Denver Dog Show 2018: A Tail-Wagging Good Time
The 2018 Denver Dog Show, held at the National Western Complex, was a spectacular event that celebrated the bond between humans and their canine companions. This year's show, held from March 16-18, attracted thousands of dog lovers and their furry friends, providing a fun-filled weekend for all.
About the Denver Dog Show
The Denver Dog Show is one of the largest dog shows in the United States, featuring a wide variety of breeds, from the tiny Chihuahua to the towering Great Dane. The event is organized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) and is open to all AKC-registered dogs. It's not just about the competition, though; the show also offers numerous activities for both dogs and their owners, making it a must-visit event for dog enthusiasts.
Highlights of the 2018 Denver Dog Show
Best in Show
The 2018 Denver Dog Show culminated in the prestigious Best in Show award, which was won by a beautiful Standard Poodle named "Swan." This elegant dog, owned by handler Linda Bennett and breeder/owner Dr. David Merriam, impressed judges with her grace, agility, and overall excellence.

Group Winners
Before the Best in Show announcement, the show featured competitions among the seven AKC groups: Sporting, Hound, Working, Terrier, Toy, Non-Sporting, and Herding. Winners from each group were as follows: Sporting - Irish Setter, Hound - Whippet, Working - Rottweiler, Terrier - Border Terrier, Toy - Havanese, Non-Sporting - Standard Poodle, and Herding - Belgian Tervuren.
Activities and Attractions
In addition to the competitive events, the 2018 Denver Dog Show offered a variety of activities and attractions. The "Meet the Breeds" area allowed visitors to interact with different dog breeds and learn about their unique characteristics. The "AKC Canine Sports" area showcased various dog sports, such as agility, obedience, and rally, demonstrating the incredible abilities of these remarkable animals.
The "Barn Hunt" was another popular attraction, where dogs of all sizes and breeds could test their instincts by searching for "quarry" (rats in tubes) in a barn-like structure. The "Fast Cat" event, on the other hand, was a timed 50-foot dash that allowed cats and small dogs to show off their speed.

Tips for Future Attendees
- Arrive early to avoid long lines and allow plenty of time to explore all the attractions.
- Bring water and snacks for both you and your dog, as well as waste bags to clean up after your pet.
- Dress in layers, as the National Western Complex can be chilly in the morning and warm up as the day progresses.
- Consider bringing a stroller or wagon for young children or elderly attendees, as the event can involve a lot of walking.
Whether you're a seasoned dog show enthusiast or a first-time attendee, the Denver Dog Show offers a fantastic experience for all ages. Mark your calendars for next year's event and get ready for a tail-wagging good time!