![newyorkcity-february142017the141stwestminster](https://dehayf5mhw1h7.cloudfront.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/831/2025/02/12073048/shutterstock_584894869-200x200.webp)
Big dogs are in the spotlight at the Westminster Kennel Club dog show, with breeds like Great Danes and mastiffs competing alongside terriers and sporting dogs. The best in show trophy will be awarded to one of seven finalists, including a bichon frisé, a whippet, a shih tzu, and a German shepherd. The show is a last hurrah for the retiring German shepherd, Mercedes, who has served as a service dog for wounded veterans. Spectators at the show cheered on their favorite canine competitors, including a Pekingese named Lumpy and a Xoloitzcuintli from Mexico. All dogs at Westminster are titled champions and many also serve as household pets or work in therapy, search-and-rescue, or other canine jobs.
Source: https://apnews.com/article/westminster-kennel-club-best-show-ec5dd7767afc63f1a658f2ec3040503a