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.
Want To Sponsor?
Interested in supporting the 2026 Contest? Explore our sponsorship and collaboration opportunities:
Applications Now Open – European Puppy & Handler 2026
We’re excited to announce that applications for European Puppy 2026 and European Handler 2026 are officially open!
This is your chance to represent the pup/handler community across Europe, show your passion, and help lead events, educational initiatives, and community projects throughout 2026. If you have a question, please review our Q&A on our contests page or send us a message.
Key Dates & Deadlines
Applications Open: Now
Application Deadline: 23:59, 28 December 2025
Educational Video & Performance Submission: 23:59, 18 January 2026
Why Apply?
Become a visible leader in the pup/handler community
Support new pups and handlers at events and online
Champion causes you care about and make a positive impact
Join a network of like-minded individuals across Europe
Before applying, please read the information below and Click Support to Learn more.
We Ready Click the button for the form you wish to fill in.
Application Information
Ready to apply for European Puppy 2026 or European Handler 2026? Here’s everything you need to know before starting your application.
What You’ll Need
Personal / Scene Details
Additional Information
Accessibility
Confirmation
Written Questions
Motivation & Identity: Why you’re applying, what pup play or handling means to you
Community Experience: A moment demonstrating visibility, inclusivity, or support
Puppies: explaining pup play to newcomers
Handlers: helping a pup into headspace
Strengths & Goals: Causes you care about, personal strengths, and achievements you hope to make
Fun Questions:
Puppies: pup type, favourite things to chase, headspace items, quirky skill
Handlers: favourite pup attributes, favourite handling item, unique talent
Photo Requirements
Upload high-resolution portrait photos:
Puppies: waist-up, clear, identifiable, one in hood
Handlers: waist-up, clear, identifiable
The team may request new photos if needed.
After Acceptance
Confirmed contestants will join the ‘Class of 2026’ Telegram group. You’ll then be asked to complete:
Educational Video (5–10 mins)
Performance Audio/Visual (up to 2:30 mins)
Deadline for both: 23:59, 18 January 2026
Raffle Donation
Bring a small prize (max €30) relevant to the community to support the titleholder’s travel.
While you wait for Confirmation, this is the perfect time to:
Get involved in your local pup or kink community
Attend events, meetups, and workshops
Reflect on your values, goals, and how you'd use the title to make a difference
Connect with past contestants and titleholders for insight and inspiration
Start building your campaign ideas, outfits, or creative vision
Follow us on social media to stay updated, and become part of the community
OUR SPONSORS
