The 6-year-old pooch made sure everyone knew why she was named Nimble. Because aside from being the first mixed-breed to win the Masters Agility Championship, she is also the first dog from the 12-inch division to win the title.

According to a Westminster release, Nimble, who has the show name NAC MACH Breezy Blue’s Be Quick! T2B MXF, bested 351 agility competitors, including 26 other All-American dogs (the term the Westminster Dog Show uses to refer to mixed-breed dogs), to bag the title with a time of 28.76 seconds.

PEOPLE reports that Nimble is the fifth dog to complete the Masters Agility Championship in under 30 seconds, and is now the third fastests canine contestant to participate in the competition.

Handler and owner Cynthia Hornor told NPR, “I was surprised. But she proved that she’s the little engine that could.”

Nimble is a Border Collie-Papillion mix – a great recipe for an agility champion. This is because, according to Fox Sports, Border Collies have dominated this category and have won a total of eight out of the last 11 titles. And Papillons make up the top three finishers of this year’s Masters Agility Championship.

Furthermore, Nimble’s handler and owner won last year’s Masters Agility Championship with her Border Collie, Truant.

Hornor said that she has rained numerous dogs to master the course. And while she looks for dogs that will excel in the competition, she said that the most important thing to her is that her dogs are treated as pets first.

“They’re pets first because the amount of time that we actually do agility is very small, versus the time we go hiking or swimming, or just lounge around our house,” she tells WTOP.

Hornor said she hopes Nimble’s historic win will be enough proof that mixed-breed dogs can be as fast as purebred dogs.

“Agility is the equalizer. Mixed-breed dogs can be just as fast as purebred dog,” Hornor said.

And as for Nimble’s reward for her historic win? “She got steak, and she got to play,” said Hornor. “She just really loves playing, so her reward is being able to go run and play.”

We’re thrilled to have two unique breeds join the registry, said Gina DiNardo, AKC Executive Secretary. The Mudi, a medium-sized herding dog, makes a great pet for an active family committed to keeping this worker busy, and the small, loving Russian Toy thrives on being close to its humans, making a wonderful companion for an owner who can be with the dog a great deal.  As always, we encourage people to do their research to find the right breed for their lifestyle.

The Mudi joins the Herding Group, and is a medium-sized, versatile, all-purpose farm dog from Hungary. The breed is courageous and useful for working the most stubborn livestock. It’s loyal and protective of property and family members. Mudi are very energetic, enjoying a good run. They are playful, affectionate, and can be calm and relaxed at home. They don’t have many grooming requirements. Occasional baths and combing or brushing will do.

Joining the Toy Group, the Russian Toy dates back to the Russian aristocracy. These dogs may be little, but they pack a ton of personality. They are elegant, lively, active, and cheerful. They are intelligent with a strong desire to please. Russian Toys thrive on human companionship, loving to snuggle and be close to their family. They can, however, be slightly aloof with strangers. The breed has two coat types longhaired and smooth. The longhaired coat should be brushed two to three times per week and given baths monthly. The smooth coat needs weekly brushing and occasional baths.

AKC Recognition offers the breed the opportunity to compete at all levels of AKC-sanctioned events.  Recognition does not necessarily mean that the breed is a newly created breed. Many of the breeds that gain full AKC-recognition have existed for decades, and some are ancient. To become an AKC-recognized breed there must be an active following and interest in the breed by owners in the U.S. as well as an established breed club of responsible owners and breeders. There also must be a sufficient population of dogs in the United States geographically distributed throughout the country. Breeds working towards full recognition are recorded in AKC’s Foundation Stock Service^® (FSS^®). Additional information on the process can be found at akc.org.

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The annual dog conformation show is America’s second-longest continuously held sporting event, behind only the Kentucky Derby. Rich in history, Westminster pre-dates the invention of the light bulb and the automobile, the building of the Brooklyn Bridge and the Washington Monument, the invention of basketball and the establishment of the World Series!

Wasabi’s win marked the 5th time a Pekingese, a Toy Group breed, won Best in Show. But, it wasn’t entirely unexpected—the 3-year old pup is the grandson of the 2012 Best in Show winner, Malachy.

Reserve Best in Show went to Bourbon the Whippet. You may recognize Bourbon for his Reserve Best in Show title from 2020, too!

If you didn’t get a chance to watch the 7 ‘Best in Group’ winners compete for ‘Best in Show,’ you can see the exciting final moments of the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show here:

Since 1877, the Westminster Kennel Club has held an annual benched all-breed dog show in New York City. Like many longstanding events, the COVID-19 pandemic resulted in a change of plans. Due to the ever-changing government restrictions, a move to a springtime, outdoor dog show was necessary to uphold Westminster’s commitment to the health and safety of everyone who attended the show. For the first time since its inception, the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show was held outside of NYC at Lyndhurst, a property of the National Trust for Historic Preservation, in Tarrytown, New York.

