Can Your Bring You Dog to the MN State Fair

Written by:
Abigail Mercer
September 3, 2026

Many fair-goers ask the same question every year: can you bring you dog to the state fair? While you can't bring your pup, you can visit the Pet Pavillion. Explore the exhibits at the Pet Pavillion!

Unfortunately, all pets (including emotional support animals) are not allowed at the State Fair. Only service dogs and animals participating in the Pet Pavillions exhibitions are allowed at the Minnesota State Fair. While your pup needs to remain at home (which in this MN heat is probably a good thing), you can visit the Pet Pavillion and check out different breeds and their talents, and get your pup a treat! 

What is the Pet Pavilion at the MN State Fair? 

The pet pavilions at the Minnesota State Fair is an open-air area in the North End of the fair grounds. It features daily dog breed showcases, agility demonstrations, as well as various pet care exhibits. 

The fun part? These dog breeds are different every day which allow visitors to see and learn about different dog breeds from 9am to 8pm. Check out what each of these events have to offer fair visitors. 

Pet Surgery Suite

At the pet surgery suite, viewers can watch live spay/neuters being done by veterinarians, aided by licensed veterinary technicians. A Minnesota veterinarian speaker will narrate the surgery, answer any questions, and highlight the importance of spaying/neutering your pets to help with the overpopulation of strays.

There are 48 spay/neuter operations completed at the MN State Fair; both cats and dogs from local humane societies and animals rescues. These pets are then offered for adoption at their respective locations after the fair. Stop by, you may find a new furry family member! 

Minnesota Disc Dog Club

The MN Disc Dog Club is a non-profit club that just loves both dogs and discs (and having fun). The club comes to the fair to host competitions, perform shows and hosts play dates to spread the love for the sport of the disc dog. This fun event is located in the Pet Pavillion outdoor demonstration area. 

St. Paul Police Department K9 Demonstration

The St. Paul Police canine officers/trainers visit the Pet Pavillion to demonstrate various canine obedience activities. This includes suspect apprehension, which is a pretty neat one to watch. Stop by the outdoor area of the Pet Pavillion to see the cutest members of the Police Department. 

Films at the Fair

Films at the Fair shows short films and animations under the stars; presented by Square Lake Film & Music. Each weekend will showcase a different lineup of short films produced by talented individual filmmakers throughout the state of Minnesota. 

You’ll have the option to stay for the entire hour-long screening or just hang for a few of these films. The full hour features a variety of genres and short-stories the whole family can enjoy. Stop by and see some real talent in the North Star State. 

Meet the Dog Breeds

Rolling Oaks Goldens, at the Pet Pavilion at the MN State Fair

Located in the outdoor area of the Pet Pavillion, you get to meet different breeds up close and personal. Each day, different breeds are featured so you’ll have to swing by more than once. 

Animal Inn Junior Showmanship and 4-H Dog Agility

Dogs jumping through hoops and showcasing their amazing agility; it’s definitely something to see. Young people will show their skill sin handing a dog in the show ring and 4-H’ers get to demonstrate the amazing agility of man’s best friend. 

German Shepherd Dog Day

German Shepherds are world renowned for their obedience and loyalty. That’s why they deserve an entire day. German Shepherd Dog Day features these amazing dogs showing their abilities through a demonstration of obedience, various tricks, and confirmation. 

Fairgoers get to see these beautiful dogs compete varying tasks, and they’ll get to meet the different types of German Shepherds as well. Our pug may not be able to compete with these talented dogs, but she’ll still demand obedience. Check them out. 

Rio Gran Dog Training, Boarding, and Daycare

The Rio Gran stops by to demonstrate the fun you can have training your dog. If you have an interest in dog training, or thinking of getting a puppy, this event is a must see. Fair-goers also get to see a variety of dog breeds showcase their skills. 

Pick Up a Dog Toy or Treat

You may not be able to bring your furry friend to the MN fair, but you can bring them home a nice treat from the Pet Pavillion! 

Stop by the Pet Pavillion for one of the events listed above, and don’t forget to get your pup a treat, toy, or any grooming products they may needs. You can even get a unique animal-themed article of clothing or furniture. Might as well get a matching set!

While you can't bring your pup to the fair, you can visit the pavillion. Be sure to check out these events! 

  • Pet Surgery Site
  • Minnesota Disc Dog Club
  • St. Paul Police Department K9 Demonstration
  • Films at the Fair
  • Meet the Dog Breeds
  • Animal Inn Junior Showmanship and 4-H Dog Agility
  • German Shepherd Dog Day
  • Rio Gran Dog Training, Boarding, and Daycare
  • Pick up a treat!

So the answer is no, you cannot bring your pup to the MN State Fair, but you can bring them a treat! 

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