Westminster Dog Show 2025: the Canine Extravaganza-The Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show is a pinnacle event in the world of canine competition, celebrated for its rich history, prestige, and the sheer joy it brings to dog lovers worldwide. The 149th Annual Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show, held in February 2025, marked a significant return to its traditional home at Madison Square Garden in New York City after a four-year hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic and logistical challenges. This article dives deep into the Westminster Dog Show 2025, exploring its highlights, winners, key moments, and answers to the most common questions fans have been asking on platforms like YouTube and Google. As of March 14, 2025, we’ll provide a comprehensive, engaging, and informative look at this iconic event, ensuring you’re fully briefed on all things Westminster.
A Triumphant Return to Madison Square Garden
The Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show, established in 1877, is the second-longest continuously held sporting event in the United States, surpassed only by the Kentucky Derby. Known as “America’s Dog Show,” it has been a beloved tradition for over a century, captivating audiences with its celebration of purebred dogs, agility, obedience, and the bond between handlers and their canine companions. The 2025 edition, held on February 8, 10, and 11, was a landmark event, marking the show’s return to Madison Square Garden (MSG) after being held at alternative venues like Lyndhurst Estate in Tarrytown and the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in Queens since 2020.
This year’s show, presented by Purina Pro Plan, welcomed over 2,500 dogs representing more than 200 breeds and varieties from across the United States and 12 other countries. The event unfolded over three days, featuring a variety of competitions, including the Masters Agility Championship, Masters Obedience Championship, and the confirmation show culminating in the prestigious Best in Show award. With Monty, a Giant Schnauzer, crowned as the 2025 Best in Show winner, the event once again showcased the excellence and diversity of the canine world.
In this article, we’ll explore the key aspects of the Westminster Dog Show 2025, from its schedule and winners to behind-the-scenes details and fan reactions. We’ll also address the most frequently asked questions on YouTube and Google, ensuring this is the ultimate resource for enthusiasts and newcomers alike.
the Westminster Dog Show 2025: Event Overview
Dates and Venues
The 149th Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show took place on February 8, 10, and 11, 2025, across two iconic New York City venues:
Jacob K. Javits Convention Center: Hosted daytime events, including breed judging, agility, obedience, and additional demonstrations on all three days.
Madison Square Garden: Hosted the evening group judging and the Best in Show ceremony on February 10 and 11.
This dual-venue format allowed for a comprehensive schedule, accommodating the large number of competitors and providing ample space for spectators and media coverage.
Key Events
The Westminster Dog Show is more than just a conformation competition. It encompasses a variety of events that highlight the skills, athleticism, and versatility of dogs:
Masters Agility Championship (February 8): The 12th annual event showcased dogs navigating obstacle courses with speed and precision.
Masters Obedience Championship (February 8): The 10th annual competition tested dogs’ ability to follow commands and perform tasks.
Canine Celebration Day (February 8): Included demonstrations like flyball and a human agility course, offering a fun, interactive experience for attendees.
Breed Judging (February 10-11): Over 200 breeds competed to determine the Best of Breed winners, advancing to group judging.
Group Judging (February 10-11): The seven group winners (Hound, Toy, Non-Sporting, Herding, Sporting, Working, and Terrier) were selected, leading to the Best in Show finale.
Junior Showmanship (February 10-11): Young handlers showcased their skills in handling and presenting dogs.
Best in Show (February 11): The culmination of the event, where one dog was crowned the top canine of 2025.
A Benched Show Tradition
Unlike many modern dog shows, Westminster remains a benched show, meaning all competing dogs must remain on designated benches when not in the ring. This tradition, dating back to the show’s early days, allows spectators to interact with the dogs and their handlers, fostering education and appreciation of various breeds. From 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on February 10 and 11, the benching area at the Javits Center was open to the public, providing a unique opportunity to see the dogs up close.
