BROOKSVILLE, Fla. — It’s the highest concentration of pure-breed canines in the state of Florida. We’re talking about the AKC Florida Gulf Coast Cluster—10 days of all-breed dog shows and competitions in Brooksville.

That’s where we met Gemma Eldridge and her blue-eyed baby — who looks like a smallish version of Australian Shepherd to the untrained, civilian eye.

“So this is Phoenix. She is a Miniature American Shepherd,” Eldridge said, as she bathed him in a big blue doggy tub.

At 13, Eldridge has already been showing dogs for five years. She’s in their pre-show routine.

This human-animal duo was one of 1,772 vying for excellence on Day 1 of the 10-day event at Florida Classic Park.

Eldridge has come to the show every year.

“It’s really fun because I love animals and dogs and the people here are really nice,” Eldridge said.

After walking Phoenix to the Grooming Pavilion, she stared blowing out her hair.

The air is cool, and Phoenix stands still on a grooming table while Eldridge speaks to us and her. And this all started after Eldridge walked into the Dog Training Club of St. Pete with her first dog. She was 8.

“I started there and kept on going,” she said.

She credited members of the club for teaching her how to groom and present in the ring. Then there was a 4-H canine group where she learned more.

Fast forward to today — she’s also at American Kennel Club competitions. Now washed, dried and brushed, Eldridge escorts Phoenix from the Grooming Pavilion to Ring 10.

Once we get there, Eldridge retrieves her competition number. And then it’s time.

She enters the ring for the Junior Showmanship Competition. She parades the dog solo and with the group. And Phoenix is totally calm during all of it. Even up on a table with a judge touching him – zero reaction.

All the while Eldridge is smiling with love and offering treats.

The AKC offers this to help groom future dog show enthusiasts like Eldridge — the rules are the same as the adults.

Today’s outcome: Third Place!

“It’s great because I got her as a puppy because I wanted a dog to show,” she said, petting Phoenix outside the ring. “I’ve trained her ever since I got her. She’s just like a wonderful dog.”

Every competition brings Eldridge closer to her goal making Phoenix a champion.