Toronto man top judge at Westminster Kennel Club dog show

Some 2,700 dogs from more than a dozen countries have entered the competition, which kicks off on Monday.

When the Westminster Kennel Club dog show comes to a close Tuesday in NY, it will be up to Toronto’s Richard Meen to pick a victor.

The 2016 Westminster Dog Show airs live February 15 at 8pm ET on CNBC, and live February 16 at 8pm ET on USA Network.

“It’s the best time of year”, said show spokeswoman Gail Bisher.

Seven dog breeds not previously included in years past were added to this year’s competition for the best in show category, making the new additions the largest number tacked on to the field in more than 15 years, according to the Associated Press. As a longtime breeder, owner, handler and judge in the world of purebred dogs, he has enjoyed much competitive success with his Afghan Hounds, Brittanys and Cavalier King Charles Spaniels.

Ophelia, a 4-year old bulldog from West Islip, N.Y., participates in the meet the breed portion of the 140th Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show.

Some 34 dogs competed.

Their owners can only hope those champions become another Uno.

Since the WKC started awarding the Best in Show prize in 1907, these dogs win the most.

“He’s a very loyal and hardworking dog”, Cerilli said of Holster.

Frei’s wife, Cherilyn, is a chaplain and director of family services at the Ronald McDonald House in NY, a few blocks from their Manhattan apartment. They have their own spa with grooming tables, treadmills and even an exercise area full of toy fire hydrants.

Grymek also has come to expect special arrangements in the room, especially when someone asks for an additional cot.

“He was on that night, and I was on that night”, said Cerilli, who had three other dogs in the competition.

“New York City is really not that far when you consider we travel to California, Texas and Wisconsin”, said Cerilli, whose family owned Holster’s sire and grandsire.

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