When Robin Hafso decided to bring his dog Bentley to Woofstock yesterday he had no idea he would have to return today.

It turned out Bentley is just one step away from being named Mr. Canine Canada.

Bentley, a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, took to the stage and won yesterday's segment of the Ms. and Mr. Canine Canada Pageant at this year's festival.

Hafso, 25, said it was no surprise Bentley came out on top. "It's great," he said. "I always knew he had the talent and now everyone else does."

A miniature Yorkshire terrier named Emily was yesterday's Ms. Canine Canada winner. She and Bentley will be back to compete today.

DIVING INTO A POOL

The pageant is one of several events at this weekend's sixth annual Woofstock festival in the St. Lawrence Market area. Other highlights include a doggy fashion show and a stupid dog trick contest.

The Ontario DockDogs competition is a real crowd pleaser. The dogs charge down a board and dive into a pool.

Sheena Stark, 33, is a judge for the competition and her German shepherd, Bosco, is a competitor. She said the dogs have to get used to the sport.

"It's really social as compared to other dog sports," Stark said. "We went to a couple events last year and he didn't jump, but once he realized it was water he jumped."

Woofstock is the largest dog festival in North America, and organizer Marlene Cook said there's more than 200 vendors selling everything from diet supplements to dog dresses.

She said there's not much for people in the city to do with their dogs, so it's great for all the owners.

Woofstock continues today from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Front St. E. from Yonge St. to Jarvis St.