149th Annual Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show: A Historic Canine Extravaganza
Introduction
The Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show, an iconic annual event deeply ingrained in American sporting tradition, holds the distinction of being the USA’s second-oldest continuously held sporting event, trailing only the legendary Kentucky Derby. This year, the prestigious show returns to its customary time of year and venerable location in the heart of New York City.
Return to Tradition
After four years of pandemic-related adjustments, the Westminster Dog Show triumphantly resumes its traditional format, taking place at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center and Madison Square Garden. From February 10th to February 11th, the event will showcase an extraordinary array of over 2,500 canine participants representing more than 200 distinct breeds.
The Competition
The main competition, spanning two action-packed days, culminates in the crowning of winners in seven distinct categories. Ultimately, one exceptional dog will emerge triumphant, claiming the coveted title of Best in Show.
Schedule and Location
Saturday, February 8th
- Obedience Training Demonstrations and Agility Competition (Javits Center)
Monday, February 10th
- Preliminary Judging in Four Groups (Javits Center)
- Best of Breed Competition for the four group winners (Madison Square Garden)
Tuesday, February 11th
- Preliminary Judging in Remaining Three Groups (Javits Center)
- Best of Breed Competition for the three group winners (Madison Square Garden)
- Best in Show Honors Announcement (Tuesday Night)
Broadcast Information
The Westminster Dog Show will be broadcast live on FOX, FS1, and FS2.
Breed Categories
The participating dogs are classified into seven distinct breed categories:
- Sporting Group: Retrievers, pointers, spaniels, and other dogs bred for retrieving game
- Hound Group: Scent hounds, sight hounds, and other dogs bred for hunting
- Working Group: Mastiffs, Rottweilers, Doberman Pinschers, and other dogs originally bred for working tasks
- Terrier Group: Energetic and feisty dogs originally bred for hunting rodents
- Toy Group: Small, companionable dogs popular with urban dwellers
- Non-Sporting Group: Bulldogs, Dalmatians, and other dogs that don’t fit into other categories
- Herding Group: Collies, shepherds, and other dogs bred to control livestock
Judging Process
The dogs are judged based on the breed standard established by their parent club. This means that competing dogs are not compared to each other but rather to the ideal proportions, weight and size, head shape, gait, and other qualities of their specific breed.
Once a dog wins its breed, it advances to the group competition. Group winners then compete for the coveted Best in Show title.
Recent History
Last May, "Sage," a Miniature Poodle, triumphed as Best in Show at the 148th annual Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show. Sage, from Houston, Texas, emerged victorious from a field of over 2,500 dogs representing more than 200 breeds.
