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Join the fun at the Kench Hill Dog Show 2026
- Jun 2
- 3 min read
Updated: 3 days ago
Every August, Kench Hill transforms into a lively hub of joy, laughter, and wagging tails. The Kench Hill Fun Dog Show 2026 returns on Saturday, 8th August, from 9 am to 3 pm, promising a day packed with friendly competition and community connection. Whether you own a playful pup or simply love dogs, this event offers something for everyone.
A Day Designed for Dogs and Families
The Kench Hill Fun Dog Show welcomes all dogs and families, creating a relaxed and inclusive atmosphere. Entry to the event is completely free and each class costs just £2, making it easy for everyone to join in the fun. The event features a variety of activities throughout the day.
Highlights include:
Fun speed trials where dogs can race against the clock
Agility challenges to test your dog’s skills and coordination
Light-hearted classes such as Fancy Dress, Best Trick, and Waggiest Tail
Child Handler class encouraging young dog lovers to participate
Size-based classes for fairness
More Than Just a Dog Show
While the dogs take centre stage, there is plenty for you to enjoy. You can explore food stalls and refreshments, including a sizzling BBQ and an ice‑cream van. If you’re bringing little ones, they can have their face painted and make beautiful fairy crowns.
You can browse a variety of stalls, try your luck at the tombola, and indulge in homemade cakes. This year’s show offers a lovely selection of local dog‑friendly stalls for you to discover, including Pure Connection Pets, Johns Woodturning, Years!, Artwork by Molly Bishop, Forever Moore by Shelly, and Kate’s K9s; bringing you everything from treats and accessories to handmade gifts and professional dog‑walking services.
Prizes in the tombola include: local spa vouchers, paintballing day out, arts/crafts supplies, food and drinks, Bedgebury tickets, Imagine Play Centre tickets, Rye Watersports vouchers, Grow Walkies vouchers, local restaurant vouchers and so much more!
Where and when to Join
The event takes place at the Kench Hill Centre, Tenterden TN30 7DG. Parking is available just a short walk away.
The show runs from 9 am to 3 pm, giving you ample time to explore the different classes and enjoy the full range of activities. Whether you want to enter your dog in a class, cheer on participants, or simply soak up the atmosphere, the Kench Hill Fun Dog Show is a perfect way to spend a summer Saturday.
Classes You Can Enter
The morning begins with our 10am–12pm classes, where the spotlight is firmly on showcasing each dog’s natural charm, confidence, and good looks.
Late‑Morning Classes (10–12):
Most Handsome (Small–Medium)
Most Handsome (Medium–Large)
Prettiest Girl (Small–Medium)
Prettiest Girl (Medium–Large)
Cutest Puppy
Best Senior
Best Rescue
Once these classes are complete, all winners return to the ring just before lunch for the much‑anticipated Best in Show, always a highlight and a wonderful moment of celebration. Then, after lunch, the fun classes begin!
Early‑Afternoon Fun Classes (1–3):
Fancy Dress
Best Trick
Waggiest Tail
Scruffiest
Child Handler
Judge’s “Most Like to Take Home”
Every penny raised supports the work of Kench Hill Centre. Funds from this year’s show will go directly towards maintaining the centre and helping us introduce a brand‑new axe‑throwing activity, which will be integrated into our bushcraft programme to give visiting children an even richer, more confidence‑building outdoor experience.
By joining us, you’re not just enjoying a brilliant day out, you’re helping create life‑changing opportunities for young people.
Get Ready for a Day of Fun
Feel free to bring a picnic blanket or chairs to relax between events, and don’t forget water and treats for your furry friend. There will be water stations and shaded areas available around the grounds.
Whether you are coming for the good food, fun dog show or just to browse the stalls, it is sure to be a great day. We cannot wait to see you soon!