So, how does a Best in Show winner celebrate after the big night? “He can have a filet mignon, and I’ll have champagne,” handler David Fitzpatrick told FOX.

In 1877, a group of sporting gentlemen gathered in a Manhattan bar and formed the Westminster Kennel Club. Now in its 145th year, the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show has been dubbed “America’s Dog Show.”

But, with prized pups from around the nation coming to Madison Square Garden to compete for Best in Show, “America’s Dog Show” has yet to award some of America’s favorite breeds with the top prize. In 144 years of competing, these 8 breeds, all ranking in the Top 20 of America’s favorite, most popular dogs, have never won Westminster.

Up first, America’s most favorite breed, the Labrador Retriever!

The Labrador is a retrieving gun dog of medium size, with a dense, weather-resistant coat, an “otter” tail, and a clean-cut head with a “kind” expression. The first Labradors arrived in England from Newfoundland aboard fishing boats early in the 19th century, and imports to this country began in the early 1900s. Labrador temperament is outgoing, indulgent with peers, human oriented and tractable. Labradors can be found in guide and assistance dog programs, and substance detection and search and rescue work. Since 1992, the Labrador Retriever has headed the list as the most popular breed in the U.S.

Visit the official website for the Labrador Retriever Club

Not far behind in rank, the next breed that’s never won the big prize is the 5th most popular breed in America and a favorite “family dog.”

Can you guess which fair-haired breed has never won? 

If you guessed the Golden Retreiver, you’re right!

The Golden Retriever was developed in Scotland and England in the late 19th century for the purpose of retrieving wildfowl on land and water. Its physical characteristics and its willing, adaptable, trainable nature have also fitted it for usefulness in many other endeavors such as service dogs, guide dogs for the blind, therapy dogs and search and rescue. While the Golden is an ideal family dog, it requires training and exercise. Persons wanting to purchase a Golden Retriever puppy should learn about this breed and purchase only from a reputable breeder.

Visit the official website for the Golden Retriever Club of America

Another favorite among pet parents, this long, short breed hasn’t had his time in the spotlight just yet… which breed is it? 

If you guessed the Dachshund, you’re right!

The Dachshund, developed in Germany three centuries ago, is a perfect example of form following function. With his long, low body, prominent forechest and front legs designed for digging, the Dachshund is well equipped for going underground to hunt badger and other den-dwelling animals. A versatile hunter, he has the instincts and intelligence to excel in conformation, earthdog, obedience, agility and tracking events.

The clever, affectionate Dachshund is an entertaining and devoted pet. The three Varieties – Longhaired, Smooth, and Wirehaired – compete separately. Within each variety the two sizes, miniature and standard, are shown together.

Visit the official website for the Dachshund Club of America

Up next, the most popular of all the “little dogs,” and, subsequently, the second most popular breed of dog found in shelters across the country, these little dogs are BIG in personality, but have never taken the top prize at Westminster. Can you guess who it is? 

If you guessed the Chihuahua, you were right!

There is much disagreement as to the origins of the Chihuahua. Guesses include Mexico and the Aztecs, Egypt, the Sudan and Malta. Used for sacrifice in religious ceremonies and eaten by the conquistadors, there is no question that it is an ancient breed. It was said that a yellow Chihuahua could guide its owner’s soul across the river of death to the other side. Chihuahuas have been a registered breed in this country for 100 years. Clever, gigantic in heart and personality, this no more than six pound companion is much beloved by owners. There are two varieties, Long and Smooth Coat.

Visit the official website for the Chihuahua Club of America

Our next popular breed that’s come very close—competing five times in the Best in Show Ring—but never taken the trophy, is an ancient toy breed, known for their gorgeous, long, shiny hair that’s often topped with a bow. Can you name this imperial favorite? 

If you guessed the Shih Tzu, you’re right!

The Shih Tzu, according to tradition, was developed in China’s Imperial courts by the crossing of ancient Chinese and Tibetan breeds. This royal Toy dog became extinct in China following the revolution of 1949 but fortunately, a number of Shih Tzu had been taken home by diplomats so the breed was continued in England, Norway and Sweden. In recent years the breed has become enormously popular in the United States as a sturdy, lively, alert Toy dog that is a happy companion. Shih Tzu in the show ring have a long flowing double coat; family pets look charming in a variety of short-hair clips.

Visit the official website for the American Shih Tzu Club

Our next breed, in stark contrast to the Chihuahua and Shih Tzu is one of the largest breeds in existence. Can you guess the name of this “great” big dog? 

If you said the Great Dane, you were right!

The Dane is a true giant among breeds descending from the Mastiff. The Great Dane was developed in Germany to hunt wild boar, and was known as the Boar Hound when it appeared in America late in the 19th century. While intimidating in size and stature, this is a breed noted for its gentleness and “human-like” compassion. They make excellent family dogs. Its impressive size, family devotion and gentle nature combine to create a first-rate companion. The breed also competes well in obedience, agility and tracking. Permissible conformation colors are brindle, blue, black, fawn, harlequin and mantle.

