One of Europe’s most storied canine competitions returns to the Principality this weekend, as the Monaco International Dog Show takes over the Espace Fontvieille ‘Le Chapiteau’ on Saturday 9th and Sunday 10th May.

This year’s edition brings together 1,358 dogs representing 258 breeds from 27 countries, judged by a panel of nine international judges drawn from Cyprus, France, Ireland, Italy, Romania, Spain and South Africa. The four breeds of honour for 2026 are the Bichon Frise, Chinese Crested Dog, Havanese and Poodle — all members of FCI Group 9 — which will receive special recognition across the two days.

Competitions for all ages

The show features dedicated judging categories for dogs at every stage of life: Minor-Puppy (3 to 6 months), Puppy (6 to 9 months), Jeunes (9 to 18 months) and Veterans (7 years and over). A Junior Handler competition for young human participants is also on the programme, divided between two age groups — 5 to 9 years and 10 to 17 years — offering the next generation of handlers a competitive platform on an international stage.

A century of royal patronage

The Monaco Kennel Club, which organises the show, has deep roots in the Principality’s royal history. Founded in 1927 by Princess Charlotte, who chaired the show until 1950, it passed to her daughter Princess Antoinette, and then to Baroness Elizabeth-Ann de Massy, who held the post from 2011 until her death in 2020. The current president, Mélanie-Antoinette de Massy — granddaughter of Princess Antoinette — has led the club since 2020, having served as vice-president since 2011.

Practical information

Catering on site is provided by Monte-Carlo Catering, with a snack bar by Amore Mio. Admission is €10, with free entry for children under 12. Full details are available at monacokennelclub.com.

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Photo credit: Manuel Vitali, Government Communications Department