From the Otterhound to the Dandie Dinmont Terrier, some of Britain's rarest and most historic dog breeds will take centre stage in Warwickshire this month as more than 422 dogs representing all 39 Vulnerable British and Irish Native Breeds compete at a unique show dedicated to safeguarding the future of these remarkable dogs.
The Vulnerable Native Breeds Show takes place on Saturday 15 August 2026 at The Kennel Club Building, Stoneleigh, Warwickshire, bringing together breeds that many dog lovers may never have seen in real life, despite their long and important history in Britain and Ireland.
The event celebrates the 39 native breeds identified by the Royal Kennel Club (RKC) as vulnerable due to their low registration numbers, with fewer than 300 puppies registered each year. These include some of the UK's oldest and most distinctive breeds, many of which are increasingly absent from parks, streets and family homes.
The show offers a rare opportunity for visitors to meet these lesser-known breeds, speak with dedicated owners and breeders, and learn more about the dogs that form an important part of Britain's canine heritage.
Competing dogs will be hoping to secure the coveted Best in Show title and a qualification for Crufts 2027. Among this year's strongest entries are the Cardigan Welsh Corgi with 22 dogs entered, followed by the King Charles Spaniel with 21 entries and 19 entries of the Otterhound, one of the UK's rarest native breeds with only three litters registered in 2026 so far.
Jacky Cutler, Secretary of The Vulnerable Native Breeds Show, said:
"We are absolutely delighted with the number of entries received for this year's show and grateful to everyone who has supported it.
"While many people are familiar with popular breeds such as Labradors and Cocker Spaniels, there are dozens of wonderful British and Irish breeds that are now rarely seen by the general public. Events such as this are vital in helping people discover these breeds and understand why they are worth preserving.
"Visitors will have the opportunity to meet an incredible variety of dogs, from the elegant English Toy Terrier and affectionate King Charles Spaniel to the hardworking Bearded Collie, the distinctive Otterhound and the majestic Irish Wolfhound.
"Whether you are considering a particular breed, interested in British canine history or simply looking for a great day out for dog lovers, this show offers a unique chance to meet all 39 vulnerable native breeds in one place."
Charlotte McNamara, Chief Canine Wellbeing and Engagement Officer at RKC said: “The Vulnerable Native Breeds Show is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate some of Britain's and Ireland's most historic and distinctive dog breeds. While these breeds may be less familiar to the public today, they remain an important part of our canine heritage, and events like this help raise awareness of their many qualities.
"The show also highlights the commitment of breed clubs, owners, breeders and the Royal Kennel Club to securing a positive future for vulnerable native breeds. Through initiatives ranging from awareness raising and responsible breeding to research projects that support breed health and genetic diversity, we are working together to help ensure these breeds continue to thrive for generations to come.”
The Royal Kennel Club's Vulnerable British and Irish Native Breed list was established to raise awareness of native breeds that are at risk of becoming increasingly uncommon. Many have rich histories stretching back centuries and were originally developed for roles such as herding livestock, hunting game, guarding property and working alongside people in rural communities across Britain and Ireland.
Entry and parking for visitors are free. Visitors wishing to bring an unentered dog to the event can do so for a fee of £2, payable on arrival. Dogs must remain under control and on a lead at all times.