The Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show, an iconic event steeped in history and prestige, once again captivated the hearts of dog lovers worldwide in its 149th year. Held from February 8th to 11th, 2025, this annual spectacle brought together over 3,000 of the top-winning dogs from across the globe to compete for the coveted title of Best in Show. This year’s event marked a significant return to Madison Square Garden for the highly anticipated Group and Best in Show competitions, a tradition temporarily altered due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
A Change of Venue, A Constant Spirit
While the initial breed judging and daytime events unfolded at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center, the electric atmosphere of Madison Square Garden provided the perfect backdrop for the final rounds. This iconic venue has long been synonymous with the Westminster Dog Show, and its return was celebrated by participants and spectators alike. The energy within “The Garden” as the group winners were announced and the final Best in Show judging took place was palpable, a testament to the enduring appeal of this time-honored tradition.
The Road to Best in Show: A Journey Through Breed and Group Competitions
The journey to the coveted Best in Show title is a rigorous one, beginning with breed-specific judging. Expert judges meticulously evaluate each dog against the established breed standard, a detailed description of the ideal characteristics for each breed, encompassing everything from height and weight to coat type, eye shape, and temperament.
Over two days at the Javits Center, dogs representing over 200 different breeds within seven distinct groups – Hound, Toy, Non-Sporting, Herding, Sporting, Working, and Terrier – were assessed. The “Best of Breed” winners from each breed then advanced to the prestigious Group competitions held at Madison Square Garden.
The Group judging is a highlight of the Westminster show, where the Best of Breed winners within each group compete against one another. In 2025, the winners of these highly anticipated groups were:
Hound Group: GCHP CH Pinnacle Kentucky Bourbon, a distinguished Whippet handled by Chelsie Pickett Smithey. This marked Bourbon’s second Group win at Westminster, having also triumphed in 2021.
Toy Group: GCHP CH Hallmark Jolei Out Of This World, a charming Shih Tzu expertly presented by Luke Ehricht.
Non-Sporting Group: GCHS CH Top Speed Neal, a striking Bichon Frise handled by Lisa Bettis.
Herding Group: GCHP CH Kaleef’s Mercedes, a magnificent German Shepherd Dog guided by Kent Boyles.
Sporting Group: GCHP CH Telltale Bohemian Rhapsody, an elegant English Springer Spaniel handled by Robin Novack.
Working Group: GCHG CH Hearthmore’s Wintergreen Mountain RI CGC TKN FITB, a powerful and impressive Giant Schnauzer affectionately known as “Monty.”
Terrier Group: GCHS CH Gleanntan’s Sure Shot Greyjoy, a handsome Skye Terrier presented by Antoinelle Vulpis.
These seven exceptional dogs, each a champion in their own right, then moved on to compete for the ultimate prize: Best in Show.
The Crowning Moment: Monty the Giant Schnauzer Takes Top Honors
The culmination of the 149th Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show was the announcement of Best in Show. In a moment filled with anticipation, GCHG CH Hearthmore’s Wintergreen Mountain RI CGC TKN FITB, the impressive Giant Schnauzer “Monty,” was crowned the winner. Handled by Amy Booth, Monty’s commanding presence, impeccable conformation, and evident breed character captivated the final judge, Ms. Rosalind Kramer. This victory marked a significant milestone for the Giant Schnauzer breed, securing its place in Westminster history.
Adding to the excitement, the Reserve Best in Show, the runner-up for the top honor, was awarded to the elegant Whippet, GCHP CH Pinnacle Kentucky Bourbon, highlighting the exceptional quality of the Hound Group winner.
Beyond Best in Show: Celebrating Canine Talent and Dedication
While Best in Show is the most widely recognized award, the Westminster Dog Show celebrates a wide range of canine talents and the dedication of owners, breeders, and handlers.
