Wasabi the Pekingese looks like a cuddly little teddy bear! He clearly deserved his “Best in Show” award at the 145th Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show. His cuteness alone proves that.
Of course, there were lots of adorable contestants this year, though, and all of them deserved that top spot. Along with Wasabi, some of the finalists included a fluffy Samoyed named Striker, a Whippet named Bourbon, and a French Bulldog named Matthew. They’re all sure to steal your heart!
Meet the Successful Pups
Every dog is adorable, no matter their breed. 2,500 amazing dogs entered the contest, and it was narrowed down to seven dogs, one from each group. Here are the charming finalists:
- Hound Group: Bourbon the Whippet
- Toy Group: Wasabi the Pekingese
- Non-Sporting Group: Matthew the French Bulldog
- Herding Group: Connor the Old English Sheepdog
- Sporting Group: Jade the German Shorthaired Pointer
- Working Group: Striker the Samoyed
- Terrier Group: Boy the West Highland White Terrier
Sweet little Wasabi took the “Best in Show” award while Bourbon was the runner-up. In addition to the perfect lineup, the Westminster Dog Show had plenty of other wins this year. It’s the longest nationally televised live dog show, but it’s also the second oldest continuous sporting event in the United States, falling just behind the Kentucky Derby.
2021 was the first year this competition has been held somewhere besides New York’s Madison Square Garden. It relocated to the Lyndhurst Estate in Tarrytown, New York due to the coronavirus pandemic. Through wars and several pandemics, this popular dog show continues to thrive.
Congratulations, Wasabi!
David Fitzpatrick, Wasabi’s owner and breeder, is thrilled that his fluffy companion is the winner. Fitzpatrick helped Malachy the Pekingese earn the “Best in Show” title back in 2012 as well. He told sources that he will definitely spoil Wasabi in honor of his victory.
“He can have a filet mignon. And I’ll have Champagne,” said Fitzpatrick. “He fits the breed standard. He has that little extra something, that little sparkle that sets a dog apart.”
With such little legs, this special 3-year-old pup also gets carried around a lot. Fitzpatrick says he’s willing to carry Wasabi around as much as he needs because he deserves it. After all, hard work pays off.
This was the fifth ever win for this one-of-a-kind toy breed. It’s no surprise since the adorable look of these little dogs is just so irresistible. Congratulations Wasabi and congratulations to all the adorable canine participants!
H/T: cnn.com
Featured Image: @WKCDogShow/Facebook
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