Contest 2026 - European Puppy and Handler

2026

CONTEST

WHAT LIES BEYOND?

Get ready for another unforgettable celebration of pups, handlers, and the power of community. After marking our 10th anniversary in 2025, the 2026 edition of the European Puppy & Handler Contest kicks off a new decade—and with it, exciting developments and fresh energy. We’re making some changes, offering even more visibility and celebration for all contestants.

The 2026 contest will once again take place during Darklands Festival in Antwerp (3 – 9 March, 2026 – Antwerp, Belgium), one of Europe’s largest queer fetish gatherings. this iconic weekend brings together thousands from across the continent—making it the perfect backdrop to showcase Europe’s proud, playful, and powerful pup and handler communities.

We have created a preliminary schedule for Camp K9, the Puppy & Handler Walk, the contest rounds, and social events, to help you at darklands. More details will become clearer as we get closer to Darklands 2026, and additional events may be added. For the full programme, including times, parties, and updates, please visit the official Darklands website: darklands.be.

This contest exists thanks to the fantastic sponsors who support it.
By supporting us, they’re supporting community, visibility, and the values at the heart of what we do.
Have a look below to see who they are and how their support supports us.

LATEST UPDATE

Puppy Contestants 2026

Below are the contestants for the European Puppy. Please note that some of the Social Media may lead to 18+ content.

Jack

He/HIM | Representing Belgium

Jack is an energetic pup spreading joy, smiles, and cookie-fuelled chaos across the community. He connects with everyone, making events fun, safe, and welcoming.

Why Jack:

Spreads joy and energy, making every event fun and inclusive
Creates a welcoming space for newcomers to explore Pup Headspace
Advocates for emotional wellbeing and playful connection

Quote:

“Seeing how positively people’s lives have changed because of me… I’ll try to make sure others have the same amount of FUN as me.”

Support Jack:

Show your support by sharing on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, or Bluesky and tag #TeamJack! 🐾

ROger

He/HIM | Representing AUstria

Roger brings energy, diplomacy, and leadership to every space. He’s passionate about visibility and inclusion, travelling Europe to connect pups in all communities.

Why Roger:

Brings communities together across Europe through visibility and engagement
Builds inclusive spaces where everyone feels welcome
Combines energy and diplomacy to lead and support other pups

Quote:

“The smile from people, that enjoy the things I organize, is the only reward I need to keep my work going.”

Support Roger:

Share on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, or Bluesky to show your support for Roger and use #TeamRoger! 🐾

Turi

He/HIM | Representing Spain

Turi brings positive energy, connection, and advocacy, supporting gender inclusion, mental health, and collaboration between the pup and wider fetish communities.

Why Turi:

Advocates for inclusion, unity, and mental wellbeing in the scene
Creates calm, welcoming spaces where everyone feels safe
Connects different fetish communities to strengthen the European pup network

Quote:

“It sounds cliché to say it’s freeing and helps you connect with your inner self… but it really does! To find peace in a safe space.”

Support Turi:

Share on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, or Bluesky to show your support and tag #TeamTuri! 🐾

Lars

He/HIM | Representing Czechia

Lars combines mentorship, creativity, and community care, helping newcomers find their place in pup play while sharing knowledge across events and online.

Why Lars:

Guides pups to find their community and personal growth
Turns education and mentorship into joyful, supportive experiences
Uses creativity and social skills to connect people across the pup scene

Quote:

“The most rewarding moment is when someone approaches me and says that something I said or did helped them in their own life.”

Support Lars:

Share on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, or Bluesky to support Lars and use #TeamLars! 🐾

RIKI

He/HIM | Representing Italy

Riki champions emotional wellbeing and community care, mentoring pups and creating spaces where everyone feels seen, supported, and free to play.

Why Riki:

Mentors newcomers and fosters emotional safety in all spaces
Promotes mental health and resilience through pup play
Connects communities digitally and physically, leaving no pup behind

Quote:

“Those pups later told me that one conversation changed their entire perception of the community.”

Support Riki:

Show your support on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, or Bluesky and tag #TeamRiki! 🐾

Marshmallow

They/them | Representing Belgium

Marshmallow fuses pup play and drag, creating inclusive, expressive, and safe spaces for all. Their projects elevate underrepresented identities and connect communities internationally, as transgender drag puppy!

