It is a source of great honour for me to welcome you to the World Dog Show 2026. The World Dog Show has always been a key event for the international dog-loving community: a place where different cultures, experiences and professional backgrounds come together, united by a shared passion for our dogs, for the preservation of dog breeds and for their health.

The Bologna edition of the WDS has become a reality thanks to the joint efforts of breeders, specialist associations, dog-loving groups, judges, volunteers and partners who, with dedication and expertise, contribute every day to the growth of Italian dog breeding. This spirit of collaboration makes possible an event capable of showcasing the quality of our sector and offering the public a rich, modern showcase open to international dialogue.

After eleven years, the World Dog Show returns to Italy with results exceeding all expectations: over 31,000 confirmed entries and more than 300 dog breeds, which BolognaFiere will welcome with functional spaces and state-of-the-art facilities, offering visitors and participants the ideal setting to fully enjoy the experience. It will be an opportunity to celebrate the history, beauty and variety of dog breeds, to engage with breeders and judges from all over the world, and to share a vision of dog breeding based on animal welfare and proper selection.

The World Dog Show is not just a huge exhibition: it is an opportunity to connect, to learn, and to build a sense of community. I wish everyone taking part in this event all the best, and hope you enjoy a few days packed with excitement and new discoveries, in the spirit of healthy and responsible dog ownership.