The Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show is just a few days away, and we have the inside scoop on some dogs to watch this year! From names and ages to fun facts and winning traits, we're here to help you navigate the stars of this prestigious show. First up: Player!
Full Name: Ch. Starrdogs He's a Player
Breed: Bullmastiff. According to the American Kennel Club, bullmastiffs have a powerful gait, fearless temperament, a short and dense coat, dark medium-sized eyes and an almost-square appearance, among other qualities.
Category: Working Group. There are 25 other breeds in the category, including boxers, Siberian huskies, rottweilers and giant schnauzers. The last Working Group dog to win Best in Show was Ch. Darbydale's All Rise Pouch Cove, a Newfoundland who took the title in 2004.
Age: 3 years
Hometown: Acworth, Georgia
Owner: Kathryn Roberts, an AKC judge and mobile pet stylist who also breeds dogs.
What the Judges Are Looking For: A red, fawn, or brindle coat; white markings are considered a fault. Also: A strong and tapered tail, muscular shoulders, a dark muzzle and V-shaped ears.
Why He Could Win: Roberts considers Player to be a top dog. "He has an incredible temperament, and has never met a person or animal he didn't like. He's what I'd call an ambassador to his breed," she shares. Player won championship status at just 10 months old, earning enough points at various shows around the country to attain the title.
Fun Fact: Dubbed her "Dog of Mass Destruction," Roberts shares, "I'd sent him to California, to be shown out there, and while on the plane, he ate through the wires in the baggage compartment – and several suitcases! When they opened up the back he was loose, just wagging his tail, like, 'Here I am!' On his way home, the airlines definitely secured him a bit better."
Catch Ch. Starrdogs He's a Player during day two of USA Network's live coverage of Westminster on Feb. 10, from 8-11 p.m. (ET)
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