Why Marshmallow:

Elevates underrepresented identities in pup and fetish communities
Combines creativity, drag, and pup play to make events unforgettable
Builds international bridges between pups and diverse communities

Quote:

“Representation and inclusion of minorities [matters] … there are still many minorities in the community who are waiting for opportunities to emerge.”

Support Marshmallow:

Show your support on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, or Bluesky and tag #TeamMarshmallow! 🐾

Handler Contestants 2026

Below are the contestants for the European Handler. Please note that some of the Social Media may lead to 18+ content.

Enigma

THEY/THEM | Representing the UK

Enigma is a kind and caring handler dedicated to helping pups reach their full potential and become their most authentic selves. For them, handling isn’t about control; it’s about building bonds, guiding pups into headspace, and creating safe, inclusive spaces for all.

Why Enigma?

Mental Health First Aider & advocate for neurodiversity & disability in the community
Runs workshops & events to educate on the depth of puppy play
Always armed with treats and their famous quacking goose

Quote:

“Visibility and authenticity are my biggest strengths — if I can show up as my true self, I can empower others to do the same.”

Support Enigma:

Show your support on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, or Bluesky and tag #TeamEnigma!

Kiara

SHE/HER | Representing Spain

Kiara is an affectionate and inclusive handler who helps pups feel safe, supported, and loved. She believes puppy play is about comfort, joy, and connection — not just rules or roles.

Why Kiara?

Champion for trans rights & creating tolerant, safe kink spaces
Experienced in tailoring play to each pup’s needs
Loves sweets, cuddles, and playful toys for ultimate engagement

Quote:

“My goal is to give a voice to those who feel unheard and to help pups and handlers alike find their confidence and joy.”

Support Kiara:

Show your support on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, or Bluesky and tag #TeamKiara!

Jimmy

He/HIM | Representing Switzerland

Jimmy is an experienced handler and mentor, guiding pups to grow, explore headspace, and connect with the community. From one-on-one coaching to running major events, he’s all about creating meaningful bonds.

Why Jimmy?

Organiser of Meet & Bark meetups, Swiss Puppy Games, and more
Mentors pups in both community skills and personal growth
Media-savvy advocate raising visibility for handlers & queer communities

Jimmy says:

“Nothing is achieved alone. I aim to network handlers across Europe, raising awareness and creating stronger support for everyone.”

Support Jimmy:

Show your support on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, or Bluesky and tag #TeamJimmy!

At Darklands

Darklands is where it all begins.
Find the full schedule of contest dates and times below.
To explore other pup play, pet play and furry Darklands events, click here.

FRIDAY

PUP SOCIAL

A relaxed social gathering for pups, pets, and handlers to mingle, chat, and connect before the weekend events kick off. Ideal for meeting new friends in a low-pressure environment.

Beyond Mister B

15:15 – 16:15

Saturday

European Puppy & Handler Contest: DEMO

See Pup and Handler Contestants!
Watch playful tricks, cheeky responses, and confident connections as contestants show off their skills, personalities, and respect for safety and consent. Every move is scored on engagement, communication, and pure fun.

CAMP k9

15:00-16:00

European Puppy & Handler Contest: Q&A with Previous Titleholders & Raffle Fun

Join a lively Q&A with past titleholders, hear their stories, and get tips straight from the pros!

Want to win amazing donated prizes? Grab a raffle ticket from a team member, at the social, or at other European Pup & Handler events. Pins are €5, the raffle is €5, or both together for €8 (saving €2!). Winners will be drawn at random on Sat 7 Mar at 18:10 on the Mr S Stage—you must be present to claim your prize. Participation is voluntary, and buying a pin isn’t required. Entries close Sat 7 Mar at 17:00, so don’t miss out!

MR S Stage

17:50–18:20

Sunday

European PUPpy & Handler Contest: SPeeches & Pop Questions

Step into the spotlight with Speeches and Pop Questions! Each contestant delivers a short, memorised speech to share their passion, vision, or personal journey, connecting with the audience and judges while keeping it confident, clear, and engaging. Timing matters, so make every second count. Then comes the pop question, an unexpected challenge that tests quick thinking, authenticity, and grace under pressure.

Main Stage

13:15–13:45

European Puppy & Handler Contest: Performances

Contestants show off their creativity and performance skills in the Performance round! Each contestant gets about three minutes to wow the audience with flair, originality, and stage presence. Judges will be watching for creativity, entertainment value, confidence on stage, and how well your performance connects to pup/handler or kink culture.