Finn, who was bred at Ridgefield’s Devinwood Kennel on Barrack Hill Road, walks the stage at the National Dog Show in 2012. He was named Westminster’s Best of Breed in 2013 and will defend his crown Monday and Tuesday in New York City. —Kayla Bertagnolli photo
Talk about best in show.
Finn, the Ridgefield-bred Rough Collie who’s official name is ‘Platinum Grand Champion A Perfect Stranger,’ successfully defended his Best of Breed crown today at the Westminster Kennel Club Show in New York City.
“It was a really thrilling win for us,” said owner Jackie Caruso of Devinwood Kennel on Barrack Hill Road.
Finn entered the show ranked No. 1 in the nation for his breed — a ranking he will likely retain after another championship performance.
“He’s truly a great old American dog,” Ms. Caruso said last week about her dog that was born on July 4, 2007. “He’s had a very natural prescience since he was a puppy; he’s always known exactly what to do and he never skips a beat.”
Finn finished No. 2 in Best of Breed at Westminster in 2012 before claiming the top spot last year.
“He was the first dog I ever campaigned at this level and I knew pretty much right away that he would be able to compete — he’s just that special,” Ms. Caruso added.