A giant schnauzer named Monty won the top prize at the 149th Annual Westminster Kennel Club dog show in New York City Tuesday night.
Monty bested six other finalists to take Best in Show at Madison Square Garden. The award is considered the most prestigious prize in the U.S. dog show world.
Each dog is judged according to how closely it matches the ideal for its breed. Winners get a trophy, ribbons and bragging rights, but no cash prize.
Among the dogs who advanced to the semifinals was Penny the Doberman, who was picked as best of her breed.
Despite her dignified, focused appearance, Penny can be “a mush,” said breeder and co-owner Theresa Connors-Chan of Ontario. “She’s bossy, but she’s lovely.”
Every dog at Westminster is a titled champion, but they are also household pets. Some also do therapy work, search-and-rescue or other canine jobs.
“A good German shepherd is an all-purpose dog,” said co-breeder and co-owner Sheree Moses Combs of Wardensville, West Virginia.
Some of her pups have become service dogs for wounded veterans, she said. “Dog shows are fun, but that is what our breed is all about.”
