Other categories included “Gentle Giant,” “Best Trick,” “Looks Most Like Owner” and “Perfect-Sized Pal.” Many contestants sported orange and blue ribbons around their collars as a nod to the Knicks’ victory lap from the night before, adding a distinctly New York touch to the event. Fittingly, the prizes included miniature basketball dog toys for the winners.
The judging panel consisted of Grace Flintermann, joined by Meredith Bluestine and Sonny Sharky, who evaluated the pups across the show’s six categories.
“What we love most is the community of this event,” Bluestine told the Eagle. She and Sharky first learned about the show through Flintermann, whom they knew from the local dog park, and are now returning as judges for their second year.
Sergio Garcia Frank and his humans, runner up in the “Most Adorable Perfect Size Pal” category. Photo: Julie Thompson/Brooklyn Eagle
While all the dogs drew applause, a few earned especially enthusiastic reactions from the crowd. The runner-up in the “Best Trick” category decked out with a vibrant tulle accessory around her collar and gained cheers as she spun in circles on her hind legs. When she returned to claim her prize, the announcer awarded her an unofficial title: “the dancing dog.”
Another had spectators calling “one more time!” after tossing a treat in the air and catching it neatly in its mouth. It obeyed.
Cayuga’s and her humans, winner in the “Gentle Giant” category. Photo: Julie Thompson/Brooklyn Eagle
For Brooklyn Heights resident Jessie Godnick, entering the competition marked a milestone.
“I’ve been waiting all year for this,” Godnick told the Eagle. After attending last year’s event as a spectator, she returned this year with Sally, her Old English Sheepdog, as an official contestant of the “Gentle Giant” category.
“I’m so excited,” Godnick said. “[Sally’s] been with me for 9 years and we want to take the opportunity to give her some love.”
Daisy and her human, winner of the “Most Adorable New Resident” category. Photo: Julie Thompson/Brooklyn Eagle
Hours before the show began, Montague Street was lined with dog-focused businesses.
Supported by Montague Open Streets, neighborhood vendors filled the block offering designer dog toys from Gone to the Dogs NY and organic treats from City Chemist. Representatives from Hillside Dog Park and animal welfare nonprofits such as The Good Dog Foundation stopped to speak with residents while activities like puppy yoga continued throughout the afternoon.
Jim and his human, winners of the “Best Trick” category. Photo: Julie Thompson/Brooklyn Eagle