As the semifinals returned Monday night to Madison Square Garden for the first time in five years, spectators shouted out the names of their favorite canine competitors as if they played for one of the pro teams that call the Garden home, the NBA's New York Knicks and NHL's New York Rangers.
Four finalists were chosen Monday: a bichon frisé called Neal, a whippet and repeat runner-up known as Bourbon, a shih tzu called Comet who’s been a finalist before, and a German shepherd named Mercedes, who came in second last year.
Big dogs are having their day at the Westminster Kennel Club dog show, where a bunch of massive breeds are being judged Tuesday.
The best in show trophy will be awarded late Tuesday to one of seven finalists at the storied show.
Although Great Danes, mastiffs, Newfoundlands and others classified as “working” dogs are competing, so are terriers, the mostly small vermin-hunters known for their outsized personalities.
