The Pet Exhibition Helsinki
In Finland alone, there are approximately half a million dogs and even a million cats – if not more!!
Finland’s most popular pets are, as you might guess, cats and dogs. In addition to these, Finnish homes often have other pets as well, such as rodents or lizards.
Anyone planning to get a pet should familiarize themselves in advance with the species-specific needs and special characteristics of each animal. At the Pet Exhibition Helsinki, you’ll find extensive information about different animal species. If you have any questions on your mind, the many breed and species associations present at the fair will be happy to help.
The Pet Exhibition Helsinki brings together animal lovers and pets
Over the weekend, furry, feathered, scaly, and scaleless pets will be showcased – there’s plenty to admire and love in many halls!
The Pet Exhibition Helsinki 25–26 April 2026
Taking part in the event:
Dogs
These pets are rightfully called humans’ best friends – with a dog, the companionship never ends, they’re there for you even on your worst days, always greeting their owner with joy. A dog is a beloved family member and the best companion for activities.
Rodents
At the Pet Exhibition Helsinki, you can get acquainted with rodents as pets. There are experts giving talks on rodents as pets and organizations enlightening visitors about the care of rodents. The expo is bustling with guinea pigs, hamsters, pet rats, gerbils, and degus, among others.
Pet rabbits
Pet rabbits require plenty of space, exercise, enrichment, and social interaction. At the Pet Exhibition Helsinki, there will be rabbits you can pet as well as rabbits jumping over obstacles.
Aquarium
There will be several different aquarium setups, along with information about aquarium fish and aquarium care.
The program invites you to get to know the pets
Frequently asked questions
Why is the Pet Exhibition Helsinki organized?
Different animal breeds fascinate people and animal lovers alike. It is rare to have the opportunity to admire them on such a large scale. At the Pet Exhibition Helsinki, visitors can explore them more easily, receive guidance on breeding and care, and ask questions from experienced breeders. In this way, the event promotes responsible pet ownership and acquisition.
Who takes care of the animals during the event?
The animals’ owners or handlers stay with them throughout the day. The animals do not stay overnight at the venue. A veterinarian is on duty during the entire opening hours of the event and will treat the animals if necessary. No animals that require overnight supervision are kept at the venue.
What do you do if one of the animals becomes ill? Can the animals spread diseases?
A veterinarian is present throughout the entire event. If necessary, animals are referred to Viikin pieneläinsairaala for further treatment. Animals participating in the exhibitions are checked on a random basis before the show. The vaccinations of dogs and cats are verified before they are allowed to take part in exhibitions or performances. Maintaining good hand hygiene is of utmost importance whenever animals are allowed to be touched.
Do dogs enjoy competitions?
Bringing animals to competitions and fun contests provides an excellent opportunity to share information about their proper care and to encourage responsible ownership. Animals are never forced to perform on the program arena if they do not want to.
Do animals become stressed when there are many people present?
Many animals participate in numerous exhibitions and association events throughout the year. If an animal becomes stressed, it is removed from the event and taken back home. We have also reserved quiet areas where animals can be taken to calm down during the event. Stressed animals are not kept at the fair.
The animals’ enclosures meet the required size regulations. The animals selected for the Pet Exhibition Helsinki are accustomed to fairs and exhibitions, and each has its own handler.
Photographing animals and performers
At events organized by Messukeskus, photography is allowed for personal or journalistic use, as long as it does not disturb other visitors or ongoing programs. Please remember to respect the privacy of our guests. If you photograph identifiable individuals, you must obtain their permission. Messukeskus also reserves the right to prohibit photography.
Recording entire performances or programs is generally prohibited and always requires separate permission from Messukeskus Communications at communications@messukeskus.com.
At the cat and dog shows at the Pet Exhibition Helsinki, the guidelines of the organizing breed associations are always followed. A veterinarian is present at the event. During a single visit, you can explore a wide variety of species, receive advice on breeding and care, and ask questions from experienced breeders. In this way,the Pet Exhibition Helsinki promotes responsible pet acquisition and ownership.
Due to allergy reasons, visitors are not allowed to bring their own pets to the event. Guide dogs, assistance dogs, and appropriately identified dogs in training for these roles are welcome at Helsinki Expo and Convention Centre.