2025's best dog-friendly events and festivals
Date published: 12 Mar 2025
2025 is shaping up to be an exciting year for dog lovers! Whether you're after an action-packed agility course, a chilled-out music festival, or a pampered pooch experience, the UK has plenty in store. These dog festivals are all about celebrating your bond with your dog and creating tail-wagging memories together.
Each festival offers something different, so whether you’re looking for a weekend of fun activities or a laid-back vibe with plenty of dog-friendly shopping, you’ll find it. Expect dog shows, agility courses, wellness zones and even splash zones for your water-loving pups. Plus, most festivals have plenty of entertainment, food stalls and doggy-friendly treats.
Not only will your dog have a blast, but you’ll also get a chance to meet other dog lovers, get expert advice and shop for all the best doggy essentials. So, get ready to pack up your dog and head out for a weekend of fun, learning and, of course, plenty of cuddles!
1. Goodwoof
17th & 18th May 2025 – Chichester, West Sussex
Goodwoof is the ultimate dog festival for canine lovers who want to experience a weekend full of dog-centric fun. Held at Goodwood Estate, this event combines entertainment, dog sports and plenty of pet pampering.
With everything from agility courses and dog parades to shopping, delicious food and expert advice, it’s the perfect day out for you and your dog. There’s even a chance to watch celebrity dogs perform, making this a must-visit for dog lovers.
2. DogFest 2025
Various dates and locations
DogFest is a must-visit for dog owners, and in 2025, it’s bringing even more fun for our furry friends. Held in multiple locations across the UK, including Hertfordshire and Cheshire, DogFest is a weekend festival celebrating all things canine.
Expect exciting activities like dog agility courses, obedience competitions and a dog show. There are also plenty of pet-friendly stalls, dog pampering sessions, and even some four-legged celebrity appearances. It’s the perfect event to spoil your pooch with activities and experiences they’ll love.
3. Dogstival
31st May & 1st June 2025 – Burley Park, New Forest
Dogstival is all about celebrating everything dogs love, and it’s one of the best festivals for fun-loving pets and their owners. Set in the beautiful Burley Park in the New Forest, Dogstival features a range of activities, from canine sports and fun dog shows to dog-friendly shopping and demonstrations.
There’s something for every type of dog here - from those who love agility to those who prefer a slower pace, as well as opportunities to meet other dog lovers in the relaxed festival atmosphere.
4. Paws in the Park
17th & 18th May 2025 – South of England Showground, Sussex
20th & 21st September 2025 – The Kent Showground, Kent
Paws in the Park, taking place in Sussex in May and Kent in September, is an action-packed dog festival with plenty of excitement for both dogs and their owners. From dog agility and flyball to have-a-go sessions and training tips, this event offers a fantastic variety of activities to keep your dog engaged.
It’s not all about the action, though - there’s a range of pet-related stalls, entertainment and food, ensuring you and your dog will both have a great time. It's a vibrant celebration of dogs, with loads of opportunities for bonding and having fun!
5. Woofstock Festival
13th-15th June 2025 – Powderham Castle, Exeter
Woofstock is the ultimate dog-friendly music festival, and it’s the perfect way to celebrate summer with your furry friend. Held in Exeter, this festival combines live music, food trucks and dog-friendly activities for the whole family.
From dog obedience classes to a dog-friendly bar, Woofstock is a relaxed and fun environment where dogs can roam and play while their owners enjoy some great tunes. Expect an all-day event, with doggy costume competitions and lots of opportunities to show off your dog’s best tricks.
6. Dog Lovers Festival
1st-3rd August 2025 – Elvaston Castle Showground, Derby
While many of the dog-friendly events in the UK are primarily focussed on four-legged visitors, this Derbyshire event is a genuine mixed festival with as much for the humans as for the pups.
It’s essentially a dog-friendly music festival with a packed tribute band line-up, alongside a huge range of dog-friendly events, including aqua sports and a K9 outdoor cinema. Fun!
7. All About Dogs Show
Various dates and locations
The All About Dogs Show is one of the UK’s largest dog festivals, and it’s making a return in 2025 with even more fun and excitement! There are several dates and locations to choose from too, including Norfolk, Suffolk, Chelmsford and more.
Watch your dog participate in various activities, from agility and obedience competitions to flyball and fun dog shows. With expert advice from professionals, shopping stalls and even a doggy talent contest, this festival offers everything you and your dog need for a fantastic time.
8. Chatsworth Country Fair
29th-31st August 2025 – Chatsworth House, Derby
Set in the stunning grounds of Chatsworth House, the Chatsworth Country Fair is a celebration of all things country fair (including a fairground!), with a special focus on dogs. The Derbyshire event features dog shows, competitions and plenty of activities for your dog to try.
With stunning scenery, delicious food and plenty of dog-related fun, it's a fantastic event for dog lovers looking for a blend of tradition and modern fun. Plus, the views are just as impressive as the dogs!
9. Summer Dog Festival
28th & 29th June 2025 – Victoria Park, Southport
The Summer Dog Festival Southport is a fantastic event for dog lovers, bringing together an array of dog-themed activities for all ages. Located in the vibrant seaside town of Southport, this festival offers dog shows, agility courses and plenty of opportunities for your dog to enjoy some fun in the sun.
There's something for every type of dog, from pampered pooches to action-packed hounds. The festival also features plenty of food stalls, shopping, and even entertainment for the whole family, making it the perfect dog-friendly day out by the beach.
10. Pawfest
10th & 11th May 2025 – Betteshanger Country Park, Kent
Pawfest is back, bigger and better than ever, and it’s bringing a weekend packed with tail-wagging fun for dogs and their humans at Betteshanger Park! Get ready for a jam-packed event with something for every dog, from the Experience Zone full of enrichment games and challenges to the Splash Zone for water-loving pups who need to cool off.
There's even a Wellness Zone offering dog yoga and relaxation to help your pup unwind. The Woodland Walk is a great way to explore with your dog, while the Discover Zone offers expert training demos. Plus, there’s a Yellow Zone for dogs who need a quiet, stress-free space.
Made the spur-of-the-moment decision to nab some tickets to one of these events? Our last minute dog-friendly cottages could be just what you need!
Meet the author
Ian LewisIan's worked in travel for over 15 years and has written about destinations across the whole of the UK (and beyond). He loves all kinds of getaways with every member of the family on two legs or four, seeking out the more unique and interesting properties wherever he can.
