Best Friends Forever

With so much variety in the canine kingdom, it's easy to forget that all dogs -- from the Tibetan Mastiff to the Miniature Yorkie -- descend from a common ancestor, the wolf. The Rocky Mountain Cluster Dog Show is a chance to see more than 3,000 dogs of every shape,...

By Laura Bond

February 16, 2012

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With so much variety in the canine kingdom, it's easy to forget that all dogs -- from the Tibetan Mastiff to the Miniature Yorkie -- descend from a common ancestor, the wolf. The Rocky Mountain Cluster Dog Show is a chance to see more than 3,000 dogs of every shape, size and skill level performing feats of agility, bravery and just plain cuteness.

"Dog shows are like team sports between you and your best friend," says Rene Green of the Colorado Kennel Club, one of the show's sponsors. "It's like your child. You want to see them do well and be a good citizen. We all love our dogs. Some of us take it another step."

The stakes will be high at the Cluster, one of the year's biggest events in the world of competitive dog breeding. And while some will trot away with ribbons, others can pick up treats and tips on behavioral training and grooming.

The show runs today through February 20 at the National Western Stock Show Complex, 4655 Humboldt Street, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. Tickets are $5 for youths and $10 for adults. Call 303-721-4505 or go to http://www.denverdogshow.com for information.
Feb. 17-20, 8 a.m.-5 p.m., 2012

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