Top dogs fight it out at leading US show

0 Comments | AFP, February, 2008

NEW YORK (AFP) — It's one of the very few places where "what a bitch!" is an expression of admiration: a world of squeaky balls, energetically-blown kisses and the occasional puddle of urine.

The annual Westminster Dog Show in New York is the premier canine competition in the United States, bringing together more than 2,600 dogs from the chintziest Chihuahuas to the greatest of Great Danes.

Breeders and owners from across the United States and as far afield as Thailand converge on the show -- the highlight in a year-round calendar of speciality competitions -- vying for the coveted "best in show" title.

Backstage, row upon row of owners fret over their performers, giving them some heavy petting or just letting them get some rest in cages lined with favorite...