Westminster Dog Show 2025 Winners
Best in Show: Monty the Giant Schnauzer
The highlight of the 2025 Westminster Dog Show was the crowning of Monty, a 5-year-old Giant Schnauzer from Ocean City, New Jersey, as Best in Show. Handled by Katie Bernardin, Monty (registered name GCHG CH Hearthmore’s Wintergreen Mountain RI CGC TKN FITB) became the first Giant Schnauzer to win this prestigious title in the show’s 149-year history. Monty entered the competition as the nation’s top-ranked dog, based on points amassed in previous shows, and lived up to expectations with a commanding presence and impeccable performance.
On February 11, judge Paula Nykiel selected Monty from a field of seven group winners at Madison Square Garden. The victory was especially sweet for Monty and Bernardin, who had reached the Best in Show ring in the previous two years without taking the top prize. Monty’s win also marked a breakthrough for the Working Group, which had not produced a Best in Show winner in recent years, ending the group’s longest drought among the seven categories.
Reserve Best in Show: Bourbon the Whippet
Bourbon, a 9½-year-old Whippet (registered name Pinnacle Kentucky Bourbon), took Reserve Best in Show, the runner-up title. Handled by Cheslie Smithey, Bourbon won the Hound Group and returned to competition after a brief retirement, showcasing her grace and elegance. Bourbon had previously won Reserve Best in Show in 2020 and 2021, making her a consistent contender at Westminster. Her handler noted that the decision to bring her back was last-minute, driven by her exceptional condition and beauty.
Group Winners
The seven group winners who competed for Best in Show were:
Hound Group: Bourbon (Whippet) – A veteran competitor with a silky coat and a history of success.
Toy Group: Comet (Shih Tzu, registered name Hallmark Jolei Out Of This World) – A repeat winner of the Toy Group, known for his luxurious coat and charming demeanor.
Non-Sporting Group: Neal (Bichon Frisé, registered name Top Speed Neal) – A top-ranked Bichon Frisé with multiple group wins.
Herding Group: Mercedes (German Shepherd, registered name Kaleef’s Mercedes) – A repeat winner from 2024, ranked second among all show dogs.
Sporting Group: Freddie (English Springer Spaniel, registered name Telltale Bohemian Rhapsody) – A top-ranked Springer with multiple breed and show wins.
Working Group: Monty (Giant Schnauzer) – The eventual Best in Show winner, dominating the Working Group for the third consecutive year.
Terrier Group: Archer (Skye Terrier) – A silver-coated terrier with a graceful stride, representing a group with a storied history of 47 Best in Show wins.
Other Notable Winners
Masters Agility Championship: Vanish, a Border Collie, won the 12th annual competition with handler Emily Klarman, showcasing agility and speed.
Masters Obedience Championship: Details on the winner were less widely reported, but the event highlighted the precision and discipline of competing dogs.
Behind the Scenes at Westminster 2025
The Judging Process
The Westminster Dog Show is a conformation competition, meaning dogs are judged against their breed standards rather than against each other directly. These standards, set by the American Kennel Club (AKC), outline the ideal characteristics for each breed, including height, weight, coat type, colors, eye shape, ear shape, and more. The process unfolds in stages:
Best of Breed: Over 200 breeds compete to determine the best representative of their breed.
Group Judging: The Best of Breed winners advance to compete within their respective groups (Hound, Toy, Non-Sporting, Herding, Sporting, Working, Terrier).
Best in Show: The seven group winners face off for the top prize, judged by a single judge (Paula Nykiel in 2025).
Judging is subjective, with the winner often described as “the dog on the day”—the one that performs at its peak during the competition. No cash prize is awarded, but winners receive a trophy, ribbons, and significant bragging rights.
The Role of Handlers
Handlers play a crucial role in the success of their dogs. They train, groom, and present the dogs in the ring, ensuring they showcase their best qualities. Katie Bernardin’s emotional reaction to Monty’s win underscored the deep bond between handler and dog, a sentiment echoed by Cheslie Smithey with Bourbon and other handlers throughout the event.
