The Melbourne Dog Lovers Festival is an annual celebration dedicated to honouring the special bond between humans and dogs. The 2025 festival promises a fun-filled weekend packed with entertainment, education, and inspiration for dog lovers of all ages. Held at the spacious Melbourne Showgrounds, the event provides a platform for attendees to immerse themselves in all things canine, from engaging with various dog breeds to discovering the latest products and services in the pet industry.
Key Features of the Show (What to Expect)
- VitaPet Arena: Experience thrilling dog performances and demonstrations showcasing agility, obedience, and skill.
- ADVANCE™ Breed Showcase: Meet and learn about over 100 different dog breeds, with opportunities to interact and ask questions.
- Adoption Zone: Connect with rescue groups and shelters to learn about dog adoption and possibly find a new furry family member.
- SASH Ask-A-Vet: Consult with veterinary professionals from the Small Animal Specialist Hospital for expert advice on your dog’s health and well-being.
- Lyka Pat-A-Pooch: Enjoy hands-on time with friendly dogs in a designated patting area, perfect for dog lovers of all ages.
- Kurgo® DockDogs: Witness exciting dock diving competitions as dogs leap into water, showcasing their athleticism and enthusiasm.
- Shopping Heaven: Explore a vast array of stalls offering the latest dog products, accessories, and services, many with special festival discounts.
Who Should Exhibit?
Exhibitors at the Melbourne Dog Lovers Festival include a wide range of businesses and organisations such as:
- Pet product manufacturers and retailers
- Pet food and treat companies
- Veterinary clinics and pet health services
- Dog training and behaviour specialists
- Pet adoption and rescue organisations
- Pet grooming services
- Pet-friendly travel and accommodation providers
- Pet insurance companies
Participating as an exhibitor provides an excellent opportunity to showcase products and services to a targeted audience of passionate dog owners and enthusiasts.
Who Attends?
The festival attracts a diverse crowd, including:
- Dog owners and lovers
- Families looking for a fun day out
- Prospective dog owners
- Pet industry professionals
- Animal welfare advocates
- Veterinary professionals
- Dog trainers and behaviourists
Attendees are typically engaged and eager to learn more about dog care, training, and products, making it an ideal event for businesses and organisations in the pet industry to connect with potential customers.
Why Should You Exhibit?
- Brand Exposure: Showcase your products and services to a large, enthusiastic audience of dog lovers.
- Direct Engagement: Interact face-to-face with potential customers, providing personalised experiences and building relationships.
- Market Research: Gain insights into customer preferences and trends within the pet industry.
- Networking Opportunities: Connect with other industry professionals, fostering collaborations and partnerships.
- Sales Opportunities: Benefit from on-site sales and the potential for long-term customer relationships.
Key Stats from the Last Show
- Attendance: Tens of thousands of dog enthusiasts over the festival weekend.
- Exhibitors: Over 200 exhibitors showcasing a wide range of products and services.
- Dog Breeds: More than 100 breeds represented in the ADVANCE™ Breed Showcase.
- Adoptions: Numerous successful dog adoptions facilitated through the Adoption Zone.
- Social Media Reach: Extensive online engagement with a large and active community of dog lovers.