Paula Nykiel reflects on judging Best in Show at the 2025 Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show, sharing her excitement and insights.
The Weekly Brief
The best of SHOWSIGHT editorials, weekly wins, and breeder commentary — delivered to your inbox every Sunday morning.
Paula Nykiel: “Shock,” “Disbelief,” and it still feels surreal. I know we all have memories of those special life moments… where we were and what we were doing when something “big” happens. December 2023, I had just deplaned at Orlando airport on my way to judge a rather large show. My first stop, the ladies room, and, of course, there was a line! My phone rang and I was very surprised to hear Don Sturz’s voice. We exchanged the usual pleasantries and Don shared that he had a small assignment for the 2025 show. But then he went on with breaking news… Breeds at Javits and Groups back at MSG! I responded with my congratulations and excitement. Don then repeated… he had a “small assignment for me.” He wanted me “to judge just seven dogs.” I knew immediately what that meant… BIS! My heart stopped, then started beating so fast, and I had to find a place to sit down. We talked some more, but that’s all a blur.
Paula Nykiel: I’ve reflected on all the previous Best in Show judges… and I’m very humbled to be the 149th. Judging Best in Show at The Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show is certainly the highlight of my judging career. I feel so honored and humbled to have been entrusted with this most prestigious of assignments. I can never thank Dr. Sturz and his committee enough for this special honor.
Paula Nykiel: As BIS judge, the aspect of being essentially sequestered is very challenging. I missed attending the general show, but not knowing which seven I would be judging until they entered the BIS ring added to the Westminster excitement!
Paula Nykiel: Just before stepping into the ring, I was feeling enormous excitement and joy at the reality of judging seven exceptional dogs. The final lineup was simply stunning… each exhibit the result of many years and generations of selective and purposeful breeding.
Paula Nykiel: The excitement and energy of the spectators could certainly be felt. The show itself was magical.
Paula Nykiel: When I judge, my priority is correct breed type with breed-specific movement. I try to judge from the perspective of a breeder, rewarding those dogs I feel will benefit the breed going forward.
Paula Nykiel: The final lineup was simply stunning. Each dog was so very deserving of their Group win. My Best in Show choice, the Giant Schnauzer, is a magnificent stallion of a dog. At first touch I could feel his power. He was in rock-solid condition. His coat is perfection; harsh, dense, and wiry. His masculine head has good length, a strong muzzle with a clean backskull and high-set ears, adding to its beauty, and, of course, the Schnauzer’s hallmark beard and eyebrows. He moves with effortless power and owned the ring that night. A beautiful team to watch.
My Reserve Best in Show, the Whippet, was the surprise of the evening. She certainly didn’t appear her age (9-1/2 years!). She exemplifies breed type and elegance with her correct, curvey topline and underline. She is as smooth as porcelain to go over, without exaggeration. Her beautiful expression is due to large, round, and dark eyes. She has some width to her backskull, and expressive ears. Her movement is light and effortless, with long, low reach and powerful drive. She appears almost ethereal when moving.
Paula Nykiel: Congratulations to The Westminster Kennel Club on their triumphant return to Manhattan and Madison Square Garden. The show was magical! I want to thank Dr. Sturz, the Show Committee, and all WKC members for selecting me to be the 149th Best in Show judge. I am honored, humbled, and thrilled beyond words.
I’m sure the 2026 show is already in the works and I can’t wait to celebrate Westminster’s 150th Anniversary! Westminster, 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.