Visit the official website for the Great Dane Club of America

Up next, this miniature version of his much larger cousin has never taken the top prize, despite being a fan favorite every year. Who is it? 

Did you guess the Miniature Schnauzer? You’re right!

The Miniature Schnauzer, cousin to the larger Standard Schnauzer, did not originate in England as many of the terriers, but in Germany. He is a small dog but in no way is he delicate. He makes an excellent companion because he is obedient, quick to learn, devoted to his owner, spunky and fearless. His deepest need is to live as part of the family, going where they go and doing what they do. He does not shed, but needs to be groomed approximately every six weeks. He comes in three colors: salt and pepper, black and silver, and solid black.

Visit the official website for the American Miniature Schnauzer Club

This next dog is often mistaken for a Collie due to its similar appearance, but is much smaller – and more popular as a family pet. Who is it?

If you said Shetland Sheepdog, you’re right!

The Sheltie originated in the Shetland Islands, developing there and on the British mainland as a popular, affectionate companion, guardian and farm dog. The Sheltie generally resembles a Collie in miniature. His color may be sable (ranging from light golden brown to dark mahogany), black, or blue merle, with varying amounts of white and/or tan. His most outstanding characteristic is his unique temperament. He has an intense desire to please and an enormous capacity for love and affection. The Sheltie is exceptionally trainable and responsive, characteristics which make him an ideal companion and an outstanding worker in obedience and agility.

Visit the official website for the American Shetland Sheepdog Association

And, finally, which breed has won Best in Show more often than any other?

If you guessed the Wire Fox Terrier, good job! You’re right!

Best in Show has been won by the Terrier Group 47 out of the 109 times that the prize has been awarded since 1907, more than twice as many wins as any other group. The single breed that has won the most is the Wire Fox Terrier, which has won 16 times.

The origin of the Wire Fox Terrier dates back to the rough-coated black and tan terrier. Early pedigrees show that wire and smooth varieties were interbred until they became separate breeds in 1985. A non-shedding, hard broken outer coat and softer undercoat distinguishes the wire from its smooth cousin. An unconditional love for their human family, smart appearance, alert and outgoing manner always attracts attention, in and out of the show ring.

Visit the official website for the American Fox Terrier Club

Since 1877, the Westminster Kennel Club has held an annual benched all-breed dog show in New York City. Like many longstanding events, the COVID-19 pandemic resulted in a change of plans. Due to the ever-changing government restrictions, a move to a springtime, outdoor dog show was necessary to uphold Westminster’s commitment to the health and safety of everyone who attends our show. For the first time since its inception, the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show will be held outside of NYC at Lyndhurst, a property of the National Trust for Historic Preservation, in Tarrytown, New York on Saturday, June 12 and Sunday, June 13, 2021, with live coverage across FOX Sports networks.

Which breed will you be cheering for this year? Tell us in a comment!

The annual dog conformation show is America’s second-longest continuously held sporting event, behind only the Kentucky Derby. Rich in history, Westminster pre-dates the invention of the light bulb and the automobile, the building of the Brooklyn Bridge and the Washington Monument, the invention of basketball and the establishment of the World Series!

This year more than 2,500 dogs from 209 different recognized breeds will enter the ring in hopes of earning the Best in Show title. The breeds that are eligible to compete are determined by the American Kennel Club based on population and geographic distribution, as well as growing interest by the breed’s parent club.

The 4 newly-recognized breeds, all competing for the coveted Best in Show title at this year’s Westminster Dog Show competition are:

Barbet:

The archetype water dog of France, the Barbet is a joyful, bright, and loyal companion. A rustic breed with roots as far back at the 16th century, this medium-sized dog locates, flushes, and retrieves birds. The Barbet will join the Sporting Group.

Biewer Terrier:

The Biewer Terrier (pronounced “beaver”) was developed in Germany in the 1980s. This whimsical toy breed is light-hearted, intelligent, and amusing. The Biewer Terrier is an elegant, long-haired dog with a breed signature ponytail. Their fun-loving, childlike attitude makes them a devoted, loyal, and obedient companion, despite being mischievous at times. The Biewer Terrier will join the Toy Group.

Belgian Laikenois:

The rarest of the four native Belgium breeds, the Belgian Laekenois (pronounced “Lak-in-wah”) is an affectionate, alert and intelligent dog bred to herd and guard flocks and fields. Similar to the Malinois, Sheepdog and Tervuren, this sturdy dog’s main difference, besides region of origin, is his rough, coarse coat with a tousled look. The Belgian Laekenois joins the Herding Group.

Dogo Argentino:

The Dogo Argentino, developed in Argentina’s Cordoba province in the 1920s, was bred to find, chase, and catch dangerous game such as wild boar, pumas, and other destructive predators. The Dogo Argentino joins the Working Group.

