Why Does Kirk Herbstreit Have a Dog With Him? Meet Ben

Jan. 9 2024, Published 2:00 p.m. ET Sports commentators are often in the spotlight, even if they want to stay behind the scenes, but when it comes to NFL and college football commentator Kirk Herbstreit, someone else has stolen the attention of adoring fans: Kirks dog, Ben Herbstreit. The 10-year-old Golden Retriever has surpassed the

Sports Commentator Kirk Herbstreit's Dog Has Stolen the Spotlight and Everyone Loves It

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Jan. Nine 2024, Published 2:00 p.m. ET

Source: Getty Images

Sports commentators are ceaselessly within the spotlight, even supposing they want to keep in the back of the scenes, but with regards to NFL and college football commentator Kirk Herbstreit, any person else has stolen the eye of adoring enthusiasts: Kirk’s dog, Ben Herbstreit. The 10-year-old Golden Retriever has surpassed the eyes of sports fanatics and has now long gone viral on social media.

We’ve by no means observed a dog attend so many games, let on my own a dog that has Rose Bowl credentials. Yes, Ben was the “Chief Happiness Officer” of the Rose Bowl and he for sure lived up to his identify. But why does Kirk Herbstreit have a dog with him at all?

Source: Getty Images

Kirk Herbstreit has a dog with him as an emotional reinforce animal.

While Kirk (or Herb, as enthusiasts affectionately call him) has been bringing Ben to video games since 2018, he has best been constantly going to video games in the 2023 season. USA Today Sports reported that Herb’s 20-year-old son, Zak Herbstreit, used to be hospitalized for a heart condition earlier in the year. Zak used to be a tight end at Ohio State, and while he has technically returned to the team, he’s still receiving remedy, so he’s now not currently playing.

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Throughout all of this, Herb has been at the road, commentating on school soccer and NFL video games. It gets lonely, especially when somebody you're keen on is going thru a tough time. "You know, I didn't bring him out here for this, but I've really enjoyed watching people," he shared in an ESPN interview. "Like, they could just be watching, all of a sudden they see him and just a smile comes on their face because he's just a happy dog."

Ben Herbstreit, the dog, has long gone viral for his happy disposition, which fits out neatly for Kirk.

"I think he has an infectious personality,” Herb continued. “Like, right now, he's standing over here and just saying hi to people. I think that part of him we've appreciated as a family at our house. I have four Goldens, but there’s just something different about him. I’m just happy that people love his happiness and it makes them have a better day.”

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We love Ben 🐶 #dogsoftiktok #CFBPlayoff #football #michigan #washington #collegegameday

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Ben really is a happy boy! He was spotted getting cuddles from Aaron Rodgers and even warming up with the Jets during sideline drills before their game against the Browns. He’s also incredibly well-behaved as he chills in the booth while Herb calls the plays. It’s the perfect combination!

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“It wasn’t the intent,” Herb published of Ben bringing happiness to players, fans, and other staffers. “I simply sought after a better half out at the street with me as much as I trip. And he’s my really good buddy, so it’s simply been a laugh for me to peer other people’s reactions … It’s been a phenomenon. It’s very bizarre to me. I like it because I hate attention so he will get all the consideration, and I’m like his handler, which is actually the way I love to get through my day.”

Fans just need to see extra of Ben!

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