A Doberman pinscher named Penny has been crowned best in show at the 150th Westminster Kennel Club dog show in New York. The four-year-old female with a black-and-rust coat, from Reseda, California, was selected by judge David Fitzpatrick from a field of seven group champions.
The victory gave handler Andy Linton his second Westminster crown, nearly four decades after his first win in 1989 with another Doberman, Indy. Linton, who has spoken publicly about living with Parkinson's disease, described the win as 'extra-special' given it was the milestone 150th edition of America's most prestigious dog show.
Penny, bred by Theresa Connors-Chan and Gregory Chan and co-owned with Francis and Diana Sparagna, emerged from a field of roughly 2,500 dogs from over 200 breeds. The judging process assessed each dog's structure, movement, muscle tone and overall presentation against breed standards. There is no prize money, but the best in show ribbon is the most coveted honour in American dog shows.
Dobermans have now won Westminster's top prize five times, with Penny joining winners from 1939, 1952, 1953 and 1989. The breed was developed in late-19th century Germany and gained prominence in working roles, including service with the US Marine Corps during the Second World War.
Linton praised Penny's temperament, noting she is friendly but protective. Co-owner Greg Chan described her as 'very demanding and very smart', with a favourite snack of 'everything'. Reserve best in show went to a Chesapeake Bay retriever named Cota, who drew sustained cheers from the crowd.
