WESTMINSTER CARES
The Westminster Kennel Club prides itself as being one of the oldest, mission-based organizations in the world dedicated to dogs. The club’ s continued educational and promotional support of breed education, canine health, community support, breed rescue, canine companionship, and dog sports participation through its Westminster Cares initiatives reflect the club’ s focus on the care and preservation of dogs as beloved companion animals. These activities help fulfill our core mission to celebrate the companionship of dogs while promoting responsible dog ownership, canine health, and breed preservation.
BREED EDUCATION
Westminster’ s dedication to breed education is at the forefront of its mission, which includes responsible dog ownership— embodied by choosing the right breed for your lifestyle. A variety of Westminster activities and events promote purpose-bred dogs as ideal family companions, fun canine athletic partners, and top-notch working and service dogs. Westminster provides the public with a relevant, trusted source of history and information on dog breeds. You can find more detailed information about each breed and find the one that is right for you by using the Breed Finder on our website.
CANINE HEALTH
Westminster’ s focus on canine health pertains to all dogs whether a cherished family pet, a canine athlete, or a displaced dog. Keeping dogs healthy has been paramount to the club’ s charitable goals for more than a century. The club has a history of partnering with veterinary colleges to support veterinary scholarships; supporting canine health through donations to various health foundations, hospitals, and organizations; and promoting responsible breeding and dog ownership. Our Resident Veterinarian, Dr. Treyton Diggs, also helps support our mission by sharing valuable canine health and educational resources through our digital channels, the media, and on-site at the dog show.
COMMUNITY SUPPORT
Westminster supports the local community through projects and partnerships that provide funding and support to local organizations dedicated to helping people and pets through a wide array of programs, including Purina’ s Purple Leash Project, ASPCA, the New York Police Foundation, and the American Heart Association. For the seventh year, Westminster will support Purina and Red Rover’ s Purple Leash Project. Additionally, through our 2026 Veterinarian of the Year Award, Westminster will make a donation to a non-profit that is supported by the winning veterinarian. Nominations will open this spring.
THE WESTMINSTER KENNEL CLUB 2026