Miniature Poodle Sage Crowned Best In Show At 2024 Westminster Dog Show, Extending Mini Poodle Dynasty

A miniature Poodle named Sage has won Best in Show at the 2024 Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show. 

This historic win marks the fourth time a Miniature Poodle has secured the top honor at the prestigious event. It cements the breed’s legacy as a favorite dog breed nationwide.

Sage’s journey to the pinnacle of canine excellence began with a performance in the Non-Sporting Group, where she outshone her peers and secured her place in the final round. Sage faced off against an impressive lineup of champions from diverse breed groups, but her poise, confidence and undeniable charm ultimately earned her the top title. This marks the first female Best in Show winner since 2020.

The runner-up, Mercedes the German Shepherd, who triumphed in the Herding Group, was awarded the Reserve Best in Show title.

Poodles, in all their sizes and variations, have long been a dominant force at the Westminster Dog Show. Twelve Standard Poodles have been past winners of the Best in Show title over the years. This year, the breed’s representation was solid, with 43 Poodles of all sizes competing for the coveted title.

The Westminster Dog Show, a revered tradition dating back to 1877, is the second-oldest continuously held sporting event in the United States, surpassed only by the Kentucky Derby. Each year, it attracts nearly 3,000 dogs and their handlers to celebrate purebred canines.

While the main competition focuses on the dogs’ adherence to their respective breed standards, the show also features events such as the Masters Agility Championship and the Masters Obedience Championship, which showcase the remarkable talents of these four-legged athletes.

The final round of Best in Show is an actual test of excellence as each of the seven group winners vie for the prize. This year, the contest was judged by Kennel Club judge Rosalind Kramer, who was sequestered before the final round, unaware of the lineup she would evaluate until she stepped into the ring.

“This is the most incredible lineup of dogs, it’s absolutely glorious,” Kramer declared before announcing Sage as the Best in Show winner.

Sage’s breeder and handler Kaz Hosaka sounded off after his win, “No words, I’m so happy. Exciting… Walked in this ring tonight, she’s kind of not sure, but then she get used to it and then she gave a great performance for me. I’m proud of this dog, and thank you very much.” 

This is Hosaka’s last dog show after competing at Westminster for 45 years.