(New York, NY) - A Yorkshire terrier owned by a Fort Wayne woman has claimed Best of Breed at the prestigious Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show, marking a major win on one of the biggest stages in competitive dog showing.
"Shaggy," a 3-year-old Yorkshire terrier owned by longtime exhibitor Sherri Spieth, earned the honor while competing at the 150th edition of the Westminster Dog Show in New York City. Seventeen Yorkshire terriers competed in the Best of Breed category.
Spieth said Shaggy's success is the result of careful conditioning and preparation, including regular treadmill workouts. She credited his coat color, ear set, and pigmentation -- key traits under breed standards -- for helping him stand out in the competition.
The Best of Breed title adds to an already impressive resume for Shaggy, who has earned 17 awards in limited show appearances. A national dog show publication has also ranked him as America's top Yorkshire terrier.
Spieth said beyond the competition, Westminster remains special for the camaraderie among exhibitors.
She also credited Shaggy's handler, Zach Watkins, for his work in the ring.
The Yorkshire terrier breed dates back to the mid-1800s, originally developed to hunt rodents in industrial settings before becoming one of the most popular companion dogs worldwide.