Sky, whose full name is actually, for some reason, “AfterAll Painting the Sky,” took home Best in Show at the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show last night, ending another nail-biting year of wondering how judges can possibly decide which animal is cutest. (That’s the only criterion, right?) The crowd at Madison Square Garden was apparently stunned, having put its energy behind Nathan, a bloodhound who did not even land runner-up.
This was probably for Nathan:
Seriously, look at him, in all his dopey glory:
Second place went to Ally, a standard poodle (so predictable). She is not impressed:
But the night belonged to Sky, who’s all poise. “She just said, ‘Pick me,’” the judge explained later, which would really make things more impressive if true. A kiss for the judge, as thanks:
Sky is the 14th wire fox terrier to win best in show, and the 46th terrier overall, making them the Yankees of the groups. She’ll be treated to the traditional prize, a steak lunch at Sardi’s:
A bloodhound has never won, making them the Seattle Mariners:
And yet, it’s a matter of perspective. “It’s a dog show,” said the owner of Fifi the Doberman, below, an early favorite who didn’t even win best in breed. “Sure, it’s disappointing, but at the end of the day, I’m taking home my wonderful dog.” And the rest of us are jealous.
