Westminster Dog Show Celebrates 149th Year in New York City

Thousands of purebred dogs compete in the iconic event, drawing both admiration and criticism from enthusiasts and animal advocates.

The Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show, held at Madison Square Garden, is the second-longest continuously running sporting event in the U.S., after the Kentucky Derby.
Over 3,000 purebred dogs participate annually, competing in categories like agility, obedience, and breed-specific beauty contests.
The event, which began in 1877, originally showcased hunting breeds but now includes all recognized purebred dogs.
Animal welfare advocates and some breeders criticize the show for promoting traits linked to controversial breeding practices, such as extreme physical features.
Despite the controversy, the show remains popular, with most events selling out and being broadcast nationwide.