Kirkwall was full of life during our Doggy Day Out, as locals and visitors alike came together for a day dedicated to celebrating our four-legged friends. With a great turnout, dry weather, and a packed programme of activities, the event created a fantastic atmosphere from start to finish.
From 11am, the Kirkwall BID Tent on the Kirk Green quickly became a focal point for the day. Families, dog owners, and curious visitors stopped by to meet the team and learn more about the work being done to make Kirkwall a cleaner, more welcoming, and dog-friendly town. The tent had a steady flow of visitors throughout the day, with many picking up doggy poo bags and holders, balloons for children, and a range of treats and goodies for their dogs. It also offered a chance to chat about the growing number of dog-friendly initiatives across the town centre, something that was clearly reflected in the day’s activities.
One of the most popular features at the tent was the doggy treats, which proved a big hit with the pups in attendance. Dogs eagerly sampled a variety of dog-friendly snacks, with plenty of wagging tails and happy faces as they enjoyed their special treats.
Across the town centre, local businesses fully embraced the event. Shops and cafés got involved by offering water, treats, and a warm welcome to dogs, helping to create a truly dog-friendly experience and encouraging visitors to explore Kirkwall with their pets.
A key highlight of the day was the much-loved Doggy Day Out Dog Show. With over 50 entries and 33 dogs taking part, the show featured a wonderful variety of breeds, from Collies and Cocker Spaniels to Cavapoos, Great Danes, Cane Corsos and Whippets. There was a fantastic crowd gathered to spectate, adding to the buzz and excitement around the ring. Judged and compered by Liam McArthur, (MSP), Marcus Cordock (BBC Radio Orkney) and Catriona (Northvet), the show was full of energy, laughter, and memorable moments. Every dog received treats for taking part, while winners across the various categories were awarded rosettes and prizes.
The competition showcased plenty of personality and energy, with some standout winners on the day. Finn, a 4-year-old Golden Retriever, was crowned Best in Show, impressing the judges as the overall winner. Lola, a female Great Dane, took the title of Big and Beautiful, while Teddy, an 18-week-old cavapoo, won Peedie and Pretty. Daisy, a lively cocker spaniel full of energy and “crazy zoomies,” claimed Best Trick, and Hugo, a 1-year-old cocker spaniel, wagged his way to victory in the Waggiest Tail category.
Elsewhere, the Dog Agility Fun Contest at Restart Orkney offered dogs the chance to try something different, with a creative obstacle course that kept both participants and spectators entertained throughout the day. Inside, there were also activities for children, a cosy space for dogs, and fun photo opportunities.
Doggy Day Out 2026 was a wonderful celebration of community, local business support, and the special bond between people and their dogs. With such a strong turnout and positive atmosphere, the event was a great success, and we’re already looking forward to making next year even bigger and better.
If you were in Kirkwall on Saturday and joined us for Doggy Day Out - whether you were watching or taking part - we’d love to hear your thoughts.
Click the link here to complete our short feedback form for the event. As a thank you, you’ll also be entered into a prize draw for a chance to win a £30 Kirkwall Gift Card.
