It’s show time!

The 132nd Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show is now in progress! Some of the best dogs in the country will be competing for the coveted Best in Show title. Catch the final breed showing and Best in Show competition tonight on the USA Network.  Madison Square Garden opens it’s doors to thousands of dog fanciers, handlers, groomers, owners and most importantly pure bred dogs every year. Sorry no mutts allowed, but this is a great chance to see where the mutts originated from… Can you find the breeds that make up the Schnoodle, chab, whoodle and snickerdoo?

Here are a few little “did you know” facts about Westminster:

• In 1907 the first Best in Show title went to a Smooth Fox Terrier bitch named CH. Warren Remedy…she is the only dog to have won Best in Show three times!


• In 1888  a woman named Anna Whitney was the first woman to judge at Westminster! She judged 117 St. Bernards.


• Up until his death in summer of 2006 you could spot famous trainer Captain Haggerty sitting in the front row of every Westminster Dog Show.


• Neither the Belgian Malinois (Leinie’s breed) or the Irish Terrier (Pepper’s breed) have ever won a Best in Show at Westminster.


• In 2007 the Dandi Dinmont Terrier that won best in Terrier Group was co-owned by the comedian Bill Cosby. The dog’s name is Harry.


• 169 Breeds and varieties from 7 different groups will be judged over a two day period.


• There are four new breeds eligible for the first time at Westminster in 2008: the Plott (Hound Group), the Tibetan Mastiff (Working), the Swedish Valhund(Herding) and the Beauceron (Herding).


• For more information about purebred dogs, AKC dog shows in your area, or some great fun facts check out the American Kennel Club.

Follow Me Dog Training LLC believes that the dog you choose is always going to be the Best in Show of your family. Mutts, mixes, rescue dogs and purebred dogs all share a place in our hearts. We also believe that responsible breeding, training and care are the things that will keep dogs in our homes for many years to come. If you choose a dog to live with your family please train them, follow local pet laws and be respectful of everyone’s right to own a dog. Westminster always brings certain breeds into the spotlight. Before you purchase a purebred dog research how it might fit into your lifestyle. Responsible breeders love to talk about their chosen breed!

When you bring a new dog home (rescue or puppy) contact Follow Me Dog Training LLC for a FREE demonstration and evaluation.