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Sage, a miniature poodle, clinched the top prize on Tuesday night at the Westminster Kennel Club dog show, highlighting the breed's consistent success in the competition. This victory marks the 11th win for poodles of various sizes in the United States' most prestigious canine event, trailing only wire fox terriers in total wins. Handler Kaz Hosaka, who previously led another miniature poodle, Spice, to victory in 2002, announced that this year's Westminster would be his final appearance. Initially speechless, Hosaka later expressed his elation at Sage's win, describing it as "So happy — exciting." Hosaka, a veteran competitor at Westminster for 45 years, commended Sage's stellar performance.
Sage outshone six other finalists to claim the best in show title. The second-place spot went to Mercedes, a German shepherd whose handler, Kent Boyles, has also previously won the trophy. Among the other finalists were Comet, a shih tzu and winner of the American Kennel Club National Championship; Monty, a giant schnauzer who entered Westminster as the nation's top-ranked dog; Louis, an Afghan hound; Micah, a black cocker spaniel; and Frankie, a colored bull terrier. Judge Rosalind Kramer praised the final lineup as "excellent, glorious."
In addition to the winners, several dogs captured the audience's hearts. Harry, a lagotto Romagnolo, elicited chuckles by sitting up and begging for a treat, while Fletcher, a vizsla, charmed spectators by jumping up on his handler after completing a lap around the ring. Sebastian, a playful great Pyrenees, and Emilio, a Doberman pinscher, also received enthusiastic cheers.
Despite the fierce competition, some dogs stood out even in defeat. Stache, a Sealyham terrier, won the National Dog Show televised on Thanksgiving and a major terrier show in Pennsylvania last fall. Stache represents a rare breed that is considered vulnerable to extinction, even in its native Britain.
Westminster showcases a wide variety of breeds, highlighting the diversity within the canine world. Shane Jichetti, co-owner of the 175-pound great Dane Ralphie, emphasized the bond between a dog and its handler, noting that despite Ralphie's size, he is incredibly obedient and well-behaved in the ring.
While Westminster's focus remains on traditional purebred judging, the addition of agility and obedience events for mixed-breed dogs reflects a broader appreciation for all dogs, whether they are show dogs or beloved companions.