NEW YORK — The 149th Annual Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show officially began on Saturday at the Javits Center, bringing together top dogs, dedicated handlers, and enthusiastic fans from across the country. The prestigious event features dogs of all breeds competing in categories such as agility, obedience, and the newly added flyball tournament.
Agility Stars: Duncan the Border Collie and Dillon the Briard
One of the standout competitors is Duncan, a talented Border Collie competing in his second agility competition. His owner, Carol Tendler, initially had no plans for agility training until she discovered the breed’s natural aptitude.
“Everybody said, ‘If you have a Border Collie, you have to do agility’ because they’re very smart,” Tendler explained.
In the agility world, Dillon, a 75-pound Briard, is making waves. Briards are a rare breed to see in agility, but Syracuse resident Mekalea Chambliss is proud to showcase her dog’s skills.
“I was here when I was younger, but this is the first year that we’re actually competing here, so it’s kind of been a lifelong dream,” Chambliss said.
Flyball Tournament: The New Fan Favorite
The dog show introduced a new category this year—flyball, a high-energy relay race where teams of four dogs take turns racing over jumps, grabbing a ball, and sprinting back to tag the next dog.
“It’s kind of a doggy relay race,” Chambliss explained, describing the excitement and teamwork involved in the competition.
Training for Future Competitors
Not all dogs at the show are competing just yet. Westchester resident Rhodni Boyd-Postell brought her young dog, Mellie, to observe and learn.
“I got her a show groomer. She said to wait one year so her puppy hair grows out before I have her compete,” Boyd-Postell shared. “So I just have her watching, learning, and taking tips.”
Veteran Competitors and Retirees
Some dogs, like Red Gerard from Wisconsin, are at the peak of their careers, while others, like Winnie from Alabama, are nearing retirement. Despite the competition, the atmosphere remains supportive and friendly.
“We all wanna make finals, but we’re just as happy when our friends make it,” said Kevin Bottoms from Huntsville, Alabama.
“We’re all about the dogs,” added Cathy Cardamone from Colts Neck, New Jersey.
The Road to Best in Show
The event will run through Tuesday, culminating with the highly anticipated crowning of “Best in Show.” With hundreds of talented dogs competing, fans and participants are eager to see which dog will claim the top prize.
Stay tuned as the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show continues to showcase the best of canine athleticism, beauty, and companionship.