Masters Agility Championship: Held on the initial days of Westminster Week, this exciting competition showcases the athleticism and agility of dogs as they navigate a complex obstacle course. The 2025 Masters Agility Championship saw Vanish the Border Collie emerge victorious, demonstrating incredible speed and precision.
Masters Obedience Championship: This event highlights the remarkable training and partnership between dogs and their handlers. Dogs are judged on their ability to perform a series of obedience exercises with accuracy and enthusiasm. The 2025 Masters Obedience Championship celebrated the exceptional bond and skill of its participants.
Junior Showmanship: This important competition focuses on the skills and knowledge of young handlers. It provides a platform for the next generation of dog enthusiasts to showcase their abilities in presenting their dogs. The 2025 Junior Showmanship competition highlighted the talent and dedication of these young individuals.
Meet the Breeds: A popular event for spectators, “Meet the Breeds” offers a unique opportunity to learn about different dog breeds firsthand. Attendees can interact with various breeds, speak with knowledgeable breeders and owners, and discover which breeds might be a good fit for their lifestyles.
Benching Area: Westminster is a “benched” show, meaning that participating dogs are required to be present in designated areas when they are not being shown. This provides the public with a fantastic opportunity to see the dogs up close, meet the handlers, and learn more about the different breeds.
The Impact and Significance of the Westminster Dog Show
The Westminster Dog Show is more than just a competition; it plays a vital role in promoting purebred dogs and responsible dog ownership. The event highlights the dedication of breeders who strive to preserve and improve their chosen breeds, adhering to the standards established by the American Kennel Club (AKC).
Furthermore, the show raises awareness about the diverse characteristics and needs of different breeds, helping potential owners make informed decisions about the type of dog that would best suit their families and lifestyles. The show also underscores the importance of proper care, training, and the human-animal bond.
The Westminster Kennel Club itself is an organization with a long and rich history, dedicated to the health and well-being of dogs. Through events like the dog show, as well as educational initiatives, the club continues to contribute to the advancement of the sport of purebred dogs and responsible pet ownership.
FAQs
What are the dates and venues for the Westminster Dog Show 2025?
The 149th Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show took place on February 8, 10, and 11, 2025. Events were held at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center and Madison Square Garden in New York City.
What is the Westminster Dog Show?
Established in 1877, the Westminster Dog Show is the second-longest continuously held sporting event in the U.S. It showcases over 2,500 dogs across 200+ breeds competing in various categories, culminating in the prestigious “Best in Show” award.
Who won “Best in Show” in 2025?
Monty, a Giant Schnauzer, made history by becoming the first of his breed to win “Best in Show” at Westminster. Handled by Katie Bernardin, Monty stood out among thousands of competitors.
How can I watch the Westminster Dog Show 2025?
The event was broadcast on FOX, FS1, and FS2. Additionally, it was streamed live on FoxSports.com and the FOX Sports App.
Was the show available in 4K?
Yes, FOX provided upscaled 4K HDR coverage for enhanced viewing quality.
How can I purchase tickets for the Westminster Dog Show?
Tickets were available through the official Westminster Kennel Club website and authorized vendors like Ticketmaster and Tix123.
What types of tickets are offered?
Options included General Admission, Premium Seating, and VIP Packages, which offered perks like exclusive lounge access and meet-and-greets with handlers.
Are group bookings available?
Yes, group bookings can be made through official channels, often with discounted rates and the convenience of sitting together.
To conclude
The Westminster Dog Show 2025 was a testament to the enduring appeal of canine competitions, blending tradition with innovation. Monty’s historic win as the first Giant Schnauzer to claim “Best in Show” highlighted the event’s commitment to celebrating diverse breeds. The introduction of new events like the Flyball Tournament and Human Agility Course added fresh excitement, engaging both participants and spectators. With comprehensive coverage across major networks and streaming platforms, the show reached a global audience, further cementing its status as a premier event in the dog show calendar. As we look forward to future editions, the Westminster Dog Show continues to inspire and captivate dog lovers worldwide.
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