What Is Best of Show
Best of Show is the highest award at a dog show. A single dog is chosen as the top winner from all breeds entered. The dog must first earn Best of Breed and then Best of Group before competing for the final title.
How Dogs Are Judged
Judges evaluate dogs against the official breed standard for structure, gait, temperament, and type. In the ring, each dog is compared to the ideal described in the standard. The judge selects the dog that most closely matches that blueprint.
Breeds That Often Win
Certain breeds appear frequently in Best of Show headlines because they closely fit the breed standard and are heavily campaigned by professional handlers. Common winners include the German Shepherd Dog, Labrador Retriever, and Golden Retriever. For detailed records of past winners and breed trends, see the official Westminster Kennel Club show archives at https://www.westminsterkennelclub.org/
