Primped to Paw-fection! Westminster Dog Show begins in New York with nearly 3,000 pooches receiving grooming, polishing and styling as they battle to be top dog By Lauren Edmonds For Dailymail.com

  • 144th Westminster Dog Show is happening at Madison Square Garden in New York, New York, from February 8 to February 11
  • More than 2,000 dogs from 49 states and 19 countries will be competing in the 2020 competition 
  • Photos show the adorable group of canine competitors being primped and polished before hitting the stage at Westminster Dog Show
  • Thor the Bulldog, the winner of the National Dog Show, won high praises from judges and is one of the top dogs at the Westminster Dog Show 
  •  
  •  
  • The 144th annual Wesminster Dog Show will narrow down the pool of 2,600 pooches from 49 states and 19 countries to select the top dog in the 2020 competition at Madison Square Garden in New York.  

    204 adorable breeds will go paw to paw in an assortment of divisions, including Hound, Toy, Sporting, Non-sporting, Herding, Working and Terrier. 

    Ahead of the prestigious competition, which lasts from February 8 to February 11, several dogs were living in the lap of luxury as they were fawned over groomed to perfection. 

    Perfect pooch! Nearly 3,000 dogs - including this puffed pup - descended into Madison Square Garden in New York, New York, to compete in the 144th Westminster Dog Show in standard categories like Hound, Toy, Sporting, Non-sporting, Herding, Working and Terrier
    Perfect pooch! Nearly 3,000 dogs - including this puffed pup - descended into Madison Square Garden in New York, New York, to compete in the 144th Westminster Dog Show in standard categories like Hound, Toy, Sporting, Non-sporting, Herding, Working and Terrier

    This one-year-old Pomeranian named Jackie (pictured), whose getting a last minute burst of hair spray before tottering onto the main floor,  is one of 204 adorable breeds getting facing off in the dog world's most prestigious competitionThis one-year-old Pomeranian named Jackie (pictured), whose getting a last minute burst of hair spray before tottering onto the main floor,  is one of 204 adorable breeds getting facing off in the dog world's most prestigious competition 

    Although the Westminster Dog Show competitors work diligently to perform their tricks and poses on stage, backstage they rarely have to life a paw - like this four-year-old Lhasa apso named Eric whose letting a man gently brush his fur ahead of his debutAlthough the Westminster Dog Show competitors work diligently to perform their tricks and poses on stage, backstage they rarely have to life a paw - like this four-year-old Lhasa apso named Eric whose letting a man gently brush his fur ahead of his debut 

    A four-year-old Shih Tzu named Mr. Bates (pictured) will make an appearance in the toy dog division this week, but WKC Dog Show national spokesperson Gail Miller Bisher assures that the he doesn't have to worry about being judged against larger breedsA four-year-old Shih Tzu named Mr. Bates (pictured) will make an appearance in the toy dog division this week, but WKC Dog Show national spokesperson Gail Miller Bisher assures that the he doesn't have to worry about being judged against larger breeds

    According to WKC Dog Show national spokesperson Gail Miller Bisher, audiences at home may not understand all the detail that goes into judging the wide variety of canines each year. 
    She told Fox News: 'One thing that we always try to explain is that there’s a written standard, per breed, as the dog’s form follows their original function. These are purpose-bred dogs, many bred to work in some capacity originally.'

    'Things like their shape, coat texture and temperaments are based on that original purpose, and explains all the elements of their ideal.'

    Bisher says the judges are all experts in their field and determined which dogs win based on how closely they can emulate their 'ideal' breed, not how well they hold up against each other.
    'Our judges learn, study and judge for many, many years – it’s very experienced dog show judges coming to Westminster,' she said. 

    'Say if you had two very different dogs like German Shepherds vs. Corgis, you’re going to be judging whether it’s closer to that German Shepheard or Corgi. It’s much more detailed than people think. It’s not a beauty contest at all! There’s history involved, there’s science involved – there is a lot more to it.'

