Meet the 2025 Westminster Group Winners: Champions of Tradition
Breed champions embodied elegance and strength at Madison Square Garden’s comeback.
Meet the 2025 Westminster Group Winners
The 149th Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show, presented by Purina Pro Plan, returned to its iconic setting at Madison Square Garden in New York City, marking a triumphant return after pandemic disruptions. Over 2,500 dogs competed in seven distinct breeds groups, vying for the coveted titles of Best in Group and ultimately Best in Show. Spanning two thrilling nights, February 10 and 11, 2025, the show united the best of canine conformation, celebrating breed standards, athleticism, and the bond between dog and handler.
Main Show Highlights
- Historic return to Madison Square Garden
- Seven group winners advancing to Best in Show
- Exceptional representation of breed standards
- Emotional victories and milestone achievements
Group Judging Structure
The structure of Westminster showcases the best purebred dogs in the United States:
- Breed Judging: Each breed’s best is selected at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center.
- Group Judging: Breed winners compete in one of seven groups at Madison Square Garden.
- Best in Show: The top dog from each group vies for the ultimate Westminster title.
The 2025 Group Winners
Let’s meet each of the remarkable group winners who made headlines and stole hearts at the 2025 Westminster Dog Show.
Hound Group
Winner: Whippet “Bourbon” (GCHP CH Pinnacle Kentucky Bourbon)
Handler: Chelsie Pickett Smithey
Owners: Justin Smithey, Dr. Ken Latimer, Judy Descutner, Nancy Shaw, and Chelsie Smithey
Age: 9 years
Location: Sugar Valley, Georgia
Bourbon, a veteran competitor, triumphed over 35 other entries to claim her place as the Hound Group Champion. Whippets have enjoyed a strong tradition at Westminster, with Bourbon previously winning the group in 2021. This elegant sighthound exemplifies the breed’s speed, grace, and amiable temperament.
- Judge for the Hound Group: Harold Tatro III
- Breed record: Whippets have won this group eight times at Westminster.
Toy Group
Winner: Shih Tzu “Comet” (GCHP CH Hallmark Jolei Out Of This World)
Handler & Owner: Luke Ehricht
Co-owners: Diane Ehricht, Bonnie J. Miller (DVM)
Age: 4.5 years
Location: Monclova, Ohio
Comet scored his second consecutive Toy Group win and previously won Best in Show at the 2023 AKC National Championship. Shih Tzu are recognized for their irresistible personalities and flowing, elegant coats, with Comet standing as a prime example of the breed.
- Judge for the Toy Group: Angela Pickett
- Participation: 25 dogs competed in the Toy Group.
- Shih Tzu have claimed Toy Group at Westminster 7 times.
Non-Sporting Group
Winner: Bichon Frise “Neal” (GCHS CH Top Speed Neal)
Handler: Lisa Bettis
Owners: Ellen Charles, Fan Yang, Nancy Brown, Glen Lajeski
Age: 4 years
Neal continued his winning streak from the AKC National Championship to Westminster, showcasing the Bichon’s signature cheerful disposition and cloudlike coat. As the eighth Bichon to win Non-Sporting at Westminster, Neal’s charisma and conformation exemplified breed standards.
- 21 dogs competed in Non-Sporting Group in 2025.
- Recently won AKC National Championship Non-Sporting Group (2024).
- Bichons have dominated this group; last won in 2018 before Neal.
Sporting Group
Winner: English Springer Spaniel “Freddie” (GCHP CH Telltale Bohemian Rhapsody)
Handler: Robin Novack
Age: 6 years
Sporting Group champion Freddie is renowned for both utility and beauty, personifying the English Springer Spaniel’s strengths—endurance, intelligence, and a lively spirit. This group victory cemented Freddie’s reputation as an ambassador for versatile sporting dogs.
Working Group
Winner: Giant Schnauzer “Monty” (GCHG CH Hearthmore’s Wintergreen Mountain RI CGC TKN FITB)
Owners: Sandra Nordstrom, Katherine Bernardin, Cherlann Ambrose
Breeder: Cherlann Ambrose
Sire: GCHG CH Ingebar’s Tynan Dances With Wildflowers
DOB: 10/31/2019
Dam: GCH Nightline Heart Of Delarive CGC
Monty’s journey culminated in a historic Best in Show win, ending a 21-year drought for the working group—last won in 2004. His stellar conformation, prime athleticism, and undeniable charisma made him a standout among working breeds. The Giant Schnauzer’s resilience and versatility were proudly displayed.
- Monty is the 13th Working Group dog to ever win Best in Show at Westminster.
- Handler: Katie Bernardin
- Monty’s win was celebrated for breaking group records.
Terrier Group
Winner: Skye Terrier (name unreported in available sources)
A stalwart of the terrier tradition, the Skye Terrier clinched the group win, accenting the breed’s courage, dignified bearing, and adaptability. Representing the legacy of the terrier group—a perennial favorite at Westminster—the Skye Terrier’s victory testified to generations of careful breeding and dedicated ownership.
Herding Group
Winner: German Shepherd Dog (name unreported in available sources)
Widely respected for intelligence, loyalty, and versatility, the German Shepherd Dog captured the Herding Group title. From service and performance to companionship, the breed continues to embody what the Herding Group strives to celebrate—function, temperament, and resilience.
