Members
Angela Pickett shares her experience judging the Toy Group at the 2025 Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show, a lifetime memory.
The Weekly Brief
The best of SHOWSIGHT editorials, weekly wins, and breeder commentary — delivered to your inbox every Sunday morning.
Angela Pickett: When the envelope with The Westminster Kennel Club logo arrived in my mailbox, my heart skipped a beat at first glance. Then, after opening the envelope with the invitation to judge the Toy Group, I was extremely excited and honored.
Angela Pickett: As a longtime Toy breeder, to judge the Toy Group at The Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show at Madison Square Garden was a memory for a lifetime.
Angela Pickett: Dogs, owners, breeders, and handlers from all over the world come to Westminster to compete at the highest level of competition. The country is watching the celebration of purebred dogs live at this historic show.
Angela Pickett: As I walked out onto The Garden floor, I wanted to soak in every second of this very special judging assignment. I thought of the task ahead of me and how honored I was to be given the opportunity. It was an amazing moment I will never forget.
Angela Pickett: Madison Square Garden was electric with excitement from the spectators and the dogs. We were all gathered again at MSG in NYC on the second Monday and Tuesday in February. It was perfect!
Angela Pickett: I went about my judging process as I do at every dog show. I judge each dog against their Breed Standard. I then award the dogs that are closest to their Breed Standard.
Group 1: GCHP Hallmark Jolei Out Of This World (Shih Tzu)
While standing and moving, he held to Shih Tzu breed type and temperament. His correct round, broad head with large, round eyes on his compact, solid body completed his total package. He was well balanced without exaggeration, just as it calls for in the Shih Tzu Standard. His condition was impeccable, with his long, double coat being truly luxurious. The Garden floor was his and he owned every step he took.
Group 2: GCHP Wynmark’s Les Bijoux’s Rock ‘N Rolz At Reverie (Havanese)
The Havanese was a lovely example of his breed. His short upper arm and rear drive combined to make the springy gait which is so important in the breed. He moved with purpose and showed his playful, friendly temperament. His topline had the hallmark slight rise and he was covered in coat that was silky to the touch. I was happy to include him in the ribbons.
Group 3: GCHB Kick Em Kenny V. Tani Kazari (Affenpinscher)
This little “monkey-like terrier” was well balanced with proper proportions. He carried himself confidently with a light, free gait. He had dark, round, medium-sized eyes and his expression was unmistakably monkey-like. This small dog with a big attitude was a delight to have in the ring.
Group 4: CH Rexroth Kimro Valentina (Miniature Pinscher)
This young Miniature Pinscher was impressive in the Toy Group. Her correct proportion and hackney-like gait were present as she moved around the ring with confidence and fearless animation. Her spirited presence and complete self-possession were clearly seen on the big stage at The Garden.
Angela Pickett: I would like to thank Dr. Donald Sturz and all the members of The Westminster Kennel Club for the opportunity and honor of judging the Toy Group. This is a time when “thank you” is just not enough! The show and hospitality were exceptional and the attention to detail was above and beyond.
Angela Pickett: Purebred dogs are in the spotlight in NYC and around the country for the days before and during Westminster. It is also a televised event, which adds to purebred dogs being in the forefront nationwide.
Angela Pickett: This show is the pinnacle… there’s only one.
Meet the Judges
Sharon Ann Redmer reflects on judging Herding breeds at Westminster 2026, highlighting breed function, type, and standout winners.
