Ted Eubank: I was blown away when I received the invitation to judge eight Toy Breeds/Varieties at the 2023 Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show. The entry for my assigned breeds was 119 dogs, which included some of the top-ranked dogs in the country (Breed and All-Breed). I have judged Cavalier King Charles Spaniels and other Toys in nine different countries on four continents. Judging Westminster was the icing on the cake for me.
Ted Eubank: I said I would not comment on any individual dogs, but I will share my thoughts on the Pekingese that I gave Best of Breed over several very, very nice exhibits. I had never seen the dog before, but for me, he was a mirror of the Breed Standard, presented to perfection. And I was delighted when he won the Toy Group later that night and Reserve Best in Show the next evening.
My original breed is the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. There were 28 entered and the quality of that entry was more than outstanding. English Toy Spaniels, a low entry breed, both varieties, were excellent. And I can say the same for Miniature Pinschers, Havanese, Pomeranians, and Pugs. What do you expect at Westminster?
Ted Eubank: As is often the case, many top dogs are primed for Westminster and retire when it’s over, win or lose. I was told that several of my Best of Breed winners were retiring. I know that is the case for a large number of Breeds in every Group. There are always plenty of good dogs coming right behind those who sparkle at Westminster and end up as tops in their Breeds and Groups as the year goes on. Already, 2023 is proving to be a strong show year and we are all loving the competition among fabulous dogs in all seven Groups.
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