PRevious
THE CONTEST
A Celebration of Visibility, Leadership, and Joy
in the European Pup & Handler Community
What Is the EUropean Pup and Handler Contest?
Where passion meets purpose, and play meets platform.
The European Puppy & Handler Contest is a vibrant, annual celebration of human-pup and handler culture across Europe. Hosted at Darklands in Antwerp, this community-led contest is more than a performance—it’s a platform for connection, advocacy, and joy.
Since 2015, the contest has uplifted voices from across the continent, crowning titleholders who lead with authenticity, creativity, and care. Whether you’re a seasoned handler or a curious pup finding your bark, EPAHC is your space to shine.
How the Contest Works
It isn’t about perfection—it’s about presence, purpose, and play. The contest is your chance to step forward, share your story, and show what you can bring to the European pup and handler community. Here’s how it works:
Apply to Compete
Applications usually open in late autumn or early winter, with announcements made via EPAHC’s social media and website.
Contest Weekend
The live contest takes place during Darklands Festival, typically held in late February or early March in Antwerp, Belgium.
How Voting Works
Judges and public votes elect the titleholder, with scores combined Eurovision-style during Darklands.
What Does It Mean to Be a Titleholder?
Becoming European Puppy or European Handler is more than receiving a sash—it’s about stepping into a role of community visibility, support, and leadership.
Titleholders act as ambassadors for the pup and handler community across Europe. They represent not only themselves, but the many people who find joy, connection, and identity in this space.
Each title year is different. Some titleholders travel widely, host events, or speak on panels. Others focus on education, accessibility, creativity, or local outreach. You’re encouraged to shape your title year around your strengths, passions, and the needs of the community you care about.
What’s expected is that you:
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Stay actively engaged and visible throughout the year
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Represent the title with integrity and respect
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Support and uplift fellow pups, handlers, and newcomers
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Use your platform to promote inclusion, care, and community growth
You don’t need to be perfect—just present, passionate, and committed to giving back. The EPAHC team and past titleholders will support you along the way, and you’ll become part of a growing legacy of leaders who continue to shape the future of the pup and handler scene.
frequently asked questions
Whether you're thinking about competing, planning to attend, or just curious about how it all works—this FAQ is here to guide you. We've answered the most common questions about eligibility, contest format, expectations, accessibility, and what it's like to hold the title. If you don’t see your question here, don’t hesitate to reach out—we’re always happy to help, and no question is too small.
Please note: While the core structure remains consistent, some elements of the contest may change slightly from year to year depending on venue, scheduling, or community needs.
Anyone aged 18 or over who identifies as a human pup, dog, or handler and lives within an eligible region (pending review of your location) is welcome to apply. You don’t need to hold a national or regional title—though if preselection is required, current titleholders may be given priority.
Absolutely! European Pup and Handler welcomes pups and handlers of all genders, sexual orientations, body types, and expressions. There is no fixed way to look, dress, or behave to participate or win.
The contest takes place during Darklands in Antwerp and includes:
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A private interview with the judging panel
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A public speech and on-stage Q&A
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A demonstration of your pup or handler persona
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A performance or creative segment
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Voting from the audience and (sometimes) online
Final scores are calculated from a combination of judges’ points and public votes.
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The judging panel provides over 50% of the total score
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Public votes (in person and online, if applicable) are added in Eurovision-style percentages
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Tie-breakers and final scoring are overseen by the Head Judge
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Duplicate votes in online ballots are filtered out for fairness
Yes. As a contestant and titleholder, you must be publicly visible and identifiable. This includes appearing in photos, videos, and on stage without full facial coverings. European Pup and Handler prioritises visibility and representation.
You are absolutely welcome. There’s no single way to lead or present. Many past contestants brought quiet strength, alternative communication styles, or non-traditional performances. If you need adjustments, let us know—we’ll do our best to accommodate.
You’ll become European Puppy or European Handler for one year. During your title year, you’re expected to:
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Attend at least 5 relevant events across Europe
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Complete a community-based project
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Represent EPAHC in person and online
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Collaborate with your counterpart (e.g., host a joint event)
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Return the following year to hand over your title
Yes—some support may be available, primarily for appearances at other European elections and events, depending on the funding raised that year. The We Are One Foundation, coordinated through Darklands, often sponsors the EPAHC titles and may provide financial assistance; the amount available depends on how much is raised each year through donations and fundraising campaigns.
European Pup and Handler can help you organise fundraisers, connect with sponsors, and promote your efforts. Still, some personal financial planning is essential, and we rely on you to open and plan well to ensure you can represent the community confidently and comfortably throughout your title year.
You can compete twice total, but often not in two consecutive years. If you’ve already held a European title (Puppy or Handler), you may not compete again—but you’re welcome to return as a mentor, judge, or volunteer.
If you’re unable to complete your title year, the European Pup and Handler Team may appoint a successor—usually the runner-up or another past contestant. This decision may be made for you by the Team. All handovers are done with care and respect.
Yes! The contest is part of the Darklands Festival in Antwerp. Anyone with a valid festival ticket can attend the contest, cheer on contestants, and celebrate the community.
It is essential to know that some parts of the elections, such as the Judges’ Interview, may be done privately.