Backstage Atmosphere
Behind the scenes, the Westminster Dog Show is a whirlwind of activity. The Javits Center buzzed with handlers grooming their dogs, security personnel with their own well-manicured canines, and the unmistakable aroma of thousands of dogs in close quarters. Despite the glamour of the ring, the backstage area is a practical space where dogs are prepared for their moment in the spotlight. From blowouts to last-minute touch-ups, the preparation is meticulous, ensuring each dog looks its best.
Key Moments and Highlights
Monty’s Historic Win
Monty’s victory was a historic moment, not only for the Giant Schnauzer breed but also for the Working Group. His win capped a three-year run of dominance in his group, and his handler’s tearful celebration resonated with fans. The victory was widely celebrated on social media, with posts on X like “MONTY WINS! Three straight group wins, and the Giant Schnauzer takes home this year’s Best in Show from FOX Sports capturing the excitement.
Bourbon’s Comeback
Bourbon’s return from retirement to win the Hound Group and Reserve Best in Show was a feel-good story of the 2025 show. At 9½ years old, her performance demonstrated the longevity and resilience of top show dogs, earning her admiration from the crowd and commentators alike.
Crowd Favorites
While Monty took the top prize, other dogs captured the audience’s hearts:
Mercedes the German Shepherd: A repeat Herding Group winner and 2024 Reserve Best in Show, Mercedes was a strong contender with a loyal fanbase.
Comet the Shih Tzu: Winning the Toy Group for the second year, Comet’s silky coat and charming personality made him a crowd favorite, though a Shih Tzu has yet to win Best in Show at Westminster.
Archer the Skye Terrier: With his long, silver coat and graceful stride, Archer won over spectators in the Terrier Group.
Return to Madison Square Garden
The return to Madison Square Garden was a highlight in itself. The iconic venue, known as “the World’s Most Famous Arena,” added a layer of grandeur to the event. The evening sessions on February 10 and 11 featured a festive atmosphere, complete with a performance of the national anthem, corporate sponsors like Purina, and a hyped-up crowd ready to cheer or boo the judges’ decisions.
Addressing Fan Questions from YouTube and Google
Fans have been buzzing with questions about the Westminster Dog Show 2025 on platforms like YouTube and Google. Here are answers to some of the most common queries:
“Who won the Westminster Dog Show in 2025?”
Monty, a 5-year-old Giant Schnauzer handled by Katie Bernardin, won Best in Show on February 11, 2025. This marked the first time a Giant Schnauzer has taken the top prize at Westminster.
“What are the dates for the Westminster Dog Show 2025?”
The 149th Westminster Dog Show took place on February 8, 10, and 11, 2025. Daytime events were held at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center, while evening group judging and Best in Show occurred at Madison Square Garden.
“Where can I watch the Westminster Dog Show 2025?”
The event was broadcast across multiple platforms:
TV: FOX, FS1, and FS2 aired various segments, including group judging and Best in Show.
Streaming: The FOX Sports app provided live streaming for subscribers, while westminsterkennelclub.org and the Westminster YouTube channel offered free live streams of agility, obedience, and select breed judging.
Schedule Highlights:
February 8: Agility and obedience on FOX (4:30-7 p.m. ET) and westminster kennel club.org.
February 10: Breed judging (1-4 p.m. ET on FS2), group judging (Hound, Toy, Non-Sporting, Herding) on FS1 (7:30-11 p.m. ET).
February 11: Breed judging (1-4 p.m. ET on FS2), group judging (Sporting, Working, Terrier) and Best in Show on FS1 (7:30-11 p.m. ET).
“What breeds competed in the Best in Show ring?”
