The 21st annual Rocky Mountain Cluster Dog Show began on Thursday and runs through Monday at the National Western Complex. Judges will scrutinize more than 3,000 dogs of 184 different breeds. The dogs can be seen in conformation, obedience, and agility competitions which have dogs running through tunnels, weaves and leaping over jumps.

The Colorado Kennel Club along with the Plum Creek Kennel Club has presented dog shows for over 114 years in Denver, Colorado. The show is the largest in Colorado and one of the biggest west of the Mississippi, bringing canines from around the nation to National Western Stock Show Complex. Dogs that perform well have a shot at being invited to the famous Westminster Dog Show in New York.

Story & Photos by John Root