Best in Show: Scottish Deerhound Clinches Top Prize at Westminster Kennel Club Show

Feb. 16, 2011— -- A black-haired Scottish deerhound named Hickory clinched the top prize Tuesday night at the second-longest-running sports event in the United States: the Westminster Kennel Club dog show.

The 5-year-old, 85-pound pooch was named best in show after beating out several other dogs from top breeds including a Portuguese water dog, smooth fox terrier and black cocker spaniel in the final round.

Hickory is the first Scottish deerhound to win the club's top dog title, along with a long purple and gold ribbon and silver trophy.

Compared to golden retrievers and labradors, it's a breed few people are accustomed to seeing in the United States.

"Sure, not your common golden retriever … she loves unconditional, no matter what," handler Angela Lloyd said after Hickory's win. "It's really hard to describe this dog. There are really no words for her."

Bred for hunting, Scottish deerhounds are also the royal dog of Scotland.