Westminster Dog Show 2023 Hound Group: A Look at the Hound Group Winners

The Westminster Dog Show 2023 Hound Group was a thrilling competition, with some incredible dogs vying for the top spot. The Basset Hound, a breed known for its short stature and long ears, took home the Best of Group award.

The Basset Hound's win was a testament to its impressive lineage, with the breed's ancestors dating back to the 16th century. Its unique characteristics, such as its calm and gentle nature, made it a crowd favorite.

The Harrier, a smaller hound breed, also made a strong showing at the competition. Its athletic build and energetic personality earned it a well-deserved spot in the group.

The Basset Hound's victory marked a significant milestone for the breed, which has been a staple of the Westminster Dog Show for many years.

For your interest: Basset Hounds Good Apartment Dogs

The Westminster Dog Show 2023 was a fierce competition with 2,500 dogs of 210 breeds and varieties vying for the trophy.

Winston, a Bloodhound, stole the hearts of spectators with his spirited semifinal turn, including an impromptu leap into a decorative box in the middle of the ring.

Handler and co-owner Perry Payson described Winston as "just stealing your heart." He went on to win last fall's National Dog Show, hosted by the Kennel Club of Philadelphia.

The Bloodhound that bow deeply before a judge was another fan favorite, showcasing its unique breed characteristics.

A German Shorthaired Pointer also caught the attention of spectators with its spunky personality, doing a few leaps before its lap around the ring.

Handler Audra Maes and her 10-year-old Shiba Inu made the judge’s first cut, an impressive accomplishment at a show where many exhibitors handle other people's dogs as a career.

The Bracco Italiano, a newly eligible breed, won a group judging Tuesday night, co-owned by country music star Tim McGraw.

Ribbon, a Pekingese, was described by handler Jessica Plourde as "like the fun girl at the party", showcasing its unique breed characteristics.

David Fitzpatrick, owner and breeder of Pekes Malachy and Wasabi, which won Westminster in 2012 and 2021, respectively, described Rummie as "true to Pekingese type, lots of carriage, presence — everything in one, here."

Intriguing read: Dog Show Pekingese

The Westminster Kennel Club Competition is a highly anticipated event that brings together top-notch dogs from around the world. The competition is fierce, with over 2,500 dogs of 210 breeds and varieties vying for the trophy.

Handler Jessica Plourde described her dog Ribbon as "like the fun girl at the party", showcasing the unique personalities of the competing dogs. Each Westminster finalist has bested other dogs of its breed and group, such as toy dogs or hounds.

Winston, representing the most prevalent dog breed in the United States, stole the hearts of spectators with his spirited semifinal turn, which included an impromptu leap into a decorative box. The breed's popularity is a testament to its enduring appeal.

Handler and co-owner Perry Payson praised Winston's charming nature, saying "he just steals your heart." The competition is not just about the dogs, but also about the talented handlers who showcase their skills and dedication.

Broaden your view: Best Time to Breed Dog in Heat

The newly eligible bracco Italiano, co-owned by country music star Tim McGraw, won the breed's first group judging. This achievement highlights the diversity and excitement of the competition.

Spectators applauded 10-year-old handler Audra Maes and her shiba inu, as well as breeder/owner/handler Alexandria Mitchell and her Ibizan hound, for making the judge's first cut. This accomplishment is a testament to the hard work and dedication of these young handlers.

Here's an interesting read: Dog Show Clothing

The Afghan Hound, Louis, took top honors in the Hound Group at the 148th Annual Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show. He is a 6-year-old male officially known as GCHP Sunlit’s King of Queens.

Louis was handled by Alicia Morrison Jones and co-owned by Morrison Jones and Jamie Souza Bartlett. He won the Hound Group under judge Christine Erickson of Queen Creek, AZ.

The Hound Group was televised live on FS1, and you can tune in for the crowning of Best in Show live on FS1 Tuesday, May 14 from 7:00–11:00 p.m. EDT.

Curious to learn more? Check out: What Time Is National Dog Show on Thanksgiving

The Afghan Hound, a stunning breed, took top honors in the Hound Group at the 148th Annual Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show.

Louis, a 6-year-old male Afghan Hound, officially known as GCHP Sunlit’s King of Queens, won the Hound Group under judge Christine Erickson of Queen Creek, AZ.

The competition was fierce, with 35 dogs entered within the Hound Group, but Louis's charm and charisma won over the judge.

This year's Westminster show featured over 2,500 entries in conformation, with two days of Best of Breed judging from Monday, May 13 – Tuesday, May 14.

The Hound Group was televised live on FS1, and the crowning of Best in Show will be broadcast live on FS1 Tuesday, May 14 from 7:00–11:00 p.m. EDT.

A different take: List of Best in Show Winners of the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show

Winston the Bulldog is a talented pup with a impressive track record. He's a 4-year-old French Bulldog from Bixby, Oklahoma.

Winston has a show name, GCHP CH Fox Canyon's I Won The War At Goldshield CGCA CGCU TKN, which is quite a mouthful. He's clearly a dog with a lot of prestige behind him.

Consider reading: National Dog Show Bulldog

In 2022, Winston won Reserve Best in Show at the Westminster Dog Show, which is like coming in second place. That's no small feat.

Winston then went on to win Best in Show at the National Dog Show in November, which is a huge accomplishment. It's clear he's a dog with a lot of talent and charisma.