Since 1877, the Westminster Kennel Club has held an annual benched all-breed dog show in New York City. Like many longstanding events, the COVID-19 pandemic resulted in a change of plans. Due to the ever-changing government restrictions, a move to a springtime, outdoor dog show was necessary to uphold Westminster’s commitment to the health and safety of everyone who attends our show. For the first time since its inception, the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show will be held outside of NYC at Lyndhurst, a property of the National Trust for Historic Preservation, in Tarrytown, New York on Saturday, June 12 and Sunday, June 13, 2021, with live coverage across FOX Sports networks. 

Last month, 4-year old rescue dog, Wailin’ Phelan the Bearded Lass from Crownsville, Maryland beat out 116 other fast Fidos in the 2020 AKC Fast Course Ability Testing (CAT) Invitational, a fast-paced competition to crown the fastest dog in the country.

Phelan ran 100 yards in 6.346 seconds, or 32.3 miles per hour, making her speedier than even world record sprinter, Usain Bolt, who’s clocked in an impressive 28 miles per hour.

See the amazing winning sprint right here… don’t blink or you might miss it!

The contest also pitted purebreed dogs against each other in their Speed of the Breeds Competition with Safranne’s Make Mine M”Ag”Nificent MX MXJ T2B BCAT, a Poodle known as “Elliot,” taking the top spot.

The slowest dog in the competition was a Pekingese named Buster who averaged 7.8 miles per hour. Buster may have taken last place in the Fast CAT Invitational, but he got there by being the fastest Peke in the country!

The Westminster Kennel Club dog show, essentially the Super Bowl of canine conformation shows in America, just crowned ‘Siba’ the Standard Poodle their 144th Best in Show winner. But, before a perfectly coifed canine is crowned, a LOT goes into prepping for the big event.

The 144th Annual Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show was held on February 10 and 11, 2020, and showcased more than 2,600 dogs from 204 breeds and varieties, including one new-to-Westminster breed, the Azawakh.

Now, unlike most dog shows, no backstage passes are required at Westminster, offering the public a rare opportunity to meet & mingle with the 204 different breeds showing in the year’s most important event. In fact, not only are the general ticket-buying public granted backstage access, the dogs and their teams of owners, handlers, and groomers are actually required to be present when the hundreds of eager dog-lovers and spectators walk through the benching area on their way to their seats inside Madison Square Garden – although it quickly becomes clear which teams (and dogs) are enjoying the spotlight and which are trying to slink back and look invisible to the troves of people passing through.

Also unlike other dog shows, Westminster takes place in midtown-Manhattan, where grassy patches and potty spots are a rare sight. So, with hundreds of dogs needing a place to “go”, Madison Square Garden set up special indoor potty areas for the dogs. Like the canine version of a port-a-potty, these spaces are basically chain-link kennels lined with plastic and a thick bed of wood-shavings.

Nevertheless, the backstage access at Madison Square Garden offers a rare glimpse into the dog show world and a great opportunity to learn tips and tricks, spill little-known secrets, shatter some dog show myths, and quell some curiosities about the dogs, the handlers, and their (sometimes unusual) grooming habits.

Why Dog Shows?

So what’s the big draw? Why would someone want to enter the dog show world with their dogs? First and foremost, it’s a love of dogs and, more accurately, the love of a specific breed. The folks at Westminster aren’t your run-of-the-mill hobby breeders, they definitely ARE NOT backyard breeders or puppy mill operators. They are people who have devoted their lives – and lots, and lots of money – to their favorite breed.

A walk through the benching area (or backstage) behind Westminster reveals hundreds of owners, breeders, and enthusiasts eager and willing to share the rich history and details about the breeds they love so much. And, it gives dog lovers a chance to meet and learn about some breeds they didn’t even know existed.

Like the Norwegian Lundehund, for instance. “Lundies” are fairly new to Westminster, having their debut in 2012. This unique breed was nearly extinct when in 1963, only 6 Lundies existed in the world. Today, through purposeful breeding the little dogs – originally bred to hunt Puffins, with some incredible physical features not present in other breeds, like a minimum of 6 toes on each foot, an ability to turn their head upward until it touches their spine, and ears that can be “pinched” closed facing either forward or backward at will – number in the thousands. Best of all, they make fabulous family pets that love to play and snuggle.

And the Skye Terrier, who we learned is shed-less, odorless, danderless, hypoallergenic, and, in addition to being absolutely gorgeous, is quite the cuddler when he isn’t working.

So, there must be a big payout for winning Best in Show, right? Wrong. Aside from some huge ribbons, gift bags full of loot, and tons of accolades, there is no cash prize for winning at Westminster. But, any breeder will confirm that the offspring from champion dogs can bring in big bucks, particularly considering many past winners have been relatives (sons, daughters, littermates) to prior winners.

