Hoping for clear skies for Dog Dayz at Dannevirke A&P Showgrounds

Nose to tail: Breeders and their dogs line up for judging at last year's Dog Dayz. Photo / Christine McKay

With 400 entries each day, going to the dogs in Dannevirke will mean a great couple of days for proud owners, pampered pooches and the visiting public at Dog Dayz.

"The public are encouraged to come along to the show, but we ask that they keep their children in tow. Little toddlers running up to dogs isn't good because it's not the kids who get put down," Ruahine Kennel Association president Tim Delaney said.

The event will be held over two days at the A&P Showgrounds, on Saturday and Sunday, April 21 and 22.

Mr Delaney said organisers were thrilled to have 400 entries, the same as last year.

"Other clubs have seen their entries drop by a hundred, so we're very pleased to have retained our numbers."

Dog Dayz has a reputation as the happy show, with owners and their pampered pooches lapping up the friendly atmosphere.

And this year there will be a special treat, but just for the owners, not their dogs.

"Winning owners will receive chocolate prizes donated by Gary and Bridget Hassler of Dannevirke New World," Mr Delaney said.

A highlight of the all-breeds show will be the Kids and K-9 at noon on Sunday.

"This is an opportunity for children to take along their pet dog and experience the world of dog shows for themselves."

With two judges from Australia, as well as two New Zealanders, the organisers just want the weather to co-operate.

"We were at the dog show in Hastings last weekend and it was 26C, today it's 9C in Dannevirke, so we want the bad weather to have moved on by next weekend."