From doggy days out for your diary, to the best hospitality for your hounds, here's a guide dedicated to our county's canines - perfect for seasoned dog owners and brand new puppy 'pawrents' alike
Pooch Pawty
DogFest
If you're looking for a full day of fun for you and your four-legged friend, DogFest takes place all over the country and will be coming to Yorkshire this year when it descends upon Harewood House for a weekend of tail-waggingly good entertainment. A festival for dogs is just as you'd imagine - agility courses, hay bale races, fun dog shows and breed meetups. The Big Dog walk is an opportunity to take in the beautiful grounds of Harewood House while meeting new furry friends, and be sure to drop by the event village afterwards for a spot of retail therapy and something tasty to tuck into. There'll also be experts on hand to give advice and specialist dog displays to admire. It's bound to be a woofing good day.
September 24-25, Harewood House, Harewood, Leeds, LS17 9LG
Dogs Unleashed
The 'ulti-mutt' dog's day out, this weekend festival is jam-packed full of interactive displays and have-a-go activities. Join in a fly ball or agility competition, check out the heelwork to music, and see who will win the terrier race. There's also a doggy swimming pool should your four-legged friend fancy a dip, behavioural and grooming advice, competitions and even dog photographers who'll be on hand to capture all the excitement. As well as trade stands, there'll be food and drink aplenty, children's entertainment, craft stalls and live music - guaranteed fun for all the family. With options available to camp over you can make the most of the full weekend.
July 2-3, Driffield Showground, Kelleythorpe, Driffield, YO25 9DN
K9 Party in the Park
Head to Manor Health Park in Halifax for a 'pawty' like no other! Held in conjunction with the RSPCA, expect fun for all the family with dog-related party games such as tennis ball bobbing, live music and children's activities. Have a go at the agility courses you can complete with your best friend, watch the dog parades including ones looking for a home, and meet with top experts. And if that's not enough there are plenty of stalls offering a great selection of treats and goodies for you and your doggo to enjoy.
July 3, Manor Heath Park, Halifax, West Yorkshire, HX3 0EB
allevents.in/halifax/k9-party-in-the-park
Leeds Championship Dog Show
As a qualifier for Crufts, this prestigious dog show has been held at Harewood House since the early 1980s and will see over 160 Kennel Club breeds descend upon its grounds. Organised by the Leeds City and District Canine Association, Friday will see the Working, Pastoral and Terrier groups compete, followed by Utility and Toy on Saturday, ending with Hound and Gundog on Sunday. 'Spectator dogs' are welcome at £10 per dog.
July 22-24, Harewood House, Harewood, Leeds, LS17 9LG
Muddy Dog Challenge
There's nothing better than doing good while having a good time, so let us introduce you to the Battersea Muddy Dog Challenge. You've guessed it - it's a day out with your two and four-legged friends, and, well, a whole heap of mud! Whether you want to run or walk you can choose between a 2.5km or 5km obstacle course in the grounds of Harewood House. Not only will you and your soggy doggy have a brilliant day, but by taking part and fundraising for Battersea, you'll be helping to provide invaluable love and care to thousands of dogs and cats that come into their care.
October 8, Harewood House, Harewood, Leeds, LS17 9LG
Leeds Dog Show & Fun Day
West Yorkshire based dog charity, 8 Below Husky Rescue, is hosting a dog show and fun day in order to help raise funds for the vital work they do to protect and care for Northern dog breeds. Held at Cafe Squires Bar in Sherburn in Elmet, just outside of Leeds, the day will consist of a 13 class all-breed fun dog show that everyone can get involved in. There are six different prizes up for grabs in each class, so it's worth fluffing up your furry friend and making sure they look fabulous. Double your chances of winning something by getting involved in the tombola. There will be lots of great stalls where you can purchase rescue merchandise and cute canine accessories. Camping is also available onsite.
May 28, Squires Cafe Bar, Newthorpe Lane, Newthorpe, Leeds, LS25 5LX
Northern Greyhound Gathering
Organised by the Greyhound Trust West Yorkshire, this event welcomes all dog breeds and owners. A well-known and loved day out, head to Wetherby Racecourse and enjoy the atmosphere at this inclusive event. There'll be stallholders selling a wonderful variety of lovely things for both humans and canines, a fun dog show for every dog breed, and of course, more greyhounds than you've ever seen! Visitors are encouraged to bring a picnic. Volunteers will be on hand to answer any questions you may have about rehoming.
July 10, Wetherby Racecourse, Wetherby, LS22 5EJ
greyhoundtrustwestyorks.org.uk
The Dog Father
Unfortunately, Fido will have to stay at home for this one, but this is an unmissable event for those looking for expert dog advice from 'Britain's Best Dog Trainer' as named by The Telegraph. In this 90 minute live show, Graeme Hall will present an evening full of tricks, fond memories, heart-warming surprises and an exclusive Q&A where audience members are able to seek answers to their canine concerns.
