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144th Annual Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show Kicks Off

NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) - There's more than 2,000 dogs, but only one can take home the title of Best In Show.

CBS2's Vanessa Murdock got a behind-the-scenes look at the 144th Annual Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show, which kicks off Monday at Madison Square Garden.

Being good looking takes time.

"An hour to hour and a half every day," one handler said.

Bathing, trimming, fluffing combing, fur spraying, the necessary beauty rest... but of course there's always time for treats, and belly rubs. After all, one must look and feel their best when walking into the ring.

"Sleep. Eating. Getting spoiled," said handler Emma Stanchina.

The dogs are all mentally and physically preparing for showtime, and vying for the title of Best In Show.

It is a fierce competition between canines. It is, after all, the Super Bowl of dog shows, says president of the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show Chat Reynders.

"Twenty five hundred dogs came here from all over the country, 49 states, and 14 different countries. That's the most exciting thing for me, when you see people coming from overseas," he said.

While dogs take center state, humans play a part too. There are owners and breeders like Amy O'Brien, who says it is a big financial commitment.

"I've wanted to be here for a long time," she said. "This is the number one thing on my bucket list and it just got crossed off today."

There are handlers.

"It must just be in my blood, and I'm slightly crazy, which is why I can't not do this," said handler Matthew Perry.

There are spectators, too. Alexa Richardson, 10, comes to love on as many pups as possible.

"What is your favorite breed?" Murdock asked.

"I actually can't decide. I like a lot of them," Alexa said.

No matter the title, all humans are there for the love of dogs.

We'll have to wait until Tuesday night to find out which dog wins bragging rights.

Daytime shows are sold out, but there are still tickets available for Tuesday evening. To get them, click here.

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