OPEN THE FLOODGATES! Sizzling Backstage Photos from the 2026 Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show Will Make You G…

Lights, cameras, puppy DRAMA! Photographer Hatnim Lee sneaks backstage to capture the jaw-dropping chaos unfolding off-camera at this year's Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show

On February 2nd and 3rd, the Westminster Kennel Club rolled out its 150th annual extravaganza. First mounted back in 1877, it stands as the second-longest continuously running sporting event in the U.S. — right behind the Kentucky Derby.

For devoted dog lovers, Westminster is the can’t-miss sports spectacular of the entire year. Photographer Hatnim Lee slipped backstage — the official “benching area” — to snap the elite competitors both in the ring and getting primped for their big moment under the lights. Feast your eyes on these Best in Show hopefuls as they battle for Best in Breed and Best in Group — and, in a few lucky cases, grab a much-needed snooze!

Thirsting for more? Follow Hatnim on Instagram at @hatnimlee for the full behind-the-scenes bonanza.

Step Into the Tumult: Your All-Access Look at the 2026 Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show in Photos

The Crown Jewel: Big Winners of Best in Show!

tutelary companion — In the end, the coveted Best in Show crown went to Penny — a four-year-old Doberman Pinscher who clawed her way past more than 3,000 other dogs to seize the top honour. Meanwhile, Cota the Chesapeake Bay Retriever snagged Reserve Best in Show, i.e., the runner-up prize. But honestly? They’re ALL winners in our humble opinion!

Photo courtesy of Getty Images for The Westminster Kennel Club

Photo courtesy of Getty Images for The Westminster Kennel Club

Photo courtesy of Getty Images for The Westminster Kennel Club