Royal Windsor Dog Show promises a pawsome summer of canine fun

The Royal Windsor Dog Show is gearing up to unleash four days of festivities at Home Park later this month.

Dubbed the ‘Summer Crufts’, this prestigious event – formerly known as the Windsor Championship Dog Show and running since 1951 – promises to be the ulti-mutt celebration for dog lovers.

A total of 7,341 dogs make up more than 9,000 entries – a notable rise this year, setting the stage for one of the biggest shows yet.

Royal Windsor Dog Show is the only event in the UK where hopeful hounds can qualify for both Crufts and Scruffts, giving pedigree pooches and marvellous mutts their chance to shine.

The Benched Championship Show will bring forward the most competitive aspect of the show, with a Companion Dog Show also open for all members of the public.

One of the major additions this year is Paws & Pageantry – a new vibrant hub packed with activities to get tails wagging.

There, visitors can watch the Scruffts heats or take part in ‘have a go’ activities such as agility, scentwork, dog show training, and gundog scurries (retrieving challenges).

Organisers have listened to feedback from last year, and now spectator dog fees have been reduced to £5, making the event more accessible to casual pet owners.

Exhibitors will also benefit from multi-dog entry discounts, plus improvements to parking arrangements.

For those who favour gentle pace, there will be therapy dog talks and a ‘cuddle corner’ where guests can paws and rest for a while with some canine quality time.

There will also be a ‘groomers mingle’ event, and live entertainment will ensure a howling good time for all.

Overall, the event will be sporting a relaxed garden party feel, with daily performances by string quartets and a vintage trio.

There will be more than 60 trade stands and numerous food and drink options. Guests can indulge in afternoon teas, sip on Pimm’s or Prosecco, or enjoy a cheese and wine evening.

Supporting good causes remains at the heart of the event – the ‘have a go’ activities and the Companion Dog Show will raise funds for Battersea Old Windsor, and there will be drop off points so visitors can donate treats and toys to rescue dogs.

Saturday will see Armed Forces Day celebrated as part of the event, including a special moment to honour military working dogs for their loyal service and free parking for veterans.

Meanwhile, Mind Berkshire will be on hand to provide mental health advice and support – and the show is supporting the Safe Space 4 All scheme, working alongside Windsor & Eton Pride.

Organisers said: “We are committed to fostering an inclusive, welcoming, and safe environment for everyone.

“Whether you’re a competitor, spectator, or just a dog-loving visitor, let’s make our event is a space where everyone can feel respected and celebrated.

“Join us in creating a community that values diversity and inclusion, both for humans and our four-legged friends.”

The Royal Windsor Dog Show is set to return to Home Park in Windsor from June 26 to 29, from 9am to 6pm daily.

For more information, including how to book afternoon tea (£22.50 per person, £20 for members), visit: www.windsordogshow.org.uk

A Windsor Dog Show App has also been launched – providing maps, schedules, and live updates so visitors won’t miss a trick.