Canine Companions Out in Full Force at 2025 Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event

Vote for the cutest dog taking in the sights and sounds of the 2025 Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event at the Kentucky Horse Park.

Home » Competitions » Kentucky Three-Day Event » Canine Companions Out in Full Force at 2025 Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event

With more than 96,000 people attending the 2025 Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event, numerous dogs came out to the Kentucky Horse Park to take in the sights, sounds and smells of the major, action-packed event. For pups, attending “The Best Weekend All Year” means fresh air, exploring the grounds and plenty of dog-focused goodies from the trade fair. So many cute dogs onsite at the event gave us the chance to catch some adorable canines on camera. Be sure to let us know if you spot your dog. We’d love to know his or her name and a little bit about your pup!

Which Dog Is the Cutest at the 2025 Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event? Poll

Vote on your pick for the cutest dog at the Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event! While we couldn’t capture photos of all the adorable pups, check out a selection of dogs below and scroll to the bottom to cast your vote and we’ll report back on the results.

#1 – These dogs looked sharp in their Ariat jackets. ©Alana Harrison

#2 – This dog sits at attention while watching cross country. ©Kathleen Landwehr

#3 – This pup seems happy to take in the sights at the horse inspection. ©Alana Harrison

#4 – This dog enjoys a quiet moment after some shopping. ©Alana Harrison

#5 – This dog takes a moment to snack on some Kentucky bluegrass. ©Alana Harrison

#6 – This young pup stays hydrated while out and about on a sunny day. ©Alana Harrison

#7 – This little dog rides around in style and comfort on cross-country day. ©Kathleen Landwehr

#8 – This dog settles in for the second horse inspection. ©Kathleen Landwehr

#10 – This dog is dressed to impress with a hat and bandana. ©Alana Harrison

#11 – This pup sports another stylish bandana. ©Alana Harrison

#11 – This little pup hangs out by the ramp to the Rolex Stadium during the show jumping phase. ©Kathleen Landwehr

#12 – This dog waits by his owner on cross-country day. ©Alana Harrison

For more on our coverage of the 2025 Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event, click here.

Thanks to Kent Nutrition Group and Blue Seal for our coverage of the 2025 Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event. It includes lead-up events, rider interviews, competition reports, horse spotlights, photos, videos and more.