Rottweiler Tutunka shows Arizona who is top dog

The former footballer’s American-bred Rottweiler beat out 47 other dogs to cop the best adult male award.

It was Tutunka’s first appearance at the German-style dog show, which places emphasis on endurance, structure and beauty.

Commenting on his recent success, Mr. Castle, who was accompanied by his wife Donna in Arizona, told the Bermuda Sun: “To be chosen as best select dog he beat some German and American champions, and it was a very proud moment showing him in that arena.”

Due to Government’s current ban on certain breeds such as Rottweilers, Mr. Castle’s dog is based in California with breeder and co-owner Adrian DeHaas.

“Tutunka is one of a few dogs I have in California that has been over there since the dog ban was imposed eight years ago,” the former PHC defender added.

“I can’t bring him to Bermuda and it’s costly to enter the shows for someone like myself who has to travel to California as many as five times a year to show the dogs I have over there.”

Tutunka was granted special permission by Government two-years ago to compete in a local show.

He has also made numerous appearances at various shows on the North American continent in recent years.

Mr. Castle’s Rottweiler is fresh off an intensive 12-month stint in Germany training for his Schutzhund.

Schutzhund is a challenging three part sport that places emphasis on obedience, tracking and protection.

It was initially designed as a breed test for German Shepherds but has grown into a popular sport.

Mr. Castle plans to enter Tutunka in upcoming American Kennel Club shows in the hope of having his dog attain grand championship status.

He also hopes to qualify his Rottweiler for next year’s world dog show competition at a qualifier to be held in Cuba later this year.