Lugo is turning its attention to the world of dogs this weekend and transforming the Pazo de Feiras e Congresos at the meeting point of the canine elite. Over three days, the fairgrounds bring together more than 1.600 dogs of about 140 different breeds, coming from all over Spain and several European countries, in one of the most exciting events on the film calendar.
The contest, organized by the Galician Canine Society Organized in collaboration with the Xunta de Galicia and the Lugo Fairs and Exhibitions Foundation, the event combines official competitions, public exhibitions, and activities designed for families and enthusiasts. The atmosphere is that of a grand showcase, bringing together breeders, owners, judges, industry professionals, and curious onlookers eager to see some of the best dogs on the national and international scene up close.
A triple event: two national exhibitions and one international one.
Over the weekend, the Pazo de Feiras simultaneously hosts the 115th and 116th National Dog Show and 52nd International Dog ShowAll of these competitions are officially recognized by the Royal Canine Society of Spain (RSCE). In these contests, dogs are evaluated based on their conformity to the breed standard, their movement, their structure, and their attitude in the ring.
On Saturday and Sunday, the different rounds of judging take place: it begins with the Baby, Puppy, Junior, Adult and Veteran classesThe best in each category are chosen, then the best in each group, and finally, the specimen that is crowned as Best in Show, the big winner of the exhibition.
In one of the recent editions, the 115th National Exhibition resulted in a podium widely distributed among different breeds and origins. In the Baby class, first place went to Snow Eyes Vampire OriginalsFollowed by Kinderbull Steel Panther y Glorious Spirit Gloriawhile in Cubs, the winner Mypoint's Pride of Poland, with Sweet Child of Mine y Espresso Macchiato completing the first three places.
In the category of YoungstersThe victory went to Will of The Emperor's Jalapeño Jelly, in front of Crosscop Captivating y Luxury; and among the Veterans, the podium was topped by D'Azumoon, with Covalagua Hiba Abouk y Jewell Blue occupying second and third place. In the section of Spanish BreedsThe award went to Jadefollowed by Elegant y Curuxa, while the absolute title of Best in Show He succeeded Kaiserahead of Jade herself and Enolacans Elizabeth Queen.
These results reflect the high level of the entries and the competitive nature of an event that has become a fixture on the European circuit. Beyond the prizes, the judges value the morphological quality and the responsible breeding work behind each dog, combined with training and show ring presentation.
A show featuring 140 breeds and unusual premieres
One of the great attractions for the general public is the enormous variety of breeds which can be seen while strolling through the pavilions of the Pazo de Feiras. From the classic German Shepherds, labradors or golden retriever to less common breeds on the street, such as different types of spaniels, large molossers or small, highly specialized companion dogs.
This edition is particularly notable for the arrival in Lugo of the bulldog breedOriginally from Brazil and recently recognized in the international dog world, this breed is a rare sight in Europe, so for many enthusiasts, and even for the president of the Galician Canine Society, it's the first time they've seen these dogs in person.
The organization estimates that they meet dogs of 140 different breedsThis makes the event a nearly unique opportunity to compare live the temperament, structure, and care requirements of each type of dog. For those considering adding a pet to their family, the show offers the chance to speak directly with experienced breeders and clarify any doubts about exercise needs, apartment living, coat management, or potential health issues.
The Sociedade Canina Galega insists on a clear message: Before acquiring a dog, you should do your research. They consider the needs of each breed and assess whether they fit the lifestyle of the individual or family. The goal, they emphasize, is to avoid impulsive purchases and promote responsible pet ownership, with well-socialized dogs and owners committed to the long term.
Agility, Border Collie Cup and the «Liguau» competition
In addition to beauty and body shaping tests, the program reserves a prominent space for the sportsThe Pazo de Feiras is hosting competitions during these days. Agility, a modality in which the guide and dog must complete an obstacle course in the shortest possible time and without making mistakes.
The test schedule includes the Border Collie Regional CupThis event is highly anticipated by enthusiasts of this breed, considered one of the most intelligent and active. The different categories of this competition—Midi, Intermediate, and Large—have showcased high-level performances, with well-coordinated pairs earning enthusiastic applause from the audience.
In Midi, the first place went to Pau Serrano with JoyFollowed by Raúl Romero with Harley and Gustavo Damasceno with AbbyIn the Intermediate class, the victory went to Xavier Oliveira with Landra, with RocÃo Fernández with Maddie in second position and Marina Añibarro with Zaskandil Thirdly. And in Large, César MartÃnez won with Dizaster, in front of Menchu ​​Melcon with Kian y Jacobo Martà with Padme.
Another of the big new features of the weekend is the competition known as "Liguau"This event brings together some of the best dogs in the Spanish rankings. It adds an extra level of challenge and spectacle, as it attracts dogs that have accumulated titles in different parts of the country and who come to Lugo to compete against each other before a large audience.
