Have-A-Go Activities
Fun Charity Dog Show
Step into the ring as we host a variety of classes to see who will be crowed the Best in Show at Dogs Direct UK’s Summer Festival. From Prettiest Pooch to the Most Mischievous we have a class for everyone. Each class will help to raise funds for a selection of fantastic charities including Barking Mad Rescue, Carla Lanes Animals in Need and the Senior Staffy Club. There will be rosettes and trophies up for grabs so don’t forget to dress to impress!!
Have a Go Heel to Music
Get hands-on and showcase your skills! Join our "Have a Go at Heel to Music" session and learn from the best. It's your chance to strut your stuff and embrace the joy of dancing with your dog to create a harmonious and entertaining performance.
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​Add prizes to be won for the best performances after the last sentence.
Find us in the Junior Handler Show School Arena.
Canine Athletics – Have a Go and Compete for the Super Dog Title!
Get ready for some high-energy fun with our Canine Athletics activities, run by N2N Canine Mills. This exciting section offers a chance for your dog to compete across five different disciplines, showcasing their speed, agility, and athleticism. Whether your dog is a seasoned athlete or a first-time participant, there is something for every pup to enjoy.
The disciplines include:
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Long Jump: How far can your dog jump?
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High Jump: Testing your dog’s vertical leap.
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Up & Over: Requiring your dog to jump over a frame.
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A-frame: A climb-and-escape challenge where your dog must ascend and descend the A-frame.
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Lure Race: A fast-paced race where your dog chases after a lure.
In each discipline, the top 5 dogs will receive points, with the Super Dog Title going to the dog who accumulates the most points across all five events. It is a fun and competitive way to showcase your dog’s athletic abilities, from agility and strength to speed and precision.
The Super Dog Title will be awarded to the dog with the highest total points from all disciplines, crowning them the ultimate canine athlete! This is your dog’s chance to shine and prove they are the best across all events!
It is a perfect way to challenge your dog’s abilities and discover their hidden talents!
Have A Go Agility
Challenge your dog on the big stage! Step up to our agility course and discover if your canine companion has what it takes to navigate through the obstacles with skill and agility. It's an opportunity for both of you to showcase teamwork and enjoy the thrill of the course.
Obedience Competition
Obedience Competition – Test Your Teamwork and Take the Title
Do you think your dog has got what it takes to be top of the class? Step into the ring for our Obedience Competition, where dogs and owners will be put to the test across a series of basic and advanced commands.
This friendly event is designed to challenge communication, focus, and teamwork between you and your dog. Whether you are working on perfecting the basics or mastering advanced obedience, this is a great opportunity to show off your hard work.
Participants will be scored on:
• Basic commands: Sit, stay, recall, heel-work.
The competition will be judged by experienced trainers, with points awarded for precision, responsiveness, and partnership.
The dog and owner duo with the highest score will be crowned the Obedience Champion, taking home the title and some fantastic prizes.
Think you and your dog have what it takes? Come along, have fun, and put your skills to the test.
Lead Control Class
Lead Control Class – Mastering Calm Walks Together.
Does your dog pull like a steam train or zig-zag their way down the street? Join our Lead Control Class, designed to help owners build better walking habits and enjoy calmer, more controlled walks.
This class will focus on:
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Walking calmly on the lead without pulling.
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Focus and engagement with the handler.
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Walking past distractions (including other dogs and people).
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Building positive walking routines for everyday life.
Whether you are just starting out or looking to brush up on lead manners, this class is a must.
Behaviour Advice Drop in session
Behaviour Advice Drop-In: Visit the Behaviour Hub.
Have you got questions about your dog’s behaviour? Whether it’s reactivity, anxiety, barking or just quirky habits you are unsure about, our Behaviour Advice Drop-In is here to help.
Pop in throughout the day and speak one-to-one with qualified professionals who are happy to offer friendly, practical advice tailored to your dog’s needs. No question is too big or too small.
This is your chance to:
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Get expert guidance on common behavioural issues.
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Learn about positive, science-based solutions.
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Find out how to strengthen your relationship with your dog.
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Ask about next steps if you need more in-depth support.
No booking is required, just drop by and have a chat with someone who understands. A must visit for any dog owner looking to improve their dog’s behaviour and well-being.
Pet Scent Work Shop
Pet Scent Workshop – Hosted by Helping Hounds Dog Training Academy.
Join Helping Hounds Dog Training Academy for a fun and interactive Pet Scent Workshop, where your dog gets the chance to put their nose to the test.
Scent work is one of the most enriching and rewarding activities you can do with your dog. This workshop is perfect for all breeds and abilities, from curious puppies to older dogs looking for mental stimulation.
In this hands on session, you will:
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Learn the basics of scent detection and how to get started at home.
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Discover how to build your dog’s confidence through nose work.
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Strengthen the bond between you and your dog in a relaxed and enjoyable environment.
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Take part in fun scent games and challenges designed to engage your dog’s natural instincts.
Whether you are new to scent work or just looking for a fun way to keep your dog entertained, this workshop is a brilliant way to learn more about your dog’s amazing abilities and have some fun in the process.
Do not miss your chance to join Helping Hounds and sniff out a new favourite activity.
Groom School Sessions
Groom School – Presented by GroomingTails Dog Spa & Groom School
Join the team from GroomingTails Dog Spa & Groom School for a series of mini sessions packed with practical grooming tips and professional advice. Whether you are a dog owner wanting to learn more about coat care or someone interested in becoming a groomer, there is something for everyone.
Topics throughout the day will include:
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How to brush your curly coated dog – Learn the right techniques and tools to keep those curls tangle-free and healthy.
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The importance of nail clipping – Why regular nail care matters and how to do it safely.
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Drop in grooming advice session – Got a grooming question? Pop by and speak to a professional.
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How to become a groomer – Curious about turning your love for dogs into a career? Find out what qualifications and training you need.
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Best brushes for your breed – Discover the most effective grooming tools based on your dog’s coat type.
Whether you are grooming at home or dreaming of opening your own salon, stop by the Groom School and brush up on your skills.
