Each year a select few emerge triumphant and join the elite group of breeders, owners and exhibitors who have achieved a win at "the Garden". It is the experience of a lifetime and a defining moment of a career in dogs.
On February 14th, Valentine's Day, dog lovers from all over the world will gather at Madison Square Garden for the opening of America's second oldest sporting event, the 124th Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show. Long recognized as one of the world's most prestigious shows, the two day spectacular is the climax to a week long celebration filled with festivities and special events honoring the dog. The thousands of purebred dog fanciers descending on Manhatten will enjoy a host of private functions, special art exhibitions, museum tours, theater, opera, shopping excursions and official events that include:
Formed over a century ago, Westminster boasts an unparalleled history of success. With its first show, in 1877, drawing an astounding entry in excess of 1100 dogs, Westminster has set a tradition of attracting the cream of show dog competition. While it was once open to all AKC registered dogs, steadily increasing entries eventually forced organizers to institute restrictions. Becoming first a show limited to pointed dogs only, it then had the distinction of being America's only show for Champion dogs. This year's show began yet another new entry process with the top 5 dogs in each breed receiving invitations to compete. Of the 780 dogs invited, 603 accepted. Entries then opened to others and, in record time of less than an hour, the limit of 2500 dogs was reached.
Multi BIS, BISS
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