A Doberman Pinscher named Penny won Best in Show at the 150th Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show on Tuesday, February 3, 2026, marking the fifth time the breed has claimed the top prize in the event’s history and the first since 1989.
The 4-year-old bitch, officially registered as GCHP CH Connquest Best Of Both Worlds and handled by veteran Andy Linton, triumphed over six other group winners during the final judging at Madison Square Garden in New York City.
Judge David Fitzpatrick selected Penny after she advanced from the Working Group. The win drew cheers from the crowd and capped a two-day competition featuring more than 2,500 dogs from over 200 breeds and varieties.
Penny’s victory adds to the Doberman’s legacy at Westminster, where the breed previously won in 1939, 1952, 1953, and 1989 (also with Linton handling a different Doberman).
The 150th edition of the show, presented by Purina Pro Plan, took place February 2–3, 2026, with breed judging on Monday and group/Best in Show on Tuesday. It aired live on platforms including Peacock.
The event is the second-longest continuously held sporting competition in the U.S., behind only the Kentucky Derby, according to the Westminster Kennel Club.
Penny beat out Reserve Best in Show winner Cota, a Chesapeake Bay Retriever from the Sporting Group, along with finalists including Zaida (Afghan Hound, Hound Group), Cookie (Maltese, Toy Group), and others.
The competition drew entries from all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and 17 additional countries.
The Westminster Kennel Club emphasized breed standards, handler skill, and animal welfare throughout, with no major incidents reported.
Winners receive a silver bowl trophy and widespread exposure, often boosting breeding interest. For more details on Penny and the full results, visit the official Westminster Kennel Club page on 2026 Best in Show. Coverage from the American Kennel Club is available here.
The next Westminster is set for early 2027.
