The final day of Expo Animal 2025, held at Forum Braga, was marked by moments of learning, practical demonstrations, and celebrations of the best canine, feline, and exotic species. The 13th edition of the event attracted over 21,000 visitors over the course of two days, consolidating its status as one of the largest and most significant events dedicated to companion animals in Portugal.

According to Carlos Silva, Executive Administrator of InvestBraga, “Expo Animal continues to establish itself as a national benchmark event, capable of bringing together professionals, breeders, owners, and families in an atmosphere of sharing, education, and celebration. The strong attendance at this edition reflects the sector’s sustained growth and the public’s growing interest.”

Throughout the weekend, visitors had access to a comprehensive program at the Tutor Space, with theoretical and practical workshops led by experts in veterinary medicine, animal behavior, and welfare. Topics included:

“A new family member: how to care for your pet”; “Adolescent dogs — understanding better to educate better”; “Early and adult socialization: strategies for each stage of a dog’s life”; “Potentially dangerous breeds? Myths and truths!”; “Hearts that understand each other: children and dogs”; “How to responsibly acquire an animal”; “Recipe for a happy bird,” “Recipe for a happy rabbit,” and “Recipe for a happy reptile.”

These workshops aimed to raise awareness about responsible ownership and to provide pet owners with practical knowledge, attracting a diverse audience eager to strengthen their relationship with animals.

The program also featured several practical demonstrations that captivated visitors. The Cynotechnical Operational Group (GOC) of the Directorate-General for Reintegration and Prison Services presented security and specialized training exercises, highlighting the role of dogs in operational contexts. As on the previous day, Aptecão once again delighted the audience with its dog dancing demonstration.

With 59 exhibitors, including two international companies, Expo Animal 2025 offered a wide range of products and services covering food, hygiene, animal welfare, accessories, training services, pet hotels, and specialized media. The area dedicated to startups and microenterprises highlighted innovative projects in the sector, reinforcing the importance of innovation and entrepreneurship in the pet market.

Exotic animals also played a prominent role. The public was able to observe species such as macaws, parrots, pythons, lizards, tarantulas, scorpions, turtles, and chameleons up close, in an educational exhibition that emphasized diversity and responsibility in the adoption and care of these animals.

Over two days, the rings and stages of Forum Braga hosted hundreds of animals in competition, evaluated by a panel of nine judges, including six international judges (from Italy, Poland, Ireland, Sweden, Denmark, and Georgia) and three national judges.

A total of 126 trophies were awarded across various categories — including National and International Dog Shows, Monographic and Specialized Shows — highlighting the exceptional quality of the participants and the presence of renowned breeders.

In this 15th International Dog Show of Braga, the grand winner of the Best In Show (B.I.S.) award was Marta’s Design K’Aston, a Cane Corso Italiano bred by Marta Garcia Pagan, judged by the renowned Svante Frisk. Congratulations to all participants and winners who graced the grand finale of Expo Animal 2025.

The Cat Show featured several breeds and themed presentations led by the Portuguese Feline Club, focusing on breeding, genetics, and exhibition classes. Visitors had the chance to appreciate the elegance and diversity of feline breeds up close, with special moments of grooming and interaction between breeders and the public.

Sandra Vaz, Commercial Director of InvestBraga, stated: “Expo Animal is a unique platform for the sector. The diversity of exhibitors and the quality of competitions and activities reflect the growing dynamism of this field. The 2025 edition demonstrated that Braga continues to lead in hosting top-tier events that combine education, competition, innovation, and social interaction.”

José Olímpio, Operations Director of InvestBraga, added: “The competitions and presence of international judges strengthen Expo Animal’s role as a privileged stage for promoting breeds and recognizing the work of breeders.”

Expo Animal 2025 thus concluded another successful edition, reaffirming itself as a reference event for breeders, owners, professionals, and animal lovers.

With an increasingly comprehensive program and growing public engagement, Expo Animal will continue to be a key date in the national calendar of companion animal events.