April 13, Leeds City Varieties, Swan St, Leeds LS1 6LW
April 24, Sheffield City Hall, Barker's Pool, Sheffield City Centre, Sheffield, S1 2JA
April 27, Hull City Hall, Queen Victoria Square, Carr Ln, Hull, HU1 3RQ
June 9, Huddersfield Town Hall, Ramsden St, Huddersfield, HD1 2TA
June 11, Scunthorpe The Baths Hall, Doncaster Rd, Scunthorpe, DN15 7RG
June 12, Bridlington Royal Hall, S Marine Dr, Bridlington, YO15 3JH
June 13, York Barbican, Paragon St, York, YO10 4AH
Fun Dog Show at the Yorkshire Game & Country Fair
Held in the beautiful parkland of Scampston Hall, this well-loved event focuses on all things country life - from events to activities and sports to pursuits. As dogs are at the forefront of country life in Yorkshire, it's only natural they should have their own segment. Not only will you get to see working dogs at their finest in the 'Sheep Show' and the 'Dog and Duck Show' - that one is certainly not to be missed - but there will also be a 'Fun Dog Show' to get involved. With 17 classes to enter your perfect pooch into there's every chance of taking home a win. Will they place best in class at the Best Biscuit Catcher or will they take 1st place at Best Companion? There's only one way to find out.
May 21-22, Scampston Hall, Malton, North Yorkshire, YO17 8NG
outdoorshows.co.uk/yorkshire-game-and-country-fair
The Malton Show
A firm family favourite, The Malton Show has been running for decades and loves to celebrate our canine companions, whether they be working dogs or pampered pets. Head over to the Sheep Dog Trials to watch some impressive fieldwork at play or you could even enter your beloved pooch into the Ryedale Dog Rescue fun dog show and agility course. Dogs are welcome amongst the rest of the show, but must be on a lead.
June 26, Scampston Hall, Malton, North Yorkshire, YO17 8NG
Doggy Dining
The Oak Tree, Helperby
From light bites to hearty classics, this traditional pub is the perfect place to rest your paws after a stroll alongside the scenic River Swale. Completely dog friendly, the wood floors and log burning stoves are ideal for those that need to dry off after a spot of doggy paddling. Upstairs, the private dining room accommodates 22 humans and is also dog friendly, should you wish for your pooch to join in the party.
Raskelf Road, Helperby, York, YO61 2PH
The Hound Lounge, York
Stretch your legs along the medieval city walls of York before paying a visit to The Hound Lounge. This cafe and doggy bakery has everything to get both hound and human drooling in delight - from pup-a-chinos to pup tarts and pupcakes you'll be trying to pinch a bite yourself.
26 Station Ave, New Earswick, York, YO32 4BN
Kibble Bakery, Skipton
This isn't just another 'dog-friendly' coffee shop - it's designed with dogs at the forefront; featuring a hand-baked, all-natural hound menu, a fully-stocked shop, dog spa and even a 'pawty' space. Explore nearby Skipton Woods before treating your furry friend to a doggy doughnut, ice cream or even a pawsecco. Humans will be pleased to know there's also a delicious menu just for them as well.
44 Sheep St, Skipton BD23 1HY
The White Swan, Pickering
Perfectly located for exploring the North York Moors National Park with your best friend in tow, this 16th-century inn is the ideal spot for a post-walkies feed. Dog are welcome in the bar and snug area after a fun day of exploration with plenty of cosy nooks and crannies to settle down in and open fires to warm up by. There's an endless supply of water bowls and treats on tap and they'll even provide maps of the best dog walking areas.
Market Place, Pickering, YO18 7AA
The Kings Head Inn, Great Ayton
Whether you've opted for a relaxed coastal walk in nearby Whitby, or you've decided to tackle iconic Roseberry Topping with your four-legged friend in tow, The Kings Head Inn is the ideal place to recharge your batteries. Choose to dine outside in the beer garden or make the most of the dog-friendly bar area with bowls of water and complimentary dog treats.
The Green Newton under Roseberry, Great Ayton, Cleveland, TS9 6QR
inncollectiongroup.com/kings-head-inn
Hotel Hounds
![Great British Life: Canine companions can also lay down in luxury in their own four-poster bed at the Devonshire Arms]( "Great British Life: Canine companions can also lay down in luxury in their own four-poster bed at the Devonshire Arms")
Canine companions can also lay down in luxury in their own four-poster bed at the Devonshire Arms (Image: © 2015 - Jonathan Pow - All rights reserved)
The Devonshire Arms Hotel and Spa, Bolton Abbey
You can rest assured here that your pooch will get to experience the same level of luxury as you do with its very own four-poster bed. Every one of the 40 beautifully decorated rooms here are dog friendly and there are pet sitting services available if you should need them. Your canine companion can join you in the Dog Lounge - an elegant room with comfy armchairs to cosy down in next to an open fire for a spot of afternoon tea or pre-dinner drink. Should the weather be nice you can enjoy lunch on the terrace or dine in the bar area of the Brasserie if you prefer to be indoors. There's a dog wash available so you can hose down your muddy mutt after a walk to Bolton Abbey, or if you don't fancy getting your hands dirty you can make use of the grooming services.
