Mark your calendars because one of the most exciting dog events of the year is here!
Best Friends Fur Ever is proud to partner with Chesapeake DockDogs for Hops on the Dock, a three day dock diving event happening May 15 through 17, 2026 at Big Truck Farm Brewery in Parkton, MD.
This is not just a competition. It is a full weekend experience built for dog lovers, families, and anyone who enjoys watching dogs do what they love most… run, jump, and make a splash.
What is Hops on the Dock?
Hops on the Dock brings together talented dock diving dogs from all over for an action packed weekend of:
- High flying jumps
- Big air competitions
- Speed retrieve races
- Extreme vertical challenges
- Finals that showcase the best of the best
Whether you are competing or just watching, the energy is contagious. There is nothing quite like the moment a dog takes off down the dock and launches into the water while the whole crowd cheers.
More Than a Competition
This event is designed to be enjoyed by everyone, and yes, admission is completely free.
Throughout the weekend, you can enjoy:
- Live music
- A variety of local food trucks
- Unique vendors
- Craft beer and specialty drinks from Big Truck Farm Brewery
- A relaxed, family friendly atmosphere with plenty of space to hang out
Big Truck will also be serving their signature craft beers, Preakness drink specials, plus pizza, nachos, and pretzels at the bar.
Visit Best Friends Fur Ever On Site
Be sure to stop by the Best Friends Fur Ever Canine Cabana while you are there.
We will have:
- Special treats for your pup
- Photo opportunities you will definitely want to grab
- A raffle featuring ProMD gift cards and BFFE grooming rewards
It is also a great chance to connect with our team and learn more about how we support dogs’ health, enrichment, and overall wellbeing every day.
Meet Your New Best Friend on Saturday
If you have even been thinking about adding a dog to your family, you are going to want to be there on Saturday.
The BARCS Adoption Mobile will be on site Saturday with adoptable dogs ready to meet you. It is such a fun, low pressure way to interact with different dogs, ask questions, and maybe make a life changing connection.
Even if you are “just looking,” you never know who you might meet.
Special Guest: AKC Evaluator
An AKC Evaluator will also be on site, offering a great opportunity for pet parents interested in testing or advancing their dog’s skills.
Food Truck Lineup
Come hungry because each day brings something different:
Friday, May 15
Taco Bar
Jimmy’s Seafood
Gills Italian Ice
Saturday, May 16
Fuzzy’s Burgers
Kommie Pig
Love Crust Pizza
Gills Italian Ice
Sunday, May 17
Kooper’s Chowhound
Pita King
Event Schedule Highlights
Friday, May 15
1:00 pm – Onsite Registration and Practice
2:00 pm – Big Air Wave #1
3:30 pm – Big Air Wave #2
5:00 pm – Big Air Wave #3
7:00 pm – Speed Retrieve Wave #1
Saturday, May 16
11:00 am – Onsite Registration and Practice
12:00 pm – Big Air Wave #4
1:30 pm – Big Air Wave #5
3:30 pm – Extreme Vertical Competition
6:00 pm – Big Air Wave #6
Sunday, May 17
11:00 am – Onsite Registration and Practice
12:00 pm – Big Air Wave #7
1:00 pm – Big Air Wave #8
2:30 pm – Speed Retrieve Wave #2
5:00 pm – Big Air Finals
Want to Compete?
If your dog loves the water and you are ready to give it a shot, early bird club registration opens February 15 at 9:00 AM.
Why You Should Come
Hops on the Dock is more than just a weekend event. It is a celebration of the bond between dogs and their people.
It brings together a community that cares about:
- Enrichment
- Healthy activity
- Social connection
- Giving dogs opportunities to thrive
Whether you stop by for a little while or stay all day, you are going to leave smiling… and probably a little amazed at what these dogs can do.
We cannot wait to see you there.
For more info, visit: https://dockdogs.com/event/hops-on-the-dock-with-best-friends-fur-ever/
