Bloodhound Takes Best in Show

At the Kennel Club of Philadelphia’s annual National Dog Show Presented by Purina on Thursday, a playful and charming bloodhound named Nathan won over both the crowd and the judges, taking home the coveted title of Best in Show. Judge Edd E. Bivin awarded Nathan the title after the bloodhound planted an unexpected kiss that melted the hearts of some 20 million viewers. “He just came out and shined today,” said Nathan’s owner, Heather Helmer. “Kissing the judge, stretching and scratching—he always pulls those antics, and he knows I think it’s funny. That’s why he does it.” Said the judge: “He’s a gorgeous bloodhound type. All of his antics are entertaining, but that has nothing to do with it. He showed well.”