NEW YORK — Good ol’ Snoopy must be proud. There’s a champ at last in his midst.
Barking and baying up a storm, Uno lived up to his name Tuesday night by becoming the first beagle to win best in show at the Westminster Kennel Club.
The nation’s new top dog was clearly the fan favorite and drew a roaring standing ovation from the sellout crowd at Madison Square Garden when he was picked.
Uno got right into the act, jumping up on handler Aaron Wilkerson and confirming his other title: noisiest in show. Years from now, he’ll be known for the “ah-roo” heard ’round the ring.
“He’s a people’s dog, a merry little hound,” Wilkerson said.
The only dog consistently listed among America’s most popular breeds for nearly 100 years, a beagle had never won in the 100 times Westminster picked a winner. That changed when judge J. Donald Jones pointed to this nearly 3-year-old package of personality.
Uno was numero uno, beating out two perfect poodles, a top Sealyham terrier, a sleek Weimaraner, a lively Australian shepherd and a sprightly Akita.
“We knew he was going to be No. 1. I didn’t know he’d do it this fast,” Wilkerson said.
Uno celebrated by chewing on the microphones of reporters who tried to interview his winning crew. Those mikes had to suffice for the yellow, soft duck that’s his favorite toy.
“He’s perfect; he was a 10,” Jones said. “He does cuteness well.”
More than 169 breeds and varieties were represented at the 132nd Westminster Kennel Club event, and the competition brought 2,627 entries.
