London Dog Week 2019: From a doggy fashion show to pet pampering, these are the LDW highlights

How appreciated is your pooch? London Dog Week is upon us, which means the capital’s canines are about to enjoy eight days of being even more pampered than usual.

From March 24 to 31, a week of events will aim to promote dog-friendliness in the capital, support the pet industry, and raise awareness of how our furry friends support people’s mental and physical health.

From family-friendly activities to fashion-focused fun, here are five of the most fabulous events celebrating man’s (and woman’s) best friend this London Dog Week.

Fashion Show Brunch at M Victoria

Pooches will be strutting their stuff on the, ahem, catwalk at M Victoria where they will be the stars of a brunch-time fashion show. Independent dog clothing brands will showcasing their sartorial creations, as modelled by four-legged Cindy Pawfords and canine Elle Mc-Fur-sons. Over the course of London Dog Week, M will also be hosting a variety of dog-friendly events, including a daschund-only Sausage Dog Celebration and a Fur-Mamma’s Day lunch on Mother’s Day, celebrating those for whom their dog is their baby.

March 30, 11am-4.30pm (two sittings), 74 Victoria Street, SW1E 6SQ. Tickets at mrestaurants.co.uk

Urban Food Fest Shoreditch High Street

Urban Food Fest is happy to welcome your pooch any weekend of the year, but they’re really rolling out the canine red carpet for London Dog Week. At this Shoreditch street food spot, a host of dog-friendly events will run throughout Saturday March 30. These include a Cuddle Club where dog fans can come and pet four-legged friends, a competition searching for the Sassiest Fashionista and photo booth looking to capture and reward the Cutest Dog Kiss. The market will also host stalls showcasing doggy treats – edible and otherwise.

March 30, 12-8pm, 162-167 Shoreditch High Street, E1 6HU

Woof Woof at Connaught Village

We all know someone who looks like their dog, whether it’s your long-limbed friend with a lurcher, or your permed pal with a poodle. This London Dog Week, florally festooned Connaught Village cafe Saint Aymes is offering the chance for dog owners to become their pooch’s doppelgangers. Having teamed up with local salon Fe Hair and Beauty, visitors will get the chance to have their hair styled like their dogs, while the canines enjoy a full grooming session. A photobooth will be on hand to capture the results, and guests can make a donation to Cosmic Charity in return for a limited edition doggy tote bag.

March 30, 11am-3pm, Connaught Street, W2 2BB. Register at connaught-village.co.uk

Kids Club with Fiona Barker at Waterstones Hampstead

This north London book shop is teaming up with aptly named children’s author Fiona Barker for a morning of storytelling and crafty fun, all with a canine theme. The creator of Danny & The Dream Dog will be in attendance, with kids able to craft their own “Dream Dog”, take home a London Dog Week puppy-pack, as well as a copy of the book redeemable against the price of the ticket. Well-behaved dogs are also welcome to get involved.

March 30, 10.30-11.15am, Tickets at waterstones.com

Canine First Aid Course

We all know that even a little first aid knowledge can save a human life – so why not swot up on the canine equivalent too? Get yourself prepared to help a dog in need at this CPD-accredited first aid course, which is designed to teach participants to care for an injured dog. Not only could going along help save a dog’s life, but attendees get a certificate of completion and proceeds from ticket sales will go to charities that help pooches in need. You’re probably already your dog’s hero, but they’ll love you even more for this.

March 24, 10.30am-6.30pm (two sessions), Target3D Ltd, 87-91 Hackney Road, E2 8FE. Tickets at eventbrite.co.uk