Goodwoof

Chien Charmant judge, Scott Wimsett, talks style at Goodwoof

05th March 2026

Unleash your inner style icon! Our 2026 Chien Charmant judges will be on the look-out for human and canine pairings with the most wit, personality, bond, charm, charisma, and style at Goodwoof.​ ​Discover how to get involved and learn more from the competition's host, Scott Wimsett.

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  • Chien Charmant

Each day at Goodwoof, eager spotters are out and about scanning the crowd for examples of super stylish attire together with that certain something between a dog and its owner.

The Chien Charmant judging panel this year includes fashion model and TV presenter Jodie Kidd and Harper’s Bazaar Editor-in-Chief Lydia Slater, with the competition hosted by Scott Wimsett.

Judged under three categories, Union, Spirit and Swagger, the panel must decide who has the most wit, personality, bond, charm, charisma, and style amongst the entrants in order to scoop the covetable Chien Charmant prizes.

Each afternoon, entrants walk beside the giant Goodwoof letters, explaining to host, Scott Wimsett, and the watching audience, just what their dog means to them whilst displaying their amazing outfits. Scott has hosted the competition for a number of years and told us a little about some of the stories he’s heard along the way.

He says, “Chien Charmant is eagerly anticipated each day over the Goodwoof weekend and becomes quite the crowd puller! It’s an absolute hoot for everyone involved. Whether you’re a hardened dog lover, or just a fan of making special memories, the opportunity to walk the runway with your cherished four-legged companion is a lifelong moment to savour.”

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We asked Scott about some of the stories he’s heard from Chien Charmant participants. He reflected, “I think what I take mostly from this very special event is that we Brits, as a nation, really do love our dogs. Matching outfits and choreographed dance routines aside, what comes across most is the strongest sense of loyalty between dog and owner which is deeply apparent on the Chien Charmant stage. We get a good chance to talk to everyone who is entered too and often they tell us the most compelling stories. My favourite part of the day is asking everyone about their beloved pooch and seeing their eyes light up as they recount their unique relationship. Just heaven!”

Scott has seen some great performances whilst hosting Chien Charmant; “Jackie, our winner from last year was extremely thrilled to have been given top spot and her joy was contagious. Jackie, together with her beautiful dog, Mark 1V, entertained the crowd with the most perfectly choreographed dance routine leaving the judges absolutely bowled over.”

But Scott is keen to ensure that everyone, whatever their skills in dance or presentation, is keen to give Chien Charmant a go. “We really do welcome everyone onto the Chien Charmant stage, who have impressed the short list selectors with the sheer joy of dog ownership and a certain je ne sais quoi.  

The judges aren’t focussing on polish and perfection. We have every dog variety from super smart Kennel Club pedigrees to gorgeous scruffy cross breeds with multi-coloured eyes. It is a fully inclusive fashion moment. We’re all for the fur and not the formality!

Scott Wimsett Chien Charmant host

But how well behaved does a dog have to be to set paw on the Chien Charmant runway we asked? “To be honest, a bit of mischief adds to the hilarity of it all,” Scott explains, “Obviously we would encourage owners to only enter a dog who will feel comfortable and safe on the stage and to be alongside other dogs under the judges’ gaze but some expression of what makes them unique is definitely welcomed!”

There must be some funny moments that happen during Chien Charmant. “Oh absolutely, it’s all great fun but last year in particular, a little boy in the crowd who decided to take over the microphone and give us his thoughts on all of the canine contestants was a highlight for me, and he definitely gave me a run for my money!”

And Scott’s most memorable moment hosting Chien Charmant? “It has to be when a boyfriend and girlfriend proposed to each other at Goodwoof last year on a super sunny day with a glass of champagne in one hand a dachshund each clutched under the arm. That’s an image that I will never forget.”

If you would like to join in the Chien Charmant fun at Goodwoof, simply dress to impress and see if you can catch the eye of our talent spotters who will be roaming the event throughout Saturday and Sunday.

Join us at Goodwoof on 16 and 17 May 2026. Early bird tickets are now on sale, and you'll save over 20% by booking early.

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