My Pet World: Westminster Dog Show contestants are the best of the best
"They have a bit more substance than the Viszla," says Frei. "That's probably because they were once crossed with the German Wire-Haired Pointer."
Frei offers his views on four dogs to watch:
1. Grand Champion Clairecreek Impression de Matisse: Only a pawful of dogs ever have achieved over 200 Best in Shows wins, so this Portuguese Water Dog is clearly a superstar, and currently America's top scoring show dog.
"This dog has proved he can do anything," says Frei, who says politics has nothing to do with success, referring to President Obama's Portuguese Water Dogs. He says and laughs, not all dog show judges are Democrats.
2. Grand Champion Bugaboo's Picture Perfect: This Old English Sheepdog has celebrated over 100 Best in Show wins in his short career, just three years. Only 30 to 40 dogs have ever done that well, and he's now the No. 2 scoring dog in the country.
"Clearly, this is a dog to contend with," Frei says.
3. Grand Champion Cragsmoor Good Time Charlie: A dog with momentum, having earned Best in Show honors at the AKC National show in December. Also, he happens to be a Skye Terrier, representing the Terrier Group. A terrier has won Best in Show at Westminster 45 times, more than any other group.
4. Grand Champion Flessner's International S'Cess: This impressive Bloodhound won the Hound Group at Westminster last year, and Frei believes it's possible he could go all the way this time.
The Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show will be broadcast Feb. 16 on CNBC and Feb. 17 on the USA Network.
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