National Dog Show 2025 Winners Announced: Best in Show Results
Soleil the Belgian Sheepdog made history by winning Best in Show at the 2025 National Dog Show. This prestigious event, which takes place every Thanksgiving, saw Soleil become the first of her breed to claim victory in Philadelphia. The win was a surprise for many viewers watching on NBC.
Soleil’s handler, Daniel Martin, expressed pride in her performance. Soleil demonstrated remarkable poise during her post-win interview, opting for a calm demeanor instead of basking in the limelight. George the American Foxhound secured the runner-up title as the reserve Best in Show.
2025 National Dog Show Group Winners
Judge Charlie Olvis praised Soleil’s performance, stating, “Today, that dog was on. Didn’t put its foot down wrong. Didn’t miss a beat.” He highlighted her stunning condition, which set her apart from other competitors.
Highlighting the Competitors
The final lineup for Best in Show featured seven impressive dogs. Each contender ranked as a number one nationally at some point in their careers. The group included:
- Comet the Shih Tzu – Winner of the Toy group at the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show and holder of 143 Best in Show ribbons.
- George the American Foxhound – Reserve Best in Show.
- Other top contenders from various groups.
This year’s National Dog Show attracted 1,994 participants across 201 breeds. One notable newcomer was the Danish-Swedish Farmdog, which made its debut after gaining recognition from the American Kennel Club in January. Despite its fresh presence, the farmdog did not triumph in the Working group.
Soleil’s victory serves as a testament to her exceptional training and beauty, showcasing the high standards of canine excellence at the National Dog Show.