    Although Westminster Dog Show officials say the competition isn't a beauty contest, this A Blenheim King Charles Cavalier named Annabelle XII, aged two, shows off her luscious fur as he prepares to prove himself the top dog in the toy division this weekAlthough Westminster Dog Show officials say the competition isn't a beauty contest, this A Blenheim King Charles Cavalier named Annabelle XII, aged two, shows off her luscious fur as he prepares to prove himself the top dog in the toy division this week 

    Life isn't too 'ruff' for this sweet puppy who got to save his energy and  be carried around the Westminster Dog Show's backstage styling department on MondayLife isn't too 'ruff' for this sweet puppy who got to save his energy and  be carried around the Westminster Dog Show's backstage styling department on Monday

    A four-year-old West Highland White Terrier named Op (pictured) gets his luscious fur brushed and detangled before he wows the judges this weekA four-year-old West Highland White Terrier named Op (pictured) gets his luscious fur brushed and detangled before he wows the judges this week 

    Bisher also revealed that because Westminster Dog Show is benched - meaning dogs are required to stay on assigned benches the entire time of the show unless they are exhibiting or exercising - it's also supposed to be an educational event.

    Bisher said: 'Say, if you love beagles, the public is welcome to go and meet the breeders, owners and handlers, to really learn more about the dog. Probably as soon as they’re done competing, people are welcome to go visit the dog, touch them, ask questions and talk to the dog’s team about the breed, maybe if they’re looking to see if that dog would work with their lifestyle. People think that because they’re show dogs, they can’t approach them!

    'We have CEO’s, teachers, postal workers and many more – so many different people involved in the dog breeding, owning and handling world.' 

    Arthur, this two-year-old Pomeranian, seems to be enjoying his pseudo belly rub while groomer brushes his soft coat clean at the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show on MondayArthur, this two-year-old Pomeranian, seems to be enjoying his pseudo belly rub while groomer brushes his soft coat clean at the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show on Monday 

    Dog lovers can have the opportunity to meet Fendi (pictured), a one-year-old Toy Poodle, and their other favorite competitors in New York since the Westminster Dog Show is meant to also educate the public on different breedsDog lovers can have the opportunity to meet Fendi (pictured), a one-year-old Toy Poodle, and their other favorite competitors in New York since the Westminster Dog Show is meant to also educate the public on different breeds

    A groomer makes sure to get under the paws of Bentley (pictured), an American Eskimo the non-sporting dog division on this weekA groomer makes sure to get under the paws of Bentley (pictured), an American Eskimo the non-sporting dog division on this week 

    Thanks fur everything! This pampered dog named Tilly, a two-year-old Standard Poodle, will be facing off against Bentley in the American Eskimo dog in the non-sporting divisionThanks fur everything! This pampered dog named Tilly, a two-year-old Standard Poodle, will be facing off against Bentley in the American Eskimo dog in the non-sporting division

    Moreover, dogs will be competing in ceremonies like the Westminster Dog Show come from homes and breeders who've oftentimes being doing it for generations. 

    These dogs are more than just trophies and awards - they're family.  

    'People in this sport are two or three generations deep. I’m second generation, my parents did breeding, showing, judging – often times it’s a family affair, because these dogs live in your house,' she said.

    'It’s part of your life, part of the family! If you’re used to that and you love the dogs, it’s a lifestyle, almost. When I first had my daughter, my dogs were always right there, and I think that’s telling of the sport in general. 

    'People love it, love trying to preserve the breeds and its special features, to make sure the next generation is healthy and sound, continues and doesn’t fade away.'   

    Bisher revealed that dogs like this two-year-old Standard Manchester Terrier named Tag are not just trophies and awards for their handlers - they're oftentimes family that spans generations to create a 'lifestyle'Bisher revealed that dogs like this two-year-old Standard Manchester Terrier named Tag are not just trophies and awards for their handlers - they're oftentimes family that spans generations to create a 'lifestyle' 

    A groomer meticulously brushing out the kinks in a Standard Poodle named Santiago, 4, - who seems more than happy to relax before his showing - proves that a once in a lifetime win like the Westminster Dog show is all in the detailsA groomer meticulously brushing out the kinks in a Standard Poodle named Santiago, 4, - who seems more than happy to relax before his showing - proves that a once in a lifetime win like the Westminster Dog show is all in the details 

    Quit hounding me! Sherman, a three-year-old Brussels Griffon, looks adorably wide-eyed as his groomer cuts off stray fur so the small pup can make a massive impressionQuit hounding me! Sherman, a three-year-old Brussels Griffon, looks adorably wide-eyed as his groomer cuts off stray fur so the small pup can make a massive impression 

