The 2017 westminster kennel club dog show is a prestigious event that is now ongoing until Valentine’s Day, highlighting the best of the best in the dog world. However, this year, cats will also compete along with three new dog breeds. As with any athletes, human or animal, some amount of training and conditioning is involved when looking toward the prize.
New additions to the 2017 dog show
Only the best trained, most beautiful, and expensive breeds of dogs compete in the dog show in New York’s Madison Square Garden. This year, the 2017 Westminster Kennel Club dog show added cats and three new dog breeds to their lineup.
Forty cat breeds will be on display to capture the hearts of feline, as well as canine lovers, including a Bengal cat that has captured the hearts of many on social media. The cats will be included in a “Meet the Breeds” event where feline lovers would get to pet and interact with the animals. Three new dog breeds also make their debut in the show, which includes the Pumi (in the herding group,) the Sloughi (in the hound group,) and the American hairless terrier (in the terrier group.) These new additions to the show add to the more than 32,000 dogs who will be competing for the title as the Best in Show!
How the dogs prepare for the 2017 Westminster dog show
The 2017 Westminster dog show is taking place February 13th and 14th, with some events on the 11th and 12th.
Group competitions include the best of the best in the hound, toy, herding, sporting, non-sporting, terrier, and working breed categories. To prepare for competition, like any other athlete, dogs need to warm-up and train. Most walk around and stretch prior to the scheduled event. Those competing in agility are allowed to walk the agility course and check out the obstacles before being called to compete.
The animals are not allowed any contact with anyone other than the handler’s before their run or any foods until they finish. The dogs are highly rewarded after their events with bits of food treats, toys, and love. As one owner and handler commented, the dog was happy after her event, and that’s what it’s all about!
