They say beauty is in the eye of the beholder, so for a dog lover, an event like Westminster means cuteness overload!
From silky Irish Setters receiving the glam treatment ahead of their big moment in the spotlight to wonderfully charismatic Keeshonden getting their heads (and fur) in the game, here’s a behind-the-scenes look at the 2018 show (which was held at Madison Square Garden in New York City) with 11 GIFs from the daytime segment.
Snip snip! This super patient Poodle excels at holding still for the shears.
This fluffy Keeshond loves getting his fur brushed by his doting groomer.
There’s nothing like a solid blowout first thing in the morning. Here, one pristine Samoyed is fluffed up before showtime.
Awww, look at that tail go! This happy-go-lucky Spaniel and his groomer look picture-perfect for the national event.
Despite the craziness around him, the Tibetan Spaniel’s eyes are on the prize!
It’s a two-person job, but this dog is well on its way to Mariah Carey-levels of glam.
One Beagle gets a little whisker trim prior to hitting the ring.
Early call times are rough, but this black Poodle is a trooper.
A hair dryer pointed at your hind legs? All in a day’s work! This Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen — or PBGV for short— will do anything for a shot at the grand prize.
Sometimes, all we see is a pile of fur! But judges appreciate a clean, appropriately groomed, well-presented coat.
Have you ever seen a more regal Irish Setter? This dog and its human could swap hair tips!
Want to see more highlights from this year’s show? Check out 18 Pictures of Flynn, Westminster 2018 Best in Show Winner and Up Close and Personal with the Dogs of Westminster.