1870s

The First Annual New York Bench Show of Dogs, given under the auspices of the Westminster Kennel Club, was staged in 1877 at Gilmore’s Garden in New York City, drawing an entry of 1,201 dogs. The show was such a hit that it was extended to four days from its originally-scheduled three. In 1878, the entry for per dog was $2 which included feed and care of the dog. In 1879, Westminster held its first show at the newly opened Madison Square Garden.