Dogged persistence pays off for former firefighter

Lam Gin-dik, a 44-year-old from Hong Kong who has enjoyed a long run of success at domestic shows, is dedicated to breeding pedigree Bernese Mountain Dogs, which are native to Switzerland, to showcase China's ability to produce purebred canines.

From 2003, Lam was actively involved in his family's business in Shenzhen, Guangdong province, and before that he was a firefighter, having joined the Hong Kong Fire Services Department at age 19.

"Back then, I was just a dog lover who was interested in shows to pass the time," he said.