Best In Show Jun 2026

According to TCM host Ben Mankiewicz, nearly all the dogs used in the film were actual show dogs, making the competition scenes feel authentic. 4. Why We Still Watch (25 Years Later) Best in Show

A dog cannot win Best in Show if it cannot move correctly. Judges watch the "down and back" pattern to see if the dog moves efficiently. Does the rear leg drive directly in line with the front leg? Does the top line remain steady, or does it bounce? Efficient movement indicates sound bone structure and muscle health. A dog that rolls, weaves, or high-steps is hiding a flaw. Best in Show

The journey begins with . Here, dogs are judged against their own breed’s written standard—a blueprint describing the ideal characteristics, temperament, and appearance for that specific breed. A Golden Retriever is judged on how well it fits the ideal Golden Retriever, not against the Poodle standing next to it. According to TCM host Ben Mankiewicz, nearly all