The Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show has officially returned to its iconic venue, Madison Square Garden, for the first time since early 2020, marking the start of the much-anticipated dog show season.
On February 10, 2025, the show kicked off with breed-by-breed judging, where each participant had their moment to shine. This year, Westminster celebrated the artistry and dedication behind dog breeding and showing, as each dog carried not just titles but fascinating stories reflected through their unique names. One standout competitor, GCHG CH Calicops Sassafras Gonnakikurass, affectionately known as Wrassy, epitomized the whimsical spirit of the event.
“She’s a saucy girl. Her name says it all,” dog owner Fred Ortiz reported as he groomed the Brussels griffon for the formidable competition.
This year’s entrants included notable contenders like Bourbon, the whippet who made history as a two-time runner-up at Westminster. Bourbon, formally known as GCHG CH Pinnacle Kentucky Bourbon, was among the first finalists chosen as the semifinals commenced, promising to continue the dog’s legacy at this prestigious event.
The Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show is not just about the dogs; it’s also about the compelling array of personalities behind every participant. Participants' formal names are often mouthfuls, laden with letters indicating their championship levels—titles like “GCHG” (Grand Champion Gold) or “CH” (Champion) signaling their triumphs across various dog shows.
“The formal names are often complex to avoid duplication,” Ortiz explained, shedding light on the tradition of creative naming. Names can tell stories about the dog's lineage or provide insight about their owners’ creative inclinations.
Among the memorable competitors this year was GCH CH Cloudpointe Nothing Betta Than This CGC, affectionately called Eirik by his owners Sarah Woodworth and her partner. Amie McLaughlin, Eirik's breeder, fondly explained, “I like the name to be something cute.” Eirik hails from a fish-themed litter, showcasing the playfulness behind naming dogs.
Throughout the competition, handlers and owners shared laughter and stories about how they came to select names for their dogs. Zoltar, owned by comedian Chris Hardwick and model Lydia Hearst, was inspired by the fortune-telling machine from the classic 1988 film “Big.” “We knew he was going to grow, and plenty big,” Hardwick said, beaming with pride over his dog.
The creativity didn’t stop there. One competitor boasted the delightful name of Graham, the old English sheepdog known formally as GCH CH Bugaboo’s Give Me S’more. His owner, Colton Johnson, said the dog's name drew from the s’mores treat, with Graham being well-acquainted with all the joys of the summer campfire favorite.
The competition saw participants from varying backgrounds, showcasing different breeds and unique styles. “Show dogs are like the aristocrats of the canine world,” noted Amanda Hill, whose dog GCHP Kaleef’s Mercedes returned to competition this year after garnering second place last season. Mercedes will retire following this show, representing excellence as her name suggests. “I wanted something classic and excellent—just like her,” Dr. Cynthian Wilhelmy shared.
Westminster has always been synonymous with tradition. The 2025 show was marked by agility and obedience contests held the preceding Saturday, enriching the canine cultural mosaic and demonstrating the versatility of sporting breeds.
The excitement of the dog show continues to build as participants await selection for the coveted Best in Show award, set for this Tuesday night. Six finalists will emerge from the various breed winners, each vying for the ultimate title amid throngs of dedicated fans.
John Sweeney, president of the Westminster Kennel Club, expressed enthusiasm for the dog show’s return, stating, “We’re thrilled to celebrate the remarkable bond between breeders and their dogs annually.”
The Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show is not merely an exhibition of fine dogs, but rather an exploration of spirit, creativity, and connection—a celebration of the extraordinary lengths to which individuals will go to honor their canine companions.
With each passing breed champion and enchanting story told, the dog show continues to inspire those who adore their fluffy friends. By the end of the event, one dog among the nominees will be honored with the title of Best in Show, solidifying its place amid canine royalty.