Get to Know the 205 Breeds Shown at Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show

Summary

Gail Miller-Byshe introduces 31 breeds in the Sporting and Terrier groups and features 21 breeds in the Toy group. She highlights their unique characteristics, origins, and defining features. Additionally, she showcases the 30 breeds from the Working Group and provides insight into their roles as protectors, rescuers, and guards.

Table of Contents

  • Introduction
  • 31 Breeds in the Sporting and Terrier Groups
  • 21 Breeds in the Toy Group
  • 30 Breeds in the Working Group
  • Conclusion

Introduction

Dog lovers worldwide consider the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show as the Superbowl of the dog world. Each year approximately 205 breeds from all over the world compete in the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show. These dogs are the best of the best and showcase their unique attributes amongst the best dogs in the world. In this Q&A article, we introduce and explore the various breeds showcased in the competition.

31 Breeds in the Sporting and Terrier Groups

German Shorthair and Wirehair Pointers

The first breeds in the Sporting group are the German Shorthair and Wirehair Pointers. These breeds are known for their tireless hunting skills and their need for exercise to keep them engaged and alert. They are excellent family pets, but their high energy levels make them challenging to adjust in apartments.

Chesapeake Bay, Curly Coated, Flat Coated, Golden, Labrador, and Nova Scotia Dump Tolling Retrievers

The Retriever subgroup consists of six breeds, and each has specific coat characteristics and versatile abilities. They are perfect family pets and excel at retrieving games, commands, and performing well in obedience contests. Retrievers are inclined to have healthy lifestyles and can be well-adjusted anywhere.

English, Gordon, Irish, and Irish Red and White Setters

The English, Gordon, Irish, and Irish Red and White Setters are all part of the Sporting group. They vary in hunting styles and have different body structures, but they are friendly and excellent family pets. Their hunting instinct makes them alert and suitable for games such as fetch.

English and Welsh Springer Spaniels, Clumber and Sussex Spaniels, Weimaraner, Vieschl

The English and Welsh Springer Spaniels, Clumber and Sussex Spaniels, and the Weimaraner, Vieschl, and Wire-Haired Vieschl have athletic builds and require a good amount of exercise. These dogs are perfect for families who enjoy outdoor activities and are friendly with other pets.

Brittany and Irish Water Spaniel, Lagota Romagnolo, and Nederlands Quaker Hunja

The Brittany and Irish Water Spaniel, Lagota Romagnolo, and Nederlands Quaker Hunja are perfect for hunting birds because of their various hunting skills. They require daily physical activities with family or other pets. They are easy to train and are loving with families and all other types of pets.

Airedale, Kerry Blue, and Irish Terriers

The Airedale, Kerry Blue, and Irish Terriers are multi-purpose dogs, serving as farm dogs and messenger dogs in World War II. They are friendly and have soft, weather-resisting coats, making them adaptable in many different environments. These different breeds of Terriers are known for their rugged appearance and excellent watchdog instincts.

American Staffordshire Terrier and Staffordshire Bull Terrier

The American Staffordshire Terrier and Staffordshire Bull Terrier are athletic and focused breeds that require assertive and dominant dog owners. They are loyal to their dog owners and are known to have tenacity and bravery.

Bull Terriers

The Bull Terriers come in White, Colored, and Miniature versions, each with their own unique markings and comical personalities. They are gentle family pets and are great with children.

Smooth Fox Terrier and Wire Fox Terrier

The Smooth Fox Terrier and Wire Fox Terrier have different head shapes and body types, with the Wire Fox Terrier winning Best in Show at Westminster 15 times. They have a high energy level and require a lot of attention and exercise from their owners.

Norfolk and Norwich Terriers

The Norfolk and Norwich Terriers were once one breed and can easily be distinguished by the positioning of their ears. They are friendly and active dogs that require a good amount of attention from their owners.

Russell Terrier and Parson Russell Terrier

The Russell Terrier and Parson Russell Terrier differ in height and bone density but have similar personalities as either breed’s admirable family pets. They are friendly and fun, and owners of these breeds must provide suitable living spaces and give them plenty of exercise.

Lakeland Terrier and Welsh Terrier

The differences between Lakeland Terrier and Welsh Terrier are in their head shapes. They both require daily exercise and should have owners willing to play and interact with them.

Scottish, West Highland White, and Sealyham Terriers

The Scottish, West Highland White, and Sealyham Terriers have a similar terrier feistiness, but they differ in head shape and coat. They are loyal and well-suited for families who enjoy outdoor activities.

American Hairless Terrier and Australian Terrier

The American Hairless Terrier and Australian Terrier are not related but have similar dispositions. They are intelligent and loyal dogs perfect for households with children and other pets.

Bedlington Terrier and Border Terrier

The Bedlington Terrier looks like a baby lamb but is a serious hunter. The Border Terrier’s head is similar to an otter, and they are intelligent and magnificent family pets.

Cairn Terrier and Chesky Terrier

The Cairn Terrier comes in many colors, while the Chesky Terrier debuted at Westminster in 2011. They are friendly and energetic family pets with a rugged and fun-loving appearance.

Dandie Dinmont Terrier and Glen of Imaal Terrier

The Dandie Dinmont Terrier has a long body and unique features

Scroll to Top