At a Glance
- The 150th Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show will feature a historic Legends presentation.
- Past champions Monty, Siba, and Bono will return to the ring on Feb. 2.
- Over 3,000 champion dogs from 50 states, DC, Puerto Rico, and 17 countries will compete.
- Why it matters: Fans will witness a unique tribute to the show’s legacy and see the future of dog show greatness.
The 150th Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show, scheduled to run from Jan. 31 – Feb. 3, is adding a new element that promises to delight both seasoned fans and newcomers. The event will host a first-ever Westminster Legends presentation, bringing back past Best in Show winners to celebrate the show’s rich history.
The Legacy of Westminster
The Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show is the second-longest continuous sporting event in the United States. Over its many decades, it has crowned dozens of champions and shaped the standards of canine excellence. The 150th anniversary, presented by Purina Pro Plan, marks a milestone that the organizers are celebrating with a special tribute.
Westminster Legends Presentation
The Legends presentation is scheduled for Feb. 2 at Madison Square Garden. The show’s organizers confirmed that the following dogs will return to the ring:
- Monty, the 2025 Best in Show winner, a giant schnauzer.
- Siba, the 2020 Best in Show winner, a standard poodle.
- Bono, the 2019 Reserve Best in Show winner, a Havanese.
- Additional high-ranking dogs from Westminster’s storied past.
These champions will enjoy a moment of adoration from the crowd, a chance to step back into the spotlight, and a tribute to the impact they have had on the show’s history.
Competition Highlights
The 2026 show will feature more than 3,000 champion dogs from all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and 17 additional countries. Participants will compete in a series of group judging sessions leading up to the Best in Show announcement.
Schedule Overview
| Date | Event | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Jan. 31 – Feb. 3 | Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show | Madison Square Garden |
| Feb. 2 | Westminster Legends presentation | Madison Square Garden |
| Feb. 3 (evening) | Best in Show announcement | Madison Square Garden |
Viewing the Show
The full event, including the Westminster Legends presentation, will be broadcast live on FOX, FS1, and FS2. Fans can also stream the entire show on FOXSports.com and the FOX Sports App. The official viewing schedule is available at westminsterkennelclub.org/viewing-schedule.
Behind the Scenes
The organizers have emphasized the importance of honoring past champions while showcasing the next generation of winners. The Legends presentation is designed to highlight the legacy of the dogs that have defined Westminster over the years.
Key Quotes
“The Legends presentation is a celebration of the dogs that have shaped Westminster’s history,” said a spokesperson for the Westminster Kennel Club. “It’s a special moment for the champions and the fans alike.”
Fan Experience
Attendees can expect a bustling atmosphere with live music, photo opportunities, and the chance to see their favorite dogs up close. The Legends presentation will feature a special tribute segment where the returning champions will walk the ring once more.
The Significance of the 150th Anniversary
Reaching the 150th year is a testament to Westminster’s enduring appeal and the dedication of its participants. The show’s longevity reflects the passion of dog lovers worldwide and the continued relevance of canine competitions.
Final Thoughts
The Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show’s 150th anniversary is a historic occasion that blends tradition with celebration. With the addition of the Westminster Legends presentation, fans will witness a unique tribute to the dogs that have defined the show’s legacy. From the return of past champions to the excitement of over 3,000 competitors, the event promises to be a highlight for the dog-show community.
Key Takeaways
- The 150th Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show will feature a first-ever Legends presentation.
- Past champions Monty, Siba, and Bono will return to the ring on Feb. 2.
- The show will host more than 3,000 champion dogs from across the United States and abroad.
- Broadcast coverage includes FOX, FS1, FS2, FOXSports.com, and the FOX Sports App.
- The event is a celebration of Westminster’s long history and its future in dog show culture.
