Insights From Vicki Seiler-Cushman – 2025 WKC Dog Show Non-Sporting Group Judge

Insights From Vicki Seiler-Cushman – 2025 WKC Dog Show Non-Sporting Group Judge

Can you describe your reaction to receiving an invitation to judge the Non-Sporting Group at this year’s Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show?

Vicki Seiler-Cushman: I was so amazed and excited, I had to read it twice! I sat down and possibly screamed with joy, then I called the only person I could tell, my husband!

What does it mean to judge a Group at this historic event?

Vicki Seiler-Cushman: It was an amazing experience. To be back at Madison Square Garden was incredible. I want to thank Donald Sturz and The Westminster Kennel Club for working so hard to have the Breed judging at the Javits Center and the Groups at Madison Square Garden. It was the best of both experiences! So incredibly organized and I know it was a lot of hard work.

What were you thinking or feeling moments before you stepped into the center of the Group ring?

Vicki Seiler-Cushman: At first I was nervous, but after about the second dog, I really began to enjoy the moment and the beautiful dogs.

Was there a heightened energy coming from the dog and handler teams? Did you feel the energy of the spectators?

Vicki Seiler-Cushman: The energy was fantastic and the exhibitors really seemed to be enjoying themselves. Their smiles really made me incredibly happy for them; they were also thrilled to be on the floor of MSG.

How challenging was this assignment? Can you share your selection process?

Vicki Seiler-Cushman: It was very challenging, because all of the dogs were beautiful examples of their breeds.

Do you have a word or two about your Group winner? About the dogs that placed?

Vicki Seiler-Cushman: It was the strongest Non-Sporting Group I have ever judged. All of them were outstanding examples of their breeds.

First – The Bichon Frise filled my eye with everything “Bichon.” A merry little dog built perfectly and strong moving.

Second – The Xoloitzcuintli is strong, muscular, perfectly handled, and in beautiful condition. Moving, he was dignified, steady, and sound.

Third – The profile of the Lhasa Apso was beautiful, on the table, a pleasure to examine, with a beautiful, correct coat. His movement was impressive, sound and steady, and stood well with a solid topline on his own. He was balanced and had excellent breed type.

Fourth – The Schipperke had an exceptional outline, and a beautiful, correct coat pattern. She screamed breed type with a soft, questioning expression, and had that excitement factor both on her movement and her free-stack.

There is no other show quite like Westminster. Is there anything you’d like to say to the Officers of The Westminster Kennel Club?

Vicki Seiler-Cushman: The members of The Westminster Kennel Club worked very hard, and every year it gets better. You would think there was no way to improve it, but yet they do! It’s an electric atmosphere and they make putting on this size of an event look easy—but I know it isn’t. From Agility to the final Best in Show, all of it is absolutely delivered flawlessly. I can’t thank them enough for all they are doing.

Now that your assignment is complete, what does Westminster mean to you personally?

Vicki Seiler-Cushman: It was one of the best memories I have in my 50 years in dogs. My heart is full and I am so honored and thankful to have had the opportunity.