No bones about it, this Sask. pooch aims to compete at prestigious New York dog show

WATCH: A Saskatchewan mini shnauzer, Tanner, gears up for the prestigious Westminster Kennel Club Competition in New York City.

A Saskatchewan competitor is gearing up for of the toughest competitions of its kind, and our local champion won’t be doggin’ it.

Confidence is key in competition, but for four-year-old mini schnauzer Tanner, natural talent is what he and his handler and owner Connie Krohn are counting on.

“I think he has a good chance. He’s super outgoing and confident. He is happy to work, always eager to learn new things,” Krohn told CTV News.

He’s been competing since he was just six months old and loving it.

“He’s always pushing his way out the door to get in the van, to go to the next dog show. He loves to show off,” she said.

They’re going to the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show in New York, one of the events is even being held in the iconic Madison Square Garden.

This is Tanner’s first time attending this competition.

He’ll be judged on the breed standard.

“They judge point by point, on his head, his confirmation, his structure, everything from his bite to his hair texture,” she says.

He’ll also be carefully scrutinized on how confidently he trots before the judge. Head held high and a nice light prance is the goal.

Shelly Campbell has been in the dog training business for a while, and says our province has some talented canines. She’s confident Tanner will make Saskatchewan proud.

“I saw Connie and Tanner at many, many shows where they did very, very well and I expect them to do very well in New York,” she said.

There is some prize money up for grabs for the winners of this competition, but it’s more about the recognition according to Krohn.

“For our level, we’re just hoping for that best of breed win. That’s honestly just the honour to get it,” she said.

Tanner and Krohn have won many Canadian awards, now they’re hoping to fetch that new title.

There are 17 other dogs vying for the top dog in that category.

When asked if Krohn is scoping out the competition, she was quick to respond.

“Absolutely I have!”

One other Canadian dog is heading to the competition.