Good turn out at dog show (+ video)

Shiny coats, fluffy tails and "pawfect" behaviour was what was required.

The annual Rotorua Kennel Association Annual Conformation Dog Show was held over the weekend at the Rotorua International Stadium.

Rotorua Kennel Association president, Roz Mihaka, said the show had to content with atrocious weather yesterday, with four gazebos lost in the wind.

She said luckily the weather turned it on today.

There were 420 competitors yesterday and 401 today. Entrants were from all over New Zealand, but predominantly the North Island.

One of the competitors was Australian silky terrier Supreme Champion Shadow Lans Flying First Class Altmark or 'Kate' with her owner Robyn Campbell.

The show is organised into seven different categories; including working dogs, non-sporting and toy dogs.

Mrs Mihaka said this meant all breeds were covered from chihuahuas to great-danes.

"There are a huge range of dogs."

The judges looked for best conformation of breed. This involves looking at such factors such as the texture of the dog's coat, the physical construction of the dog and if the dog is fit for purpose, such as being a working dog.

Shirley Rolfe with her Bichon Frise 'Image' Rotorua Kennel Association Annual Conformation Dog Show. Photo/ Stephen Parker

One dog is chosen from each category to compete for the prestigious overall prize of 'best in show'.

This year there were four New Zealand judges and one Australian judge. Each were allocated to different categories over the two day event.

Mrs Mihaka said there had been a good steady flow of public, despite the poor weather.

"It's a great opportunity for people to come along and chat with the dog owners. They are able to discuss if a particular dog would fit into someone's life or if that breed would be completely impractical."