New York City, NY – Monty, a giant schnauzer, claimed the prestigious title of Best in Show at the 149th Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show held yesterday at Madison Square Garden. This annual event, recognized as the second-longest continuously held sporting event in the United States, returned to its traditional venue after a four-year hiatus.

Founded in 1877, the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show showcases the finest canine companions from across the nation. This year, approximately 2,500 dogs representing 201 breeds participated in the competition, aiming to achieve Best of Breed honors before the winners moved on to broader group competitions.

Throughout the event, dogs were judged on their conformation to breed standards, movement, and overall appearance. After three days of rigorous competition, the finalists were narrowed down to seven dogs, each representing a different group. Alongside Monty, who emerged victorious from the working group, were Bourbon, a whippet from the hound group, who took the runner-up spot; Freddie, an English springer spaniel from the sporting group; Archer, a Skye terrier from the terrier group; Comet, a Shih Tzu from the toy group; Neal, a Bichon Frisé from the non-sporting group; and Mercedes, a German shepherd from the herding group.

Monty’s win marks a significant achievement not only for his owner but also for the giant schnauzer breed, which is renowned for its intelligence and versatility. After receiving the Best in Show award, Monty was greeted with applause and admiration from the audience, highlighting the strong appreciation for high-quality dog grooming and training among spectators.

The Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show gathers dog lovers and enthusiasts from around the world, celebrating the deep bond between humans and their pet companions. As one of the oldest and most esteemed canine competitions, it continues to evolve while maintaining tradition. The 2025 edition has rekindled excitement among participants and fans alike, returning to Madison Square Garden, a venue synonymous with the event since it first took place there in the early 2000s.

With a legacy that spans nearly a century and a half, the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show is often referred to in the same breath as other iconic American sporting events, such as the Kentucky Derby. Monty’s crowning as Best in Show contributes to