Monty the Giant Schnauzer Claims Top Honors at Westminster Kennel Club

NEW YORK—On Tuesday night, a giant schnauzer named Monty took home the highest honor at the Westminster Kennel Club dog show.

Monty’s rivals included a bichon frisé called Neal, a Skye terrier named Archer, a repeat runner-up whippet named Bourbon, and a shih tzu known as Comet, who has been a finalist before.

Also competing was a German shepherd named Mercedes, who placed second last year, and an English springer spaniel named Freddie. Monty, the giant schnauzer, has now made it to the finals for a third consecutive year and previously won the prestigious American Kennel Club show in December.

All contestants made their way to the best in show competition held at Madison Square Garden.

Winning at Westminster is regarded as the highest accolade in the U.S. dog show circuit, with each dog judged against the ideal standard of their breed.

Winners receive a trophy, ribbons, and unparalleled bragging rights, but no monetary rewards.

Every dog at Westminster is a champion, but they are also beloved household pets. Some perform therapy work, search-and-rescue operations, or other canine duties.

“A good German shepherd is an all-purpose dog,” noted co-breeder and owner Sheree Moses Combs of Wardensville, West Virginia, who remarked that some of her pups have become service dogs for injured veterans.

“Dog shows are entertaining, but the essence of our breed lies in service,” she emphasized.

Big dogs had their moment in the spotlight on Tuesday, particularly when “working” breeds showcased their skills. For example, Brina, a 158-pound Neapolitan mastiff, was a first-round contender.

“I’ve been captivated by this breed since I was 12… They’re truly one of a kind,” said owner Yves Belmont, Ph.D., while Brina relaxed in her crate with a two-gallon water bucket nearby.

With their imposing size and storied history as guard-dogs, this breed was bred to be impressive. However, Belmont, who currently has several Neapolitan mastiffs at his family’s home in the Atlanta area, also lauded their intelligence.

A visit to Westminster highlights the incredible diversity of dogs, even among purebreds. On the same day Brina competed, a miniature bull terrier named Tyra also showed off her skills. Formally known as GCH CH Rnr’s Top Model, she was named after fashion icon Tyra Banks.

Jessica Harrison, owner and co-breeder from Austin, Texas, said the lively terrier breed is “a big dog in a small package that always brings a smile.” When asked how mischievous the 2-year-old Tyra is, Harrison replied with a grin, “definitely a nine on the mischief scale.”

“You can’t stay mad at them; they’re just too adorable,” she added as Tyra rolled over for a belly rub from a bystander at the Javits Center, where the first-round breed judging took place.

Regardless of who wins the trophy at Westminster, other competitors have already won over the hearts of the audience.

During the semifinal nights, fans cheered for breeds and competitors as if they were rallying for one of the pro teams that call the Garden home: the NBA’s New York Knicks and NHL’s New York Rangers.

“We love you, Lumpy!” someone shouted to a Pekingese named Lumpy, who brought laughter with his waddling walk.

The crowd erupted in applause for a golden retriever named Tuffy, who represents a breed that has never clinched a win. Calaco, a Xoloitzcuintli, received major applause for a confident performance that also caught the judge’s attention. Xoloitzcuintlis are hairless dogs with deep historical roots in Mexico.

Penny, a Doberman pinscher, also drew cheers from the audience. Although her demeanor is dignified and focused, she can also be “a softie,” according to breeder and co-owner Theresa Connors-Chan from Ontario, Canada.

Westminster also showcased agility and obedience championships held on Saturday. The agility competition was won by a border collie named Vanish, while an Australian shepherd named Willie took the top spot in obedience.

By Jennifer Peltz