Best in Show & Reserve Best in Show Winners
| Title | Dog Name | Breed | Owners | Handler |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Best in Show | Monty | Giant Schnauzer | Sandra Nordstrom, Katherine Bernardin, Cherlann Ambrose | Katie Bernardin |
| Reserve Best in Show | Bourbon | Whippet | Justin Smithey, Dr. Ken Latimer, Judy Descutner, Nancy Shaw, Chelsie Smithey | Chelsie Pickett Smithey |
Historic Moments
- Monty’s triumph revitalized the Working Group at Westminster, ending a drought dating back to 2004.
- Bourbon, a celebrated competitor, secured Reserve Best in Show, further cementing Whippet prominence.
Breed Spotlights: Traits and Achievements
Giant Schnauzer (Working Group): Robust, alert, intelligent. Frequently used in police and search-and-rescue work. Monty’s win highlights the breed’s blend of power, grace, and obedience.
Whippet (Hound Group): Known for speedy sprints and elegant build. Bourbon’s calm demeanor and showmanship reflect breed strengths—gentle at home, competitive in sport.
English Springer Spaniel (Sporting Group): Beloved hunter and family companion. Freddie’s win is a testament to the breed’s stamina and eager disposition.
Shih Tzu (Toy Group): Ancient companions with dignified yet charming personalities. Comet’s show career is marked by playful spirit and breed-ideal coat.
Bichon Frise (Non-Sporting Group): Infectiously cheerful, intelligent, and adaptable. Neal’s cheerful personality and precise conformation earned high praise.
Skye Terrier (Terrier Group): Stoic, loyal, and with historic Scottish roots, excelling in both performance and companionship roles.
German Shepherd Dog (Herding Group): Exemplifies intelligence, trainability, and steadfast loyalty. The Herding Group win reinforces the breed’s enduring versatility.
Behind the Scenes: Judging and Preparation
Judges at Westminster evaluate dogs based not only on conformation but also presence, temperament, and athletic prowess. Owners, breeders, and handlers spend years perfecting conditioning, grooming, and presentation.
- Every group winner epitomized breed standards through meticulous preparation and natural talent.
- Handlers, often experts in their breeds, form deep bonds and strong partnerships.
- Training includes show ring etiquette, stacking (posing), and maintaining peak health.
The Spectacle & Its Significance
The return to Madison Square Garden for the 2025 show rekindled a sense of grandeur and celebration within the dog fancy. Enthusiasts, breeders, and spectators united to honor decades of tradition, innovation, and the power of canine companionship.
- Madison Square Garden’s legacy enhances the prestige felt by all competitors and winners.
- Media coverage and live broadcasts bring the thrill to viewers nationwide.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What are the breed groups judged at Westminster?
A: The seven breed groups are Hound, Toy, Non-Sporting, Sporting, Working, Terrier, and Herding.
Q: How are breed winners selected to go on to group judging?
A: Each breed’s best dog, determined through breed-specific competition, advances to compete in their designated group for a chance at Best in Group and Best in Show.
Q: What makes Westminster special among dog shows?
A: Westminster is the second oldest continuously held sporting event in the United States, renowned for strict breed standards, its historic setting, and the opportunity for dogs, handlers, and breeders to compete at the highest level.
Q: Who won Best in Show in 2025?
A: Monty, the Giant Schnauzer, handled by Katie Bernardin, won Best in Show, breaking a long Working Group drought and making history for the breed.
Q: Where can I watch highlights or replays of Westminster 2025?
A: Major portions of the event are available through television broadcasts and online platforms, with highlights showcasing key moments, interviews, and crowning ceremonies.
Q: What traits do judges look for in group winners?
A: Judges look for dogs that best fulfill the breed standard, demonstrating ideal conformation, movement, temperament, and overall presentation.
Q: How do breeders contribute to Westminster success?
A: Breeders maintain and improve breed standards through careful pairing, health screening, and nurturing puppies to become future show champions.
Legacy & Inspiration
The 149th Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show not only crowned champions but also inspired future generations of enthusiasts, breeders, and families who value the traditions of purebred dogs. The stories behind each group winner—hours of training, moments of triumph, and the nurturing bonds between dog and handler—demonstrate that Westminster is as much about passion and partnership as it is about competition.
- Each group winner represents the pinnacle of its breed’s qualities and heritage.
- The event showcases diversity in form, function, and personality.
- Westminster’s ongoing legacy motivates continued excellence in breeding and training.
Event Records & Notable Achievements
- Monty’s Best in Show marks the 13th win for the Working Group in Westminster history.
- Bourbon, at 9 years old, continues Whippet lineage dominance in the Hound Group.
- Neal became the 8th Bichon Frise to win Non-Sporting Group at Westminster.
- Comet solidifies Shih Tzu’s place with the breed’s seventh Toy Group victory.
Closing Thoughts
The 2025 Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show celebrates the timeless appeal of purebred dogs, the dedication of breeders and handlers, and the joy of canine companionship. Every group winner is a living testament to tradition, meticulous care, and the pursuit of excellence in the world of dog sports.
References
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xSIvh_K9PEg
- https://www.westminsterkennelclub.org/best-in-show-25/
- https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/sports/westminster-group-winners-2025/
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HKutDA20AH8
- https://www.westminsterkennelclub.org/group-results/
- https://www.purinaproclub.com/community-wins/conformation/wkc-best-in-show-winner-2025
- https://www.westminsterkennelclub.org/results-by-breed/
- https://www.foxsports.com/stories/westminster-kennel-club/2025-wkc-dog-show-bourbon-whippet-headlines-day-1-winners
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