Soleil the Belgian Sheepdog Wins Top Honors at 2025 National Dog Show
The 2025 National Dog Show concluded its Thanksgiving broadcast on NBC, crowning Soleil, a six-year-old Belgian Sheepdog, as the coveted Best in Show winner. The event, held at the Greater Philadelphia Expo Center, saw a record-breaking 1994 dogs competing across 201 breeds.
Key Takeaways:
- Soleil, a Belgian Sheepdog, won Best in Show at the 2025 National Dog Show.
- This year’s competition featured the largest entry list since 2019, with 1994 dogs participating.
- The judging criteria focus on how closely each dog matches its breed standard in appearance, temperament, and structure.
- Soleil also won the Herding Group and received a $2,000 cash prize.
A Majestic Victory for the Herding Group
Soleil, already a winner in the highly competitive Herding Group, captivated judges with her confident presence and adherence to the breed standard. Her victory over the winners of the six other groups—Hound, Non-Sporting, Sporting, Terrier, Toy, and Working—marks a significant achievement in the canine show circuit.
Judging the Perfect Canine
The National Dog Show judges evaluate dogs based on the official breed standard, assessing their overall appearance, temperament, and structure. The goal is to identify the dog that best embodies the ideal characteristics for its breed’s intended function.
Credit: Bill McCay / NBC via Getty Images
The Competition’s Top Dogs
This year’s National Dog Show saw an impressive array of canine talent. Among the group winners vying for Best in Show were notable contenders such as George, an American Foxhound representing the Hound Group, and various other breed representatives showcasing the diversity and excellence within the dog show community. The sheer scale of participation highlights the enduring popularity of dog shows and the dedication of breeders and handlers.
Credit: Bill McCay / NBC via Getty Images
Editor’s Take: More Than Just a Pretty Face
The National Dog Show, while a beloved holiday tradition, is a powerful showcase of breed preservation and the dedication of the canine community. Soleil’s win as a Belgian Sheepdog is particularly noteworthy, as it highlights a breed known for its intelligence and working ability, often overshadowed by more common show dogs. This event serves as a crucial platform for educating the public about the vast diversity of dog breeds and the importance of maintaining breed standards for health and temperament. It’s a testament to the bond between humans and dogs, celebrating their companionship in its many forms.
This article was based on reporting from Mashable. A huge shoutout to their team for the original coverage.
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