Katie Bernardin kisses Monty, the giant schnauzer, after claiming best in show at the 149th Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show on February 11, 2025, in New York.
Julia Demaree Nikhinson/AP

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Julia Demaree Nikhinson/AP

NEW YORK — This year, Monty the giant schnauzer took the spotlight.

Having narrowly missed victory in the past two years, Monty finally claimed the prestigious title at the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show, leaving his handler and co-owner, Katie Bernardin, overwhelmed with emotion.

“He always puts in so much effort, and we are incredibly proud of him,” she expressed to the audience at Madison Square Garden.

This spirited schnauzer outperformed six other contenders to become the first of his breed to earn the title of Best in Show, the highest honor in the U.S. dog show scene. Monty had previously excelled in the American Kennel Club championship last December and had participated in Westminster twice before.

Described as standout thanks to his personality and physical form, Monty is both bold and entertaining, as noted by co-owner Sandy Nordstrom.

“He’s just an extraordinary dog,” she remarked in an interview prior to his retirement from competitions.

Following Monty was the whippet Bourbon, who again placed as the runner-up for the third time. Other notable finalists included Neal, a bichon frisé, Archer, a Skye terrier, and Comet, a shih tzu with prior finalist experience.

Additionally in contention were Mercedes, a German shepherd who finished second last year, and Freddie, an English springer spaniel.

Each dog is assessed based on how closely they align with their breed’s ideal standards during the Westminster competition. Winners receive trophies, ribbons, and, of course, the privilege of gloating, though no monetary rewards are given.

During a break amid the semifinal rounds, security personnel intervened to remove an individual from the sidelines. The organization People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA), which has protested the event for years, disclosed on X that a supporter was ejected after displaying a sign.

Westminster promotes a message of celebrating all dogs, underscoring that the competitors also serve as beloved pets, with many engaging in therapy, search-and-rescue, or other roles.

“A well-bred German shepherd can do anything,” commented Sheree Moses Combs, co-breeder and co-owner of Mercedes. Some of her puppies have been trained as service dogs for veterans, she shared.

A Cocker Spaniel takes part in the sporting group event at the 149th Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show on February 11, 2025, in New York.
Julia Demaree Nikhinson/AP

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Julia Demaree Nikhinson/AP

“Dog shows are enjoyable, but they truly reflect everything our breed embodies,” she explained.

While Monty claimed the coveted trophy, many participants also captured the audience’s hearts.

During the two-night semifinals, spectators enthusiastically cheered for various breeds and competitors, resembling a sports event atmosphere for the NBA’s New York Knicks and NHL’s New York Rangers.

“Love you, Lumpy!” someone shouted to a Pekingese named Lumpy, who brought laughter with his quirky walking style.

The crowd rallied for Penny the Doberman and Tuffy, a golden retriever representing a breed that has yet to take home a title. Tuffy also garnered attention from the judges, alongside a crowd favorite, Calaco the Xoloitzcuintli, a hairless breed known for its deep historical ties to Mexico.

The Westminster event serves as a reminder of the incredible diversity within dog breeds, with each showcasing unique qualities. From large, hardworking dogs to spirited terriers, there was something for everyone.

For instance, Brina, a 158-pound (71.6 kg) Neapolitan mastiff, found herself competing in the first round. Initially bred for guarding, the gentle giant also impressed her owner, Yves Belmont, Ph.D., with her keen intelligence.

“I’ve admired this breed since I was 12 years old… They are truly one-of-a-kind,” Belmont said as Brina relaxed in her crate, equipped with a two-gallon (7.5-liter) water bowl.

Neal, a Bichon Frise, triumphs in the non-sporting group at the 149th Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show in New York.
Heather Khalifa/AP

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Heather Khalifa/AP

Additionally, Tyra, the miniature bull terrier, made her presence known in the initial round. Officially named GCH CH Rnr’s Top Model, she carries the name of renowned fashion model Tyra Banks.

This spirited terrier breed is known for being “a big dog in a small frame, always bringing smiles,” shared her owner and co-breeder, Jessica Harrison, from Austin, Texas. When asked about Tyra’s level of mischief, Harrison chuckled, “Definitely a nine out of ten!”

“It’s impossible to be upset with them; they’re just so adorable,” she added, as Tyra rolled onto her back, eagerly seeking belly rubs from onlookers at the Javits Center, the venue where initial breed judging took place.

The Westminster Dog Show also showcased agility and obedience champions, with the agility title going to a border collie named Vanish and an Australian shepherd named Willie winning in obedience.