The Dogs of Muker Show
Muker Show is one of the highlights of the Swaledale calendar, best known for its sheep classes, traditional competitions, and the unmistakable atmosphere of a Dales show day. But alongside the livestock and the lively showground, there’s another set of stars that always draw attention – the visiting dogs.
On Wednesday the showfield was full of wagging tails, wet noses, and four-legged companions of every size and shape. Some were hard-working farm dogs, keeping a watchful eye on everything around them, while others were simply there to enjoy the excitement, explore the show, and meet new friends. From excitable spaniels and collies to scruffy terriers and pampered pooches, they added colour and charm to a day that already had plenty of both.
Photographing the dogs of Muker Show is always a joy. Each one has its own character, whether it’s the steady loyalty of a collie lying at its owner’s feet, the curiosity of a young pup seeing the crowds for the first time, or the quiet patience of an older dog watching the world go by. They are a reminder that Muker Show isn’t just about the farming community, but also about the wider life of the Dales, where dogs are part of the family and part of the landscape.
