Dog show doping case: rottweiler tests positive for cocaine

A rottweiler tested positive for cocaine at a dog show in Helsinki last December, according to a report by Finnish public broadcaster Yle.

The dog, owned by Mervi Wiberg, returned a positive result from a sample taken on Independence Day at the Helsinki Exhibition and Convention Centre. Wiberg expressed shock at the finding, stating she had always strictly followed anti-doping rules.

She suspects the substance may have transferred to the dog from surfaces at the venue or its hotel, as cocaine residues can easily contaminate animals in public spaces. The dog had been in a crate but was walked in the aisles before entering the ring, where floor scents could have been a factor.

The Finnish Kennel Club imposed a competition ban on the dog in June, lasting until late October. Wiberg has filed a response, arguing the ban was unfair as it was issued before the case was fully investigated. The dog is currently on a doping-related medical break, so the ban has not caused immediate disruption.

Kaisa Gold, head of the Kennel Club’s organisational department, said nearly 10% of dog doping tests return positive results, most commonly for painkillers, antibiotics, and corticosteroids. The club enforces a zero-tolerance policy, requiring explanations from owners on how substances entered the dog’s system.

Gold advised owners to be cautious with their own medications, such as avoiding contact with the dog after applying corticosteroid creams. Wiberg, whose dog won a silver medal in world championships last year, said she would not change her approach despite the incident.