Top dogs gather at Westminster dog show in New York

Robyn, a Maltese, competes in the Toy group during the 142nd Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show, Monday, Feb. 12, 2018, at Madison Square Garden in New York. [Photo: AP/Mary Altaffer]

As the Chinese Year of the Dog approaches, dog breeders from around the world are putting their best feet and paws forward in a bid to win the top prize at the Westminster Kennel Club Dog show, which is underway in New York.

Marcie Bassett is the owner of a two-year-old bulldog. She sees the contest as quality time with his beloved dog.

"We are bulldog people. And it's a wonderful way to spend quality time with your dog doing something you love in the breed that you love," said Bassett. 

In this Saturday, Feb. 10, 2018, photo, Fenric Towell poses for a photo with his lakeland terrier Missy during the meet the breeds companion event to the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show in New York. [Photo: AP/Mary Altaffer]

The competition is also deemed as a showcase for young handlers who sometimes go up against grown-ups.

"It takes confidence. It takes lots of training. It takes everything you have just to walk into that huge ring and show your dog," said Lily Bennett, a junior handler.

Almost 3,000 dogs of roughly 120 breeds are being primed to compete for the number one prize at the international affair.