The 150th Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show

Months of rigorous training set the stage for what feels like the ultimate competition. It’s akin to the preparation of elite athletes gearing up for championship games, accompanied by strict diets and mental focus.

While many might think of the Super Bowl, there’s something else that captures attention: the 150th Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show. This year, more than 3,000 champion dogs showcased their talents, displaying tricks and impressive hairstyles for eager judges.

The three-day event, part red carpet, part competition, and part fashion parade, concluded late Tuesday with the prestigious Best in Show award going to a graceful 4-year-old Doberman Pinscher named Penny.

After the breed judging and agility trials at the Javits Center on Saturday, the show moved to Madison Square Garden on Monday and Tuesday. Here, the show dogs and their handlers maintained a calm demeanor in front of judges and a crowd of around 50,000.

However, behind the scenes, there was a flurry of last-minute adjustments. Access was granted backstage on the second day of this renowned event, where competitors like Angus, an 18-year-old Bichon Frize, were getting ready for their first competition.

Just like NFL players, Angus prepared both mentally and physically for his big moment. Early Monday, his handler, Eric Chassey from Boston, shared that Angus needed some socialization time before the show. He was overseeing the preparations for the shaggy dogs, bathing and grooming them to perfection.

“We want their big round eyes to be wide open and their tails to be fluffy,” Cathy emphasized, mentioning that the dogs are groomed to emphasize their breed’s strengths and stand out among the many attractive competitors.

Chassey expressed his love for the connection he shares with Angus. “He’s my best friend,” he said, radiating joy.

Another backstage presence was Laura Evaristo, handling her 5-year-old coonhound, Lucy, who was competing for the third time. Evaristo noted, “She loves to show. When she’s in the ring, she shines.” Lucy has displayed her competitive spirit since she was a puppy, and Evaristo remarked that whenever the travel bags show up, Lucy is excited and ready to showcase her belongings.

“She seems to believe this is her job, and she adores it. She’s quite the observer, always watching people and other dogs,” Evaristo added, showcasing her pride in Lucy’s enthusiasm.

This year’s show featured over 500 more dogs than previous years. One notable participant was Nate, a 3-year-old English pointer, who posed proudly with his owner, Lila Holberg, 18.

Evaristo admitted that even seasoned competitors experience nerves. “This is the biggest and most prestigious dog show in the world,” she said, reflecting on their anticipation. Unfortunately, they did not succeed in making the terrier group.

Elijah, a 3-year-old Yorkshire terrier, didn’t leave Madison Square Garden with a trophy, but his owner, Zoe Porter from Florida, embraced the occasion, which also marked Elijah’s retirement. “This is like our Super Bowl!” she declared, having competed since Elijah was just six months old.

Preparing for the event took a good few hours. Porter detailed her night of grooming, including using a human hair straightener to achieve the desired look, concluding with a red ribbon as a finishing touch.

End of an era was on her mind. “After the competition, we’ll cut it all off,” she said regarding Elijah’s long locks.

The bond formed through these years of showing dogs has been quite special for Porter. “Connecting with the dogs from start to finish is always rewarding,” she observed.

And when asked about what’s next after Elijah’s show career, she lightheartedly mentioned, “To be a father.”