Johann Hunt
The 2025 National Dog Show packed the Greater Philadelphia Expo Center with excitement long before the final ribbon was awarded. Nearly 1,900 dogs across 200-plus breeds stepped into the ring on Thanksgiving Day, each one groomed to perfection. The bright lights, polished floors, and steady buzz from the crowd set the stage for one standout moment: the crowning of Best in Show. If you follow pedigrees or simply enjoy the thrill of competition, this year’s results delivered plenty to talk about. Let’s look at a full breakdown and meet the dogs that defined the 2025 contest.
Soleil Takes Best In Show
Soleil, a Belgian Sheepdog, earned the 2025 Best in Show title after first topping the Herding Group. Judges praised her controlled movement, athletic build, and polished presentation. Belgian Sheepdogs have long been known for agility and precision, and Soleil carried those traits confidently throughout the final round.
The win came after Soleil outperformed six other group champions on the main stage. The crowd response grew louder with each lap she completed, reflecting the momentum that built steadily through earlier judging. Her victory continued a strong run for the breed at major competitions and closed the night on a high note.
Group Winners Who Reached The Final Ring
Seven group champions joined Soleil in the pursuit of Best in Show. Each earned their spot by clearing their category earlier in the event.
Verified 2025 Group Winners:
• Hound Group: George, American Foxhound
• Non-Sporting Group: Neal, Bichon Frise
• Sporting Group: Tyler, English Setter
• Terrier Group: Baby Joe, Miniature Schnauzer
• Toy Group: Comet, Shih Tzu
• Working Group: Dino, Giant Schnauzer
• Herding Group: Soleil, Belgian Sheepdog (Best in Show)
Handlers and judges noted the competitive mix this year. The combination of coat clarity, ring discipline, and defined breed structure stood out across categories. Seasoned spectators pointed out the tight pacing during gait examinations, which made several rounds particularly compelling.
Standout Moments That Shaped The Event
One of the biggest surprises came from George, the American Foxhound, who finished as the Best in Show Reserve (runner-up). The breed rarely reaches the final two, making George’s placement one of the most talked-about outcomes of the night.
Comet, the Shih Tzu, brought another layer of interest. Already a veteran with more than 140 Best in Show wins in prior competitions, Comet entered Philadelphia as a crowd favorite. Although he secured the Toy Group win, he did not advance past the final lineup to claim the top title. That result highlighted how competitive this year’s field truly was.
With those twists setting the tone, the final results gave fans plenty to revisit in televised replays and upcoming regional shows.
Final Thoughts For Dog Show Fans
The 2025 National Dog Show results will be remembered for a balanced mix of consistency and surprise. Soleil’s strong finish reinforced the Belgian Sheepdog’s reputation for ring excellence, while George’s runner-up placement injected fresh excitement into the Hound category. If you follow the circuit, keep tracking these contenders—their next appearances may shake up the ring all over again.