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The nation’s first-ever canine talent show is calling for entries in their search for the best dogs in Australia.
The Dog Down Under competition has officially opened its registration. Dog owners across the country can enter to showcase their pets’ exceptional abilities, achievements, and contributions to society.
With a substantial prize pool exceeding $28,000, the competition promises to highlight the diverse talents and heartwarming stories of Australian dogs.
Pet behaviourist Lara Shannon to host search for the best dogs in Australia
The search for the best dogs in Australia’s will also be a five-part TV series on Network Ten later this year.
The program’s host is pet behaviourist Lara Shannon. Not a stranger to canine television, Shannon is also host of popular shows Pooches at Play (ch10) and Animal SOS Australia (7TWO).
And she’s very excited to meet the dogs and their owners, and to hear their special stories.
“The amazing tales of courage, dedication, athletic skills, and tireless work of our canine companions,” Shannon says.
“We urge Australians to nominate their dogs, or dogs they know, into one or more of the five award categories,” adds Shannon.
More than just a show about dogs: program to highlight significant role of dogs
Ultimately, the The Dog Down Under competition aims to highlight the significant role dogs, play in our lives.
Shannon says their positive impact on human well-being is obvious in the many key roles they play in our lives.
“Our dogs make us feel good by reducing both our mental and physical stress,” she says.
“(by) promoting relaxation and even boosting our memories.
“Not to mention their innate sixth sense and scent detection skills to pick up when we are sick or in need of help!” adds Shannon.
The Dog Down Under categories: oldest dog in Australia, and more!
The competition includes five categories: Most Talented, Everyday Heroes, Hardest Working, Sporting Legends, and Oldest Dog in Australia. Each recognising different aspects of canine excellence, from sporting prowess to life-saving actions.
Below is an overview of each of the categories:
MOST TALENTED – From talking with buttons to excelling at a trick’s routine, playing an instrument, to ‘singing’ their favourite song and more, could your pooch take out the title of Australia’s most talented dog?
EVERYDAY HEROES – From wrangling Snakes to saving Koalas from fire, detecting disease and seizures, to raising the alarm of trouble, there are many tales of heroic dogs that have saved lives, even at the cost of their own, and we want to hear their story.
HARDEST WORKING – From hardworking herders to faithful flock guardians, police dogs and four-legged heroes going to war, to canines helping people in need. This category is for those dogs with jobs that go above and beyond the call of duty.
SPORTING LEGENDS – from obedience, agility, and flyball to sheepdog trials, sled racing, and much more. This category is for the canine sports stars that are ready to impress with their athletic prowess and sporting attitude.
OLDEST – Have you got Australia’s oldest dog? Could they even take over the World’s Oldest Dog title?
One finalist will be nominated for each size category -miniature/toy/small, medium, large & giant breed. With the oldest dog across all categories earning the crown.
Do you have Australia’s top dog?
Ten finalists – including one overall winner – will be chosen for each category, except Oldest Dog.
Instead, the judges will choose one finalist for each of the Oldest Dog size categories: miniature/toy/small; medium; large/giant breed. The overall winner will then be chosen from amongst the finalists.
Dog lovers can register their interest now, with entries officially opening 22 April 2024 and closing 20May 2024.
Finalists for each category will be announced from 4 June and winners announced from 9 June 2004.
