It's Coming Down to the Line at Westminster Show

As the Westminster Kennel Club dog show culminates, seven canine finalists vie for the coveted best in show trophy, with four contenders already selected: Neal, a bichon frisé; Bourbon, a repeat runner-up whippet; Comet, a seasoned shih tzu finalist; and Mercedes, a German shepherd concluding her show career after this event. Three additional finalists will be named Tuesday evening.

The setting of Madison Square Garden, hosting the semifinals for the first time in five years, echoes with enthusiastic spectators cheering for their favorites, much like fans at a New York Knicks or Rangers game. A Pekingese named Lumpy drew laughter with his distinctive gait, while Calaco, a Xoloitzcuintli, received both crowd cheers and judge recognition for his focused display. This breed, noteworthy for its hairless Mexican heritage, exemplifies the diversity of champions competing.

Co-breeder Sheree Moses Combs of Wardensville, West Virginia, highlights Mercedes' journey and her contributions beyond the show ring. Says Combs, "A good German shepherd is an all-purpose dog." She acknowledged the broader roles such dogs often fill, from service work with veterans to other canine jobs. "Dog shows are fun, but that is what our breed is all about." (This story was generated by Newser's AI chatbot. Source: the AP)