NEW YORK — The prestigious Westminster Kennel Club competition showcases a diverse range of dog competitors, from Chihuahuas to Great Danes, each vying for the coveted title of best in show. But how does a judge determine which canine stands out among the champions?
For many viewers, the judging process may seem inscrutable, but selecting a winner at this iconic dog show demands an extensive knowledge of 201 breeds and varieties. The task requires both expertise and composure.
“When you’re judging at Westminster, it’s a unique experience unlike any other,” stated the kennel club president, who awarded the top prize in 2022 to a bloodhound named Trumpet. The show returns to Madison Square Garden this week after a four-year hiatus at a different venue.
Stepping onto the floor of one of the world’s most renowned arenas can be overwhelming, even for seasoned judges. “There’s a moment where you think, ‘What am I going to do?’” he recalled.
Judges conduct thorough examinations and observe dogs in motion to see which animal aligns closest to the established breed standard, which outlines desired traits reflective of a breed’s heritage and function.
Take, for example, Fiona, a 18-month-old Pekingese and the judge’s model during a demonstration. Notably, Fiona is related to the 2021 Westminster winner, Wasabi, but will not compete this year.
A clinical psychologist and former school superintendent, the judge has been involved with dogs since childhood and has extensive judging experience. He focuses on “presence of virtue vs. faults,” seeking the canine that embodies the most positive traits during his evaluation.
In a hands-on demonstration, the judge began by examining Fiona’s distinct features, including the shape of her head, which should resemble an envelope. “The head is a hallmark of the breed,” he explained, referring to their lineage from ancient Chinese palace dogs.
He then assessed Fiona’s forelegs, chest depth, neck length, rib breadth, and the tapering of her body. According to the breed standard, Pekingese should be compact, low to the ground, and pear-shaped.
Throughout the examination, Fiona remained calm, allowing the judge to evaluate her back shape, coat texture, and tail placement. The judge noted that her breed is expected to have a substantial feel when lifted.
Next comes the assessment of movement. Judges observe how each dog walks with its handler. Pekingese are characterized by their unique slow, rolling gait, likened to both a heavyset rugby player’s stride and the grace of a swimming goldfish.
Judges also gauge a dog’s temperament — Fiona exuded confidence with her wagging tail — in addition to assessing her overall condition, which reflects proper care, nutrition, and grooming.
At the Westminster competition, judges begin by selecting a top dog from each breed, who then compete within their respective groups, such as hounds or toy dogs for the Pekingese. The seven group winners ultimately face off for the best in show title.
The best-in-show judge is kept separate during the earlier rounds and must be knowledgeable about every breed standard. However, they are permitted to ask for which breeds will enter the final evaluation. The judge for this year chose not to inquire, preferring to form an unbiased impression.
As he put it, “As a judge in best in show at Westminster, you really can’t go wrong because any of the seven could take the title.”
So, what constitutes a winning dog?
“A great dog having a great night,” the judge explained. “There’s something special that night that makes a dog stand out from the other excellent contenders.”
