Welsh Breeds Fly the Flag in Builth Wells at the Largest Dog Show in Wales

  • One of the largest dog shows in the UK
  • Over 9,000 dogs will compete during the three days of the show
  • Over 200 breeds on show
  • Watch the exciting agility and obedience competitions
  • The opportunity to see rare Welsh breeds including the Sealyham Terrier
  • Dogs competing for a spot at the world famous Crufts dog show, to be held next March in Birmingham
  • Many trade stands selling all things ‘doggy’

Welsh native dog breeds, including some very rare ones, will be among the 9,000 plus dogs which will descend on the Royal Welsh Showground, Builth Wells, Powys from 19th – 21st August for the popular Welsh Kennel Club Championship Dog Show – the largest event of its kind in Wales and among the largest in the UK.

The show will see more than 200 breeds and their owners from all over the British Isles and beyond compete in a bid to qualify for the world’s biggest dog show, Crufts, which will be held at the NEC in Birmingham next March. 

The pedigree dogs taking part will be judged on a number of factors in the ring, including temperament and that they are fit, healthy and happy dogs that are good examples of their breed, as they compete for the ultimate ‘Best in Show’ prize.

The show is one of the largest gatherings of dogs in the UK and will see rare native Welsh breeds competing, such as the Welsh Terrier, Cardigan Corgi and Sealyham Terrier.

These breeds are bred in such small numbers today that they are considered by the Kennel Club to be at risk of disappearing from Wales’ streets and parks. Alongside these breeds will be some of the more well-known Welsh breeds such as the Pembroke Corgi and Welsh Springer Spaniel.

In addition to breed judging, the show is holding obedience and agility competitions, so visitors can watch a range of events and find out more about the different activities that dogs can get involved in.

The show is perfect for families researching the right breed of dog for them, and visitors will be able to meet the dogs themselves as well as talk to experts in each breed about finding a good breeder, what to expect from the breed, and training and care requirements.

Graham Hill, who is Joint Secretary of the show along with his wife Ann, said: “Ours is the largest dog show in Wales as well as one of the biggest in the UK and naturally we are very proud of that fact. Being held in picturesque Builth Wells, the show is very popular with summer holidaymakers and brings thousands of dog lovers to the area each year. We are expecting this year’s show to be bigger and better than ever.

“The show is a huge celebration of man’s best friend and visitors will get to meet lots of wonderful dogs throughout the weekend, find out more about dog showing and the various activities they can get involved in with their own dog, and browse the many dog products on the trade stands.

“Anyone thinking about getting a pedigree dog can come along and research their favourite breeds, as well as some of the lesser known breeds they may not even have heard of, and take the opportunity to meet the dogs themselves, which is definitely a favourite with families.

“As a special treat, we will have a Welsh Choral Concert on the showground, after the judging on the Saturday, featuring the Bridgend Male Choir and the Builth Wells Ladies Choir. This is something new this year, as well as something distinctly Welsh, and everyone is welcome to come along and enjoy the entertainment.”

Competition classes are held across the seven pedigree dog groups. Friday 19th August will see the Hound and Toy breeds competing, followed by the Working, Pastoral and Terrier breeds on Saturday 20th with Championship agility and obedience also being held. Gundog and Utility breeds can be seen on Sunday 21st. Sunday also sees the climax of the competition – Best in Show – followed by Best Puppy in Show and Best Veteran in Show. 

The show is one of 37 Group and General Championship Dog Shows licensed by the Kennel Club throughout the year, which enable dogs to qualify for next year’s Crufts.

Entry to the show is free and car parking is £5. Only dogs entered in the show are allowed on the showground.

To find out more, visit www.thewelshkennelclub.org.uk.

Read more information on dog showing, and any other activity dog owners can get involved in with their dogs.