Labs take the lead: One of the UK’s favourite breeds will be the stars of Goodwoof 2024 as pups go on parade

Calling all Labradors! Waggy tales and wet noses are guaranteed at Goodwoof this May, with everyone’s must-see dog event now including the largest Labrador parade in Sussex.

As in previous years, one dog breed has been chosen to be – dare we say it – the catwalk star of the show. This year’s parades on the Saturday and Sunday will be led by Labradors, the playful and gentle dogs beloved by generations of Brits.

The Labrador is close to the Goodwood Estate heritage, with the Duke of Richmond himself remembering with fondness his grandfather’s black lab, Bruce.

Of course, the loveable lab comes in all shapes, sizes and colours, and all are welcome. Whether your lab is a service dog or a family pet, a pup in training or a working dog with oodles of self-control, labs will be the stars of the show over the fun-filled pet weekend. Expect a rainbow of Rovers – or at least a golden, chocolate, fox red and black lab extravaganza – to light up the weekend.

Entry to the lab parade is free, but you must pre-register your slot and have a ticket to the main festival itself. If you are entering a lab in the parade, quote LABRADOR50 to receive a discount on your event tickets.

Other highlights of the Goodwoof festival will include Fido’s Lido, pet portraits, exercise trials and field training, the Ministry of Hound, a new forest walk, foodie delights, free have-a-go activities and much, much more. There’s plenty of fun for humans too, with entertainment both days – and the parade itself, likely to attract hundreds of Labradors each day, will be led by the Duke of Richmond and a military marching band.

The Duke of Richmond, said: “I’m very much looking forward to the Labrador Parade at Goodwoof as we open the event for a fantastic weekend celebrating all things dog – and especially the much-loved Labrador. When I was a boy, my grandfather had a lovely black Labrador called Bruce, and seeing lots of these special dogs take the lead at Goodwoof next year is going to be splendid.”

Book your tickets to Goodwoof and reserve a parade spot here.