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Direct K9 Services uses a balanced approach to canine training to ensure a strong bond is built between you and your dog.

Direct K9 Dog Weekender 27-29 March

Dog Weekender 27-29 March

The Direct K9 Dog Weekender is a weekly snapshot of what’s happening in the dog world across Brisbane, Adelaide and Melbourne, combining relevant updates in behaviour and welfare with a small number of verified events you can attend with your dog.

Dog News This Week

Oldest genetic evidence for domestic dogs identified

New research published in Nature has pushed back the earliest genetic evidence for domestic dogs to around 16,000–14,000 years ago, based on ancient DNA from fossils found in Europe and Türkiye. The work suggests dogs were already widespread well before agriculture and adds weight to the idea that the human-dog relationship was established far earlier than previously confirmed.

Why it matters: While this is historical research, it strengthens the broader picture of dogs as long-term human partners rather than recent working additions. It is a useful reminder that cooperative behaviour between dogs and people sits very deep in the species’ history.

Source: https://www.ox.ac.uk/news/2026-03-25-oldest-genetic-evidence-domestic-dogs-identified-europe-and-t-rkiye

Victoria seeks feedback on rules for authorised pet rehoming organisations

Victoria has opened consultation on regulations for the Authorised Pet Rehoming Organisation scheme, a voluntary framework for cat and dog rehoming groups. The proposal is designed to formalise standards and create a clearer structure for organisations involved in rehoming companion animals.

Why it matters: For dog owners and rescue supporters, stronger and clearer rehoming standards can improve confidence in how dogs are assessed, transferred and placed into homes. It is especially relevant for anyone adopting through rescue networks or working with local welfare groups.

Source: https://engage.vic.gov.au/authorised-pet-rehoming-organisation

Dog Aging Project studies highlight owner grief and end-of-life support

Two new Dog Aging Project studies reported by Texas A&M examine how owners experience the loss of a dog and how those experiences compare across different causes of death. The research found grief responses were strikingly similar regardless of how a dog died, and the findings point to better ways veterinarians can support owners through end-of-life decisions.

Why it matters: This is practical welfare information, not just academic research. It reinforces the value of clear veterinary guidance and thoughtful planning when an older or unwell dog is approaching the end of life.

Source: https://stories.tamu.edu/news/2026/03/25/dog-aging-project-studies-offer-insight-into-how-owners-experience-pet-loss/

What’s On This Weekend

Brisbane

Dogs on the Green

Manly

This community dog market is one of Brisbane’s listings for the weekend, with free entry and a format built around dog owners, stalls and rescue support. It suits social dogs that cope well with busy public spaces, and it gives owners a relaxed option for a dog-centred outing rather than a formal competition event.

  • Date and time: Saturday 28 March 2026
  • Location: George Clayton Park, Manly, Brisbane
  • Cost: Free entry
  • Dog requirements: Not specified
  • Source: https://www.dogsonthegreen.com/

Adelaide

Dogs SA DOTY POTY NOTY Fundraiser (AM Show)

Kilburn

This championship show at David Roche Park is one of the few clearly listed metro Adelaide dog events on the weekend. It suits people interested in pedigree dog showing and structured ring events, and it works best for calm dogs and owners already comfortable around formal dog-show environments.Dogs SA upcoming events

Dogs SA DOTY POTY NOTY Fundraiser (PM Show)

Kilburn

The afternoon championship show continues the same fundraiser program at David Roche Park, giving spectators and exhibitors another formal show session on Saturday. It will appeal most to handlers, breed enthusiasts and owners who enjoy the structure of conformation events rather than casual pet gatherings.

Dogs SA DOTY POTY NOTY Open Show (Group Only)

Kilburn

Sunday’s open show rounds out the weekend program at David Roche Park and offers another public-facing dog show listing within metro Adelaide. It is suited to owners who like watching breed presentation and ring craft, and to dogs that can remain settled in a structured event setting.

Melbourne

Greensborough and District Kennel Club Shows

Bulla

Greensborough and District Kennel Club has Sunday shows listed at Bulla Exhibition Centre, extending Melbourne’s dog-show calendar across the full weekend. It suits exhibitors, breeders and spectators with an interest in conformation showing, and dogs attending should be comfortable working in a busy ring-side environment.

Kingston’s Pet Expo

Cheltenham

Kingston’s Pet Expo is a free public event for animal enthusiasts, pet owners and their four-legged companions. With council backing and a broad pet focus, it is the strongest verified Melbourne listing for owners wanting a larger community event that is designed to welcome dogs rather than simply allow them.

Kilmore Kennel Club Inc Championship Shows

Bulla

Kilmore Kennel Club has two championship shows listed for Saturday at Bulla Exhibition Centre, making this a solid option for people who enjoy formal dog-show presentation and breed judging. It is better suited to dogs already accustomed to the pace, noise and close quarters of organised canine events.

Paint Your Dog’s Portrait with Paint for Fun

Port Melbourne

This dog-friendly painting class is built around owners creating a portrait of their own dog, with beginner-friendly instruction in a small studio setting. It suits calm dogs that can settle beside their handler for an extended indoor session, and owners who prefer a quieter, more contained outing.

  • Date and time: Saturday 28 March 2026
  • Location: 252 Graham Street, Port Melbourne
  • Cost: $65
  • Dog requirements: Dogs are welcome; a calm dog that can remain settled indoors is the best fit
  • Source: https://paintforfun.com.au/paint-your-dog/

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