Four-legged Manitobans named top dogs at Westminster dog show

Find out about a pair of Manitoba pups who are making their mark at the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show.

Some top Manitoba dogs put their best paws forward at the Westminster dog show, fetching some big accolades in the process.

Riesa N Passionpaps Locked and Loaded was named best in breed in the Papillon category at the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show on Monday.

As that name doesn’t exactly trip off the tongue, she’s known less formally as Remington. The four-year-old was born and bred in Strathclair, Man. to owners Darlene and Doug Kelly.

“We couldn’t be prouder,” Darlene told CTV News Winnipeg.

The proud parents say Remington has been special since the day he was born. He started showing at six months old, beating out a pack of older dogs in his first junior puppy competition in Portage la Prairie.

“He basically showed himself. I just had to hold the leash,” Doug recounted.

Remington went on to be named the top Papillon in Canada in 2023 and the first breed-owner handled Papillon to claim the spot in over a decade.

Remington wasn’t the only Manitoba representation at Westminster.

Brazen Shine On Darkstar, also known as Cosmo, took the best in breed title for the Dogues de Bordeaux.

Cosmo is owned by Kim Lilllig of Brazen Bordeaux near Winnipeg.

The Kellys say dog competitions can be hard work. They come with a lot of sacrifices, but their passion for competition makes it all worth it.

“It’s a passion that all dog breeders and enthusiasts share. It just gets in your bones, and you have to do it,” Darlene said.

“You have to compete so hard and love your dogs.”

- With files from CTV’s Taylor Brock