What Is the Westminster Dog Show?
with
Heidi Dehncke
Every year, 2,500 dogs go on show in New York at a unique and longstanding sporting event: The Westminster Dog Show. Find out more about the show's history, judging, and furry stars.
Transcript: What Is the Westminster Dog Show?
Hi, I'm Heidi Dehncke-Fisher and welcome to About.com. Today were going to explore the Westminster Dog Show.Westminster Dog Show History and Background
The Westminster dog show began in 1877 and is the second longest running continuously held sporting event in America. Only the Kentucky Derby surpasses it by two years.169 breeds, 2,500 dogs set the stage for a packed house and sold out show at New York City's Madison Square Garden, the shows traditional home since it was called Gilmores Garden, and every incarnation since.
There's excitement in the air -600 members of the press, and an overwhelming 3 million people tuning into the show each night. It's a phenomenon and a trip over the rainbow for those who get to be here.
Dog Show Judging
The judging begins at 8AM sharp and breeders and trainers with their prized canine collections begin their exodus to the holy grail of US Dog Shows. Every dog entered is required to be an American Kennel Club champion of record. And it will take two days of judging to narrow the field from best of breed to best in show, the most coveted Westminster title of all.Westminster Charities
While The Westminster Kennel Club is responsible for supporting the sport of purebred dogs, they also champion the use of therapy dogs across many institutions and facilities, with a program called Angel on a Leash, promoting health and well being through the bonds that exist between man and dog.The Westminster Dog Show embodies the tradition and sportsmanship of yesteryear, and yet renews and refreshes itself every year, and continually increases a watchful audience that has to see the best of the best.
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