Split 4 Summer Shows 2026

Click here to read the complete article
104 – September, 2026

By Anna Szabó

With its ancient Roman palace and ruins, lovely squares and beautiful waterfront, Split has evolved into one of the Mediterranean’s defining destinations. With the famous circuit of four all-breed and various specialty shows established, and still run by Croatia’s internationally renowned handler, breeder and judge, Ante Lu?in, the city has become a true flagship and the pride of Europe’s dog show scene as well.

With an average of 800-1100 entries at the four all breed shows, the Split 4 Summer Shows don’t necessarily stand out with the number of overall entries in Europe; however, they are very much in the same league with the greatest dog shows in the world considering the exceptionally high quality of dogs that the show’s prestige and carefully curated judges lists attract. It’s somewhat like Westminster Kennel Club. I recall watching the Best in Show and Supreme Best in Show lineups at Split and thinking, ‘Wow, this is like watching the finals of a World Dog Show or Crufts’. Yes, the lineups for BIS often are THAT outstanding in Split.

Ante and his team of beyond dedicated volunteers are literally 24 / 7 at exhibitors’ and judges’ disposal to help out with whatever question and issue they need assistance with at the moment. The show has changed venues a few times over the years, but this year, we felt the show has arrived at its most well-manicured and well set-up stage. The show’s layout is defined by a buoyant village of exhibitors’ tents–quite as lively as the town’s UNESCO World Heritage Site; Diocletian’s Palace is–with a spectacular Best in Show ring and the breathtaking skyline of the Dinari mountains that embrace and divide the Dalmatian coast from the ‘outside world’. This year’s entry was one of the most, if not the most, international in the circuit’s history with more than 40 countries represented. In the shadow of today’s heated international conflicts, it is very relieving indeed to see a group of international people enjoy each other’s company and display first class sportsmanship, including individuals of countries who are officially at war with each other.

Click here to read the complete article
104 – September, 2026

Short URL: https://caninechronicle.com/?p=368730

Posted by AnthonyA on Sep 8 2026. Filed under Current Articles, Featured. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0. Both comments and pings are currently closed.