Paws and Applause: Hornbill Festival hosts first-ever dog show

DIMAPUR — As part of the ongoing 26th edition of Hornbill Festival 2025, the Department of Animal Husbandry & Veterinary Services (AH&VS) hosted the first Hornbill Dog Show held at Pony Farm, Kigwema in Kohima on Friday.

Advisor for AH&VS, Kazheto Kinimi, graced the occasion as the special guest.

An update issued on Friday informed that the competition featured categories for pure breeds, mixed and local breeds, and a best performing duo segment, which included both talent and costume rounds.

Cocoa, a local mixed breed handled by Temjen, stole the spotlight by clinching the top position in both the mixed and local breed category and the best performing duo category.

In the mixed and local breed segment, Spartan with handler Vibino and Bingo with Temsu secured second and third place respectively, while Cookie with Senthanso and Cherry with Vimhanuo Savi received consolation prizes.

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In the best duo category, Monkey with handler Khrielasier Liezietsu and Spartan with Vibino took second and third place. Zoe with Vinguno Nakhro and Valerie with Lolano Patton were awarded consolation prizes.

In the pure breed category, Marshall Zing Zing, a Chow Chow handled by Wetou, bagged the top prize. Skaya with handler Samuel and Marcus with Shamwang won second and third place respectively. Fluppy with Asong and Ben with Imliyanger Aier received consolation prizes.

Dogs were judged on physical appearance, temperament, health, crowd response, and other criteria. The judging panel comprised Dr. Ithika Swu, Dr. Esther Krocha, Dr. Michael Imti Imchen, Dr. Sungkum Jamir and Lt. Col. Noble George.

Winners in each category received INR 50,000 each while second and third places were awarded INR 35,000 and INR 20,000 respectively. Consolation prize winners received INR 6,000 along with certificates and feed.

All the other participants were also given gift hampers.

A total of 35 dogs participated in the event, including 22 pure breeds and 13 mixed and local breeds.

The lineup featured canines of all sizes, from small Shih Tzus to giant Saint Bernards and various breeds ranging from indigenous dogs to the exotic Alaskan Husky. Notably, a deaf dog also competed.

The dog squad of the 78th CRPF Battalion, Zubza presented a special demonstration showcasing IED search and tackling techniques.

Director AH&VS, Dr. Imomanen Tzudir, highlighted the deep bond between humans and dogs in his address. He emphasised the role of canine companions in contemporary society and stated that the dog show aims to promote awareness of responsible pet ownership and the human–canine relationship.

Various livestock, such as different breeds of sheep, goats, turkeys and quails, were also exhibited at the venue.

It was announced that the Hornbill Dog Show will now be an annual event during future Hornbill Festivals.