Katie Bernardin and her giant schnauzer, Monty, celebrate their victory after winning Best in Show at the 149th Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show on Tuesday, February 11, 2025, in New York. AP Photo
Monty, a giant schnauzer, finally secured the top prize at the Westminster Kennel Club dog show on Tuesday night after coming close in the past two years. His handler and co-owner, Katie Bernardin, was overwhelmed with emotion as she celebrated the win at Madison Square Garden.
“He always tries so hard, and we’re just proud of him,” Bernardin told the cheering crowd.
Monty outshined six other finalists, making history as the first of his breed to win Westminster’s best in-show. This win follows his victory at the American Kennel Club championship in December. The 5-year-old dog, known for his bold personality and strong structure, is now retiring from competitions.
“He’s just a really cool dog,” co-owner Sandy Nordstrom said.
The runner-up, for the third time, was a whippet named Bourbon. Other finalists included a bichon frise called Neal, a Skye terrier named Archer, and a shih tzu called Comet, who had previously been a finalist. Also in the final round were a German shepherd named Mercedes, who finished second last year, and an English springer spaniel named Freddie.
Each dog at Westminster is judged on how well it matches the breed’s ideal standards. While winners don’t receive cash prizes, they earn a trophy, ribbons, and prestigious recognition.
The event saw a brief interruption when security removed a protester holding a sign. An animal rights group later claimed responsibility, stating the individual was one of their supporters.
Westminster celebrates all dogs, including show champions who also serve as therapy, search-and-rescue, or service dogs. Mercedes' co-breeder, Sheree Moses Combs, emphasized the German shepherd’s versatility, explaining that some of her pups have become service dogs for wounded veterans.
During the semifinals, the lively crowd cheered on their favourite dogs. A Pekingese named Lumpy got laughs for his waddling walk, while Penny the Doberman pinscher and Tuffy the golden retriever were fan favourites. Although golden retrievers are one of the most popular breeds, they have never won Westminster’s top prize.
Another standout was Calaco, a Xoloitzcuintli, a rare Mexican hairless breed. Meanwhile, a massive Neapolitan mastiff named Brina impressed spectators with her size and intelligence. Owner Yves Belmont, who has loved the breed since childhood, keeps several mastiffs at his home in Georgia.
Also competing was Tyra, a miniature bull terrier named after model Tyra Banks. Owner Jessica Harrison described the breed as “a big dog in a small package” and rated Tyra’s mischief level at a “nine, for sure.”
In addition to the main competition, Westminster also hosted agility and obedience events. A border collie named Vanish won the agility contest, while an Australian shepherd called Willie took home the obedience title.
