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North Carolina Dog Wins National Dog Show’s Top Honor Again

Source: 'She just shines:' Dog trained in NC wins Best in Show at National Dog Show (2025-11-28)

In a stunning display of elegance and agility, Soleil, a Belgian sheepdog trained in North Carolina, has secured the Best in Show title at the 2025 National Dog Show, marking her second consecutive victory. Handled by North Carolinian Daniel Martin from Princeton, Soleil’s performance captivated judges and audiences alike, reaffirming her status as a premier show dog. This victory not only highlights her exceptional breed standards but also underscores North Carolina’s rising prominence in competitive dog training and breeding. The 2025 National Dog Show, held in late November, showcased the finest canines from across the United States, with Soleil standing out among a competitive field. Her win follows a year of increased investment in canine training facilities in North Carolina, which has seen a 15% rise in registered show dogs over the past year. The state’s focus on breed-specific training programs and advanced veterinary care has contributed significantly to the success of local dogs on national stages. Soleil’s victory is a testament to her impeccable grooming, temperament, and athleticism, which impressed judges like Charlie Olvis, who described her as “drop-dead gorgeous” and “in perfect condition.” David Frei, co-host of the event, praised her as “athletic, elegant, and beautiful,” emphasizing her ability to “make your jaw drop.” Her handler, Daniel Martin, expressed pride in her performance, noting her love for the energy and attention of the competition. This win is part of a broader trend of North Carolina’s growing influence in the dog show community. The state has recently launched initiatives to support breeders and trainers, including grants for canine health research and new training academies. These efforts are paying off, with North Carolina now recognized as a hub for high-caliber show dogs. In addition to Soleil’s triumph, the event celebrated winners across various categories, including a Bichon Frise named Neal, a giant Schnauzer named Dino, a miniature Schnauzer called Baby Joe, a Shih Tzu named Comet, and an English setter named Tyler. Each winner exemplified breed standards and showcased the diversity and talent within the canine community. The 2025 National Dog Show also highlighted advancements in canine health and training technology. New AI-driven grooming tools and virtual training platforms are now widely used, improving consistency and reducing stress for competing dogs. Moreover, recent research indicates that dogs trained with positive reinforcement techniques tend to perform better in high-pressure environments, a trend that trainers in North Carolina have embraced wholeheartedly. Soleil’s victory not only celebrates her individual excellence but also shines a spotlight on North Carolina’s evolving role in the national and international dog show scene. With ongoing investments in training, health, and breed preservation, the state is poised to produce more top-tier competitors in the coming years. This success story inspires local breeders and trainers to continue elevating their standards, ensuring North Carolina remains a powerhouse in the world of canine competitions. As the dog show community looks ahead, Soleil’s win serves as a reminder of the importance of dedication, proper training, and breed-specific care. Her shining performance exemplifies the best of what modern canine training and breeding can achieve, promising an exciting future for dog enthusiasts nationwide.

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