Still, the dogs entering the ring at Westminster are well-loved, adored family pets. They sleep in bed with their owners, they share their homes with kids, they probably chewed up their humans’ shoes when they were pups. (And, yes, their paws DO smell like corn chips, just like your dog’s paws – we’ve checked.)

They’re real dogs. Real dogs that participate in a sport. And, like any other dog sport, it takes time, training, socialization and a natural disposition that makes them right for the sport. Dogs are well-socialized  from birth and are introduced to conformation shows very early on, sometimes as young as 6 to 8 months old. Proper socialization is hugely important for show dogs. A dog that perfectly conforms to his breed standard won’t stand a chance if he’s skittish, fearful, or aggressive.

This year, Simone, the Best in Breed Irish Water Spaniel, was DQ’d from competing for Best in Sporting Group when she lunged at a judge and refused to be examined. Sometimes a dog just doesn’t have her day.

And, of course, there’s grooming. Oh, so much grooming.

Grooming for Game Day

In the same way an NFL player trains for months and then gets geared up for game day, the dogs showing at Westminster begin preparing well in advance of taking to the show ring.

A walk through the show’s backstage benching area (where all the dogs and their teams are lined up in individual cubbies, getting primped and pampered before their turn in the ring) displays a variety of grooming products and tools more impressive than an entire aisle at your local drugstore.

You’ll see hairspray, volumizer, mousse, brushes, rollers, clips, combs, clippers, sponges, spray bottles, blow dryers, and (yes) flat irons, along with some unusual accoutrements like corn starch and rubber gloves – all serving a specific purpose: to look as perfect as possible for the judge. Even 2018’s Best in Show winner, Flynn the Bichon Frise, had his nose dusted with a shimmery powder his handler called “Fairy Frost” to dry the drool from that perfectly coifed, splendidly fluffy face.

The Bedlington Terrier has one of the most unique grooms for the ring, with his face, ears, and chest shaved to the skin, while the hair on his head is brushed and fluffed, giving him a striking appearance when compared to other, more common haircuts. But, this unusual groom was originally created to serve a purpose!

Originally used by miners in Bedlington, England, the Bedlington Terrier was bred to hunt badgers, rabbits, and rodents commonly found hiding out in coal mines. The small, agile, and fast dogs were sent into mines to clear out any vermin so miners could safely enter. The practice of shaving the dogs’ face, ears, and chest originally began for hygienic reasons – these were the areas of the dogs that most often became dirty and required serious cleaning after each hunt. And, since Bedlington Terriers served dual purpose as bed-warmers in their owners’ homes, being able to quickly wash them before heading inside to snuggle up for the night was essential.

It’s not unusual to see a groomer spend upwards of twenty minutes perfecting a single ankle pouf on a Poodle, or getting just the perfect amount of height on an Old English Sheepdog’s head by teasing, and brushing, and teasing, and brushing again. Yes, that millimeter of height or single misplaced hair could mean the difference between Best in Breed and runner-up when the competition is especially tough.

Speaking of the competition – this is where many don’t realize what this show is really about. A lot of people ask, “How could you compare a Rottweiler to a Chihuahua and pick the best one?” Well, you don’t. In conformation shows, the dogs are judged solely against their breed standard, not against other dogs. So, for example, in the Golden retriever breed category – of which 47 dogs entered this year – the Best in Breed winner was the dog that most conformed (get it?) to the breed standard.

Breed judging takes place separately from Madison Square Garden where the Best in Group and Best in Show competitions are held, mostly because there are just far too many dogs, representing far too many breeds to pack them all into the Garden.

The American Kennel Club defines a breed standard as “a word or picture describing how the perfect dog of a breed should look, move, and behave.”

Following the individual breed competitions, the winners of each breed move on to the Best in Group competition. There are 7 groups: Herding, Sporting, Non-Sporting, Working, Toy, Terrier, and Hound. Every Best in Breed dog from the Herding Group, for example, goes before a judge who determines which Herding Group dog best conformed to their breed standard – so while a Border Collie may enter the ring alongside a Corgi, they aren’t being judged against each other, but against their own breed standard.

After the 7 Best in Group winners are selected, those dogs will move on to compete for Best in Show – again, not against each other, but against their own breed standard.

The Best in Show judge takes time to carefully inspect each dog. Naturally, he’s admiring the magnificence of each dog, but he’s also looking for very specific characteristics – skeletal structure, coat and skin condition and texture, teeth, ear placement, the way the dog holds their tail. And when the dogs make their way around the ring, he’s watching their posture, gait, energy level, and even personality that shines through.

And, while the dog is, of course, the main focus, having the right handler can make or break their moment in the judging ring.

Getting a Handle on Showing Dogs

Having the right handler (that’s the person that walks the Best in Show-hopeful onto the ring and trots around the floor as directed by the judge) can mean the difference between taking home the big ribbon or heading home early.

