Sydney Dog Lovers Festival 2026

The Sydney Dog Lovers Festival returns to Sydney Showground on Saturday 22 and Sunday 23 August 2026 for a weekend celebrating dogs, the people who love them and the organisations that support their wellbeing. Running from 9:30 am to 5:00 pm each day, the festival is designed for dog owners, prospective owners, families and anyone interested in canine care, training, sport and companionship. Visitors can meet hundreds of dogs across many breeds and explore breed clubs and adoption organisations. The program includes canine sports and demonstrations in the VitaPet Arena, Kurgo DockDogs pool-diving action, Pat-A-Pooch sessions, a Breed Showcase, an Adoption Zone, grooming demonstrations, Ask-A-Vet opportunities and appearances from dog trainers and canine personalities. The expo and marketplace bring together dog-focused brands offering products, services, expert advice, festival specials and new pet gear, while food trucks will operate throughout the event. Confirmed 2026 talent and contributors promoted by the organiser include dog trainer and television host Lara Shannon, Kurgo DockDogs MC Shaun Madden, professional animal trainer Lee Stone, Dances with Dogs competitor and judge Loretta Rabbitt, trainer and Rally judge Shanelle Corben, SASH veterinary experts and the Dances With Dogs competition. The festival is an all-ages event. Children aged 12 and under receive free entry, and youth, concession, adult and family tickets are available. Each ticket is valid for one day, and booking fees apply to paid online tickets. A Sydney Dog Lovers Festival ticket also includes entry to the Cat Lovers Festival on the same day. Sydney Showground provides barrier-free routes from public transport stops, accessible parking and drop-off facilities, ramps, lifts and accessible toilets. Wheelchairs are welcome, although wheelchairs are not available for hire or loan at the festival. Registered guide dogs and other assistance animals are welcome and water stations will be available for them. Visitors must otherwise leave their own dogs at home. Book through the festival’s official ticket page. Ticket prices and availability can change as release allocations sell, so visitors should confirm the current price before purchasing.