Officials and exhibitors have hailed the success of the championship dog shows held at McLaughlin Park in Millicent.

Instead of players chasing a round ball, the Millicent United Soccer Club grounds welcomed almost 240 pedigree dogs of various breeds to its playing arena.

COVID protocols and border restrictions meant the annual shows were cancelled in 2020 and again last year.

The Millicent Kennel Club staged the championship dog shows over three consecutive days from Friday.

Convenor Julie Allen said she had heard many positive comments from out-of-town exhibitors around the show ring.

“It is good for Millicent as the accommodation venues are in demand and the food outlets attract extra customers,” Ms Allen said.

“I was at the fish and chip shop on Friday night and it was very busy.

“We are very grateful to the soccer club who allow us to use their facilities and supply all the catering.

“Some of the exhibitors camped in the grounds.”

As well as her administrative duties, Ms Allen is also a keen exhibitor.

She received her first pet dog when she was only seven years of age and has been an exhibitor across South Australia and interstate for over 50 years.

Nowadays, Ms Allen exhibits Shetland sheepdogs and Collies.

“I go to dog shows about once a month and I just love it,” Ms Allen said.

“Whenever I am with my dogs, I am in my happy place.”

Among the other dogs on show in 2022 was a fine example of the Alaskan malamute breed exhibited by Tori Haynes, of Adelaide.

She made the 800km round trip to Millicent and was full of praise for its staging.

Her six-year-old canine companion Sammy impressed the judges.

For many years, the dog shows were held within the local showgrounds and coincided with the annual Millicent Show.

However, the move was made to the Millicent United Soccer Club at McLaughlin Park well over a decade ago.

Judges came from Victoria, New South Wales and the Australian Capital Territory and the shows were conducted under the rules of the South Australian Canine Association.