Meet Bourbon, the American Kennel Club Best in Show winner

Her brother was the first Whippet to take the title in 2018.

January 18, 2021, 12:38 PM

Bourbon the Whippet was named top dog, earning Best in Show at the American Kennel Club National Championships.

Her owner and handler, Cheslie Smithey, joined "Good Morning America" Monday alongside the prize-winning pup. She said "there's really no secret" to their success.

"She's a natural. She loves to show," the veterinarian and handler said. "She had a lot of preparation before this show. She showed for about two years prior. We're lucky with the Whippets, they just need a quick bath."

PHOTO: Bourbon the Whippet was named Best in Show at the American Kennel Club National Championship on Dec. 13, 2020, in Orlando, Fla. The show aired on ABC on Jan. 17, 2021.
Bourbon the Whippet was named Best in Show at the American Kennel Club National Championship on Dec. 13, 2020, in Orlando, Fla. The show aired on ABC on Jan. 17, 2021.
AKC

The runner-up was last year's top winner, Wasabi the Pekingese.

Here are a few fast facts about Bourbon the Whippet.

1. Winning runs in the family

Her brother Whiskey was best in show at the 2018 AKC competition and the first Whippet to take home the title for the flagship event.

PHOTO: Cheslie Smithey pets Bourbon the Whippet during an interview on ABC's "Good Morning America," Jan. 18, 2021. Bourbon was named 2020 Best in Show at the American Kennel Club National Championship.
Cheslie Smithey pets Bourbon the Whippet during an interview on ABC's "Good Morning America," Jan. 18, 2021. Bourbon was named 2020 Best in Show at the American Kennel Club National Championship.
ABC News

2. Bourbon is a top shelf, certified 'diva'

"She's the diva of the family. Her brother is a little more of man's best friend. We have to cater to her," Smithey said with a laugh. "She likes to sleep in bed -- she's just a diva. She's awesome."

PHOTO: Bourbon the Whippet was named Best in Show at the American Kennel Club National Championship on Dec. 13, 2020, in Orlando, Fla. The show aired on ABC on Jan. 17, 2021.
Bourbon the Whippet was named Best in Show at the American Kennel Club National Championship on Dec. 13, 2020, in Orlando, Fla. The show aired on ABC on Jan. 17, 2021.
AKC

3. Her post-win reward is the same as any other day

"She doesn't know if she wins or loses. We always spoil her and treat her as good as we can regardless," Smithey said.

But her favorite non-dog food treat is French fries.

VIDEO: Meet the American Kennel Club’s top dog
VIDEO: Meet the American Kennel Club’s top dog
ABCNews.com

4. Motherhood is on the horizon

"We're very excited. We find out in just a couple of weeks if she's going to be a mom this spring," Smithey said. "Whippets can have up to 10 puppies so she might be a very busy girl."

Related Topics