Westminster Dog Show Judges Reveal Secrets to Identifying a Good Boy

Introduction

Dogs are said to be man’s best friend, and if you want to see the best of the best in the dog world, look no further than the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show. For over 100 years, this prestigious event has been showcasing the top purebred dogs from around the globe. But who are the judges that get to determine which dog is the best of the best? Let’s take a closer look.

The Judges

Wayne Cavanaugh

Mention the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show and Wayne Cavanaugh’s name is sure to come up. He has been a familiar face at the event for years and was even invited to be a judge at the 2023 show. Cavanaugh has a wealth of knowledge about dogs and handles each dog with care and respect. Cavanaugh is just one of many expert judges who determine which dog is the best in their respective group.

The Judging Groups

There are seven judging groups at the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show, and each group is determined by the function that the breed was developed for. These groups include:

1. Sporting – gun dogs that assist hunters
2. Hound – hunters and other game dogs
3. Working – dogs that were originally bred for specific tasks, such as rescue or guarding
4. Terrier – small, feisty dogs that were used for hunting vermin
5. Toy – small companion dogs
6. Non-Sporting – a diverse group that includes poodles and Dalmatians
7. Herding – dogs that were originally used for herding, such as sheepdogs and cattle dogs

The Judging Process

Each dog is judged based on their adherence to the breed standard, which outlines the ideal physical and temperamental characteristics of each breed. Judges look at the dog’s appearance, movement, behavior, and temperament. A dog that closely matches its breed standard and exhibits no major faults is considered ideal.

Conclusion

So, who’s a good boy? At the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show, there are many good boys and girls. Dedicated judges like Wayne Cavanaugh use their expertise to determine which dog is the best of the best. With seven different judging groups, there is a dog for everyone to admire. Whether you are a breeder, owner, or just a fan of dogs, the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show is an event that cannot be missed.