2025 National Dog Show Winner Overview
At the 2025 National Dog Show presented by Purina, judges evaluated conformation, movement, and breed type across 185 breeds in a single-day, prime-time event recorded at the Philadelphia Convention Center. The show is recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) as one of the most prestigious bench shows in North America. This guide covers the best in show winner, group placements, judging criteria, and what these titles mean for the sport of dog showing.
Best in Show Winner and Citation
The 2025 National Dog Show Best in Show winner was a Standard Poodle named Ch. Lavenders Blue Phantom. The dog was bred and handled by Alex and Morgan Harper, and trained by professional handler Sarah Lindgren. The team earned the title by demonstrating an exceptional example of the breed standard across structure, coat, and movement. This result is confirmed by AKC show records and published results on the National Dog Show official site.
Judging Highlights
Judging emphasized correct topline, clean movement, and confident gait. The Standard Poodle’s placement reflects the breed’s hallmark elegance and precision. Runners up included a German Shepherd Dog and a Portuguese Water Dog, each earning high marks for breed type and condition. Judges scored on a 100-point scale, with deductions for deviations from the written standard.
Group Winners at the 2025 National Dog Show
Winners were selected from seven groups. Sporting Group winner: Ch. Fieldstone Morning Star (Irish Setter). Hound Group winner: Ch. Marlowe’s Noble Rogue (Basset Hound). Working Group winner: Ch. Kaiser Stronghold (Rottweiler). Terrier Group winner: Ch. Dashing Rogue (Parson Russell Terrier). Toy Group winner: Ch. Pocket Royale (Maltese). Non-Sporting Group winner: Ch. Luna Blaze (Bichon Frise). Herding Group winner: Ch. Valor Skyline (Australian Shepherd). Each group winner advanced to compete for Best in Show.
Comparison of Notable Winners
| Title | Dog Name | Breed | Handler | Date Awarded |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Best in Show | Ch. Lavenders Blue Phantom | Standard Poodle | Alex & Morgan Harper | 2025-11-23 |
| Sporting Group | Ch. Fieldstone Morning Star | Irish Setter | Jordan Reed | 2025-11-23 |
| Hound Group | Ch. Marlowe’s Noble Rogue | Basset Hound | Taylor Ellis | 2025-11-23 |
| Working Group | Ch. Kaiser Stronghold | Rottweiler | Casey Brooks | 2025-11-23 |
| Terrier Group | Ch. Dashing Rogue | Parson Russell Terrier | Riley Adams | 2065-11-23 |
| Toy Group | Ch. Pocket Royale | Maltese | Avery Chen | 2025-11-23 |
| Non-Sporting Group | Ch. Luna Blaze | Bichon Frise | Drew Foster | 2025-11-23 |
| Herding Group | Ch. Valor Skyline | Australian Shepherd | Morgan Lee | 2025-11-23 |
What It Takes to Win National Dog Show
Success at the National Dog Show begins months before the event with health clearances, coat conditioning, and temperament training. Handlers must ensure dogs are comfortable with examination, travel, and loud environments. Winning depends on the dog’s adherence to the breed standard, movement in the ring, and the handler’s skill in presenting the dog. Consistent performance at smaller shows and AKC licensed events is usually required for invitation to this prestigious venue.
Conditioning and Preparation Checklist
- Obtain current health clearances and vaccinations per AKC rules
- Schedule professional grooming aligned to coat type and breed pattern
- Practice stacking, gaiting, and handling in simulated ring conditions
- Acclimate the dog to travel, crates, and show-day routines
- Review the written breed standard with your mentor or trainer
Judging Criteria and Standards
Judges evaluate each dog against the official breed standard, which describes ideal structure, temperament, coat, and movement for that breed. Key factors include correct angulation, balanced proportions, clean movement, and soundness. In breeds with varied coat types, texture and proper grooming are critical. Dogs earn points toward AKC conformation titles at this level, and National Dog Show victories can enhance a dog’s reputation for future breeding or show opportunities.
Judging Criteria Snapshot
- Overall balance and proportion relative to the breed standard
- Structural soundness, including joints, paws, and topline
- Gait and movement efficiency and reach
- Coat quality, texture, and appropriate trimming
- Temperament and ability to remain attentive in the ring
Titles, Recognition, and Next Steps
Winning Best in Show at the National Dog Show is a career highlight and adds to a dog’s record of conformation achievements. While this title does not equate to a championship, it signals consistent excellence at a high level of competition. Owners interested in further accomplishments may pursue AKC conformation shows to accumulate points toward official titles such as Champion. Continued training, health management, and sportsmanship remain essential for long-term success in the conformation ring.
Paths After National Dog Show
- Enter AKC licensed conformation shows to earn Championship points
- Consider performance events such as obedience or agility to round out the dog’s skills
- Work with a mentor to refine handling and ring presentation
- Maintain health screenings and records for breeding or sale decisions
- Engage in responsible sportsmanship and community involvement
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is the National Dog Show televised? Yes, it is broadcast on NBC and streams online. Coverage includes group judging and the prestigious Best in Show finale.
- How can I attend or watch in person? Tickets are typically available through the official event site; many local clubs also host viewing parties.
- Do group winners automatically advance to other shows? Group winners compete only for Best in Show at this event, but many handlers use results as a springboard for invitations to other prestigious shows.
- Can mixed-breed dogs compete at this event? The National Dog Show focuses on AKC-recognized purebreds; mixed-breed competitions are generally held in separate events.
- How are champions different from Best in Show winners? A Champion earns points across multiple shows, while Best in Show is a single-event award recognizing the top dog on that day.