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Rocky Mountain Cluster Dog Show Features Novices & Pros

DENVER (CBS4) - Denver is going to the dogs this weekend. It's all part of the 20th annual Rocky Mountain Cluster, a dog show taking place all holiday weekend at the National Western Complex.

From the fancy to the furry, Colorado's finest canines are attending what's known as the biggest dog show west of the Hudson. Competing this year is one of its youngest handlers.

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"We have a strong connection with each other, we have a nice bond," 13-year-old Karissa Groves said about her dog Major. "I started out with a dachshund and now I show bloodhounds."

Groves and her bloodhound Major are competing in the junior handlers competition.

"Showing the head, showing the bite, putting their feet in the right place, showing their movement," Groves said.

Rene Green of the Colorado Kennel Club, one of the show's sponsors, says the Rocky Mountain Cluster dog show brings in newcomers as well as seasoned experts.

"You can get your feet wet here as a novice; we also have the big Westminster handlers here," Green said.

With about 3,000 dogs per day across four days, it's one of the biggest shows in the country.

"We have confirmation, which is kind of the beauty aspect of the dog show," Green said. "But also agility, rally and obedience."

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Many handlers and their dogs use the show to qualify for and win an invitation to Westminster.

As for Groves and Major, the pair pulled first place. She said a win is nice, but wisely said it's all in the fun.

"As long as you're having fun it doesn't matter if you win or not," she said.

The Rocky Mountain Cluster dog show runs through Monday at the National Western Complex.

LINK: Rocky Mountain Cluster

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