Europe hosts several important dog shows that attract breeders, handlers, and enthusiasts from around the world. These events showcase a variety of breeds, celebrate canine excellence, and often include competitions in agility, obedience, and more. Here are some of the best known dog shows in Europe:
World Dog Show
The World Dog Show is one of the most prestigious canine events globally, organized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI).
The location rotates annually among FCI member countries.
This massive event features thousands of dogs from around the world competing for titles such as World Winner.
In 2024 Zagreb,Croatia hosts the World Dog Show. In 2025 the event is located in Brno in the Czech Republic.
Euro Dog Show
Similar to the World Dog Show, the Euro Dog Show is an annual event that moves between European countries.
It’s also sanctioned by the FCI and includes competitions across various breeds, with dogs competing for the European Winner title among others.
In 2024 Celje, Slovenia hosts the dog Show.
Crufts
Dutch Winner Show
Hosted in Leeuwarden, the Netherlands, the Dutch Winner Show is one of the most prestigious dog events in Europe.
Dogs compete in various categories, and the winners are awarded the coveted title of … The “Winner.”
Brussels Dog Show
This is one of Belgium’s biggest dog shows, attracting thousands of dogs from across Europe and beyond.
The Show includes competitions in various categories, with breed judging and special awards.
Paris Dog Show
The Paris Dog Show is another significant event in the European canine calendar. It features a wide range of breeds and competitions, including breed judging and agility tests.
The Event, also known as the “Exposition Canine Internationale de Paris,” is a prestigious dog show event that takes place in Paris, France. It’s one of the major canine exhibitions in Europe, attracting dog breeders, owners, and enthusiasts from around the world. Participants compete in various categories, including breed conformation, agility, obedience, and sometimes even canine fashion and grooming.
The show typically features a wide range of breeds, from the most popular to the rare and exotic, showcasing the diversity and beauty of the canine world. Judges at the show evaluate dogs based on breed standards set by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) or other recognized canine organizations, depending on the category.
Other Dog Shows in Europe
The Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) is an international canine organization, recognized as one of the largest and most influential dog breed registries in the world. Established in 1911, its headquarters are located in Thuin, Belgium. The FCI plays a crucial role in the global canine community, with its primary mission being the promotion and preservation of purebred dogs.
The FCI sanctions and oversees international dog shows, including World and Section Dog Shows, where dogs are judged according to FCI standards. These events are significant for the promotion of breeds and provide a platform for breeders to showcase their dogs.
Want to know if there’s a show near you? The FCI provides a comprehensive directory that you can view here.
Beyond conformation shows, the FCI also promotes various canine sports and activities, such as agility, obedience, tracking, and herding tests, contributing to the health, well-being, and socialization of dogs.
The FCI also acts as a global platform for collaboration among its member countries and contract partners. It currently includes over 90 member countries and contract partners, each represented by their own national canine organization. These members work together to ensure mutual recognition of pedigrees and to facilitate the international movement of dogs for breeding, competition, and companionship.