Soleil the Belgian Sheepdog Wins Top Honors at 2025 National Dog Show
The 2025 National Dog Show has crowned its champion, with Soleil, a magnificent six-year-old Belgian Sheepdog, taking home the coveted Best in Show title. The event, which aired on Thanksgiving Day, saw a record number of canine competitors vie for the top prize.
Key Takeaways:
- Soleil, a Belgian Sheepdog, won Best in Show at the 2025 National Dog Show.
- The competition featured 1,994 dogs across 201 breeds, the largest entry since 2019.
- Soleil also won the Herding Group before clinching the overall title.
- The prize includes a $2,000 cash award.
A Record-Breaking Competition
Held at the Greater Philadelphia Expo Center, the Kennel Club of Philadelphia’s National Dog Show this year boasted its largest entry list since 2019. A total of 1,994 dogs representing 201 different breeds participated, competing across seven distinct groups: Herding, Hound, Non-Sporting, Sporting, Terrier, Toy, and Working.
Judges evaluated each dog based on how closely they adhered to their breed’s official standard, assessing overall appearance, temperament, and structure to determine their suitability for their breed’s original function.
Soleil’s Path to Victory
Soleil, the Herding Group winner, impressed the judges with her confident demeanor and flawless presentation. Co-host David Frei noted her commanding presence, stating, “She owned the ground she stood over.” Judge Charlie Olvis added, “Didn’t put its foot down wrong. Didn’t miss a beat. And it is in drop-dead gorgeous condition.”
Her victory earned her not only a prestigious ribbon but also a $2,000 cash prize.
Credit: Bill McCay / NBC via Getty Images
Editor’s Take: More Than Just a Pretty Face
While the National Dog Show is a beloved Thanksgiving tradition, it represents more than just a spectacle of well-groomed canines. It’s a testament to the dedication of breeders, handlers, and owners who strive to preserve and perfect specific breeds according to rigorous standards. Soleil’s win highlights the breed’s versatility and the intricate process of canine conformation. Events like these underscore the deep bond between humans and dogs, celebrating the unique qualities that make each breed special.
This article was based on reporting from Mashable. A huge shoutout to their team for the original coverage.
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