fun dog shows partner with local animal shelters or rescue organizations to promote dog adoption and raise awareness about the importance of giving rescue dogs a loving home.
- Raffles and Prizes: Raffles or contests for attendees to participate in, with chances to win prizes and goodies for both dogs and their owners.
- Socialising Opportunities: Fun dog shows are excellent opportunities for dogs and owners to socialize with other canine enthusiasts, exchange tips, and make new friends.
- Fundraising for Animal Charities: Many fun dog shows are organised as fundraising events to support animal welfare organizations and charities.
Overall, the focus of a typical companion fun dog show was on creating a positive experience for dogs and their owners, promoting responsible pet ownership, and celebrating the joy and companionship that dogs bring to our lives.
What is Crufts?
Crufts is one of the most prestigious and renowned international dog shows in the world. It is an annual event held in the United Kingdom and is organised by The Kennel Club, the UK’s official kennel club responsible for promoting and protecting purebred dogs. Crufts is named after its founder, Charles Cruft, who held the first show in 1891.
The primary objective of Crufts is to showcase the best of purebred dogs, with breeders, owners, and handlers competing to demonstrate the excellence and adherence to breed standards of their dogs. The event attracts thousands of participants and spectators from all around the globe, making it a significant and celebrated event in the dog community.
Key features of Crufts include:
- Breed Showing: The heart of Crufts is the breed showing competition. Dogs of various breeds are judged against their specific breed standards, which outline the ideal characteristics, appearance, and temperament for each breed. The best of each breed compete in group judging, with one dog from each group eventually crowned as the “Best in Show.”
- Obedience: Crufts also includes obedience competitions that demonstrate the high level of training and discipline achieved by dogs and their handlers. Participants compete in obedience exercises that assess the dog’s ability to follow commands, perform tasks, and maintain a strong bond with their handler.
- Agility: Agility competitions are another thrilling aspect of Crufts. Dogs navigate through a challenging obstacle course, including jumps, tunnels, weave poles, and other elements, showcasing their speed, agility, and responsiveness.
- Flyball, Heelwork to Music, and more: Crufts features various other dog sports and demonstrations, such as flyball, heelwork to music (dog dancing), and displays of working dogs in action.
- Discover Dogs: This section of Crufts allows visitors to interact with numerous dog breeds and learn about their characteristics, care requirements, and suitability as pets.
- Trade Stands and Activities: Crufts hosts a vast array of trade stands where attendees can explore and purchase dog-related products, services, and accessories.
Crufts is televised, attracting a wide audience, and the Best in Show winner becomes a highly coveted title in the dog world. However, the event is not without controversy, as it raises discussions about the welfare and ethics of breeding and exhibiting pedigree dogs.
Despite any criticisms, Crufts remains a symbol of the passion and dedication people have for their canine companions and serves as an excellent platform for promoting responsible dog ownership and celebrating the incredible bond between humans and dogs.
