Royal Highland Centre and Scottish Kennel Club celebrate 50 years together
Scottish Kennel Club: Double Championship Dog Show
Royal Highland Centre
Thursday 16 – Sunday 19 May: Doors open 7.30am
The Scottish Kennel Club (SKC) is holding its prestigious Championship Show at the Royal Highland Centre next weekend. The occasion marks the 50th year of the SKC’s relationship with the Ingliston venue and promises to be a historic weekend in the canine calendar.
This year, SKC was granted permission by the Royal Kennel Club in London to hold a double championship with challenge certificates being awarded in both shows, a first for dog shows in the UK.
Both their General and All-Breed Championship Shows will be held in conjunction with each other over the four-day weekend, an exciting initiative which hopes to be beneficial to all exhibitors participating.
First formed back in 1881, the SKC is the cornerstone of the dog-loving community in Scotland and beyond and has grown into an institution dedicated to promoting responsible dog ownership. From prestigious championship shows to specialty breed exhibitions, obedience competitions, and agility competitions, the SKC’s events showcase the beauty, grace, and diversity of all pedigree dogs while providing a platform for breeders, exhibitors, and spectators to come together and celebrate their shared love of dogs.
The Royal Highland Centre has been the perfect setting to host these events for the last 50 years, with the first SKC outdoor championship event held at the showground in 1974. Historically, these shows were outdoor events – however, in 2012, SKC made the decision to move the Breed Championship Show indoors to the Highland and Lowland Halls of the Royal Highland Centre, where it has remained since. Trade stalls are also hosted within the venue’s Central Halls, providing exhibitors and attendees alike the chance to browse pet food, accessories, and more from more than 40 businesses.
Beyond its role in dog shows, the SKC has played a vital role in protecting and promoting the interests and well-being of dogs in Scotland.
Through educational programs, outreach initiatives, and partnerships with veterinary professionals, the club has worked tirelessly to ensure that all dogs receive the care, love, and respect they deserve.
From championing legislation, to protecting dogs, to providing resources and support to dog owners in need, the SKC has made a tangible difference in the lives of countless dogs and their human companions.
Mark Currie, Director of Royal Highland Centre at Ingliston said: “Over 50 years Royal Highland Centre and Scottish Kennel Club have built a brilliant partnership together, growing the event and using lots of different spaces across the site over the years.
“These dog shows have now become fixtures on the canine calendar and showcase the very best. There is lots for those that love dogs to enjoy and to celebrate from agility competitions to the beauty and grace of the pedigree dogs. The event this year spans four days and is bigger than ever, so do come along and enjoy.”
Spectators and their furry friends alike are welcome to the show.
Tickets are payable at the gate on entry to the showground, with all details of prices and show timings available on the Royal Highland Centre website here.