Seven Dogs Compete for the Prestigious Westminster Show Prize

NEW YORK — After two exciting days featuring 2,500 dogs from over 200 breeds, the Westminster Kennel Club is down to just seven canines competing for the most coveted prize in U.S. dog shows.

Four finalists have already been identified: an Afghan hound named Zaida, a Lhasa apso called JJ, a Maltese named Cookie, and an old English sheepdog known as Graham.

Three additional competitors will be revealed Tuesday night, leading to an intense showdown at Madison Square Garden for the coveted best in show award. The winner will receive a trophy, ribbons, and bragging rights, along with the honor of winning the milestone 150th annual Westminster show.

Regardless of who takes home the prize, many dogs provide unforgettable moments and entertain the crowd, even if they don’t make it to the finals.

Onlookers cheered enthusiastically for a Xoloitzcuintli named Calaco, a hairless dog that strutted around the ring with confidence. Meanwhile, chants of “Lumpy! Lumpy!” resonated through the arena as Lumpy the Pekingese made his way before the judge.

One dog poised to make history in the semifinals is Millie, a Danish-Swedish farmdog. Newly eligible for the Westminster show this year, Millie triumphed over about 10 other farmdogs to reach the evening round.

“It's been a very exciting journey” to introduce the breed to the U.S., said Brita Lemmon, who has been competing with her farmdog, Coyote. She began her journey in 2000 after discovering the breed through an encyclopedia.

Winning at Westminster typically favors dogs with professional handlers or owners who have years of experience. However, simply qualifying for this elite show is a significant achievement, especially for newcomers like Joseph Carrero and his Neapolitan mastiff, Dezi.

After dreaming of owning a Neo since his teenage years, Carrero finally acquired one at age 35. He began showing Dezi at the breeder's suggestion and now breeds and handles his Neos, all while managing a full-time job.

“It’s really hard for us to do this, but we enjoy it, and he enjoys it,” Carrero shared as visitors gathered around to greet the massive 190-pound dog.

Natalee Ridenhour and her Boerboel, Invictus, had a special connection that led her from urban life to a farm in Royse City, Texas. Although Invictus didn’t advance past the first round, Ridenhour found joy in the attention her 170-pound dog received from excited visitors.