Deep in the National Western Stock Show complex, breeders prepared their animals for a star-studded competition on Saturday. Only this time, they weren’t the cattle, horses and other livestock that usually trot through the halls — they were dogs of all breeds and sizes.
The Denver Dog Show, held by the Colorado Kennel Club, celebrated its 123rd annual event through Sunday, bringing together canine friends for competitions like obedience, dock diving and agility training.
“This is the longest tenured sporting event in Colorado, period,” Steve Cowell, Colorado Kennel Club media representative, said.
And while it may not bring in the extreme level of coverage and tourists that professional sporting events may, it does make an impact.
Hundreds of people, both breeders and spectators, lined the National Western Stock Show Complex’s Hall of Education, hoping to get a glimpse (or give a belly rub). Over 4,500 dogs were in attendance, representing the 200 breeds recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC).