The Westminster Dog Show 2023, held May 8–9 at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in Queens, New York, was a dazzling showcase of pet passion, canine excellence, history, and heart. Over 2,500 dogs from more than 200 breeds and varieties competed for the prestigious title of Best in Show, but only one would emerge as the top dog. This year, the crown went to Buddy Holly, a spirited Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen, making history as the first of his breed to win the coveted title.
Let’s walk through the highlights of this beloved event, from the heartwarming reactions to the exceptional group winners that stole the spotlight.
Best in Show: Buddy Holly Makes History
The biggest headline from the Westminster Dog Show 2023 was the groundbreaking victory of Buddy Holly, a six-year-old Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen (PBGV). With his playful personality, confident gait, and trademark tousled coat, Buddy charmed his way to the top, earning the admiration of both judges and viewers alike. Handled by Janice Hayes, Buddy Holly became the first PBGV in Westminster history to take the top title.
Judge Beth Sweigart, who selected Buddy as Best in Show, described him as “a confident and happy dog with a joyful outlook.” His win is a milestone not only for the breed but for enthusiasts of lesser-known dogs that rarely get the spotlight.
Reserve Best in Show: Rummie the Pekingese
While Buddy Holly won it all, Rummie, a dignified and luxurious Pekingese, claimed the Reserve Best in Show title. Representing the Toy Group, Rummie floated across the ring like royalty, with his flowing coat and signature rolling gait. His performance was classic Pekingese—calm, regal, and charming—and it captured the crowd’s attention as he vied for the crown.
Group Winners: Spotlight on Seven Outstanding Canines
To reach the Best in Show ring, each dog had to first win their respective group. Let’s take a closer look at the seven Group Winners of the Westminster Dog Show 2023, each of whom exemplified the very best of their breed and category.
Hound Group: Buddy Holly – Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen
Also: Best in Show Winner
Compact yet full of energy, Buddy Holly set the stage early with his win in the Hound Group. This French breed is known for its stamina and happy-go-lucky nature, and Buddy embodied every bit of it. His rough, low-slung frame and animated ring presence were nothing short of delightful. Known for being vocal and expressive, Buddy’s win was a celebration for scent hounds everywhere.
Toy Group: Rummie – Pekingese
Also: Reserve Best in Show
With his opulent coat and serene demeanor, Rummie looked like royalty gliding across the ring. The Pekingese breed was originally bred for Chinese emperors, and Rummie certainly carried himself with the confidence of ancient nobility. Despite his tiny stature, his presence was grand, and his unwavering focus demonstrated the discipline behind that luxurious fur.
Non-Sporting Group: Winston – French Bulldog
Already a fan favorite from past shows, Winston the French Bulldog made another strong impression in 2023. With his iconic bat ears, muscular frame, and expressive face, Winston captured the charm that makes Frenchies such a popular breed. Calm under pressure and playful when it counted, he won over hearts with his clownish charisma and stocky confidence.
Sporting Group: Cider – English Setter
Grace in motion defined Cider, the English Setter who triumphed in the Sporting Group. With feathered fur and fluid movement, Cider glided across the ring as if dancing. Sporting dogs are bred for endurance and field work, and Cider demonstrated elegance balanced with athleticism. Her attentive expression and smooth gaits made her a standout in a fiercely competitive group.
Working Group: Monty – Giant Schnauzer
Powerful, poised, and polished—Monty the Giant Schnauzer was impossible to overlook. A commanding figure in the Working Group, Monty moved with purpose and precision. With a shimmering black coat and intense focus, he showed what makes the breed exceptional: intelligence, loyalty, and strength. Monty’s momentum would only grow—he would go on to win Best in Show in 2025, but this performance laid the foundation for his rise to fame.
Herding Group: Ribbon – Australian Shepherd
Intelligent and instinctive, Ribbon the Australian Shepherd lived up to her breed’s reputation. With her striking merle coat and alert expression, Ribbon zipped across the ring with a mix of joy and discipline. Aussies are known for their agility and trainability, and Ribbon wowed the judges with both. Her performance was a testament to how herding breeds combine work ethic with beauty.
Terrier Group: Trouble – American Staffordshire Terrier
Muscular and charismatic, Trouble lived up to his name in the best way. With a gleaming coat and powerful gait, he captured attention the moment he entered the ring. The American Staffordshire Terrier is often misunderstood, but Trouble’s performance was a showcase of the breed’s loyalty, intelligence, and drive. Friendly to spectators and fearless in competition, Trouble was a true terrier icon.
Visuals, Energy & Atmosphere
Photos from the Westminster Dog Show 2023 tell stories words alone can’t. From proud handlers grooming their champions, to the heartfelt hugs after wins, to dramatic slow-motion shots of dogs mid-stride—the visuals brought the event to life. The setting in Queens added a modern touch to this centuries-old tradition, giving the show an open-air energy that resonated with spectators both in-person and online.
More Than Just a Show
Beyond conformation judging, Westminster 2023 also featured Masters Agility, Obedience Championships, and Junior Showmanship. Events like these highlighted the multifaceted talents of dogs and gave rising stars in the dog world—both canine and human—a chance to shine.
The Westminster Dog Show 2023 was more than a competition—it was a celebration of diversity, training, and the unique bond between dogs and people. From Buddy Holly’s historic Best in Show victory to the incredible performances across all groups, this year’s event reminded us why Westminster remains the crown jewel of the dog world.
Whether you’re a breeder, handler, or simply a dog lover, the 2023 show offered something unforgettable: a blend of tradition, talent, and triumph—all on four paws.
