We’ve got more dogs than Crufts! At The Game Fair you will discover and see the many and varied breeds that act as working dogs. You’ll certainly spot labradors and spaniels as well as some more unusual characters, like the unusually named Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever.
A team of experts are on hand to offer advice on anything from feeding to training or choosing the right puppy. If you’ve ever had a question about your dog, this is the place you’re likely to get it answered.
You’ll be amazed at the skills of working dogs as they’re put through their paces and watching the various gundog challenges. Children love greeting the hounds as they run around the Horse and Hound Arena. If there’s something in particular you need to buy your dog – whether a training aid or a new bed, you’re unlikely to find a better choice anywhere.
For working dogs, there are several gundog competitions (read details here) where you can admire the best of the best.
We’ll also be running dog agility competitions – read more here.
Terrier Tent
The majority of terrier breeds were developed in Great Britain and Ireland where most of them took their name from the area of origin, such as Skye, Border, Norfolk, Irish, Lakeland, Fell, Scottish and Manchester.
They were used to control rats, rabbits and foxes above and below ground, and some of the larger terrier breeds would even hunt.
Today most terriers are kept as companion dogs and family pets. They are generally loyal and affectionate to their family but can still maintain that ‘terrier tenancity’, needing a firm hand, and most are still capable of doing the job they were bred for – vermin control.
Terrier breeds attending The Game Fair
- Manchester
- Bedlington
- Glan of Imaal
- Border
- Skye Save
- Parson Russell
- Cesky
- Dandies Dinmont
- Norfolk
- Jack Russell
- Irish
Terrier Racing
This always proves popular with these feisty characters running a zig-zag course. These little dogs, well-known for their cheeky nature, guarantee entertainment. Once the racing team have run, the public will have the chance to have a go with their own dogs. Any breed welcome. Terrier Racing takes place in the Main Ring at 2.30pm on Friday and Saturday.
The Grudge Match
Lurchers and terriers have worked alongside each other for yers but now it’s time for them to go head to head. A team of terriers and a team of lurchers battle in a knockout competition leading to a grand final. An action-packed display with guaranteed chaos.
Scurries
There are five have-a-go rings for visitors wishing to compete their dog in a fun have a go competition
Different style competitions include:
Open Scurry, Junior and Novice Scurry– a timed exercise where dogs have to retrieve two dummies to hand, marked and unmarked in under three minutes.
Scramble – dog and handler negotiate a range of obstacles you might see in the shooting field.
Pick up – a mixture of blind pick ups.
Bale Jump – timed race through a lane of bale jumps.
BASC Gundog Scurries
£3 a go or £10 for 4
BASC Scurry Cup – £10 entry
All handlers and breeds of dog are welcome to put their skills to the test on the following BASC gundog scurries;
Long Marked Retrieve
Partridge Pen
Pick’n’mix
Over the bales aka. Scramble
Prizes to be won each day.
No pre booking available, please visit the BASC Gundog area to have a go.
Canine eye health testing with The Kennel Club
Visit The Kennel Club (KC) at The Game Fair to have your dog’s eyes tested and talk about other relevant health tests for your breed.
Eye testing is really important for all breeds of dog, including working gundogs and it only takes ten minutes so can be completed on the day.
BVA/KC/ISDS Eye Testing
Appointments available on Friday, July 26th, and Saturday, July 27th for BVA/KC/ISDS eye testing.
Benefits of BVA/KC/ISDS Eye Scheme:
• Comprehensive assessment: Detect potential eye concerns early, even those not visible in routine checkups.
• Responsible breeding: Provides the information you need to make informed breeding decisions to improve eye health of future litters
• Peace of mind: Know your companion’s eyes are healthy and enjoy activities together worry-free.
To find out more about the BVA/KC/ISDS Eye scheme visit, Eye screening scheme
Cost: £50 per dog
Assessment type: Routine assessments only, PLA (gonioscopy) is not available
How to book: Book your appointment online today on The Kennel Club website by
visiting Game Fair Eye Test.
Contact: Email [email protected] for further information
Importance of canine eye testing
Testing is particularly important if you’re thinking of breeding from your dog, and for those who are, you need to have all your health tests in place for both the mother and father beforehand- so visit the KC team to talk about those relevant for your breed.
The KC is the largest organisation in the UK devoted to dog health, welfare and training and also runs the UK’s largest registration database for pedigree dogs and an activity register for crossbreed dogs. The objective is to ensure that dogs live healthy, happy lives with responsible owners.
Visit our stand at The Game Fair to speak with our experienced team and take advantage of exclusive offers. The Kennel Club stand is sponsored by gundog equipment supplier Sporting Saint, and situated opposite the Gundog Challenge Ring.
DNA Testing Services
Take advantage of our exclusive Game Fair offer: a 15% discount on all breed-specific DNA testing packages. These tests provide crucial insights into your dog’s genetic health, helping you identify potential health conditions and make informed breeding decisions. Purchase your DNA testing kit at our stand.
Kennel Club Charitable Trust
This supports research into dog diseases and many dog welfare charities, including The Kennel Club Breed Rescue where organisations rehome dogs and assist dog charities.
Through the Trust, the KC also jointly runs health-screening schemes with the British Veterinary Association (BVA), ensuring the highest standards.