Aside from growing attached and well-bonded to the dogs they work with, the handlers play a vital role at the dog show.

A dog needs to be totally comfortable in the ring, confident, alert, and content and the right handler can make all the difference. While walking the dog around the ring, the handler watches closely for gait, posture, and stance and immediately corrects the dog with very subtle, expert leash handling and tricks like appropriately timed treats or finger snaps. Dog handling is an art and the handlers at Westminster are the best artists in the business.

Speaking of treats, many handlers hold them in their mouths while on the show floor. Watch a dog show closely and you’ll see the handler pulling treats from their mouth, offering a bite to the dog, and putting the remainder back in. Yes, it’s a little odd, but there’s a reason they do it – and, no, it’s not some subtle way to display dominance as some have suggested. Simply enough, a treat in the hand, or in a pocket, is distracting to the dog. And, if a dog is looking for a treat, he’ll look at his handler’s face, or the judge’s face – the perfect place to look when being judged.

Besides being healthy, this trick is also part of the reason why dogs in the show ring are usually rewarded with cooked chicken, steak, cheese, or hot dogs instead of regular dog treats or biscuits. A lot of dog handlers joke about mistakenly putting a dog treat or liver in their mouths by force of habit in the ring.

Handlers also carefully consider their outfits before hitting the ring. The standard dress-code is “business attire” but, more important than just dressing appropriately for the event, handlers choose clothes that complement or enhance the dog’s appearance, without distracting from it. For example, a handler showing a black dog would never wear a black suit or dress because the dog would disappear in front of it.

And, of course, there’s practice – and lots of it. Handlers don’t just show up on show day and hit the ring (literally) running. They practice their speed, leash handling, and running alongside their dog to work out any possible kinks well ahead of judging day. And, interestingly, because they practice so much running counter-clockwise in the ring with the dogs, handlers have an unusually high rate of injuries to the hips, knees, and ankles on the left side of their body.

As you can see, a LOT goes into making it to the top. But, with so much time, money, and energy put toward breeding and showing the perfect dog, dog lovers can’t help but consider the millions of pet-perfect dogs in shelters and rescues across the country, dogs that deserve the same accolades, the same loving devotion, as their perfectly-bred cousins.

Can Dog Shows & Dog Rescue Exist Harmoniously?

Since it was established in 1877, pre-dating the invention of the lightbulb and the automobile, the Westminster Kennel Club has promoted responsible pet ownership through educational programs and fostered community efforts through programs that give back.

At its first show in 1877, Westminster donated all the proceeds from an entire day to the ASPCA to establish a home for stray and disabled dogs. That donation has continued for each of the 144-years since. Over the years, the organization has helped to raise millions of dollars through various programs in support of homeless dogs and shelters, while holding strongly to the belief that teaching responsible dog ownership is paramount to solving our nation’s pet overpopulation problem.

Could passion for animal rescue and responsible pet ownership be misdirected as anger or resentment toward conformation shows like Westminster? Remember, the dogs participating in Westminster are not the product of puppy mills but are bred by responsible breeders that love these animals. The puppies produced by champion show dogs would never be found in a lonely cage at a pet store, sitting atop a wire crate lined in newspaper. They don’t end up in shelters or on the streets.

Some argue that conformation shows create an unhealthy image or standard by which most dogs can’t compete, that breeding for conformation has all but ruined several of the popular breeds we know and love, and that it supports inhumane procedures like cropping ears and docking tails. But, things are changing.

For dogs to compete at Westminster these days, they must have a proven, solid, healthy background, without congenital, skeletal, or bred defects. And, although ear cropping and tail docking is still the norm, last year we met Teresa LaBrie and Duesy, a stunningly handsome Great Dane entered with his ears big and naturally flopping as he pranced around the ring. Although Duesy didn’t win, it gave many of us hope for a floppy-eared future at Westminster.

Conformation shows don’t seem to be going anywhere, anytime soon. So, it’ll be important to find a way – together – to improve the lives of dogs. Remember, as Roger Caras, a long-time announcer and nicknamed “the voice of Westminster” said, “Dogs are not our whole life, but they make our lives whole.”

To fully grasp the place in history of the Westminster Kennel Club and its famed annual event, consider that Westminster predates the invention of the light bulb and the automobile, the building of the Brooklyn Bridge and the Washington Monument, the invention of basketball and the establishment of the World Series. Since Westminster held its first show 144 years ago, 25 men have been elected president and 12 states have joined the union.

As one might imagine, the history of the club and its show is rich and colorful.

• A share of the proceeds from the first show in 1877 was given to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) to open a home for stray and disabled dogs. Westminster continues to support the ASPCA today.

• In that first show, there were entries in 35 different breeds and a Miscellaneous Class, which included a dog described as a “cross between a St. Bernard and a Russian Setter” and a dog named Nellie, “born with two legs only.”

