Giant Schnauzer Monty Claims Best in Show at 2025 Westminster Dog Show

NEW YORK – Monty, a Giant Schnauzer, won the prestigious Best in Show title at the 2025 Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show on Feb. 11, marking a significant achievement for both the dog and his handler, Kate Bernadin. Monty, aged five, claimed the top honor in a competition held at Madison Square Garden, which returned to the iconic venue after a four-year hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

This year’s event featured over 2,500 dogs from more than 200 breeds, of which Monty emerged victorious, becoming the first Giant Schnauzer to win the Best in Show title at Westminster. Best in Show Judge Paula Nykiel noted Monty’s impressive performance, stating, “Choosing the best of the best is wonderful but also a difficult responsibility.”

Monty’s journey to the finals began with victories in the earlier rounds, where he secured the Best of Breed title for the Giant Schnauzer and triumphed in the Working Group competition. His win was especially notable as it ended a long drought, bringing the Working Group only its first Best in Show title since 2004.

The Best in Show round featured six other finalists, including Bourbon, a Whippet from the Hound Group who won Reserve Best in Show for the third time. Bourbon, who is 9.5 years old, entered the competition after a brief retirement, showcasing a remarkable comeback. Other finalists included Neal the Bichon Frisé from the Non-Sporting Group, Mercedes the German Shepherd from the Herding Group, Comet the Shih Tzu from the Toy Group, Freddie the English Springer Spaniel from the Sporting Group, and Archer the Skye Terrier from the Terrier Group.

The Westminster Dog Show, hailed as one of the most prestigious dog competitions in the United States, has crowned distinguished dogs for 149 years. The event emphasizes the diversity of purebred dogs, with competitors demonstrating their unique traits and skills. Winning the Westminster title not only provides recognition but also opens doors for breeding and media opportunities for both the dog and its handler.

The evening drew a large crowd, with spectators cheering for their favorite competitors. Among the audience were golden retrievers like Tuffy, who received applause despite not being an official contender, while Calaco, a Xoloitzcuintli, impressed judges with his confident performance.

As Monty rejoices in his victory, he will embark on a media tour, represented by his handler Bernadin, and will return to the ring next year as a defending champion. This marks a new chapter for him and the Westminster Dog Show, as anticipation builds for the next round of competitors eager to strive for the coveted title.