FOLIO
Dear Davi,
I heard that a dachshund has never won Best in Show at the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show. You mad?
Boaz the Bull Terrier
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Boaz,
Why throw shade when you could shed light? Since 1885, the wiener dog has racked up beaucoup wins in the Hound group with 10 Best of Group placements. That’s not too shabby for a breed that was bred to hunt badgers. Still, our paws have not touched the Steuben Crystal Bowl.
Let’s take a look at which other popular breeds have never received the ultimate prize at Westminster.
Labrador Retriever: The Labrador might be America’s favorite dog, but that hasn’t helped this sporty breed bag the Best in Show award. Since they were recognized in 1917, these friendly companions have placed only 10 times at Westminster.
Golden Retriever: Goldens may win hearts, but have won only three times since 1925. Maybe they should spend more time prepping for the crown and less time fetching tennis balls.
Miniature Schnauzer: A standout of the Terrier group, the Mini Schnauzer was recognized in 1916. These ratters have scored one Best of Group win and seven other placements, but are still waiting to take home the top prize.
Shih Tzu: The Shih Tzu was added to the Toy group in 1969. These lap dogs have done remarkably well by earning three Best in Group awards and 14 placements, but Best in Show? No.
Great Dane: The Great Dane is one of the oldest notable breeds. They were first admitted into the Working group in 1887. Despite never winning Best in Show, these gentle giants have taken home five Best of Group ribbons and 21 placements.
Chihuahua: Sassy and spoiled, the Chihuahua entered the Toy group in 1904. They placed four times with one Best of Group win, but still no top dog.
Shetland Sheepdog: Shelties have belonged to the Herding group since 1911. They have also done well, earning five Best of Group wins and 12 other placements, but have never put paw in the Best of Show circle.
With nearly 3,000 dog breeds from seven groups chasing this dream, who wins Best in Show most often at Westminster?
Terriers. This group has earned 46 titles – 13 for Wire Fox Terriers and 8 for Scottish Terriers. The Sporting group is next with 19 wins – six for English Springer Spaniels alone. Working dogs have 15 crowns – four each for Doberman Pinschers and Boxers. The Toy group has 11 titles, the Non-Sporting group 10, and the Hound group five. Herding dogs have won only once – a German Shepherd in 1987.
So what is it about Terriers that has judges swooning while slighting other breeds?
Frankly, I have no idea. I’m a dog, not a judge. If it were up to me, I’d give treats to dogs who wag their tail more than their tongues and ribbons to every owner who thinks their dog is the best – because they’re all right.
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Man’s best friend takes center stage at the National Dog Show at noon on Thanksgiving Day. Prepare the turkey and tune in!
Davi the dachshund hasn’t won Best in Show, but he’s always best in throw.
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