Here’s your latest roundup of dog-friendly news, packed with fun opportunities, community initiatives and ways to celebrate life with your four-legged companion. From competitions to countryside walks, this dog-friendly news brings plenty of reasons to get tails wagging.
1. Search continues for Britain’s naughtiest dog
The contest, organised by Country Life magazine in association with Honey’s Real Dog Food, is looking for dogs with a truly irrepressible streak – the sort that steal socks, raid the bin or find inventive ways to cause chaos at home.
The winning dog will take part in a professional photoshoot and will appear in the 22 July issue of the magazine. The winner will also receive a hamper from Honey’s Real Dog Food.
To enter, owners need to email countrylifedogs@futurenet.com with their dog’s name, breed and age, a good-quality photograph and up to 150 words describing their pet’s naughtiest moments, along with their own contact details. Entries close on 28 April 2026.
2. Dogs Trust charity shops are looking for retail volunteers
You can help with customer service, sorting donations or merchandising. Roles typically require around three hours per week, with opportunities available across a range of locations.
Volunteering is a valuable way to support their work with rescue dogs and help even more dogs get back on their paws. Requirements: A positive attitude and a love of dogs are essential. Previous retail experience is welcome but not necessary, as full training is provided.
Apply directly via the Dogs Trust website.
3. Join dog walks organised by selected National Trust properties.
Clumber Park, Nottinghamshire (S80 3BE)
Enjoy a relaxed, guided walk lasting between 45 minutes and one hour. Walks take place every Wednesday and Friday at 10am.
Dates include 17 April, 22 April, 24 April and 29 April.
Blickling Estate, Norfolk (NR11 6NF)
Join the Blickling Bounders group every Monday morning at 10am. Take a gentle stroll through parkland and woodland alongside fellow dog lovers. Routes are decided on the day. Dates include 20 April and 27 April.
Stowe Gardens, Buckinghamshire (MK18 5EQ)
Take part in a ‘Paw Patrol’ walk to explore the gardens at Stowe. Meet your walk leader at the garden entrance at 10:30am on the third Wednesday of each month. The walk lasts one and a half hours. Dates: 20 May.
These events are free to attend and do not require pre-booking; however, normal admission charges apply at each venue.
4. National Pet Month is a campaign running from 1 April to 5 May.
This initiative highlights pet welfare, responsible ownership, and the important role companion animals play in our lives. The campaign is divided into five weekly themes, each focusing on one of the key welfare needs: Companionship, Behaviour, Diet, Health and Environment.
National Pet Month is co-ordinated by the manufacturers’ trade association UK Pet Food and the membership organisation National Office of Animal Health. “National Pet Month is a great chance to celebrate the joy, companionship and comfort pets bring to our lives,” says Nicole Paley, UK Pet Food.
5. Dog-friendly days at Lincoln Castle
Generally, dogs are not allowed at Lincoln Castle. But once a month they organise dog-friendly days, when you can visit the Castle with your furry companion. Your dog can explore with you the Medieval Wall Walk, Victorian Prison and the Magna Carta.
The Grounds are free to enter and enjoy, all other admissions apply.
Dates: 18th April 2026 – 19th April 2026.
That’s all for this edition of dog-friendly news, showcasing the many ways dogs continue to bring joy and connection across the UK. Stay tuned for more dog-friendly news and opportunities to enjoy life with your canine companion.