The Rise of Monty: A Giant Schnauzer Claims Top Honors

On a historic night at the 149th Annual Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show, a new canine champion emerged, capturing the hearts of dog lovers worldwide. Monty, a majestic Giant Schnauzer from Ocean City, New Jersey, triumphed over an impressive field of more than 2,500 competitors to claim the coveted Best in Show title.

A Triumphant Return to Madison Square Garden

The 2025 Westminster Dog Show marked a momentous occasion, as the prestigious event returned to its iconic home at Madison Square Garden in New York City after a four-year hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The hallowed venue, which has hosted the second-longest continuous sporting event in the United States, once again welcomed the world’s most talented and well-groomed canines, eager to showcase their remarkable qualities.

Monty’s Remarkable Journey to the Top

Monty’s journey to the top was nothing short of extraordinary. Before being crowned Best in Show, the Giant Schnauzer had already secured the Best in Breed title for his esteemed breed and the prestigious Best in Group honor for the Working Group. However, his crowning achievement came when he triumphed over six other exceptional canines in the highly anticipated Best in Show round.

The competition was fierce, with Bourbon the Whippet, Mercedes the German Shepherd, Neal the Bichon Frisé, Comet the Shih Tzu, Freddie the English Springer Spaniel, and Archer the Skye Terrier all vying for the ultimate prize. In the end, it was Monty’s remarkable presence, impeccable grooming, and unwavering confidence that captured the attention of Best in Show Judge Paula Nykiel, earning him the coveted purple ribbon.

A Historic First for the Giant Schnauzer Breed

Monty’s victory holds even greater significance as he became the first Giant Schnauzer in the history of the Westminster Dog Show to claim the Best in Show title. This remarkable achievement not only showcases the breed’s exceptional qualities but also highlights the dedication and expertise of Monty’s handler, Kate Bernadin.

The dynamic duo’s success didn’t stop there; they also claimed the prestigious 2024 AKC National Championship, solidifying their position as one of the most formidable teams in the world of canine competitions.

Passing the Torch: A New Champion Emerges

With his victory, Monty succeeded Sage, the Miniature Poodle who trotted away with the Best in Show title at the 2024 Westminster Dog Show. This passing of the torch symbolizes the enduring tradition and excellence that the Westminster Dog Show represents, as each year a new champion emerges to inspire and captivate audiences worldwide.

Beyond the Show Ring: Celebrating Canine Excellence

While Monty’s triumph stole the spotlight, the 2025 Westminster Dog Show also celebrated other remarkable canine achievements. Vanish, a Border Collie owned and handled by Emily Klarman, won the 12th Annual Masters Agility Championship at Westminster, showcasing her agility, speed, and unwavering focus in the challenging obstacle course.

These triumphs serve as a reminder of the incredible bond between humans and their four-legged companions, and the dedication required to achieve such heights of excellence in the world of canine competitions.

As the curtain falls on another successful Westminster Dog Show, Monty’s reign as the new top dog begins, inspiring generations of dog lovers and breeders alike to strive for greatness and celebrate the remarkable diversity and beauty of the canine world.