Seeking Tauranga's next top talented dog

Western Bay of Plenty District Council animal services officer Betty Hall and spokes dog Alfie will likely be part of a Doggy Day Out this weekend in search of talented pooches. Photo/file

The Western Bay's first ever 'My Dog's Got Talent' competition is about to take place.

The canine talent challenge will feature in the third annual Doggy Day Out on Saturday, March 25.

Hundreds of dogs - with families in tow - are expected to attend the popular event hosted by Western Bay of Plenty District Council at Katikati's Uretara Domain from 10am-2pm.

The day is pitched as a 'tonne of fun' for humans and dogs, and will include best dressed competitions, dog paddling pools, market stalls, food trucks, dog groomers, agility displays and more.

Organiser Alison Curtis said the popular event was designed to give families a fun event that everyone - including their canine family members - could enjoy.

"A love of dogs really brings people together - that's what is so special about these events," Ms Curtis said.

"The Doggy Day Outs have been incredible popular the last couple of years, and we hope to see many new and familiar faces this weekend."

This year's event is a market day theme so there will be plenty of market stalls with dog related goodies as well as delicious food trucks and hot coffee.

The council will operate its full services so people can microchip or register their dog, or browse the number of dogs up for adoptions through the Adopt a Dog Programme.

"We'd also love to talk to anyone interested in becoming a dog fosterer for our adoption dogs while they wait for their new home."

Ms Curtis said staff have enjoyed creating the special event - including the new feature: 'My Dog's Got Talent'. Entries can perform for up to five minutes on any talent they like - with prizes for first, second and third.

People can register their dog for the talent show by emailing Carolyn.berben@westernbay.govt.nz.

More information is on the council's website or the Doggy Day Out event on Facebook.