Meet Westminster’s Best In Show Dogs
AKC’s Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show is like the Super Bowl for dog lovers! Since way back in 1877, this event has been celebrating purebred dogs and the special bond they share with their humans. Let’s take a stroll down memory lane and recall some of the most memorable winners and their heartwarming stories.
2024: Miniature Poodle “Sage”
Meet Sage, the adorable Miniature Poodle who took home the title in 2024. Handled by Kaz Hosaka, Sage is a superstar and the fourth Miniature Poodle to win Best in Show. This win was extra special because it marked Kaz’s retirement after 45 years of handling dogs. What a way to go out!
2023: Petit Basset Griffon Vendeen “Buddy Holly”
Buddy Holly made history as the first Petit Basset Griffon Vendeen to snag the Best in Show award. His owner, Janice Hayes, was just awestruck as this little guy’s charm and personality won everyone over. Talk about a rock star pup.
2022: Bloodhound “Trumpet”
Did you know that Trumpet became the first Bloodhound to win Best in Show ever? Plus, he totally deserved the win. Accompanied by Heather Buehner, the lovable hound showed off his unique charm and skills, leaving everyone cheering as he won the show.
2021: Pekingese “Wasabi”
Not just a bold-flavored condiment, Wasabi is also a top-winning Pekingese. He stole the spotlight by winning the AKC National Championship in 2019. With David Fitzpatrick as his handler, this show-stopping pup has proven he’s a true competitor.
2020: Standard Poodle “Siba”
In 2020, Siba strutted her stuff and became the fifth Standard Poodle to win the Best in Show title. Her owner, Connie S. Unger, was more than proud as her dog wowed everyone with her elegance and poise.
2019: Wire Fox Terrier “King”
King was a total showstopper! Handled by Gabriel Rangel, he became the 15th Wire Fox Terrier to win this title. It was a proud moment for Rangel, who had previously won with another Wire Fox Terrier back in 2014.
2018: Bichon Frise “Flynn”
Adorable and full of personality, Flynn proved he was more than just a pretty face by making history. He became the second Bichon Frise to win Best in Show, following J.R.’s victory in 2001. With Bill McFadden at his side, Flynn’s confidence and charm won over the judges.
2017: German Shepherd “Rumor”
Rumor stole hearts when she took home Best in Show honors. This gorgeous German Shepherd represented one of America’s favorite breeds and showed off her confidence on stage. Fun Fact: Rumor gets her name from the famous Adele song, Rumor!
2016: German Shorthaired Pointer “CJ”
CJ, a German Shorthaired Pointer, was all about agility and grace, earning accolades in the 2016 show. The dog stood out among some fierce competition within the Sporting Group and surprised everyone present. If you were there, you wouldn’t stop saying, “Go, CJ!”
2015: Beagle (15 Inch) “Tashtins Lookin For Trouble”
This little Beagle, named “Trouble,” definitely lived up to his name by stealing the show! With his adorable looks and playful spirit, he became an instant favorite. His win was a big moment for the breed, reminding everyone why Beagles are such lovable companions.
2014: Wire Fox Terrier “Sky”
Westminster was 5-year-old Sky’s final show. The dog soared to success, continuing the breed’s reign at Westminster. Bred in England, Sky was discovered by her handler, Gabriel Rangel. The talented and stylish dog showed off the Wire Fox Terrier’s signature confidence at the show.
2012: Pekingese “Malachy”
Malachy, the Pekingese, strutted his way to victory in 2012. Handled by David Fitzpatrick, the boy charmed audiences with his confident gait and regal conduct. As he retired after his big show, Malachy’s title marked another victory for the Pekingese breed.
2010: Scottish Terrier “Sadie”
Sadie, the Scottish Terrier, took home the prize in 2010. This scrappy little earth dog was a total pro, winning Best in Show as the odds-on favorite. She proved that terriers rule at Westminster, where they’ve won more than 40% of the time.
2009: Sussex Spaniel “Stump”
Stump, the old boy, was full of life! At 10 years old, he set a record as the oldest dog to claim the Best in Show title at Westminster. Plus, his breeder, Doug Johnson, achieved a unique feat by breeding two Westminster winners of different breeds.
2001: Bichon Frise “J.R.”
J.R., the Bichon Frise, stole the show in 2001. This fluffy ball of charm had everyone cheering, especially when he famously pumped his paw from atop the silver bowl trophy. J.R.’s win turned him into a celebrity and further popularized the Bichon Frise breed.
