Over 500 gorgeous dogs from a wide variety of breeds were showcased on the ‘dogwalk’ at the International Dog Show, held in Hanoi on Oct 5.

The show, which took place at the Vietnam Exhibition and Convention Center in Hanoi, attracted some 300 canine owners and more than 500 dogs. Some breeds were cute and cuddly, while others were imposing and extremely intelligent.

The dogs came from different breeds including German shepherd, boxer, Pomeranian and Vietnamese ridgeback, and from such countries as Russia, France, the US, Belgium and Indonesia.

This is the fifth time Vietnam has hosted the show but the first time it was held in Hanoi. The show aims to showcase the most stunning dogs from each breed.

To get ready for the competition, the dogs are fed and trained under special lengthy regimes to ensure balanced bodily and muscular growth as well as the development of a graceful gait.

According to the show’s organizer, Ly Nguyen Khon, vice chair of the Vietnam Kennel Association (VKA), the jury will judge the dogs on the distinctive characteristics of their breeds, including balanced, healthy bone structure, smooth hair, and perfect teeth.

Through the event, VKA aims to seek world recognition of the Phu Quoc Ridgeback, a native breed on Phu Quoc Island in southern Kien Giang province. Two Phu Quoc ridgeback dogs attended the World Dog Show held in Paris in 2011. Some Phu Quoc dogs are worth up to several thousand US dollars each.