Westminster dog show - 10 things to know with detail
- 1. History: The Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show is one of the oldest and most prestigious dog shows in the United States. It was first held in 1877, making it the second-longest continuously held sporting event in the country, behind only the Kentucky Derby.
- 2. Location: The Westminster Dog Show takes place at Madison Square Garden in New York City. The event typically spans two days in February, with the first day dedicated to breed judging and the second day featuring group and Best in Show competitions.
- 3. Breeds: The Westminster Dog Show showcases over 200 different breeds and varieties of dogs, from popular breeds like the Labrador Retriever and German Shepherd to rare breeds like the Xoloitzcuintli and the Bergamasco Sheepdog.
- 4. Judging: Dogs are judged based on the American Kennel Club (AKC) breed standards, which outline the ideal characteristics for each breed. Judges evaluate factors such as conformation, temperament, and movement to determine the best representatives of each breed.
- 5. Groups: Dogs at Westminster are divided into seven groups: Sporting, Hound, Working, Terrier, Toy, Non-Sporting, and Herding. Winners of each group go on to compete for Best in Show, the top honor at the event.
- 6. Best in Show: The Best in Show competition is the culmination of the Westminster Dog Show, where the seven group winners compete for the prestigious title. A panel of judges evaluates each dog based on their overall appearance, movement, and temperament before selecting the Best in Show winner.
- 7. Prize: In addition to the coveted title of Best in Show, the winning dog at Westminster receives a ribbon, trophy, and the opportunity to bask in the spotlight as the top dog in the country.
- 8. TV Coverage: The Westminster Dog Show is broadcast on national television, typically airing on channels like Fox Sports 1 and National Geographic. Viewers at home can watch the breed judging, group competitions, and Best in Show showdown to see which dog takes home the top prize.
- 9. Spectators: The Westminster Dog Show draws thousands of spectators each year, including dog enthusiasts, breeders, and curious onlookers. The event offers a chance for attendees to see rare and exotic breeds up close and witness the beauty and grace of these well-trained dogs.
- 10. Tradition: The Westminster Dog Show is steeped in tradition, with a rich history dating back over a century. From the iconic green carpet to the elaborate grooming and handling of the dogs, the event showcases the best of purebred dogs and celebrates the bond between humans and their canine companions.