CEDAR FALLS - Krista Johnson and Cheryl Hennings are a study in opposites, but they share one passion - dogs.

Both will travel to New York next month to participate in the Westminster Kennel Club dog show, but that is where the similarities end.

Hennings is a seasoned breeder and handler who has shown dogs in the prestigious show several times before.

Johnson is a relative newcomer to the world of dog showing and has yet to participate in a big-name show.

But both are excited to be surrounded by some of the greatest dogs in the world.

"It's Westminster. It's like having Super Bowl tickets. I'm sure people have been trying to get in for years and still haven't," Johnson said. "It's the thrill of being around those dogs."

The top five American Kennel Club dogs in each breed are automatically invited to the big show. That's where Hennings' dog, AKC UKC Champion Cherrysh Crown of Jewels HC, comes in. The Canaan dog is ranked No. 3 overall and is the top AKC Canaan female.

Once those invitations have been extended, the show is then open to all champion dogs, though not all will be allowed to participate. The dogs earn points toward their champion status by beating other champions at smaller shows. That's where Johnson's AKC Champion Shey's Gran'daddy Junebug enters the picture.

Johnson entered the Tibetan terrier's information to the Westminster Kennel Club for admittance and then waited. A month later, she received the good news: Junebug was one of the 21 Tibetan terriers asked to participate in this year's show.

"We're like the George Mason of dog shows," Johnson said.

Most Westminster participants will spend less than 10 minutes in the ring. Each dog is guaranteed its turn around the ring and a spot on the judge's table, but only the Best in Breed will move along to the next level of competition - the group competition. Last year Jewel managed to earn the best opposite sex title, but that wasn't enough to move on. The Best in Group dogs then proceed to the final round - Best in Show.

Hennings said it is important to stay calm in the ring, despite the throngs of spectators lined five or six deep around the circle. No matter how seasoned the handler or dog, the excitement in the room can sometimes affect one's performance.

"It's quite tiring, but it is exciting," Hennings said.

Though the show is the highlight of the trip, Hennings said the city rolls out the red carpet for participants outside the ring. The Hotel Pennsylvania, a popular New York hotel, constructs a doggy spa in its massive lobby complete with bathing and grooming areas, doggy treadmills and an indoor park for bathroom breaks.

Some dog handlers, owners and breeders also have the opportunity to attend black-tie galas and banquets put on by the top names in dog food and animal nonprofits.

Hennings, a breeder, owner and handler, has received invitations to several of these events. Johnson is just looking forward to her first trip to the Big Apple.

"It's really an honor to go," Hennings said. "I will get to see my friends I made last year and hopefully meet some new ones this year."

Contact Emily Christensen at (319) 291-1520 or emily.christensen@wcfcourier.com.

Where to watch

The Westminster Kennel Club 131st annual Dog Show is scheduled for Feb. 12 and 13 in Madison Square Garden. The Group and Best In Show competition will be televised live on USA Network from 7 to 10 p.m. Feb. 12 and 13. Best in Breed judging videos will be available online at www.westminsterkennelclub.org.