A stunning pitch-black Belgian Sheepdog named Soleil has captured the top prize at the 2025 National Dog Show, defeating more than 1,900 competitors in one of America's most prestigious canine competitions. The six-year-old champion's calm demeanor and elegant movement impressed judges and audiences alike during the annual event broadcast on NBC on Thanksgiving Day.
The Winning Performance
Soleil's victory came after competing against six other finalists representing different breed groups at the show, which was hosted by the Kennel Club of Philadelphia. Her handler,
Daniel Martin from Princeton, North Carolina, credited her exceptional attitude and natural movement as the key factors behind her triumph. "She's the professional," Martin explained, noting that Soleil thrives in high-pressure environments. "She loves the crowd and the big arena."
What made Soleil's win particularly impressive was her composure throughout the competition. Despite the massive scale of the event—with nearly 2,000 dogs competing over several days—the elegant female remained remarkably calm and focused, demonstrating the poise expected of a true champion.
Understanding the Belgian Sheepdog Breed
Belgian Sheepdogs are
highly trainable herding dogs known for their intelligence and distinctive appearance. According to the American Kennel Club, these dogs are "bright, watchful and serious-minded," with personalities that make them excellent working animals. They're also described as sensitive souls that crave human companionship and require consistent attention from their owners.
The breed typically lives between 10 and 14 years, making them long-term companions for dedicated dog enthusiasts.
A Historic Competition
The National Dog Show has been a cornerstone of American dog show culture since its founding in 1879, with continuous annual competitions held since 1933. The event's television broadcast, which began in 2002, has transformed it into a beloved Thanksgiving tradition. An estimated
20 million animal lovers tune in each year to watch the competition, according to Purina, the show's presenter.
The competition spans over 190 different breeds across seven categories: Working, Non-Sporting, Sporting, Terrier, Toy, Hound, and Herding groups. Beyond the main competition, the show also features behind-the-scenes contests, including a barking competition that adds extra entertainment value to the event.
Reserve Champion
While Soleil claimed the top honor,
George, an American Foxhound from the Hound Group, earned the Reserve Best in Show award, finishing as the runner-up in this year's competition.
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NBC National Dog Show - Soleil Wins Best in Show2.
WUNC - Soleil, a Belgian Sheepdog, Takes Best in Show at the National Dog Show
Sources
1. 2025 National Dog Show Presented by Purina | NBC - YouTube
2. Soleil, a Belgian sheepdog, takes Best in Show at the National Dog ...
