Spectators at Horse of the Year Show (HOYS) this year will be able to enjoy another species in action as dog agility makes its debut at the event.
HOYS organiser Grandstand has announced that the Agility Nexus Hunter & Gather Dog Agility Grand Prix will feature at the 2026 show (7-11 October), bringing “the very best dog and handler partnerships in a fast-paced, high-level agility championship”.
HOYS event director Emma Williams said: “We are thrilled to introduce an exciting new dog display to this year’s programme. The Agility Nexus Hunter & Gather Dog Agility Grand Prix promises fast-paced, high-energy entertainment for spectators, adding another thrilling element to HOYS and giving audiences the chance to witness these incredible canine athletes in action.”
Agility Nexus, whose aim is to “evolve the sport through inclusivity, progressive competition formats and uncompromising standards in dog safety, judging and competitor experience”, is staging two finals, one for large and one for small and extra-small dogs.
“In a landmark step for the sport, the small dog championship will combine extra small and-small categories, creating the first major UK final of its kind to include extra small dogs at flagship level,” a HOYS spokesperson said.
There will be five heats, starting this month, offering qualification for a semi-final on 2 August at which 10 large and 10 small or extra-small dogs will earn their HOYS tickets.
Agility Nexus co-founders Neil Ellis and Dave Munnings said: “We are so excited to bring the Agility Nexus Hunter & Gather Grand Prix to Horse of the Year show. In 2026 this will involve the best extra small, small and large dogs in the country race against the clock over an agility course to be crowned the grand prix winner.
Horse & Hound Newsletter
Never miss out on the latest happenings in the equestrian world
“Agility Nexus is an organisation which upholds the highest standards in dog safety, judging and competition, and we are proud to join the prestigious HOYS line-up. Get ready to watch some talented dogs and handler partnerships in action!”
Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now
Eleanor is an experienced journalist who spent over eight years working for local and national newspapers before joining H&H as news editor in March 2016. Passionate about equine welfare and exposing the truth, Eleanor has reported on all aspects of the industry, from Brexit to anti-bullying campaigns, and from dressage rules to mules. Her sport of choice is showjumping, in which she competes her own horses, and she also enjoys reporting at local jumping shows through to international championships.
