Monty the Giant Schnauzer Wins Westminster Best in Show/ Newslooks/ WASHINGTON/ J. Mansour/ Morning Edition/ Monty, a giant schnauzer, made history by winning Best in Show at the 2025 Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show. The 5-year-old, co-owned and handled by Katie Bernardin, had previously come close but secured victory in what will be his final competition. Monty triumphed over six other finalists, including Bourbon the whippet (runner-up), a Skye terrier, a bichon frisé, and a shih tzu. The event, held at Madison Square Garden, also showcased top competitors in agility and obedience.
Monty’s Westminster Win: Quick Look
- Historic First – Monty becomes the first giant schnauzer to win Westminster’s Best in Show.
- Final Showstopper – The 5-year-old champ retires from competition after this victory.
- Tough Competition – Defeated six finalists, including runner-up Bourbon the whippet.
- Westminster Atmosphere – Fans cheered favorites, from a Pekingese named Lumpy to a golden retriever named Tuffy.
- Other Winners – Vanish the border collie won agility; Willie the Australian shepherd triumphed in obedience.
- Protest Incident – A PETA protester was removed after disrupting the event.
Monty the Giant Schnauzer Wins Westminster Best in Show
Deep Look: Monty the Giant Schnauzer Makes Westminster History
A Long-Awaited Victory for Monty
After two near-misses in past Westminster finals, Monty the giant schnauzer finally claimed the coveted Best in Show title on Tuesday night. Handled by Katie Bernardin, Monty impressed the judges with his confidence, structure, and spirited personality.
Bernardin, overcome with emotion, praised her champion:
“He always tries so hard, and we’re just proud of him.”
A Historic First for the Breed
Monty’s win marks the first time a giant schnauzer has ever won Westminster’s top prize. Co-owner Sandy Nordstrom described him as:
“Bold, cocky, and fun… he’s just a really cool dog.”
This victory caps off an incredible career, as Monty retires from competition after dominating the show circuit, including winning the American Kennel Club championship in December.
The Finalists: A Tough Battle for Best in Show
Monty faced off against six other top dogs, including:
- Runner-up Bourbon (whippet) – Finished second for the third time.
- Neal (bichon frisé) – A crowd favorite with a perfectly groomed coat.
- Archer (Skye terrier) – Representing the terrier group.
- Comet (shih tzu) – A seasoned competitor, returning as a finalist once again.
- Mercedes (German shepherd) – Last year’s runner-up, but fell short this time.
- Freddie (English springer spaniel) – Showcased classic sporting breed elegance.
A Night of Cheers, Laughter, and Surprises
Westminster always brings unforgettable moments, and 2025 was no exception. The sold-out crowd at Madison Square Garden treated the event like a sports showdown, chanting names and breeds of their favorites.
Among the standouts:
- Lumpy the Pekingese – Earned laughs for his adorable ambling gait.
- Tuffy the golden retriever – A crowd favorite, representing a breed that has never won Best in Show.
- Calaco the Xoloitzcuintli – This rare Mexican hairless breed received plenty of admiration.
Security Incident: PETA Protester Removed
During the semifinals, security escorted a protester from the venue after they displayed a sign criticizing the event. PETA, which has long opposed Westminster, later claimed responsibility.
The Westminster Kennel Club responded by emphasizing that the competition celebrates both show champions and companion dogs, many of whom also serve as therapy or working dogs.
Westminster’s Agility and Obedience Winners
Beyond the Best in Show spectacle, Westminster also crowned champions in agility and obedience:
- Agility Champion – Vanish, a border collie, took top honors.
- Obedience Winner – Willie, an Australian shepherd, showcased elite training.
Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Monty?
With his show career now complete, Monty will enjoy a well-earned retirement, likely transitioning into a life of leisure with his handlers. As for Westminster, the 2026 competition will begin anew, with new hopefuls vying for the prestigious title Monty now holds.
For now, the giant schnauzer reigns supreme, proving that this underdog story had the perfect fairy-tale ending.
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