Dog Welfare

As a dog owner or exhibitor, you are always responsible for ensuring that your dog is cared for in a safe and considerate manner. To provide a secure and safe environment for both dogs and people, strict regulations apply at the European Dog Show and the Swedish Winner Show. These are based on the fundamental principle that the welfare and health of the dog must always be the highest priority.

• Dogs must be kept under supervision at all times and must not be exposed to situations that may cause injury or suffering.
• Any rough handling of a dog is strictly prohibited.
• Dogs must not be subjected to excessive or unethical handling in connection with exhibiting or presentation.
• Dogs should be shown in a manner that respects their health, welfare, and natural function.
• Dogs wearing muzzles are not permitted within the showground.
• Under Swedish legislation, prong collars are prohibited.
• It is important that dogs are in good physical and mental health. Only healthy dogs may participate.
• Dogs that are ill, injured, suffering from a contagious disease, or infested with parasites are not permitted at the show.
• Upon entry to the showground, veterinary inspections will be carried out on a random basis. Any dog assessed as being ill or injured, or displaying aggressive behaviour, will be refused admission.
• Throughout the show days, the welfare of the dogs will also be monitored by a roaming Dog Welfare Crew, whose role is to safeguard the welfare of all dogs attending the event.
• When a dog is kept in a vehicle, crate, or similar enclosure, this must always be done safely. Dogs must never be left in conditions where they are at risk of harm, for example in a hot vehicle. The temperature inside a vehicle can increase very rapidly, even when outdoor conditions do not seem excessively warm.
• If a dog is caused suffering by being left in a vehicle, this constitutes an offence, and the owner may be subject to legal action, including prosecution for animal cruelty.
• As a dog owner, you are always responsible for ensuring that your dog is not exposed to risks that may affect its health or welfare.
• Any dog being kept in a hot vehicle can be taken into protective custody by the police.

By following these rules, you help create a safe, fair, and dog-friendly show environment for all participants.