• In the first show, there were two Staghounds listed as being from the late General George Custer’s pack, and two Deerhounds that had been bred by the Queen of England.

• In 1889, the Czar of Russia was listed as the breeder of a Siberian Wolfhound entered, and the following year, one of the entries was a Russian Wolfhound whose listed owner was the Emperor of Germany.

• Philanthropist J. P. Morgan made the first of his many appearances at Westminster with his Collies in 1893. Famous American journalist Nelly Bly (Around the World in Eighty Days) entered her Maltese at Westminster in 1894.

• In 1888, Anna Whitney became the first woman to judge a dog show in America with her assignment of 117 St. Bernards.

• In 1910, a class was offered for Fire Department Dalmatians, and it was won by Mike of Engine Company 8 of 51st Street.

• In 1916, one of the breeds entered in the Miscellaneous Class is listed as a “Truffles Hunter” named Prinz Forino.

• In 1917, a special hero of World War I, a German Shepherd named Filax of Lewanno, who had brought 54 wounded soldiers to safety, was exhibited at Westminster.

• The New York Yankees have had a definite presence at Westminster through the years, beginning with owner Col. Jacob Ruppert’s St. Bernards in the late 1800’s, Lou Gehrig’s German Shepherd in 1933 and an Irish Setter belonging to Mike Mussina in 2001 and 2002.

Westminster is America’s Dog Show—storied in its history, rich in its tradition, unique, prestigious and elegant for all concerned. Indeed, there is only one Westminster.

For more information about The Westminster Kennel Club, visit www.westminsterkennelclub.org.

The six most decorated Azawakhs from around the country will head to New York City to compete for Best in Show at the 144th Annual Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show.

According to the AKC, this ancient hunting hound is so lean and rangy that his bone structure and musculature can plainly be seen beneath his skin. The smooth S-shaped contours, deep chest, and aerodynamic head mark the Azwakh as a member of the sighthound family, canine sprinters that rely on keen vision and blazing speed to fix and course their prey.

Interestingly, unlike most breeds, Azawakhs are taller than they are long.

The ultrafine coat comes in several colors and patterns. The overall look of this leggy hound is one of elegance, but don’t be fooled: This is a tough, durable hunter who’s been chasing gazelle across the scorching sands of the Sahara for more than a thousand years.

The Azawakh serves as a loyal companion and guardian, while their ability to sprint at speeds of up to 40 miles per hour make them excellent at lure courses and other high-speed sports.

The 144th Annual Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show will take place on Monday, February 10 and Tuesday, February 11, 2020. The show features more than 2,600 dogs from 204 breeds and runs from Feb. 9-11 at Pier 94 and Madison Square Garden.

“We’re happy to have the Barbet and Dogo Argentino as part of AKC’s family of recognized breeds,” said Gina DiNardo, AKC Executive Secretary. “Both are unique, offering dog lovers very different choices. As always, we encourage people to do their research to find the best breed for their lifestyle when looking to add a dog to their home.”

Joining the Sporting group, the Barbet is a medium-sized water dog from France. The breed was originally used to hunt waterfowl in its native country. It’s a smart, even-tempered dog with a happy, friendly nature. The Barbet is loyal and loves to be near its owners. It has a moderate activity level, requiring daily physical and mental stimulation. The breed’s coat is thick and curly, and kept in its natural state only needing trimming to keep it neat.

Joining the Working group, the Dogo Argentino is a large hunting dog developed in Argentina. It was originally used to hunt big game, such as boar and mountain lion. Dogos are confident, courageous, loyal and affectionate with their family. They aren’t for the inexperienced dog owner, however. They have strong guarding instincts and tend to be very protective and territorial. The breed is a powerful, athletic working dog that needs a great deal of daily exercise and frequent interaction with people. Dogos have a short, smooth coat that needs weekly brushing. Because of their white coat, they can get easily sunburned.

To become an AKC recognized breed there must be a minimum number of dogs geographically distributed throughout the U.S., as well as an established breed club of responsible owners and breeders. Breeds working towards full recognition are recorded in AKC’s Foundation Stock Service^® (FSS^®). Additional information on the process can be found at akc.org.

About the American Kennel Club
Founded in 1884, the American Kennel Club is a not-for-profit organization, which maintains the largest registry of purebred dogs in the world and oversees the sport of purebred dogs in the United States. The AKC is dedicated to upholding the integrity of its registry, promoting the sport of purebred dogs and breeding for type and function.  Along with its more than 5,000 licensed and member clubs and its affiliated organizations, the AKC advocates for the purebred dog as a family companion, advances canine health and well-being, works to protect the rights of all dog owners and promotes responsible dog ownership. More than 22,000 competitions for AKC-registered purebred dogs are held under AKC rules and regulations each year including conformation, agility, obedience, rally, tracking, herding, lure coursing, coonhound events, hunt tests, field and earthdog tests. Affiliate AKC organizations include the AKC Humane Fund, AKC Canine Health Foundation, AKC Reunite and the AKC Museum of the Dog.  For more information, visit www.akc.org.

