Exclusive | Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show 2026: Behind the scenes with the glammest dogs
For Manhattan resident Yolanda Carter, her 3-year-old French Bulldog, Bruno, is her pride and joy, but she takes a more relaxed approach to his show career. While Bruno is a registered therapy dog and competes in dog shows on the side, Carter acknowledges that she doesn’t have the time or budget to devote solely to the show circuit.
“I can’t imagine going to every show,” Carter said. “I have a full-time job, and this is just something fun we do together.”
Despite her more casual approach, Carter still puts effort into Bruno’s grooming and training, ensuring he looks his best in the ring. She also makes sure he gets regular exercise and a balanced diet to keep him healthy and fit.
For Carter, the bond she shares with Bruno is what matters most. “He’s my best friend,” she said. “Whether we win or lose at a show, he’s always there for me, and that’s what’s most important.”
While the world of dog shows may seem glamorous from the outside, these dedicated owners prove that it takes hard work, sacrifice, and a whole lot of love to help their furry companions shine in the spotlight. Whether they’re grooming, training, or just enjoying a leisurely walk in the park, these dogs are getting the royal treatment from their devoted owners.
As an Upper East Sider, Natalie Moutoussis is thrilled to have her 4-year-old Rhodesian Ridgeback named Kai making his debut at the prestigious Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show this year. Despite Kai’s regal looks, Moutoussis reveals that her pet’s daily routine is surprisingly low-key.
According to Moutoussis, Kai is a laid-back dog who enjoys lounging in the mornings before heading out for a leisurely stroll in Central Park. He spends up to an hour playing off-leash with his furry friends before returning home for a nap. Kai also goes for runs a few times a week, sometimes covering half-marathon distances when the weather is nice.
While Rhodesian Ridgebacks were originally bred to track lions in Africa, Moutoussis assures that Kai’s killer instinct is reserved for squeaky toy squirrels and strategy games rather than real prey. She even jokes that he prefers to stalk squirrels rather than catch them.
In terms of grooming and maintenance, Kai is surprisingly low-maintenance compared to other show dogs. Moutoussis cooks human-grade meals for Kai, with beef being a favorite. She also bathes him every two weeks and handles all of his grooming herself, making it a cost-effective and straightforward process.
Living in a luxury apartment building on the Upper East Side, Kai has become a beloved figure among neighbors and doormen. Moutoussis mentions that raising a show dog in the city has been met with enthusiasm rather than criticism, with many New Yorkers eagerly anticipating Kai’s Westminster debut.
Kai’s journey to Westminster began during the pandemic when Moutoussis finally had the opportunity to pursue her admiration for the Ridgeback breed. After Kai’s success at his first puppy competition, he has since competed in numerous shows and is now preparing for his biggest stage at Westminster.
As Kai competes in his first Westminster show during the event’s 150th anniversary, Moutoussis looks forward to seeing him in the ring, showcasing his breed-standard features and regal stance. Despite his show dog status, Kai’s true joy lies in cuddling with his owner on the couch, where he truly believes he is a 10-pound lap dog despite his 85-pound frame.
For those interested in attending the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show, tickets are available via Ticketmaster, with prices ranging from $58 to $90. Join Moutoussis and Kai as they embark on this exciting journey together at one of the most prestigious dog shows in the world.
