Calling all paw-rents! As the weather warms up and the days get longer (hooray!), it’s the perfect time to get out and about with your furry best mate. And what could be better than a dog-centric event where your pooch can socialise, strut their stuff, and maybe even win a rosette or two?
Fear not, fellow dog lovers! We’ve sniffed out 5 fantastic upcoming dog events and festivals across the UK, with a special waggy-tailed focus on what’s happening in and around our beloved London this May 2025. Get those leads ready – adventure awaits!
1. All About Dogs Show, Hylands Park, Chelmsford – 4th & 5th May
Okay, so Chelmsford might be a hop, skip, and a jump outside the M25, but trust us, the All About Dogs Show is well worth the short jaunt! This massive event is a proper doggy extravaganza. Expect arena displays showcasing incredible canine talent, expert advice from trainers and behaviourists, have-a-go activities like agility and flyball, and hundreds of stalls packed with treats, toys, and all sorts of doggy delights. It’s a fantastic day out for the whole family (two-legged and four)!
Why it’s great for Londoners: Easy to reach by car or train, offering a full day of doggy fun without being right in the city centre hustle and bustle.
Find out more here
2. DogFest – Various Locations throughout the year
DogFest is a big name on the UK dog event scene and is known for its festival vibe, with live music, fun dog shows (think waggiest tail and best fancy dress!), have-a-go activities, and plenty of opportunities for your dog to make new friends. Check their official website in the coming months for their confirmed 2025 dates and locations.
Why it’s great for Londoners: With Hertfordshire, Oxfordshire, and Surrey dates confirmed for this year, there’s a great choice for a couple of days away with your dog!
Find out more here
3. The Great British Dog Walk – Various National Trust Locations (Likely Several Near London in May 2025)
For a more relaxed but equally rewarding experience, keep an eye out for The Great British Dog Walk, organised by the Cinnamon Trust. These sponsored walks take place at beautiful National Trust locations across the UK, and there are usually several happening in and around London throughout May. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy stunning scenery with your dog while raising money for a fantastic charity that supports elderly and terminally ill people and their beloved pets. Check the Cinnamon Trust’s website for details of walks happening near you in May 2025.
Why it’s great for Londoners: Offers a chance to explore beautiful countryside just outside London while supporting a worthy cause.
Find out more here
4. Local Park Dog Shows and Fun Days – Keep Your Ears to the Ground! (May 2025)
Don’t underestimate the charm of your local park! As the weather improves, many local councils and community groups organise smaller dog shows and fun days in their parks during May. These are often advertised on local notice boards, council websites, and community social media pages. Expect fun competitions like “prettiest pooch,” “best trick,” and “waggiest tail,” along with stalls and maybe even a doggy bake sale!
Why it’s great for Londoners: Usually free or low-cost, a great way to meet other local dog owners and have some relaxed fun in your neighbourhood. Keep an eye out for posters in your local parks and community centres closer to the time!
Find out more here
5. Paws in the Park – 17th-18th May
This is another fantastic weekend event packed with activities for dogs and their owners, including agility, flyball, scent work, and plenty of shopping opportunities. Keep an eye on the Paws in the Park website for their confirmed schedule.
Why it’s great for Londoners: Often held at easily accessible locations in the surrounding counties, offering a fun-filled weekend for you and your furry friend.
Find out more here
So there you have it – a paw-some selection of dog events and festivals to get excited about this spring, with a keen focus on what London and the surrounding areas might have to offer in May 2025. Make sure to check the official websites of these events for the most up-to-date information on dates, times, and ticket details.
Get those leads polished, your best walking shoes on, and prepare for some tail-waggingly good times! We can’t wait to see you and your furry friends out and about!
