Conversation with Taylor Johnson – 2025 WKC Dog Show Best Junior Handler

Conversation with Taylor Johnson – 2025 WKC Dog Show Best Junior Handler

1. Congratulations, Taylor Johnson, on your Best Junior Handler win at the 2025 Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show! Is it a dream come true?

Taylor Johnson: Winning Best Junior at Westminster is something I wanted to achieve since starting Juniors, and to win in such amazing competition as well as under an amazing handler in our sport was absolutely a dream come true!

2. How was the overall experience of being in New York for you? How were the Preliminaries?

Taylor Johnson: This was my first time showing at WKC back in the city, and the whole atmosphere is just different. Even in the Preliminaries, there was so much talent that you really couldn’t go wrong. Being in the ring with some of the best is one of the best feelings!

3. Who was the first person you called or texted after you’d won?

Taylor Johnson: I was lucky enough to have my parents, siblings, and dog show family there, so I called the rest of my extended family who couldn’t be there.

4. How have you celebrated your victory? Did you and your dog enjoy a special meal that night?

Taylor Johnson: To be completely honest, we loaded up and went back to the hotel, ordered some food in, and Sven and I fell asleep watching Best in Show. That was the best celebration!

5. You’ve shown several different dogs in Juniors. How did you choose which dog to show at this year’s Westminster?

Taylor Johnson: I sat in the whelping box with Sven, picked him out at puppy evaluations, and campaigned him for two years. For me, I didn’t want my last time around the ring to be with any other dog.

6. What does your dog mean to you now that you two share this win together?

Taylor Johnson: Whether we won or lost, I knew I was taking home the best pet a girl could ask for, but to be able to end both of our Junior careers on top is absolutely amazing.

7. How has Junior Handling made a difference in your life? In your family’s life?

Taylor Johnson: I am the third generation of my family to breed and show dogs, and competing in Juniors starting at age 10 taught me so much responsibility, and work ethic.

8. Would you like to say a few words about this year’s judging panel?

Taylor Johnson: The judging panel for Junior Showmanship at WKC 2025 was filled with talented and accomplished individuals who everyone should admire and watch.

9. Can you offer any advice to Juniors looking to compete at next year’s Westminster?

Taylor Johnson: Cherish every moment you have with your teammate! Work hard, because being on the green carpet feels like you’re floating, and it’s all worth it.

10. What’s next for Taylor?

Taylor Johnson: I’m going to help show and train our Old English Sheepdog puppies and go to college close to home so that I can stay involved in the breed and sport I love.