The Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show, often referred to as the "World Series of dogdom" or the "Super Bowl of dog shows," has become a cornerstone of American culture since its inception. This year marks its 150th annual event, scheduled to kick off on Saturday. The origins of the show date back to the Gilded Age, where gentleman hunters in New York gathered to showcase and compare their dogs.
The name "Westminster" is derived from the Westminster Hotel, where the show's founders would socialize and boast about their canines. Although the hotel no longer exists, the name has endured through the years. The inaugural show, held in 1877 under the title "First Annual New York Bench Show of Dogs," featured approximately 1,200 dogs from various breeds, including pugs and mastiffs. Notably, an English setter at the show was valued at $5,000, an astonishing amount considering that an average laborer in New York earned about $1.30 a day. The Associated Press highlighted the presence of distinguished bulldogs and a family of "Japanese spaniels" at the event.
This year's show will showcase around 2,500 dogs, representing up to 212 breeds and 10 varieties. Some breeds have evolved over time, while others were not present during the inaugural event in 1877. Despite changes in specific features among breeds, such as muzzle length and coat thickness, many dogs still retain similarities to their ancestors. The formalized sport now includes a complicated point system for judging, and a best-in-show trophy was introduced in 1907, a significant evolution from early shows that offered no overall prize.
The atmosphere of the Westminster Dog Show has transformed alongside its dogs. During its early days in 1877, spectators were noted for their fashionable attire and an air of breeding, with some dogs adorning lace collars and ribbons. Over the years, the event has attracted various high-profile participants, including foreign royals, American tycoons, and celebrities like Martha Stewart and Tim McGraw. Though many competitors now hire professional handlers and travel extensively, numerous participants handle their own dogs, often transitioning from careers in fields like policing or medicine.
Westminster began at Gilmore's Garden, an early version of Madison Square Garden, and has largely remained there ever since, even after a tragic collapse in 1880 that resulted in multiple fatalities. The show has drawn thousands of spectators over the decades, and television coverage began in the late 1940s, with streaming capabilities further expanding its reach today.
The dog show inspired the cult-classic 2000 mockumentary "Best in Show," directed by Christopher Guest. While not entirely reflective of the reality at Westminster, the film's depiction of quirky competitors has contributed to a broader audience appreciation for the event. David Frei, the longtime host of the show, acknowledges that while the film humorously portrayed the competitors, it ultimately respected the dogs themselves.
As Westminster's fame grew, it also became a target for criticism regarding the health implications of dog breeding practices that emphasize aesthetics over well-being. Significant concerns have been raised as far back as 1937 regarding the health of certain breed characteristics. In recent years, groups like PETA have protested, raising awareness about health issues associated with flat-faced breeds. PETA has initiated campaigns near the show venues and plans demonstrations to shed light on these issues.
Despite the criticisms, club President Donald Sturz emphasizes the longstanding commitment of the Westminster Kennel Club to canine welfare. Since 1877, the organization has supported various animal welfare initiatives, including donations to veterinary scholarships and rescue groups. The commitment to dog welfare has been an integral part of the club's mission since its founding, highlighting a deep-rooted connection to animal advocacy as well as competitive excellence.
