A LOVE for dogs is the first requirement for any dog show competitor according to Mount Gambier resident Lyn Harris-Walker.
Purchasing her first show dog 14 years ago, the dog owner has found her passion, travelling across the country to take part in shows with her two best mates in tow.
“I first became interested in showing dogs through my friend, she was often involved in shows and one day asked if I would like one of her beagle puppies,” she said.
“I did quite well and from there decided to buy a kelpie as well – I have always loved that breed and hoped one day I would have one of my own.
“These days my two main show dogs are my male beagle and female kelpie with both placing at the recent Royal Adelaide Show.”
An active member of the Mount City and District Kennel Club, Ms Harris-Walker has been heavily involved with organising the annual competition at the Mount Gambier Show.
Known as the Mount Gambier A&H Society’s Championship All Breed Dog Show, the event attracts hundreds of eager dog owners to the region with around 120 different breeds taking part.
Separated into seven groups, the toys, terriers, gundogs, hounds, working dogs, sporting dogs and utility dogs are judged on a select standard set by the Australian National Kennel Council.
“Everything is measured and judged, including the dogs’ colour, size, shape and movement,” Ms Harris-Walker said.
“For example in a beagle they look at the length of its body and ears.”
Eager to see a large crowd at the show this year, Ms Harris-Walker said it was a great chance for anyone to learn about their breed of choice.
“A lot of the competitors at the show are also breeders and will be able to chat with people about whether or not that breed will be the right match for them,” she said.
“We have had many people come along in the past who are allergic to dogs and are trying to find which breed would be okay for them to have.”
Also encouraging those interested in showing dogs to come along, Ms Harris-Walker said they can learn about how to get involved.
“Showing dogs is something anybody can do,” she said.
“There have been people who have disabilities take part and we even have a junior section for those aged between three and seven.
“There is a real social aspect to it and something that owners and dogs love.”
The Mount Gambier A&H Society’s Championship All Breed Show will take place on Friday, Saturday and Sunday off Gratwick Drive with no admission cost.
