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Philip Capozzolo shares his experience judging at the historic Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show and insights on various breeds.
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Philip Capozzolo: Being invited to judge at the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show is both a humbling and exhilarating experience. I have a deep appreciation for the dedication and passion that go into breeding and showing our beloved purebred dogs, and it was truly an honor to be recognized in this way. Judging at The Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show back in NYC was an unforgettable experience. I would like to commend Dr. Donald Sturz and The Westminster Kennel Club for bringing the event back to NYC. There is an undeniable energy and excitement that comes with the historic Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show in New York City. It’s an incredible honor to be part of something that celebrates the very best in the canine world. “It’s Westminster!”
Philip Capozzolo: In my French Bulldog judging, I was thrilled to see an entry of 40 dogs. The quality present that day is a true testament to what breeders have achieved. My decisions were not easy, as the quality across the board was impressive. Ultimately, I selected a bitch for my Best of Breed winner. She exemplifies the Breed Standard in a way that truly stood out to me. Her structure, movement, and temperament are exceptional. She possesses the ideal balance, silhouette, and head. Her movement and presentation were flawless. All of these attributes make her not only an excellent representative of the breed but also a dog that truly shone in the show ring that day.
When judging the Boston Terriers, I was fortunate to have a nice-sized entry. The Best of Breed dog had correct balance, head type, and expression. He moved confidently around the ring with a presence. My winner stood out because he exemplified the breed’s ideal balance of structure, personality, and overall presence. This dog truly captured the essence of the Boston Terrier for me.
Judging the Chow Chow entry was a particularly meaningful experience for me, as I’ve had the privilege of showing and breeding this breed in the past. The Best of Breed dog exemplified the breed’s distinct characteristics; a beautiful stilted gait, square silhouette, and solid pigmentation. It was an honor to judge a breed that I have such a deep connection with.
Another breed that I have had the pleasure of owning, the Bulldog Best of Breed winner was a beautiful bitch. Her overall structure, head, body proportion, and bone density stood out to me. For me, she was the complete package, with symmetry and no exaggeration. She had that special quality that draws your attention and makes you feel like you found a standout of the breed.
Philip Capozzolo: As we move into 2025, only a few months in, I believe the sport of dog showing is evolving in exciting ways. A growing emphasis on promoting more opportunities to bring dog lovers into our sport is something I’m happy to see being accomplished. The impact of digital media, with shows being streamed or televised, is helping to increase visibility and engage purebred dog enthusiasts around the world. To keep this sport alive, we need to continue engaging with new audiences. The 2025 show year has already showcased some beautiful representations of breeds at The Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show. I’m excited to see which shining stars will emerge this year.
Meet the Judges
Sharon Ann Redmer reflects on judging Herding breeds at Westminster 2026, highlighting breed function, type, and standout winners.
