Competition Reveals Canine David And Goliath

New Zealand’s largest dog weighs the same as All Black Carlos Spencer and is a hundred times larger than the country’s most pint-sized pooch.

Petfood company Eukanuba, which ran the recent Size Does Matter competition, today revealed a mammoth 95.6 kg St Bernard and 910 gram chihuahua had won the national titles, beating 130 hopefuls from around the country.

Thirty finalists from 15 regions were announced yesterday however the national competition was a close one. Official veterinarian weigh-ins were necessary before the overall national David and Goliath could be finalised.

The heavyweight title was a close call between Taranaki’s 95.6kg Khedive (pronounced Kideeve) and an Upper Hutt 93kg English Bull Mastiff Zeus.

The featherweight division, dominated by chihuahuas, was even closer but Hamilton’s 910 gram Phoebe barely rocked the scales, beating 950 gram Shylo from Geraldine.

Both national titleholders were awarded a photographic session with award-winning animal photographer Rachael Hale. Rachael’s distinctive work is featured in the popular Animals as Art series of greeting cards and calendars.

The Eukanuba Size Does Matter competition was designed as a unique way to raise awareness of the importance of feeding dogs a diet containing nutrients appropriate to their size.

Auckland veterinarian Dr Mark Clasper says it’s important for dog owners to realise that large dogs have vastly different nutritional requirements to smaller breeds.

As an example, large dogs are more prone to developing joint problems such as arthritis as they get older. Natural supplements such as glucosamine and chondroitin sulphate in their diet have been shown to help maintain healthy joints. These supplements are also found in human remedies.

“Like you and I, our canine companions need to adjust their diet depending on their lifestyle. For example, small dogs tend to be very energetic, so they need extra protein, fat and calories to maintain a healthy lifestyle.”

For further information please contact:
Susan McGregor
PPR
Ph: (09) 979 2000 or 025 309 605

Sonya Markham
Eukanuba Dog Foods
Ph: (09) 488 1609 or 021 336 618

Dr Mark Clasper
Remuera Vet Clinic
Auckland
Ph: (09)-529 2091

Photo By Rachael Hale

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