    A groomer towel dries his one-year-old Mini Schnauzer named Cooper ahead of the Westminster Dog Show so the two can hit the stage with a clean startA groomer towel dries his one-year-old Mini Schnauzer named Cooper ahead of the Westminster Dog Show so the two can hit the stage with a clean start 

    Moses, a four-year-old Keeshond -who will compete in the non-sporting division - is already practicing his cute smile as he's puffed up and pampered by a groomer on MondayMoses, a four-year-old Keeshond -who will compete in the non-sporting division - is already practicing his cute smile as he's puffed up and pampered by a groomer on Monday 


    Bisher: 'It’s part of your life, part of the family! If you’re used to that and you love the dogs, it’s a lifestyle, almost. When I first had my daughter, my dogs were always right there, and I think that’s telling of the sport in general'Bisher: 'It’s part of your life, part of the family! If you’re used to that and you love the dogs, it’s a lifestyle, almost. When I first had my daughter, my dogs were always right there, and I think that’s telling of the sport in general' 

    This ruff pup looks ready to take a bite out of the competition as groomers preserve his award-winning fur with colorful rubber bands ahead of the main stage on MondayThis ruff pup looks ready to take a bite out of the competition as groomers preserve his award-winning fur with colorful rubber bands ahead of the main stage on Monday 

    As his handler perfects his fluffy fur, this dog appears ready to roar into the Westminster Dog Show this week as his regal stance shows off his pedigreeAs his handler perfects his fluffy fur, this dog appears ready to roar into the Westminster Dog Show this week as his regal stance shows off his pedigree 

    Bisher: 'At the core of it, it’s all about the love of dogs. People are coming cross-country, from Canada, investing time, money and energy into this, they’ve been dedicated. This is one of the largest celebrations of dogs you will find'Bisher: 'At the core of it, it’s all about the love of dogs. People are coming cross-country, from Canada, investing time, money and energy into this, they’ve been dedicated. This is one of the largest celebrations of dogs you will find' 

    Bisher said she's most looking forward to seeing the newly instate breed, Azawakh, joining the ranks.

    'It will be the Azawakh’s first time showing at Westminster, as the breed is new to the American Kennel Club (AKC.) Six dogs are entered, and one will win best of breed, then continue on to that advanced competition on the green carpet at Madison Square Garden for the first time ever. It’s exciting for the Azawakh!' said Bisher.

    'We try to make the show better every year. With the Azawakh joining, the breeders who put so much into going through the AKC process [of accreditation] can finally enjoy the moment. The best thing [for competitors] is being able to talk and explain things – at its core, that’s what a dog show really is.' 

    She also said the love of man's best friend is what drives Westminster Dog Show every year. 
    Bisher said: 'It’s an evaluation of breeding stock – what the dogs should be used for, and how they can best produce the next generation.'

    'At the core of it, it’s all about the love of dogs. People are coming cross-country, from Canada, investing time, money and energy into this, they’ve been dedicated. This is one of the largest celebrations of dogs you will find.'

    Eric the Lhasa Apso looks like a blast from the past with his shaggy, 70s style hair that's being combed out backstage at the Westminster Dog ShowEric the Lhasa Apso looks like a blast from the past with his shaggy, 70s style hair that's being combed out backstage at the Westminster Dog Show

    Although this Bichon Frise looks perfect for the toy division, it will take center stage with the non-sporting division during the four-day Westminster Dog Show competitionAlthough this Bichon Frise looks perfect for the toy division, it will take center stage with the non-sporting division during the four-day Westminster Dog Show competition 

    A handler dressed in pink holds her excited Pomeranian backstage before before participating in the 144th annual Westminster Kennel Club Dog ShowA handler dressed in pink holds her excited Pomeranian backstage before before participating in the 144th annual Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show

    With the way this French Bulldog is relaxing in his handler's arms, it's not too far-fetched to believe he - and the nearly 3,000 other dogs competing this week - are living in the lap of luxuryWith the way this French Bulldog is relaxing in his handler's arms, it's not too far-fetched to believe he - and the nearly 3,000 other dogs competing this week - are living in the lap of luxury 

    Before the Westminster Dog Show kicked off this week, dog lovers were swooning over the National Dog Show winner, Thor the Bulldog. 

    In a surprising victory, Thor the Bulldog won Best in Show over 2000 dogs from 193 breeds to clinch the victory. 

    Thor, whose registered name is GCHG Diamond Gold Majesu Pisko Bulls, won over both the crowd and the judges to score his national title and a bowl of congratulatory treat after the two-hour long competition.

