Full Breakdown
Soleil the Belgian Sheepdog Wins Best in Show at the 2025 National Dog Show
11/28/2025, 12:26:49 AM
Overview of the Event
The 2025 National Dog Show, held on November 27, marked a significant moment in canine competition as Soleil, a Belgian Sheepdog, was crowned Best in Show. This annual event, a Thanksgiving Day tradition since 1933, took place at the Greater Philadelphia Expo Center in Oaks, Pennsylvania, featuring 1,994 dogs from 201 breeds. The show is sanctioned by the American Kennel Club and is broadcast on NBC, attracting an audience of approximately 25 million viewers.
Key Competitors and Results
Soleil triumphed over a competitive field, including George, an American Foxhound, who earned the Reserve Best in Show title. The other finalists included:
- Neal, a Bichon Frisé (Non-Sporting Group)
- Dino, a Giant Schnauzer (Working Group)
- Baby Joe, a Miniature Schnauzer (Terrier Group)
- Comet, a Shih Tzu (Toy Group)
- Tyler, an English Setter (Sporting Group)
Judge Charlie Olvis praised Soleil's performance, stating, “Didn’t put its foot down wrong. Didn’t miss a beat. And it is in drop-dead gorgeous condition.” This year’s competition was particularly notable as all seven finalists had previously ranked No. 1 nationally in their respective breeds.
Handler's Perspective
Daniel Martin, Soleil's handler from Princeton, North Carolina, emphasized her exceptional attitude and connection with the audience. "Soleil loves the energy, and she feels it. That’s her magic," he remarked. Martin noted that her performance was a culmination of training and her natural charisma, which resonated with both judges and spectators.
Historical Context
The National Dog Show has a rich history, founded in 1879 and held annually since 1933. It has become a staple of American Thanksgiving celebrations, airing directly after the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. This year’s event featured the largest entry list since 2019, with a diverse range of breeds competing across seven groups: herding, hound, non-sporting, sporting, terrier, toy, and working.
Criticism & Opposition
While the event celebrated canine excellence, some critics argue that the subjective nature of dog show judging can lead to unpredictable outcomes. David Frei, co-host and analyst, acknowledged this unpredictability, stating, “The sport would die if the same dog won every day.” This sentiment reflects ongoing discussions about fairness and representation in dog shows, particularly regarding the visibility of female dogs in a traditionally male-dominated field.
What's Next
Following this victory, Soleil is poised for further competitions, including the AKC National Championship and the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show. Her win at the National Dog Show not only enhances her reputation but also signifies a growing recognition of the Belgian Sheepdog breed in competitive circles.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Today, that dog was on,” — Charlie Olvis, Judge
- “I knew that this would be a fierce, intense competition. Soleil loves the energy, and she feels it. That’s her magic. She’ll do whatever we ask of her. She’s a winner.” — Daniel Martin, Handler
- “She makes your jaw drop,” — David Frei, Co-host
Soleil's victory at the 2025 National Dog Show underscores the blend of skill, showmanship, and the unpredictable nature of dog competitions, ensuring her place in the annals of canine history.
