AKC Museum Of The Dog Opens New Exhibit: The Life of a Show Dog: Celebrating 150 Years of Westminster

The American Kennel Club® Museum of the Dog is thrilled to announce its newest exhibition, The Life of a Show Dog: Celebrating 150 Years of Westminster, which will run from December 18th, 2025, through March 22nd, 2026.

Over the course of its 150-year history, The Westminster Kennel Club has woven itself into the societal fabric of New York as one of the City’s most beloved traditions. The Life of a Show Dog invites you behind the scenes of the iconic pageantry, precision and passion that define the enduring legacy of the second oldest continuously held sporting event in the country: The Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show.

“The Westminster Kennel Club is America’s oldest organization dedicated to the sport of dogs, and the celebration of the role dogs play in our lives. For nearly 150 years, Westminster’s advocacy for purpose-bred dogs strives to honor each unique breed’s legacy and history, while enhancing the lives of all dogs,” said Dr. Donald Sturz, Westminster Kennel Club President and Show Chairman. “As we approach Westminster’s sesquicentennial milestone, we are thrilledthat AKC Museum of the Dog is showcasing the people, traditions, and remarkable dogs that have shaped our story through this extraordinary exhibition.”

Drawn from the archives of The Westminster Kennel Club, Madison Square Garden, and the AKC Museum of the Dog, this exhibition illuminates the defining moments that have shaped the show’s remarkable history. Through portraits, rare footage, trophies, grooming tables, and other artifacts of devotion, visitors will discover the artistry, discipline, and heart behind the pursuit of “Best in Show.”

“It is an honor to celebrate the enduring legacy of one of New York’s most beloved cultural icons,” says Christopher E. Bromson, AKC Museum of the Dog CEO & Executive Director. “Westminster isn’t just a dog show; it’s a story that has been unfolding for 150 years. The Life of a Show Dog captures the devotion, perseverance, and excellence of the dogs and people who have pursued perfection in the ring, and offers an intimate look behind the scenes of this inspiring tradition.”

Experience 150 years of Westminster through the eyes of the dogs who made history.

For more information on this exhibit or the AKC Museum of the Dog, please visit www.museumofthedog.org.

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Posted by Liz on Dec 4 2025. Filed under Current Articles, Featured, The Buzz. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0. Both comments and pings are currently closed.