Bangalore: Afghan Hounds Steal the Show at Canine Contest

Report: The Hindu
Pics: Akash Poojari

Bangalore, Dec 1: There was much activity and excitement as the winners were announced on the second day of the All India Breed’s Championship event organised by Bangalore Canine Club here on Sunday.

In the two shows that took place over the weekend, the first two places in the “Best In Show”-Show One were won by Afghan Hounds. The Afghan Hound that took the first place belonged to Vetri from Chennai, and the one that took the second place belonged to Nagaraj Shetty from Bangalore.

Show Two saw a Wirehaired Fox Terrier taking the first place — also owned by Mr. Shetty, and the second prize was given to a Doberman owned by Sanjay Reddy from Chennai.

In the category of “Best-Bred Dog in India”, a Shitzu belonging to Mr. Vetri won in both shows. In the Junior Handler Category, Darshan was awarded the “Best Junior Handler” for handling a German Shepherd.

It was evident through the championship that beauty comes at a price — some of these exhibitors spend Rs. 150 to Rs. 200 a day to keep their dogs looking the way they do.

Sundar, owner of a Harlequin Great Dane, said that during the dog’s formative years they needed to be fed well, and exercise was a must. “The Harlequin Great Dane grows a little more through the second and third year,” he added.

The competition also saw some of the biggest and most rare-coloured English Mastiffs weighing between 72 kg and 90 kg. Some of the dog owners have employed caretakers.

“We spent a bit while acquiring the dog, but after that, the expenses are just like those of any other dog’s,” said a couple who have been bringing their English Mastiff to the championship for over three years now.

Other breeds, including pugs, which are generally considered high-maintenance, also made an appearance at the show. “It is commonly said that the smaller a dog, the higher the maintenance,” says Prabhat. J, a dog trainers.