Dog on the Tyne returns to Newcastle Quayside on August 1 for its third year, offering dog yoga, breed-specific walks, and a new dog show called The Wag Awards. The free event runs from 11am to 3pm and is open to all dog lovers.
What's happening at the festival
The Wag Awards, compered by local actor and comedian Alfie Joey, includes categories such as Waggiest Tail, Best Trick, Best Treat Catcher, and Dog Most Like Owner. Competitions start at 11am, 11:45am, 1:15pm, and 2:45pm. Judges from Newcastle Cat & Dog Shelter will award rosettes and certificates near the Millennium Bridge. Owners can enter their dogs on the day.
Five yoga sessions for owners and their dogs, led by Yoga Therapies, require pre-booking, as do the riverside walks. This year, walks are organized by breed, with groups for Labradors, Golden Retrievers, Doodles, and Spaniels setting off at different times. Walkers will stop at Gino D'Acampo restaurant for a free paw-secco, and dogs will receive a commemorative tennis ball.
Other activities and attractions
The dog agility course returns, open to all dogs on the day. The fastest competitor wins a pet hamper from Robinson's Pet Store. The festival also features market stalls, crafts, a DJ, free 'pup cups' from the Quayside Garden, and 20% off food and drinks at Pitcher & Piano for dog owners.
Local traders include Yin & Yang Pet House, The Paw Pantry, Pablo's Pawfectionary, Miss T Inspired By Love, Connie & Belle, and Puppy Sue's K9 Kitchen.
Organizer's comments
Rachel Fenwick, NE1's head of marketing and events, said: “Dog on the Tyne is a firm favourite in NE1’s events calendar. What’s not to love - all breeds of dogs and their owners enjoying a free dog festival on Newcastle’s Quayside. Last year thousands of people came along to enjoy the event, which is growing year on year. We encourage dog owners to book early for the walks and the yoga to avoid disappointment but there will be so much more to enjoy during the day that people should come along to enjoy the free fun.”
Dogs must be kept on leads throughout the event. Bags and bins are provided for cleanup. The festival is part of NE1's Summer in the City programme, which also includes Tiny Toon, Stay & Play, Screen on the Green, and Restaurant Week in August. The North East Dog Festival returns to Northumberland from August 22-23.