The seven breeds in the Best in Show ring were:
Whippet (Hound Group)
Shih Tzu (Toy Group)
Bichon Frisé (Non-Sporting Group)
German Shepherd (Herding Group)
English Springer Spaniel (Sporting Group)
Giant Schnauzer (Working Group)
Skye Terrier (Terrier Group)
“How is the Best in Show winner chosen?”
The Best in Show winner is selected by a single judge (Paula Nykiel in 2025) from the seven group winners. The judge evaluates each dog against its breed standard, focusing on conformation, movement, and overall impression. The decision is subjective, with the winner often being the dog that performs best on the day.
“What is the prize for winning Westminster?”
There is no cash prize for winning Westminster. Winners receive a trophy, ribbons, and significant recognition within the dog show community. For many, the prestige and bragging rights are the true rewards.
“Why did the Westminster Dog Show return to Madison Square Garden?”
The show returned to Madison Square Garden in 2025 after a four-year absence due to the COVID-19 pandemic and logistical challenges. The venue, where the show was held for most of its history since 1877, is considered its traditional home, and organizers were eager to bring it back to “the World’s Most Famous Arena.”
“Which breeds have never won Best in Show at Westminster?”
While many breeds have won Best in Show, some popular breeds have yet to claim the title, including Shih Tzu, Golden Retriever, and Labrador Retriever. The Terrier Group has historically dominated with 47 wins, while other groups, like Toy, have fewer victories.
Fan Engagement and Public Interest
Social Media Buzz
The Westminster Dog Show 2025 generated significant buzz on social media, particularly on X, where fans shared updates, predictions, and reactions. Posts from accounts like @WKCDOGS and @FOXSports highlighted key moments, such as Monty’s win and Bourbon’s Reserve Best in Show achievement. The hashtag #WestminsterDogShow trended during the event, reflecting the enthusiasm of the dog-loving community.
Public Interest Topics
Beyond the winners, fans were interested in several related topics:
Behind-the-Scenes Insights: Articles from The Guardian and The New York Times offered glimpses into the backstage atmosphere, from the smell of 2,500 dogs to the dedication of handlers.
Dog Show Culture: The event’s dress code (described as “sequined business casual”) and the competitive spirit of handlers and owners fascinated observers.
Historical Context: Fans explored the show’s history, including its origins in 1877 and its status as a benched show.
Future Contenders: Dogs like Mercedes, Comet, and Bourbon, who have been consistent finalists, sparked discussions about potential winners in 2026.
Spectator Experience
For those who attended in person, the Westminster Dog Show offered a unique experience. Tickets for the Javits Center events were available through Tix123, while Madison Square Garden tickets were sold via Ticketmaster. The benched format allowed fans to meet dogs and handlers, while the evening sessions at MSG provided a festive, sports-like atmosphere with corporate sponsors and a lively crowd.
The Significance of Westminster 2025
A Celebration of Canine Excellence
The Westminster Dog Show is more than a competition; it’s a celebration of the bond between humans and dogs. By showcasing the best examples of purebred dogs, the event promotes responsible breeding and preservation of breed standards. The inclusion of agility and obedience competitions highlights the versatility and intelligence of dogs, appealing to a broad audience.
Impact on the Dog Show Community
Monty’s win and the performances of other top dogs have ripple effects in the dog show world. Breeders, handlers, and owners take note of successful dogs, influencing breeding decisions and competition strategies. The visibility of rare breeds, like the Skye Terrier, also raises awareness and interest among potential owners.
Cultural Relevance
The Westminster Dog Show remains a cultural touchstone, drawing comparisons to events like the Super Bowl or the Oscars. Its return to Madison Square Garden reinforced its status as a quintessential New York event, blending tradition with modern spectacle. The event’s television coverage, live streams, and social media presence ensure it reaches a global audience, keeping it relevant in the digital age.
