Bourbon the Whippet was named top dog, earning Best in Show at the American Kennel Club National Championships.
Her owner and handler, Cheslie Smithey, joined "Good Morning America" Monday alongside the prize-winning pup. She said "there's really no secret" to their success.
CONGRATULATIONS TO THE 2020 AKC NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP BEST IN SHOW WINNER... BOURBON THE WHIPPET!!! 🏆
— American Kennel Club (@akcdoglovers) January 17, 2021
Last year's winner, Wasabi the Pekingese, takes home Reserve Best in Show aka 2nd place. #AKConABC pic.twitter.com/45g0EWEVju
"She's a natural. She loves to show," the veterinarian and handler said. "She had a lot of preparation before this show. She showed for about two years prior. We're lucky with the Whippets, they just need a quick bath."
The runner-up was last year's top winner, Wasabi the Pekingese.
Here are a few fast facts about Bourbon the Whippet.
Meet the American Kennel Club’s top dog! 🐶
— Good Morning America (@GMA) January 18, 2021
Bourbon the whippet was crowned best in show at the annual American Kennel Club National Championships, where she beat out more than 4,000 dogs. https://t.co/i9rZzYvW4s pic.twitter.com/wgX7Wg34b2
1. Winning runs in the family
Her brother Whiskey was best in show at the 2018 AKC competition and the first Whippet to take home the title for the flagship event.
2. Bourbon is a top shelf, certified 'diva'
"She's the diva of the family. Her brother is a little more of man's best friend. We have to cater to her," Smithey said with a laugh. "She likes to sleep in bed -- she's just a diva. She's awesome."
3. Her post-win reward is the same as any other day
"She doesn't know if she wins or loses. We always spoil her and treat her as good as we can regardless," Smithey said.
But her favorite non-dog food treat is French fries.
4. Motherhood is on the horizon
"We're very excited. We find out in just a couple of weeks if she's going to be a mom this spring," Smithey said. "Whippets can have up to 10 puppies so she might be a very busy girl."
