The French Bulldog has won Best in Show at the 2022 National Dog Show.
Winston the French Bulldog beat out around 1,500 of dogs representing 212 breeds and varieties recognized by the American Kennel Club. First, he claimed victory in the Non-Sporting Group in a field of 20 breeds. He then took on the other six group winners before taking home the top honor. The English Toy Spaniel, winner of the Toy Group , was named Reserve Best in Show.
Hear from Claire’s handler Perry Payson about the victory:
The German Shepherd Dog won the Herding Group ; the Irish Water Dog won the Sporting Group ; the American Staffordshire Terrier won the Terrier Group ; the Tree Walking Coonhound won the Hound Group ; and the Alaskan Malamute won the Working Group .
This year, three breeds made their National Dog Show debut. The Russian Toy joined the Toy Group. The breed has a curly coat that can be black, gray, brown, or fawn in color, sometimes with white markings. The Mudi , which falls under the Herding Group, was originally a Hungarian farm dog. The breed is agile, intelligent and courageous, making it perfect to work with livestock. The Bracco Italiano , also known as the Italian Pointing Dog, joined the Sporting Group. The breed is known for its adaptability in hunting and its intelligence.
Related: Full list of breeds at 2022 National Dog Show
NBC televised the 2022 National Dog Show directly after the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade for the 21st straight year. Every year, more than 20 million people tune in for the event, which was commentated by longtime hosts John O’Hurley and David Frei. Mary Carillo also returned for more commentary, analysis and behind-the-scenes looks at one of the oldest dog shows in the world.