Day out for dogs

There'll be no time to get leads and collars in a knot when city dogs compete to see which sports the pointiest ears and loudest bark at tomorrow's big dog day out - Paws in the Park.

Hundreds of dogs will bring along their owners to the annual event - one of New Zealand's largest canine gatherings - at Claudelands Park.

Paws in the Park will be hosted by Hamilton City Council.

With more than 10,000 dog owners in Hamilton, the event is council's way of acknowledging responsible dog owners who love their pooches and follow dog ownership rules.

Prizes for the best dressed pooch, pointiest ears, shiniest coat, cutest dog and the popular owner 'look-a-like' competition will be up for grabs while a kids' navigation course lets younger owners demonstrate dog handling skills.

Throughout the day animal experts, dog obedience trainers and council's animal education and control team staff will chat to dog owners. The event will conclude with a display from the police dog section.

Mayor Julie Hardaker, owner of King Charles spaniel Poppy and chihuahua Fifi. is a strong supporter of the event.

"This year, I hope we can set the record for New Zealand's largest dog walk," she says.

Returning for its third year, the show runs 1-4pm.

Dog owners are asked to keep their pets on leads at all times and bring plastic bags to clean up, when necessary, after their dogs.