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The Top-Performing Breeds in Westminster Dog Show History

Britt
by Britt
Published:  January 31st, 2026
Photo credit: Ihar Halavach / Shutterstock.com

The energy in New York is shifting as the purple and gold banners announce the arrival of the 150th year of the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show, starting this weekend. For those of us dedicated to the health and happiness of our favorite dog breeds, it is the event of the season.


While many view this as a high-stakes competition, it’s also a masterclass in breed history and preservation.

This year, the action starts at the Javits Center with the Masters Agility and early breed judging, before moving to Madison Square Garden on February 2-3 to crown the “Best in Show.” But before we go all in on the 150th year, let’s look back at the history of the show and the breeds that have stolen our hearts.


The Dominance of the Terrier


If you’ve ever wondered why certain breeds seem to have a permanent spot in the winner’s circle, look no further than the Terrier Group. Throughout the show’s 150-year history, Terriers have secured 47 Best in Show titles, far more than any other group.


Leading the pack is the Wire Fox Terrier, a breed that has claimed the top prize an impressive 15 times. Other notable winners include:



Interestingly, the Herding Group (which includes favorites like the Border Collie and Corgi) remains the least represented, with only two wins in history. Many enthusiasts are watching closely this year to see if a new or unexpected breed rises to take the title this year, like the Berger Picard or the Xoloitzcuintli.


What Are the Judges Looking For?


It is a common misconception that dogs are competing against each other in the show to determine the winners. In reality, each dog is being judged against a written breed standard. This document outlines the ideal physical and mental traits for that specific breed, rooted in their original historical purpose.


For a dog parent, understanding these standards can be incredibly educational, especially if you have fallen in love with a specific breed. For instance, a judge isn’t just looking at a Terrier’s coat. They are looking for that characteristic “terrier fire,” the feisty temperament required for their original job of hunting rodents. When you see a working dog, like a Doberman Pinscher, the judge is looking for an alert, watchful presence.


Watching these dogs perform helps us recognize the natural instincts and physical needs of our own furry companions. A dog bred for high-speed agility or deep-scent tracking will be happiest when provided with outlets for those specific behaviors.


Beyond the “Best in Show”


While the main event that most people associate with Westminster Week is a celebration of purebred excellence, the event has expanded to include the Masters Agility and Obedience Championships, where dogs of all backgrounds (including mixed breeds) gather to showcase their intelligence and the special bond they share with their handlers.


Whether your dog is a championship athlete or a beloved rescue, watching these events can offer insight into your dog’s natural instincts and new ways to offer breed-specific engagement. From specialized “Dog TV” segments designed to new training techniques, there is always something new to learn to improve your dog’s life!


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Britt
Britt

Britt Kascjak is a proud pet mom, sharing her heart (and her home) with her “pack” which includes her husband John, their 2 dogs – Lucifer and Willow – and their 3 cats – Pippen, Jinx, and Theia. She has been active in the animal rescue community for over 15 years, volunteering, fostering and advocating for organizations across Canada and the US. In her free time, she enjoys traveling around the country camping, hiking, and canoeing with her pets.

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