Monty, the Giant Schnauzer, Makes History at the 2025 Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show
The 2025 Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show took place on Tuesday, marking a historic moment in the world of dogs. Monty, a Giant Schnauzer, was crowned Best in Show, becoming the first of his breed to ever achieve this prestigious title. Monty’s victory not only brought joy to his owner and handler, Katie Bernardin, but also broke a long-standing drought for the Working Group. Since 2004, no dog from the Working Group had claimed the top honor at Westminster. Monty’s triumph is a testament to his exceptional talent and dedication, as he has consistently proven himself as a standout competitor.
A Star-Studded Career for Monty
Monty’s success at Westminster is just the latest milestone in his illustrious career. The five-year-old Giant Schnauzer has been a dominant force in the Working Group for three consecutive years at Westminster. His victories extend beyond this competition, as he also won Best in Show at the AKC National Championship in December. Monty’s achievements highlight his consistency, skill, and the hard work of his handler, Katie Bernardin. Bernardin was overcome with emotion after the win, telling Fox Sports 1, “He always tries so hard, and I’m so proud of him,” while holding back tears. The win was met with widespread celebration, with many taking to social media to congratulate Monty and his team, with one fan exclaiming, “Puppy did the damn thing!”
The Prestige of the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show
The Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show is one of the most iconic and longstanding events in the canine world. Celebrating its 149th edition this year, it is the second-oldest continuously held sporting event in the United States, surpassed only by the Kentucky Derby. The event attracts around 3,000 dogs from across the globe, all vying for the coveted Best in Show title. This year’s competition was judged by Paula Nykiel, who had the challenging task of selecting the best from the seven distinct groups: Herding, Hound, Non-Sporting, Sporting, Terrier, Toy, and Working. Each group represents a variety of breeds and types, making the competition as diverse as it is intense.
A Night of Pageantry and Tradition
This year, the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show returned to its usual February scheduling and reclaimed its historic venue, Madison Square Garden in New York City. The event had been relocated in 2021 due to the Covid-19 pandemic, but its return to the iconic MSG was met with excitement and nostalgia. Paula Nykiel, addressing the sold-out crowd before announcing the winner, reflected on the significance of the event, saying, “I’ve always loved all the history and tradition that is Westminster. I’m sure everyone here tonight is as happy as I am for Westminster to be back in Manhattan, and here at the iconic Madison Square Garden.” The event’s rich legacy and its return to its roots were celebrated by all in attendance.
A Close Competition and a Notable Runner-Up
While Monty took home the top honor, the competition was fierce, with a standout performance from nine-year-old Whippet Bourbon, who claimed the Reserve Best in Show title. This was Bourbon’s third time achieving this runner-up honor at Westminster. Having come out of retirement to compete this year, Bourbon’s participation was a crowd favorite, and her talent and grace were undeniable. The inclusion of seasoned competitors like Bourbon adds to the prestige and excitement of the event, showcasing the resilience and excellence of these canine athletes.
Looking Ahead to the 150th Anniversary
As the 2025 Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show came to a close, all eyes are now on the future. The event will celebrate its 150th anniversary in 2026, marking a major milestone in its storied history. While dates for next year’s event have yet to be announced, dog lovers and competitors alike are eagerly anticipating the celebration. The legacy of Westminster continues to inspire and unite dog enthusiasts worldwide, and Monty’s historic win will undoubtedly be remembered as one of the highlights of this year’s competition.
In summary, the 2025 Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show was a night filled with emotion, history, and celebration. Monty, the Giant Schnauzer, etched his name into the annals of Westminster history, while the event itself reaffirmed its place as a cornerstone of canine tradition and excellence. As the world looks forward to the 150th anniversary in 2026, the spirit of Westminster remains strong, inspiring dogs and their handlers to continue striving for greatness.
