104th Ooty Dog Show Begins with Record 55 Breeds

The 104th obedience test marked the commencement of the annual Ooty Dog Show in Udhagamandalam on May 8, 2026. Held at the Government Arts College ground, the event attracted large crowds of local residents and tourists. The opening day featured an obedience test with 49 participating dogs, including members of the Tamil Nadu Police Canine Squad, judged by Philip Butt. Speciality shows for Beagles, Indian breeds, and Dachshunds were also conducted under the supervision of judges Preetham and Quique Boza Alpheratz. Rajini Krishnamurthy, president of the South of India Kennel Club (SIKC), reported a record turnout with over 435 entries representing 55 different dog breeds, an all-time high for the competition. The SIKC, established in 1939 and affiliated with the Kennel Club of India, is the second oldest club of its kind in the country. Following the initial obedience tests, the event is scheduled to continue through the weekend with the 138th and 139th Championship shows and the P. Dharmu Memorial Championship Dog Show, celebrating canine excellence and breeding standards in southern India.