Soleil the Belgian Sheepdog Wins Best in Show at 2025 National Dog Show
A stunning upset unfolded on Thanksgiving Day as Soleil, a Belgian Sheepdog, claimed the coveted Best in Show title at the 2025 National Dog Show in Philadelphia. This marks the first time the breed has achieved victory at the annual competition, broadcast nationally on NBC, and comes as a surprise to many observers.
A Historic Win for the Belgian Sheepdog
The triumph represents a significant moment for the Belgian Sheepdog breed, which bested a field of highly decorated competitors. Handler Daniel Martin’s stoic companion appeared unfazed by the spotlight, seemingly preferring to reserve her celebrations for the kennel. George, an American Foxhound, was named the reserve Best in Show, securing the runner-up position.
Judges Praise Soleil’s Performance
“Today, that dog was on,” remarked a judge, as reported by NBC Sports’ Nate Ryan. “Didn’t put its foot down wrong. Didn’t miss a beat. And it is in drop-dead gorgeous condition.” The final competition featured seven dogs, each of whom had previously held the No. 1 national ranking in their respective breeds, highlighting the exceptional caliber of this year’s contenders.
Veteran Competitor and a Newcomer Debut
The competition also showcased established stars like Comet, a Shih Tzu boasting an impressive 143 Best in Show ribbons, and a recent winner at the prestigious Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show. This year’s National Dog Show featured a total of 1,994 dogs representing 201 different breeds. Notably, the event marked the debut of the Danish-Swedish Farmdog, recently granted full recognition by the American Kennel Club in January.
A Learning Curve for the New Breed
While the Danish-Swedish Farmdog’s introduction added excitement to the event, the newcomer is still acclimating to the national dog show circuit. The breed was unable to secure a win in the Working group, but its presence signals a growing diversity within the competitive landscape.
The victory of Soleil and the introduction of a new breed underscore the enduring appeal and evolving nature of the National Dog Show, a Thanksgiving tradition for millions of viewers.
