Monday June 2nd 2025
Borders dog show from last year
Written by Local Democracy Reporter, Paul Kelly
More than 4,000 dogs will have their day in Kelso this month when a much-anticipated canine show celebrates 50 glorious years.
Organisers of the Border Union Agricultural Society (BUAS) Championship Dog Show are delighted with this year’s entry of over 4,600 dogs for the 50th anniversary show.
Exhibitors from all over the UK, Ireland and Europe are preparing to travel to Springwood Park Showground for the event, which this year will be held on Saturday June 14th and Sunday June 15th.
‘Border’ Breeds are well represented with 116 Border Terriers and 37 Dandie Dinmont Terriers competing on Saturday and 73 Border Collies to be judged on Sunday.
As one of only three general championship dog shows in Scotland, a win in certain classes rewards the proud owner and dog with a chance to compete at Crufts 2026.
During the two days, over one hundred different breeds of dog will be competing starting at 9am on Saturday with dogs representing the Gundog, Hound and Terriers Groups.
Judging of the Working, Pastoral, Utility and Toy Groups takes place on Sunday from 9am, with the Grand Finale of Best in Show being staged around 5pm on Sunday.
This year is the 50th Anniversary of the society’s Championship Dog Show with lots of specials prizes on offer including classes each day where entry fees are being donated to My Name’5 Doddie Foundation and the Arthurshiel Rescue Centre.
The show is tremendously popular with all exhibitors, many of whom make the trip to Kelso with their caravans, to enjoy a holiday week in the popular Border’s town.
In addition to watching the competitions, visitors are able to bring along their own dogs to attend the show.
“We believe this will be very popular with the many local visitors who come to the show”, said Euan Castel, secretary of the Border Union Agricultural Society Canine Section.
He added: “Dogs need to be over four months old, and all the owner needs to do is to confirm the pet has been vaccinated.”
There is also the opportunity for new exhibitors to take part in the ‘Have a Go Dog Show’ on Sunday, June 15 . For £10 the participants will get an session of training, goody bag and rosettes with the chance to participate in a show with the winner qualifying for the event at Crufts 2026.
Also on display will be a large number of trade stands with a wide range of dog foods, dog coats, dog-grooming products, special dog baths and even herbal remedies for dogs.
Spectators are well catered for, with a wide range of food and drink available throughout the day. This famous show first held in 1975 promises to be an entertaining weekend for all.
General adult admission is only £5 and with free car parking and children under 16 able to enter for free.
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