Soleil, a 6-year-old Belgian sheepdog, claimed the top honor at the 2025 National Dog Show after defeating nearly 1,900 competitors. Handler Daniel Martin of Princeton, North Carolina, guided Soleil to victory at the Kennel Club of Philadelphia event. “Soleil was just ‘on’ today,” Martin said, adding that his dog “loves the energy” at the annual NBC Thanksgiving broadcast. “That’s her magic.” Judge Charlie Olvis praised Soleil’s performance, noting the winner “didn’t put its foot down wrong” and is in “drop-dead gorgeous condition.” Soleil first won the Herding Group before advancing to Best in Show. American foxhound George earned Reserve Best in Show. Other finalists included Dino the giant schnauzer, Tyler the English setter, Neal the bichon frise, Baby Joe the miniature schnauzer, and Comet the shih tzu. The National Dog Show dates back to 1879 and has aired on television since 2002. (Story URL)
