Barking Mad for Brisbane: The Dog Lovers Festival Returns Bigger Than Ever!
After a two-year hiatus, it’s time to get those tails wagging! The Brisbane Dog Lovers Festival is making a triumphant return to the Brisbane Showgrounds on May 16–17, 2026. This isn't just a comeback; it’s a record-breaking expansion, promising the largest and most "dog-filled" program in the event’s history.
Whether you are looking to add a furry member to the family, want to spoil your current pup, or just need a weekend filled with puppy breath and wagging tails, this year's festival is an unmissable destination for Queensland canine enthusiasts.
Meet the Stars: Rare Breeds & Fan Favourites
At the heart of the 2026 event is the largest-ever Breed Showcase, supported by Dogs Queensland. This is a rare opportunity to meet over 30 different breeds and chat directly with verified, reputable breeders.
The Rare & Exotic: Get a first-hand look at the striking Borzoi, the hairless Peruvian Hairless Dog, the majestic Pyrenean Mountain Dog, and the northern Yakutian Laika.
The Classics: Spend time with the ever-popular Goldies, Labradors, Beagles, and "gentle giants" like the Saint Bernard and Irish Wolfhound.
High-Octane Action & New Sports
The 2026 program is injecting some serious adrenaline into the Brisbane Showgrounds with the introduction of the Outback Arena.
Highlighting the schedule is the Australian debut of Scurry Dog, a fast-paced UK import that adapts gun-dog skills into a fun, competitive sport for pet dogs. Visitors can also catch the high-speed thrill of
Over at the VitaPet Arena, expect a non-stop schedule of demonstrations, educational talks, and entertainment designed to help you understand your best friend even better.
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| Keep an eye out for crowd favourites like Dr Katrina Warren and the Wonderdogs, who will be lighting up the stage with their incredible displays. |
Shop 'Til You Drop (and Pat some Pups!)
If your dog’s toy box is looking a little empty, the Festival Expo is your one-stop shop. Featuring an expanded footprint with new outdoor zones, you can browse a massive array of premium nutrition, tech-heavy pet gadgets, and stylish accessories—often at exclusive festival-only prices.
Don’t miss these fan-favourite zones:
Pat-A-Pooch: The ultimate "soul-recharging" station where you can connect with a variety of friendly dogs of all sizes.
Adoption Zone: A vital part of the festival mission, connecting potential owners with rescue groups and dogs searching for their forever homes.
A New Era for Brisbane Dog Lovers
Festival Director Paul Mathers notes that 2026 marks a significant milestone for the event.
"This is without doubt the biggest celebration of dogs we’ve ever delivered in Brisbane," Mathers said. "The entire Festival is filled with our four-legged friends, from adoption and education through to sport, entertainment and hands-on experiences, but it is also an unmatched opportunity for dog lovers to shop everything they need for their pets in one place."
Essential Details
When: Saturday 16 & Sunday 17 May, 2026
Time: 9:00 am to 5:00 pm daily
Where: Brisbane Showgrounds, Bowen Hills
Tickets: Available now at
dogloversfestival.com.au/brisbane/
Clear your calendar and get ready for a weekend of pure canine joy—Brisbane is about to become the happiest place on earth for dog lovers!
