The Battlefords went to the dogs last weekend as the Chautauqua Canine Club hosted their annual kennel and obedience show at the Battleford Arena, April 8 to 10.
Six champion all breed dog shows and four obedience trials showcased the best of a diverse array of dog breeds and abilities.
Robyn McGonigle, treasurer of the Chautauqua Canine Club, said the event, which has been held the second weekend of April in the Battlefords since the 1970s, attracts dog owners from near and far.
"There was one Newfoundland from Germany a while back," she said.
McGonigle said the dog shows are fun and sometimes unpredictable.
"Everything happens at dog shows," she said.
She explained the dogs compete for best in breed, then the best in each breed are placed in seven groups, and judged for best in group. The best of each group then competes for best in show. The dogs are judged for form and how well they meet the function for which they were bred.
"Each breed has a standard," she explains, adding the dogs are judged for how well they conform to the written standard.
David Bourdon came all the way from Red Deer with his wife Sharon to show their Irish Wolfhound, Mabf, named after the Irish queen of fairies.
"She's number one in the country right now, so we're showing her quite a bit," said Bourdon.
Bourdon and his wife have travelled as far as Dallas, Texas, to show their Irish Wolfhounds, of which they have three, although the oldest has been retired.
"I hadn't owned a dog since I was six years old," said Bourdon of becoming involved in dog shows. "I gave it a try and it turns out I enjoy going to the shows."
This is the first time Bourdon has shown Mabf in Saskatchewan, although he's been to dog shows in Manitoba, Alberta and British Columbia.
