The Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show is considered to be the most prestigious dog show in the world, a two day event comprising competitions in all 179 breeds of dog recognized by the American Kennel Club. It is also the second oldest continuously run sporting event in the United States (after the Kentucky Derby), having taken place annually since 1875.

The competition is a conformation dog show, meaning that the dogs are judged by how close they match the published ideal...
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The Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show is considered to be the most prestigious dog show in the world, a two day event comprising competitions in all 179 breeds of dog recognized by the American Kennel Club. It is also the second oldest continuously run sporting event in the United States (after the Kentucky Derby), having taken place annually since 1875.

The competition is a conformation dog show, meaning that the dogs are judged by how close they match the published ideal standards for their particular breed. More uncommonly the competition is "benched", meaning that the dogs are required to be in assigned areas (or benches) while not being judged, allowing them to interact with fans and other breeders. Dogs are therefore under constant scrutiny throughout the whole process, as are the other species in the competition, namely the owners, handlers, and breeders of these animals.
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