Looking Ahead: Westminster 2026 and Beyond
As the 149th Westminster Dog Show concluded, attention turned to the future. The 150th annual event in 2026 promises to be a milestone celebration, with dates yet to be announced. Fans are already speculating about potential contenders, with dogs like Mercedes, Comet, and Bourbon likely to return, alongside new rising stars. The Westminster Kennel Club’s commitment to enhancing the lives of all dogs through education, competition, and community engagement ensures the show’s enduring legacy.
A Canine Legacy Continues
The Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show 2025 was a triumphant return to form, blending tradition, competition, and celebration in a way that only Westminster can. Monty’s historic win as the first Giant Schnauzer to claim Best in Show, Bourbon’s inspiring comeback, and the performances of other group winners like Mercedes, Comet, and Archer made this a memorable event. The return to Madison Square Garden added a layer of nostalgia and grandeur, reinforcing the show’s status as “America’s Dog Show.”
For fans, the Westminster Dog Show is a chance to celebrate the beauty, diversity, and talents of dogs while connecting with a passionate community. Whether you watched on TV, streamed online, or attended in person, the 2025 event offered something for everyone. As we look ahead to the 150th anniversary in 2026, the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show remains a beacon of canine excellence, inspiring generations of dog lovers and competitors alike.
Stay tuned to Westminster kennel club.org, FOX Sports, and social media for updates on future events, and keep celebrating the incredible world of dogs!
Faqs
Welcome to the ultimate guide to the 149th Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show, which took place February 8, 10, and 11, 2025, in New York City! This iconic event, dubbed the “Super Bowl of dog shows,” returned to Madison Square Garden for the first time since 2020, captivating dog lovers worldwide with its blend of tradition, competition, and canine charisma. Below, we’ve tackled the most searched questions from Google and YouTube, weaving in the latest updates from the web to keep you informed and entertained. Let’s unleash the details!
1. What Was the Westminster Dog Show 2025 All About?
The 149th Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show, held February 8, 10, and 11, 2025, was a celebration of canine excellence. Over 2,500 purebred dogs from 201 breeds and varieties competed across three days at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center and Madison Square Garden. The event featured agility, obedience, and conformation competitions, culminating in the crowning of Best in Show. This year marked a triumphant return to Manhattan after pandemic-related relocations, showcasing top dogs vying for glory in one of America’s oldest sporting events—second only to the Kentucky Derby!
When and Where Did the 2025 Westminster Dog Show Take Place?
The show spanned three days:
Saturday, February 8: Agility and obedience events at the Javits Center.
Monday, February 10: Breed judging and group competitions (Hound, Toy, Non-Sporting, Herding) at Javits and MSG.
Tuesday, February 11: Breed judging and group competitions (Sporting, Working, Terrier), plus Best in Show at MSG.
After stints in Tarrytown and Queens, the event returned to its historic home at Madison Square Garden, paired with daytime events at the Javits Center. It was a homecoming fans had been howling for!
Who Won Best in Show at the Westminster Dog Show 2025?
Monty, a 5-year-old Giant Schnauzer from Connecticut, took home the coveted Best in Show title on February 11, 2025! Handled by Katie Bernardin, Monty strutted his stuff at Madison Square Garden, beating out six other group winners. This victory marked a historic moment: Monty was the first Giant Schnauzer to win Best in Show and ended a 21-year drought for the Working Group (last win: 2004). Posts on X erupted with praise for Monty’s “majestic beard” and “regal poise”—a true top dog!
What Were the Group Winners at the 2025 Westminster Dog Show?
Here’s the rundown of the seven group winners who competed for Best in Show:
Herding: Mercedes, a German Shepherd from Maryland, won for the second straight year.
Hound: Bourbon, a 9½-year-old Whippet, came out of retirement to snag the win (and Reserve Best in Show).
Non-Sporting: Neal, a Bichon Frise from Texas, charmed the judges.
Sporting: [Name TBD—specific winner not widely detailed yet, but a standout from the group].
Terrier: Archer, a Skye Terrier, glided to victory in his “retirement show.”