The program is completed by children's and youth presentationswhere the youngest children are introduced to the responsible handling and presentation of dogs, and various open exhibitions, designed to bring the world of dog competition closer to those who are experiencing this type of event for the first time.
An event with an international flavor and a strong economic impact
The significance of this gathering extends far beyond the local area. At the Pazo de Feiras, they arrive participants from all over Spain and from several European countries, including Portugal, France, Italy, the Netherlands and BelgiumThe flow of exhibitors and companions turns Lugo into a melting pot of different languages ​​and accents, with dogs from highly recognized breeders across the continent.
The regional delegate of the Xunta in Lugo, Javier AriasThe importance of the event on the trade fair calendar and in promoting the city is highlighted. It is emphasized that each edition attracts... thousands of breeders, professionals and amateursThis provides a significant boost to the local economy, with hotels and restaurants operating at a very good pace throughout the weekend.
The organizers point out that, despite the event's success in terms of participation, the dog breeding and competition sector is not currently thriving. The president of the Galician Canine Society, AgustÃn Fontán CostaHe admits that the field is "in a low point" due to increased costs and new regulations, which have made it difficult for many families to attend these types of events.
Fontán gives a very graphic example: a family that moves from another community, such as Burgos to Lugo, it can end up costing around 1.000 Euros accommodation, fuel, and meals throughout the weekend; those traveling with a dog can consult tips for traveling with the dogDespite this, he insists that the effort is compensated by the level of the facilities, the competitive atmosphere, and the opportunity to add titles to the dogs' resumes.
To counteract the geographical distance from other population centers, the organizers are committed to offering a comfortable and well-equipped venuewith heating and carpeting in the rings, as well as attention to detail in the awards ceremony. For example, there are trophies crafted in Sargadelos ceramics, which add a touch of Galician identity much appreciated by the participants.
Services, schedules and regulations for participants
The official program unfolds from early morning, with access to the venue and the start of the trials around nine. The General admission has a single price of 3 euros and gives access to all the day's activities, while children under 12 can access for free, which encourages the attendance of entire families.
The grand finals, in which the best dog in each group and the overall winner of Best in Show, will be concentrated from the 15 pmThis time slot is designed to allow the public to follow the most exciting moments of the day. These final rounds usually draw a large portion of the attendees around the main rings.
The event also includes specialized services highly valued by exhibitors, such as initial breed registrations—useful for formalizing the status of certain dogs in studbooks—and the DNA sample collection for those who wish to have more precise control over the genetic information of their specimens.
Alongside the competitions, the Pazo de Feiras hosts commercial stands where tickets can be purchased products related to animal health, nutrition and welfareas well as walking accessories, dog grooming supplies and other items specifically for practicing sports such as agility.
La Galician Canine Society It also reminds us of the need to respect current safety regulations. In the case of breeds considered potentially dangerous According to regional legislation, breeds such as the Rottweiler, the Dogo Argentino, or the American Staffordshire Terrier must present the corresponding documentation and comply with the measures established by the Xunta de Galicia within the fairgrounds.
Streaming, outdoor projection and atmosphere at the Pazo
Aware of the interest the event generates beyond Galicia's borders, the organizers are committed to strengthening the digital promotion of the eventThe presentations, trials, and main finals are broadcast by streaming through a specialized YouTube channel, with a particularly large and loyal audience in countries of South America, where the monitoring of Spanish competitions is increasingly widespread.
The atmosphere inside the Pazo de Feiras is a mix of focused concentration from the participants and the curiosity of the visitors. Everyday scenes from the canine world are also present: people who They spend more time grooming their dog's hair than their own.Owners nervously reviewing the final details before entering the ring, and breeders taking the opportunity to exchange opinions on bloodlines, crosses, or genetic test results.
Those who visit the enclosure for the first time are often surprised by the level of care given to the animals. Among the most frequent comments is the impression of seeing dogs that are exceptionally well cared forwith shiny coats, good physical condition and a calm demeanor even in an environment with noise, loudspeakers and a large influx of people.
The event also serves as a venue for many visitors discover specific products These items, which are not usually available in general stores, range from high-end pet food and joint supplements to shampoos, brushes, grooming tables, and technical collars. It's common for someone who comes in just to browse to end up leaving with something to improve their pet's care.
Lugo, for its part, takes advantage of the dog show's popularity to showcase itself to visitors from outside the area. Roman wallThe historic center, the wine areas and the local gastronomy —with special emphasis on tapas and local products— complete a weekend plan that combines tourism and a passion for dogs.
The gathering of more than 1.600 dogs of 140 breeds at the Pazo de Feiras reinforces Lugo as one of the essential stops on the canine calendar in Spain: an event that combines high-level competition with outreach, which boosts the local economy and that offers the public the opportunity to approach, calmly and in good detail, everything involved in living with a well-cared-for and respected dog.
