Mrs . Paula Nykiel of Washington , Missouri
2025 JUDGES
BEST IN SHOW JUDGE
Mrs . Paula Nykiel of Washington , Missouri
What was your reaction when asked to judge Best in Show at Westminster ? Shock and disbelief ... and it still feels surreal that I will be judging Best in Show for The Westminster Kennel Club and in the iconic Madison Square Garden ! Lately , I ’ ve been reflecting on all the previous Westminster Best in Show judges . l ’ m very humbled to be the 149th and want to thank The Westminster Kennel Club ’ s members for this most prestigious honor .
What do you think will be the most challenging aspect of this assignment ? The aspect of being essentially sequestered is going to be very challenging . I will miss attending the general show , but not knowing which seven dogs I will be judging until they enter the Best in Show ring adds to the Westminster excitement ! I ’ m very much looking forward to my daughters , Sydney and Lyndsey , joining me in New York City , just as they did in 2005 when I judged my first Westminster Group assignment . We will be recreating that memorable trip .
How does your wealth of experience in the sport as a breeder and owner-handler for nearly 50 years impact your decisions while judging ? Remembering that I came to judging from the ranks of breeder and owner-handler , I offer those new to the sport a gentle hand and patience with a smile . When I judge , my priority is correct breed type with breed-specific movement . I try to judge from the perspective of a breeder , rewarding those dogs I feel will benefit the breed going forward .
What about the sport that attracts you the most ? Always an animal lover , especially of dogs and horses , I am drawn to the versatility of the sport — allowing amateurs and professionals to compete together in performance and conformation events . Also , the enjoyment of dogs and people working together with purpose ; bonded by their love and respect for each other .
What advice would you offer those just starting their judging career ? Seek out mentors for the breeds you are planning to apply for and even the breeds you already have . Make an effort to attend and learn from the larger entries of quality dogs at Nationals and Specialties . As you judge more , frequently reread breed standards as our interpretation of the standard may evolve and sharpen . If you question something while judging , do not hesitate to check the breed standard . Always continue to learn .
Tell us something people don ’ t know about you that is non-dog show related . Some may know that I ’ m a first generation dog person that came to dogs through my love of horses , but I ’ m sure no one knows that my dad , after returning from World War II , started a small local newspaper , and of course I had a paper route . I delivered those papers on horseback ! I still love to spend time with horses and ride as often as I can .
22 THE WESTMINSTER KENNEL CLUB 2025