Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show Returns After 2020 Hiatus

NEW YORK (AP) — The Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show kicks off its 149th year this weekend, marking a return to Madison Square Garden for the first time since 2020. This prestigious canine event celebrates top dogs from across the globe, with approximately 3,000 dogs representing 201 breeds and varieties slated to compete for the coveted Best in Show title.

Westminster Club President Dr. Donald Sturz emphasized the significance of the event, stating, “If you love dogs and you want to see the very best dogs from all around the world competing for the top prize of best in show at Westminster, just be there.” For fans unable to attend in person, FS1 and FS2 will cover the event, and live streaming options are available online.

The competition takes place over three days, culminating in the Best in Show announcement on Tuesday night. Notable contestants to watch include Mercedes, the runner-up from last year’s show, and Monty, the giant schnauzer who has been a Westminster finalist for the past two years.

The event kicks off with agility and obedience championships at the Jacob Javits Convention Center on Saturday morning. For the first time, Westminster is introducing a flyball demonstration, which showcases a relay race involving jumps and ball retrieval. Traditional breed judging follows on Monday and Tuesday, focusing on the purity standards of numerous breeds.

Approximately 2,500 dogs are set to compete in structured events, with breeds such as dachshunds leading in representation, totaling 52 entries. Alongside the renowned breeds, contestants also include lesser-known varieties and mixed breeds gaining recognition in agility competitions. The agility trials include about 300 competitors, with the winner expected to shine in in-demand events.

The competition is a display of dedication, with breeders training and grooming their dogs to meet breed standards. Owners can either exhibit their dogs themselves or employ professional handlers who travel across the country for various competitions to maintain national rankings, in a practice known as “campaigning.”

Judging encapsulates strict criteria, with judges evaluating each dog against the ideal standards of their breed. The Westminster show attracts not only canine competitors but also fans akin to a sports event, as attendees cheer for crowd favorites through various rounds of competition.

According to the Canine Chronicle, statistics indicate that wire fox terriers have historically dominated the show, having been awarded the Best in Show title 15 times. In recent years, various breeds, including poodles and Labrador retrievers, have also made their mark, diversifying the competitive landscape.

The event typically fosters an atmosphere of camaraderie and sportsmanship despite the competitive nature. While no cash prizes are awarded, agility and obedience event winners receive a $5,000 donation to dedicate to a training club or a humane fund of their choice.

As Westminster welcomes its participants back, it celebrates long-standing traditions while introducing new elements, ensuring that this year’s dog show not only honors canine excellence but also the enduring bond between dogs and their owners.