    'Thor won today because of his structure and because he moves so well,' Eduardo Paris, Thor's handler, told People. 

    'He has been showing since September 2018 and has won 27 specialties since he has been showing.' 

    The National Dog Show was held on November 16 and November 17 at the Philadelphia Expo Center, but the results weren't officially announced until after the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade. 

    'I’m absolutely thrilled. It’s a dream come true for us,' Gordon said to the Philadelphia Inquirer.

    'He’s a funny, charming, lovable dog and people react to him,' she continued. 'I guess that’s why he had the edge.' 

    In a surprising victory, Thor the Bulldog (pictured) won Best in Show over 2000 dogs from 193 breeds to clinch the victory in November - but now he's taking a quick nap before the dog showIn a surprising victory, Thor the Bulldog (pictured) won Best in Show over 2000 dogs from 193 breeds to clinch the victory in November - but now he's taking a quick nap before the dog show 

    Three very similar looking dogs sit side-by-side as they're handlers spoil them with rubs and  fluff up their perfectly coiffed hair on MondayThree very similar looking dogs sit side-by-side as they're handlers spoil them with rubs and  fluff up their perfectly coiffed hair on Monday 

    Every dog has his day, and this wet Havanese fresh from a bath will see is when he's trotting along the main stage during the Westminster Dog ShowEvery dog has his day, and this wet Havanese fresh from a bath will see is when he's trotting along the main stage during the Westminster Dog Show 

    After receiving high praise from audiences and judges at the National Dog Show in New York, New York, last year, Thor the Bulldog (pictured) is the one to beat this year at the Westminster Dog ShowAfter receiving high praise from audiences and judges at the National Dog Show in New York, New York, last year, Thor the Bulldog (pictured) is the one to beat this year at the Westminster Dog Show

    Two Yorkshire terriers at the 144th Westminster Dog Show are propped up on a 'Best in Show Crate' while two handlers straighten their long hair with flat irons to get a sleek finishTwo Yorkshire terriers at the 144th Westminster Dog Show are propped up on a 'Best in Show Crate' while two handlers straighten their long hair with flat irons to get a sleek finish 

    A group of at least four Bichon Frise are groomed backstage at the Westminster Dog Show on Monday as one of more than 200 breeds competingA group of at least four Bichon Frise are groomed backstage at the Westminster Dog Show on Monday as one of more than 200 breeds competing 

    The two-year-old bulldog was born in Lima Peru and, according to Gordon, was facing an uphill battle coming into the prestigious event. 

    She said: 'Sometimes, up against an Afghan or some beautiful furry thing, it can be tough. But Thor is so structurally sound, when he moves — it’s funny to imagine, but he sort of walks on air. Even when I walk him at home just around the corner, he walks like he’s in the show ring.' 

    David Frei, an American Kennel Club-licensed judge and expert analyst for the National Dog Show, also sang Thor's praises after the big win. 

    Frei said: 'What makes it tough on a dog like Thor is when you put him in the ring with an Irish setter that’s big and pretty and flashes around the ring.'

    'You got to make it look like you’re happy to be out there and own the ground you stand under. It’s about showmanship at the end.'

    Frei has since named Thor among the favorites to win the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show award at Madison Square Garden in New York City in February. 

    'I hadn’t seen Thor before in person. liked him from outside the ring, then when I put my hands on him in the ring after his win, I loved him,' Frei said. 

    'He’s a beautiful hunk of a dog and has a great temperament. He moves in a special way that we rarely see in a bulldog. He’s got a lot of things going for him.'

    Before winning Best in Show, Thor won the Non-Sporting Group to advance to the finals with six other pooches. 

    Audiences will have to wait until results are announced to learn if Thor's charm puts him a hair above the rest.

    Stetson, an American Eskimo jumps on his hind legs to give his handler 'paw'-shake before beginning the Westminster Dog Show on MondayStetson, an American Eskimo jumps on his hind legs to give his handler 'paw'-shake before beginning the Westminster Dog Show on Monday 

    This dog looks 'paw'-tied out even before he will compete in the Westminster Dog Show on Monday, but he will be fetching the main prize once the festivities beginMonday, but he will be fetching the main prize once the festivities begin
     
  •  
  •  
Posted By On

No comments:

Post a Comment

Subscribe to: Post Comments (Atom)