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Handler, dog going to 140th Westminster Dog Show

Posted at 6:10 PM, Feb 11, 2016
and last updated 2016-02-11 20:34:14-05

We all think our dogs are “Best in Show.” But now, they have some stiff competition. This week, dog handlers from all over the country are bringing their canine competitors to the Denver Dog Show.

Sebastian and his 14-year-old handler are used to “sniffing-out” the competition, leading them to one of the biggest stages in sport. 

“He's a really needy dog. He's kinda stubborn,” said junior handler, Karissa Groves. “They use their nose for everything that they do,” she said. 

Groves has a room filled with ribbons, dozens of awards she's won with her 6-year old bloodhound, Sebastian, an American Kennel Club Champion. 

“We've been a pretty good team for the past three years,” she said.

Groves started showing her bloodhounds at just 9-years-old. Most years, Groves would be preparing her pooch for the Denver Dog Show. But this year, the stage just got bigger.

“Going to New York, it's gonna [sic] be a totally different thing, it's gonna [sic] be totally new,” she said. 

She is packing her bags and leaving rural Colorado for the 140th Annual Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show, one of the most prestigious dog shows on earth.

She will be one of 91 juniors showcasing their dog and their handling skills.

“I'm nervous and excited,” she said.

The Denver Dog Show, also known as the Rocky Mountain Cluster begins February 11. Here's what you should know:

  • Over 3,000 dogs from 184 breeds are entered to compete
  • It's taking place at the National Western Stock Show Complex, 4655 Humboldt street
  • Runs from February 11th thru the 15th from 8 am all day. Admission is $5 (kids under 12 and seniors are free) 

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