Edna González: Being invited to serve on the Westminster judging panel is, in itself, an extraordinary honor and a profound responsibility. To do so during the 150th anniversary of the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show elevates that experience to something truly historic and deeply meaningful. It is a privilege that I hold with immense gratitude and deep respect for the legacy of this iconic institution.
Edna González: Being entrusted with 11 breeds in the Non-Sporting Group was both an honor and a responsibility that I embraced wholeheartedly. Each ring brought depth, quality, and breed character that made the assignment truly gratifying. The overall standard was impressive, and it was evident that breeders and exhibitors presented dogs of remarkable merit.
However, from the moment I learned that I would be judging the Xoloitzcuintli, it carried particularly profound meaning. The Xolo is not only one of Mexico’s national breeds but also a living symbol of our history and cultural heritage. To evaluate this ancient breed on the Westminster stage—during such a historic anniversary—was deeply significant to me on both a professional and personal level.
Throughout my career, I have had the privilege of judging National Specialties for the breed in both Mexico and the United States. Yet standing in that ring at Westminster, assessing an iconic breed so closely tied to my roots, was an experience that transcended words.
Xoloitzcuintli: Entries were presented in two varieties, with the strongest depth of quality found in the Standard variety. However, one of my Awards of Merit was presented to an outstanding Toy Xoloitzcuintli who possessed a very typical headpiece, true to the breed.
My Best of Breed was a dog of remarkable presence and unmistakable breed temperament. He demonstrated excellent movement and overall soundness. A truly balanced and correct specimen, he carried his undeniable presence into the Group ring where he was awarded Group Fourth.
Tibetan Spaniel: With an entry of 23 exhibits, the breed was represented by a solid and consistent level of quality. My Best of Breed exemplified true breed type, showcasing characteristic movement, a beautiful head and expression, and strong ring presence.
Shiba Inu: My Best of Breed was a Black and Tan male who, according to the most recent information I’ve received, became the first Black and Tan Shiba Inu to win Best of Breed at Westminster. He was an excellent representative of the breed, combining strong type, superb condition, correct temperament, and movement that allowed him to stand out with distinction.
American Eskimo Dog: The entry included several very attractive examples presented in excellent condition. It was especially gratifying to observe the positive evolution of the breed, with noticeable improvements in overall quality and presentation. Both my Best of Breed and Best of Opposite Sex were bred by the same breeder—a testament to dedication and consistency in breeding.
Schipperke: Each exhibit displayed beautiful breed type. My Best of Breed winner caught my attention from the moment she entered the ring. Her typicity, femininity, coat, and movement combined in a small package to create a great show girl—something she clearly demonstrated by earning a Group Second placement.
Finnish Spitz: Although only one exhibit was entered, I was pleasantly surprised by the quality. Without a doubt, a very typical and
beautiful dog.
Keeshond: With 11 exhibits in the ring, it was very interesting to judge them. All were presented in excellent condition, with good coat texture and their characteristic spectacles and unmistakable expression. My winner was a very masculine dog with extraordinary and typical movement—clean and efficient—along with excellent temperament and strong ring presence.
Dalmatian: A breed I truly enjoyed judging; the quality was excellent. My Best of Breed was a male with a well-balanced, athletic body and excellent movement.
Norwegian Lundehund: From my perspective, a fascinating and unique breed. My decision went to a typical female with excellent temperament.
Löwchen: I found great quality in all the exhibits. My Best of Breed was a very typical dog with good movement and a perfect example of the breed.
Coton de Tulear: It was very gratifying to see how the breed has reached both the numbers and quality presented in the ring. My winner is a dog that faithfully represents the breed.
