If you’re visiting The Game Fair next year, one of the must-see highlights is the Home International, often described as the Olympics of gundog competitions. This prestigious two-day event brings together the finest spaniels and retrievers from the four Home Nations – England, Scotland, Ireland and Wales – showcasing skills and teamwork that are the benchmark of the sport.

We spoke to our Gundog Chairman, Francesca Prentice about this highly anticipated event…

What Will You See?

Spectators are in for a treat as each breed demonstrates its unique talents. Spaniels follow a different set of tests than retrievers, highlighting their specialised roles. You’ll witness the hunting patterns and techniques of the spaniels, alongside the precise distance control and marking skills of the retrievers. Every twist, turn, and retrieve shows the intelligence, agility, and partnership that define top-level gundog work.

How the Competition Works

Each nation fields a team after a rigorous selection process. While the methods vary, they typically involve several days of trials, culminating in the selection of a squad, and finally the competition team. At The Game Fair, each Home International team is made up of twelve dogs – five spaniels plus a reserve and five retrievers plus a reserve – making this the most unique gathering of elite gundogs in the summer calendar.

What Makes It Unique?

Unlike any other event, the Home International brings together a huge number of top-class dogs in one arena. It’s a rare opportunity to see such a variety of dogs tested at the very highest level over two exciting days. The scale and quality of the competition make it a spectacle not just for seasoned gundog enthusiasts, but for anyone fascinated by skill, precision, and teamwork.

Why You Should Watch

This isn’t just a competition – it’s an experience. Watching the Home International gives spectators a true appreciation of the dedication, training, and partnership required to reach such a high standard. Whether you’re inspired to take your own gundog on a journey to the arena or simply enjoy seeing incredible dogs in action, the Home International promises to inform, entertain, and inspire.