The Devonshire Arms Hotel, Bolton Bridge, Skipton, BD23 6AJ
Falcon Manor, Settle
Whether you're after a standard double or twin bedroom, or want to push the boat out with a plush suite, one of the 15 dog-friendly rooms at Falcon Manor is bound to have something for you and your furry friend. With a dog-friendly bar, you can bring them down for an evening meal or a hearty Yorkshire breakfast in the morning. Your pooch will love having a sniff around the picturesque gardens or go a little further afield come walkies and explore the stunning Yorkshire Dales countryside just on the doorstep.
Falcon Manor Hotel, Skipton Road, Settle, BD24 9BD
Bike & Boot, Scarborough
Is your canine the coolest dog in town? Then this is the place for them. Relaxed, quirky and seriously cool, this unique hotel located near the shores of Scarborough Beach is the perfect playground for your pooch. Each designated doggy rooms comes with a vet bed and brand new soft toy for them to cuddle up to. In the Bareca restaurant, your fluffy friend can sit back and relax with a 'poochy pint' or join in with Film Club in the cinema room. While your pampered pooch makes use of the free grooming facilities in Wadobi, you can check out the plethora of walking maps of the local area.
Bike & Boot, Cliff Bridge Terrace, Scarborough, North Yorkshire, YO11 2HA
The West Park Hotel, Harrogate
Your pampered pooch will not only be given their own West Park branded bed to snuggle down in during a stay here, but they can tuck into their own range of dog treats at the bar, too. Ideally located opposite Harrogate's famous Stray for picturesque morning walkies, The West Park offers you and your canine companion luxurious bedrooms and award-winning food.
19 West Park, Harrogate, HG1 1BJ
Holdsworth House Hotel, Halifax
Check into this historic Jacobean manor set within the peaceful suburbs of Halifax. Your darling dog will be treated like royalty here, with a fresh bowl of water and a blanket waiting for them in the room on arrival. Not only will they love having a sniff around the beautiful grounds, but come breakfast time they'll be offered some dog-friendly sausages to wolf down.
Holdsworth House, Holdsworth Rd, Holdsworth, Halifax, HX2 9TG
Canine Cottages
The River Lodge, Egton Estate
Sleeps two humans and two dogs
The perfect place to make memories with your pooch, this secluded cabin sits on its very own stretch of private river so they can splash away to their heart's content. Located in the grounds of the Egton Estate, guests can make the most of the dog-friendly pub 'Horseshoe Hotel' and pick up some tasty treats in the farm shop. With Whitby just six miles away it's an ideal base for coastal adventures with your furry friend. After a day spent playing fetch at the beach cosy up by the log burner as you enjoy the board games provided. Dog beds, bowls and organic treats are provided.
Scargill Castle, Teessidale
Sleeps two humans and two dogs
This 16th-century castle is the perfect base for exploring with your canine companion as it sits close to the scenic Yorkshire Dales and the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Humans will be welcomed with a hamper full of food and wine, while their four-legged guests will be spoilt with treats. Underfloor heating and a log burner ensure your furry friend will stay cosy and warm during their stay.
The Tack Room, Ruston
Sleeps two to three humans and multiple dogs
Set on a private estate in the North York Moors National Park is a picture-perfect retreat for people and their pets. Lovingly styled in homage to its former life as a tack room, there are plenty of cosy areas for snuggling up with your cuddly canine. They'll love nothing more than exploring the open countryside and woodland, while coastal canines will love the fact Scarborough beach is only a 10-minute drive away. Humans are welcomed with complimentary prosecco, fresh coffee and a tasty breakfast on the first morning.
Ashnott Cottage, Kirkby Malzeard
Sleeps two humans and one dog
Located in the pretty lower Yorkshire Dales village of Kirkby Malzeard this is a dog walkers' paradise with plenty of paths and beautiful countryside to explore. This 19th-century former farmworkers cottage is full of character with a wood-burning stove to cosy up to at the end of the day. With an enclosed garden you don't have to worry about your furry friend saying hello to the neighbours. The historic city of Ripon and medieval Fountains Abbey is just a 10-minute drive away.
Keepers Cabin, Addingham
Sleeps four humans and one dog
Located near the banks of the River Wharfe this traditional log cabin is ideal for those dogs that love to splash about. This Yorkshire Dales location provides plenty of scenic walks such as the one to nearby Bolton Abbey full of open grounds and woodland your pooch will love playing in. The village also boasts a secure dog playing field with agility courses and paddling pools. Humans can enjoy the cabin's hot tub and sauna while those on four legs can cosy up to the wood-burning stove.
