2026 Calendar of Pet Trade Shows and Conventions

Pet trade shows, conventions and conferences are getting back on their feet and returning to in-person shows again after a few years of primarily virtual events. Whether you are looking for a conference to host a booth to promote your business or to attend as a pet professional, we’ve fetched the 2026 pet conferences from coast to coast (and even a few international events).

If you are looking for a consumer pet show, don’t miss our calendar of Pet Expos and Dog Events!

blurry image of well lit trade show floor with exhibits; words Pet Trade Shows and Conventions at bottom of image

Animal Welfare and Rescue

Animal welfare and rescue conferences are a cornerstone for professionals dedicated to the protection and well-being of animals. These events assemble veterinarians, shelter workers, rescue organization representatives, and animal welfare advocates, providing a vital platform for discussing current challenges, innovative solutions, and best practices in animal rescue and welfare. Attendees gain insights into the latest research on animal behavior, health, and rehabilitation, enhancing their ability to care for animals in need effectively. Moreover, these conferences promote collaboration and networking, fostering partnerships that can lead to improved rescue efforts, adoption programs, and policy development.

Animal Care Expo

  • When: April 7-10, 2026
  • Where: Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Association for Animal Welfare Advancement Fall Conference

  • When: October 26-29, 2026
  • Where: Chattanooga, Tennessee

Best Friends National Conference

  • When: May 7-9, 2026
  • Where: Salt Lake City, Utah

Carolinas Unite Animal Welfare Professionals Conference

  • When: March 9-12
  • Where: Cherokee, North Carolina

Co-Sheltering Conference

  • When: March 9-12, 2026
  • Where: Cherokee, North Carolina

Prairie States Animal Welfare Conference 

  • When: May 31-June 2, 2026
  • Where: Bloomington, Illinois

Southeastern Animal Control Association (SACA) Conference

  • When: September 15-18, 2026
  • Where: Canton, Georgia

Virginia Federation of Humane Societies

  • When: March 25-27, 2026
  • Where: Harrisonburg, Virginia

Dog Training Conferences and Tradeshows

Dog training conferences offer a platform for learning, networking, and professional development. These conferences gather renowned trainers as well as behaviorists and researchers to share the latest insights and techniques in canine behavior modification and training for service or working dogs. Look for conferences where you can gain exposure to new training methodologies, behavioral science advancements, and practical hands-on workshops, enabling them to stay abreast of the evolving landscape of dog training.

Dog Behavior Conference

  • When: April 17-19, 2026
  • Where: online

The Victoria Stilwell Academy for dog training and behavior hosts this online conference for both trainers and the public.

Aggression in Dogs Conference

  • When: 2026 TBA
  • Where: Charlotte, North Carolina

APDT/CAPDT Conference

  • When: Oct. 7-10, 2026
  • Where: Schaumburg, Illinois

Canine Science Symposium

  • When: 2026 TBA
  • Where: TBA

ClickerExpo

  • When: March 20-22, 2026
  • Where: Westchester County, New York

ClickerExpo Virtual

  • When: January 23-25, 2026
  • Where: Virtual

IAABC Foundation Animal Behavior Conference

  • When: April 23-26, 2026
  • Where: Burlington, Vermont

International Association of Canine Professionals (IACP) Annual Educational Conference

  • When: Aug. 18-20, 2026
  • Where: Newport Beach, California

Modern Ethical Training (MET) Conference

  • When: March 7-8, 2026
  • Where: Online

National Narcotics Detector Dog Association (NNDDA) National Training Conference

  • When: May 17-22, 2026
  • Where: Amarillo, Texas

Penn Vet Working Dog Conference

  • When: 2026 TBA
  • Where: generally spring

WSPCA Working Dog Conference

  • When: September 15-17, 2026
  • Where: Nashville, Tennessee

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