As part of the ongoing Hornbill Festival 2025, the Department of Animal Husbandry & Veterinary Services, Nagaland today organised 1st Hornbill Dog Show (State level) at Pony Farm, Kigwema.
MLA Kazheto Kinimi, Advisor, Animal Husbandry & Veterinary Services and Chairman, State Animal Welfare Board of Nagaland graced the event as the special guest.
Dr Imomanen Tzudir, Director, Department of AH & Veterinary Services said that dogs have played an important role in the history of human civilization and were among the first domesticated animals.
“When livestock were domesticated about 9000 years ago, dogs served as herders and guardians of sheep, goats and cattle. Today, Dogs are mainly used for social purposes and companionship,” he said.
Dogs are employed as guides for the blind and disabled or for police work. They are even used in therapy in nursing homes and hospitals to encourage patients towards recovery, the Director said.
Stating that Dog Show was organized to create awareness on the purpose of human-canine relationship, he said “This event is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the beauty and capabilities of one of the God’s beautiful creation, and the deep bond that humans share with them.”
Tzudir said that the Hornbill Dog Show is one of the much-awaited highlights of the Festival that brings together the enthusiasts, breeders, and owners from across the state, fostering a spirit of friendship, learning and encourage everyone to be responsible pet ownership.
The Dog Show witnessed the incredible diversity of dog breeds from the local indigenous breeds to the exotic, each showcasing unique traits, discipline, and elegance.
The 1st, 2nd and 3rd position winners in each category have been awarded with Rs. 50,000, Rs. 35,000 and Rs. 20,000 respectively.
Download Nagaland Tribune app on Google Play

Two consolations in each category received Rs. 6000 each.
A Dog Squad from 78th CRPF Battalion Zubza made a special performance to the delight of the dog lovers.
Dr Ithika Swu, Chief Judge, Hornbill Dog Show made remark while vote of thanks was proposed by Dr Kuokehebi Gwirie, Convenor, Hornbill Dog Show.
The judges for the show included Dr Ithika Swu, Dr Esther Krocha, Dr Michael Imti Imchen, Dr Sungkum Jamir and Lt Col Noble George.
The show was compered by Dr Doreen Peseyie and Dr Tolto Metha.
The Department is intending to make this Hornbill Dog Show as an annual feature.
Meanwhile, Pony ride would continue till December 6.
The event also featured educational exhibit of livestock and poultry.
Former minister, V Kashiho Sangtam, Nagaland’s Tourism Director, Veyielo Doulo, Nagaland State Veterinary Council president , Dr. Simon Ao, 78th CRPF Battalion Second-in-Command, Sanjeev Kumar, Joseph Syiem, senior technical assistant North Eastern Council, International Friendship Car Rally Association (IFCRA) president Pem Sonam, Miss Arunachal 2023, Nadek Nabum and several other dignitaries also present at the event.

Winners
Pure breed
1st: Marshall Zing Zing (Owner- Wetou)
2nd: Skaya (Owner- Samuel)
3rd: Marcus (Owner- Shamwang)
Consolation: Fluppy (Owner- Asong) & Ben (Owner- Imliyanger Aier)
Local/Mixed Breed
1st: Cocoa (Owner- Temjen)
2nd: Spartan (Owner-Vibino)
3rd: Bengo (Owner- Temsu)
Consolation: Cookie (Owner- Senthanro) & Cherry (Owner- Vimhanuo Savi)
Best Performing Duo
1st: Cocoa (Owner- Temjen)
2nd: Monkey (Owner- Khrielasier Liezietsu)
3rd: Spartan (Owner-Vibino)
Consolation: Zoe (Owner- Vinguno Yakhro) & Valerie (Owner- Lolano Patton)
