Who doesn’t love a bit of sightseeing when on vacation, or enjoying a day off in your own city?
Well, now dogs can get in on the action, too, with some sightseeing on their own. Earlier this month, Helsinki launched the first-ever sightseeing tour for dogs to coincide with the Finnish capital hosting the World Dog Show last weekend.
The Doggy Route to Happiness takes in a dog-sized Sibelius Monument, a pop-up dog café (some of the best dog treats, anyone?), a dog island, a dog-friendly DJ set, and advertising targeted toward our furry friends, too.
The tour launched at the weekend with almost 20,000 canine visitors to the city. Finland was named as the happiest country in the world for the eighth consecutive year in March, and the tour is part of a bid to extend that happiness to dogs, too. Take a look at Visit Helsinki’s dog’s guide for more information about what the city’s pups get up to.
“Pets boost happiness,” said Soila Lehkonen, the Head of Brand & PR in Helsinki Partners, responsible for the city’s international marketing. “This time, we wanted to bring attractions to some of the city’s most beloved outdoor spots – places that both dog owners and their dogs can enjoy together. We hope as many people as possible will come and experience familiar landmarks from a dog’s perspective.”
The Stickelius Monument, which honors the iconic Sibelius Monument devoted to the composer Jean Sibelius, was curated by local rescue dog Neris. The pup has become well-known in Finland for collecting sticks and turning them into a public art installation known as the Stick Gallery, or Keppigalleria.
There’s also a stop at Café Dogatta, which is located next to the famous Café Regatta, and photographer Fanny Haga was there on Saturday to take custom dog portraits in front of a dog-sized photo wall.
However, the main attraction is Rajasaari Island, a dog-friendly island complete with forests, beaches, and water. The President and Prime Minister of Finland both live nearby, too, and have been seen with their dogs on the island.
The World Dog Show, meanwhile, was hosted by the Finnish Kennel Club at the Messukeskus Expo and Convention Centre. A Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen, Black Majesty Some Say, and her dog mom Iva Raič won Best in Show.
Over 15,000 dogs participated over the weekend, with the most registered breeds being the Labrador Retriever, Finnish Lapphund, golden retriever, and Dalmatian. They came from 73 different countries, ranging from Finland and nearby Sweden and Poland to as far afield as Peru, Singapore, and Australia.
Wherever you are in the world, here are 10 signs your dog is happy. Meanwhile, here’s how to bond with your dog in 10 simple steps
