Temecula hound voted top dog by Westminster Kennel Club
CJ, a German shorthaired pointer, wins Best in Show at the 140th annual Westminster Kennel Club dog show at Madison Square Garden in New York City.
CJ, a 3-year-old German shorthaired pointer from Temecula, is bringing home the kibble after earning the prestigious “Best in Show” title at the Westminster Kennel Club dog show Tuesday night.
After winning in the sporting group, the photogenic pup went on to beat out six other dogs for the top prize at Madison Square Garden in New York.
Known also as California Journey, CJ stood tall as Canadian judge Richard Meen carefully examined his sharp dappled coat and coffee-colored head.
For Meen, the winning dog “takes me back into the past of what they were bred to do.”
Bred in Germany in the late 19th century, the athletic pointer was designed to be a high performance, amphibious hunting dog, according to the kennel club.
CJ, “moved well, never stopped and floated around the room beautifully,” said Meen, a Toronto psychiatrist.
The talented dog has won 18 best-in-show honors in six months.
Led by co-owner, breeder and handler Valerie Nunes-Atkinson, CJ is one of only three German shorthaired pointers to win the kennel club’s top honor. He is the 140th best-in-show winner at the annual Westminster event.
“I couldn’t believe it. Pinch me,” Nunes-Atkinson said.
After earning the esteemed prize, CJ was treated to his favorite snack: a combination of chicken and carrots. Nicknamed “The Prince” at home, CJ’s second treat for winning could mean he will be allowed to jump on the bed, according to the kennel club.
But it doesn’t look like CJ and his handler will be relaxing anytime soon.
CJ quickly hit the television circuit after his big win.
By Wednesday morning, CJ and Nunes-Atkinson had appeared on “Good Morning America” and met with hosts of “The Chew.”
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