Toy: Comet, a Shih Tzu from Ohio, won for the second year running.
Working: Monty, the Giant Schnauzer, clinched it—his third consecutive Working Group win!
These champs battled it out, but Monty stole the spotlight.
How Can I Watch the Westminster Dog Show 2025?
Missed the live action? You can still catch the highlights! The event aired on FOX, FS1, and FS2, with streaming on FOXSports.com and the FOX Sports app. Key moments included:
Feb 8: Agility Finals (4:30-7 PM ET on FOX).
Feb 10: Group Judging (7:30-11 PM ET on FS1).
Feb 11: Group Judging and Best in Show (7:30-11 PM ET on FS1).
The Westminster Kennel Club website (westminsterkennelclub.org) and YouTube channel offered free livestreams of breed judging and agility prelims. On-demand replays are available on the site—perfect for reliving Monty’s big moment!
What’s the Schedule for the Westminster Dog Show 2025?
Here’s how it unfolded:
Feb 8: Masters Agility Championship (7:30 AM-7 PM ET) and Masters Obedience Championship (8 AM-3 PM ET) at Javits.
Feb 10: Breed Judging (8 AM-4:30 PM ET) at Javits; Hound, Toy, Non-Sporting, and Herding Group Judging (7:30-11 PM ET) at MSG.
Feb 11: Breed Judging (8 AM-4:30 PM ET) at Javits; Sporting, Working, and Terrier Group Judging, plus Best in Show (7:30-11 PM ET) at MSG.
A new addition this year? A flyball demonstration on Saturday—high-energy fun for all!
How Do Dogs Win at Westminster?
Dogs compete in a multi-tiered process:
Breed Judging: Each dog is judged against its breed standard (e.g., height, coat, temperament).
Group Judging: Breed winners advance to one of seven groups (Herding, Hound, etc.), judged on overall excellence.
Best in Show: The seven group winners face off for the top prize, chosen for embodying their breed’s ideal traits.
Judge Paula Nykiel made the final call on February 11, crowning Monty after a nail-biting showdown. It’s all about “the dog on the day”—performance meets perfection!
What Breeds Competed in the 2025 Westminster Dog Show?
Over 200 breeds and varieties participated, from fan-favorite Golden Retrievers to rare Sloughis. Dachshunds led the pack with 52 entries! No doodles, though—they’re not AKC-recognized purebreds (yet). Top dogs included Monty (Giant Schnauzer), Mercedes (German Shepherd), and Bourbon (Whippet), representing a mix of familiar and standout breeds. Check MLB Pipeline or AKC.org for the full list!
Where Can I Get Tickets for the Westminster Dog Show?
Tickets for 2025 are sold out, but here’s the scoop for next time:
Javits Center Events: Available via Tix123 for agility, obedience, and breed judging.
MSG Group Judging/Best in Show: Sold through Ticketmaster.
Prices varied, but expect $30-$100+ depending on seating. Planning for 2026? Visit westminsterkennelclub.org for updates—early birds catch the best seats!
What’s New at the Westminster Dog Show 2025?
This year brought fresh flair:
Return to MSG: After years away, the electric vibe of Madison Square Garden was back.
Flyball Debut: A high-speed relay demo added Saturday excitement.
Historic Win: Monty’s victory broke breed and group records, thrilling fans.
The benched format also returned, letting attendees meet dogs up close from 11 AM-4 PM on Monday and Tuesday at Javits—a treat for dog lovers!
Bonus: What’s the Buzz Among Fans?
Post-show, the dog world’s wagging with excitement! X posts hailed Monty as “the king of Westminster,” while YouTube comments praised Bourbon’s comeback and Mercedes’ consistency. The return to MSG sparked nostalgia, with one fan tweeting, “Nothing beats the Garden’s energy!” The consensus? 2025 was a paw-some triumph—bring on the 150th!
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