BREVARD COUNTY, Fla. — Police K-9s from across the country are converging on the Space Coast this weekend to show off their skills.   

In addition to the work the dogs do, the importance of their relationship with their human partners will also be on full display.

Cocoa Police officer Dan Rhoades and K-9 partner Bear will be participating.


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“He's go, go, go,” Rhoades said of Bear. “One hundred percent all the time.”

And the relationship between human and dog is professional, and personal.

“I spend more time with him than my wife and kids,” Rhoades said. “24/7, everyday.”

The pair is gearing up for their demonstration in the Space Coast Police K-9 competition.

Twenty-five teams with different breeds from around the country will show off their best skills. Donations raise money for K-9 and community outreach programs.

But it doesn't mean Bear won't try for some of the spotlight.

“Maybe show an old dog can do some new tricks,” Rhoades said. “In my opinion he's the perfect dog, the greatest dog there is.”

The Space Coast Police K-9 competition is Sunday at 4 p.m. at the USSA Space Coast Complex in Viera.