NEW YORK, NY – NBC will celebrate man’s best friend in the 18th anniversary edition of the family-favorite holiday special “The National Dog Show Presented by Purina®,” airing Thanksgiving Day (noon-2 p.m. in all time zones), Nov. 28, following the telecast of NBC’s “Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.”

“The National Dog Show Presented by Purina®” will be hosted by award-winning TV personality, author and Broadway star John O’Hurley (“Seinfeld,” “Dancing with the Stars”), and expert analyst and American Kennel Club-licensed judge David Frei, who has officiated at dog shows worldwide. NBC correspondent and sports broadcasting Hall of Famer Mary Carillo will report from inside the show ring, with former U.S. Olympic figure skaters Tara Lipinski and Johnny Weir offering behind-the-scenes access as backstage contributors.

“Can you imagine any show lasting 18 years in this world of televised programming?” said O’Hurley. “David and I are grateful to hide behind the shadows of these wonderful creatures that we get to share one day a year. America is greater because of its dogs.”

A new American Kennel Club-sanctioned breed will be included in this year’s competition, bringing the total recognized breeds to 193. The Azawakh (hound group) is a loyal, independent and deeply affectionate sighthound known for its short coat, long and lean appearance and excellent companionship and guardianship. Since 2003, 46 new breeds have been introduced to the event.

Last year, a 3-year-old male Whippet named Whiskey took home the Best in Show title among the seven group winners. Whiskey has more than 20 Best in Show titles and went on to win the American Kennel Club’s National Championship in January. Check out this video of last year’s ‘Best in Show’ judging:

The “National Dog Show Presented by Purina®” is a beloved holiday tradition for families across the nation. The telecast reached nearly 25 million viewers over Thanksgiving week last year, delivering its third-best score in total viewers since its first broadcast in 2002. The show is part of a five-hour block of family programing on NBC, offering the country’s 65 million pet-owning households a full afternoon of fun entertainment while raising money for canine-related causes. In its unique format, the Kennel Club of Philadelphia offers an open environment for the esteemed event and remains one of the only “benched” dog shows, displaying all 2,000 competing purebred canines to the visiting public.

Continuing the family fun, NBC Sports Network (NBCSN) will present a Thanksgiving Day marathon (beginning 5 p.m. ET/2 p.m. PT) of “The National Dog Show Presented by Purina®,” featuring all five Best in Show winners from 2014-18. On Friday, Nov. 29, NBC will present a primetime encore of this year’s “National Dog Show Presented by Purina®” (8-10 p.m. ET/PT).

This year pet lovers are encouraged to share a photo or video of their pet for a chance to be featured during the airing of the “National Dog Show Presented by Purina” on NBC or NBC.com.  Fans can use the hashtag #DogThanking and tag @Purina in a post on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram that highlights their pet’s courageous and honor-worthy role in the family.

For more information on the “National Dog Show Presented by Purina,” click here.

The competition, held at the Sonoma-Marin Fair June 19-23, drew thousands of spectators, all hoping to meet one of dozens of homely hounds the enter each year or the celebrity judges that make the tough call. This year was especially tough as the judges called upon the crowd to help them decide and Scamp The Tramp prevailed.

“We celebrate the spirit and imperfections that make these dogs lovable and adoptable,” explains Karen Spencer, Marketing Director who explains the event is not meant to poke fun at perfectly imperfect pups, but to promote the adoption of dogs who might otherwise seem less adoptable.

“Scamp defines ugly with cute, winning all of our hearts. Let’s all paws for a moment and celebrate the World’s Ugliest Dog: Scamp!” shared long-time returning judge Kerry Sanders, NBC News Correspondent.

Scamp The Tramp was rescued by his fur mommy, Yvonne Morones back in 2014. This is a story of an online swipe right and love at first sight. Yvonne discovered Scamp on PetFinder and immediately melted. It was near his last hour when she pulled in and saved his life.

“It was on the way home that I knew I made the right choice. There we were, two strangers in a car on the way home to a new start. Bob Marley was playing ‘One Love’ and I looked over and little Scamp was bobbing his head. It was like he knew he had found his forever home” Shared Yvonne.

For being crowned the World’s Ugliest Dog, Scamp’s prize included a very large trophy, $1500, and a donated prize match which will be split between the Humane Society of Sonoma County, Angels Fund and Compassion Without Borders.

Scamp competed against 18 other dogs, most of which were also adopted and/or rescued. The red carpet runners up included 2nd Place winner Wild Thang, owned by Ann Lewis and 3rd Place winner Tostito, owned by Molly Horgan who also won the Spirit Award. This year’s People’s Choice Award went to Meatloaf, owned by Denae Pruner.