The 148th Westminster Dog Show, the best-known and most prestigious dog show in the world, was held last night. While nearly 3,000 dogs competed in the event, only one could win the top prize of “Best in Show.”
That honor went to Sage, a beautiful black Miniature Poodle who won over judges with her perfectly coiffed fluffy fur.
Sage takes Best in Show
The 4-year-old Sage — full name GCHG Ch Surrey Sage — is handled by Kaz Hosaka, who is renowned for his expert poodle grooming, according to the New York Times.
Sage entered the competition as something of an underdog: she was ranked 39th of all show dogs, and 4th in the non-sporting dogs group. But in the end, she triumphed, taking the prestigious top honor.
According to CNN, Sage is the first female Best in Show winner since 2020, and the fourth Miniature Poodle to win the prize — one of which was Sage’s great-grandmother, Spice, who won Best in Show in 2002.
It’s also the 11th time a poodle of any size has won Best in Show, according to the Times.
The win was extra special for Hosaka, who is retiring from the Westminster competition after 45 years. Thanks to Sage, he’s going out on top.
“Today’s the day — my last show,” Hosaka said, per NBC News. “I’m proud of this dog.”