Thanksgiving Day is more than just turkey and football for many Americans; it’s a cherished tradition that brings the thrill of the National Dog Show right into our living rooms. The 2025 edition, held on Thursday, November 27th, did not disappoint, delivering all the excitement and elegance that dog lovers have come to expect. This year, the spotlight shone brightly on Soleil, a stunning Belgian Sheepdog who captured the highly coveted Best in Show title. The event, presented by Purina, showcased approximately 2,000 magnificent purebred dogs from over 200 breeds, all vying for top honors and the adoration of millions. Join us as we delve into the highlights, history, and judging intricacies of this beloved canine competition.
Soleil Shines Bright: The 2025 National Dog Show Winners
The tension was palpable as the seven group winners stepped into the ring to compete for the ultimate prize at the 2025 National Dog Show. Emerging victorious was Soleil, a majestic six-year-old black Belgian Sheepdog, expertly handled by Daniel Martin. Soleil’s flawless movement and “drop-dead gorgeous condition” captivated judge Charlie Olvis, earning her the prestigious Best in Show ribbon. Her triumph from the Herding Group was a testament to her breed’s grace and intelligence.
Not to be overlooked, the esteemed title of Reserve Best in Show was awarded to George, an American Foxhound, handled by Tristen Lawrence. George’s impressive performance saw him clinch the Hound Group winner before competing for Best in Show. These two incredible dogs represented the pinnacle of their respective breeds. The other admirable group winners who made it to the final round included:
- Neal the Bichon Frise (Non-Sporting Group Winner)
- Dino the Giant Schnauzer (Working Group Winner)
- Baby Joe the Miniature Schnauzer (Terrier Group Winner)
- Comet the Shih Tzu (Toy Group Winner)
- Tyler the English Setter (Sporting Group Winner)
A Rich Legacy: The National Dog Show’s Enduring Appeal
The National Dog Show is more than just a competition; it’s a vibrant Thanksgiving tradition with a history dating back to 1879. Originally known as the Kennel Club of Philadelphia Dog Show, it has been an annual fixture since 1933. Its widespread popularity truly soared in 2002 when NBC Sports began televising the event on Thanksgiving Day, instantly becoming a holiday staple after the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. This strategic move transformed the show into one of the three major dog competitions in the United States, standing proudly alongside the Westminster Dog Show and the AKC National Championship.
The event, typically spanning two days in November at the Greater Philadelphia Expo Center at Oaks, Pennsylvania, is renowned for being one of the few remaining “benched” dog shows. This unique format allows spectators, owners, and pet parents to interact with the dogs and learn more about the breeds, adding an extra layer of engagement for anyone passionate about canine beauty.
Decoding the Canine Conformation: The Judging Process
Understanding how a dog rises to become Best in Show requires a look at the meticulous judging process sanctioned by the American Kennel Club (AKC). The competition is exclusively for purebred dogs registered with the AKC, which recognizes 214 breeds across seven distinct groups. The judging focuses on how well each dog conforms to its specific breed’s official written standard. These standards, developed by each breed’s parent club, detail the ideal characteristics, from general appearance and movement to temperament and precise physical traits.
The competition unfolds in a hierarchical structure:
- Breed Judging: Dogs first compete against others of their own breed. Judges conduct a thorough physical examination and observe the dog’s gait, selecting a Best of Breed (BOB) or Best of Variety (BOV) winner.
- Group Judging: The Best of Breed winners then advance to compete within their assigned group (Sporting, Hound, Working, Terrier, Toy, Non-Sporting, Herding). A Group judge selects four placements, with only the first-place winner proceeding to the final round.
- Best in Show: The seven Group winners ultimately compete for the Best in Show title. The judge’s final decision is based on their expert interpretation of which dog best exemplifies its breed standard on that particular day. It’s a subjective art, where judges, who are experts in their assigned breeds, make decisions that are considered final. Notably, spayed or neutered dogs are not eligible for conformation classes, as these shows evaluate potential breeding stock.
A New Face in the Ring: The Danish-Swedish Farmdog
The 2025 National Dog Show also marked a significant milestone with the official debut of a new breed: the Danish-Swedish Farmdog. Officially recognized by the AKC on January 1, 2025, this designation makes it the AKC’s 202nd recognized breed. This charming addition to the Working Group is a testament to the ongoing evolution of canine recognition and the dedication of breed enthusiasts.
The journey to full AKC recognition is a lengthy one. The Danish-Swedish Farmdog was first accepted into the AKC’s Foundation Stock Service (FSS) program for rare breeds in 2011, then moved to the Miscellaneous Class in 2021 before finally achieving full recognition. Originating from Denmark and Southern Sweden, these small, compact, and versatile dogs were historically farmhands, adept at vermin control, herding, and watchdog duties, known for their lively and affectionate nature – a wonderful new entry for dog show results in the years to come.
Celebrating Canine Excellence
The 2025 National Dog Show once again delivered an unforgettable spectacle of canine athleticism, beauty, and breed integrity. From Soleil the Belgian Sheepdog’s triumphant Best in Show win to George the American Foxhound’s impressive Reserve Best in Show honor, the event highlighted the incredible diversity and dedication within the world of purebred dogs. As dog lovers across India and USA tuned in, this Thanksgiving Day tradition reinforced our collective appreciation for our four-legged companions. We eagerly anticipate next year’s competition and the continuous celebration of canine excellence that the National Dog Show brings.
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