Written By: Ben Cosgrove
The bond between dogs and humans has taken many forms: hunting companions, workmates, helpers and saviors. Then there are show dogs, the kind that take center stage every year at the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show. These dogs are primped, pampered and trained with the same dedication and diligence that world-class coaches bring to the prepping of elite athletes.
When the Westminster show descends on New York’s Madison Square Garden, it seems that everybody—even cat people!—are, for a few days at least, dog devotees. Enjoy this selection of four-legged friends from the 1950s and ’60s by the great Nina Leen.
Courtenay Fleetfoot of Pennyworth (a.k.a. “Ricky”), a Whippet, was chosen Best in Show at the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show, New York City, 1964.
Nina Leen The LIFE Picture Collection/Shutterstock
Skye Terrier, Jacinthe de Ricelaine, 1964.
Nina Leen The LIFE Picture Collection/Shutterstock
Skye Terrier, Jacinthe de Ricelaine, 1964.
Nina Leen The LIFE Picture Collection/Shutterstock
Vincenzo Calveresi with his four Maltese, 1955.
Nina Leen The LIFE Picture Collection/Shutterstock
Maltese, 1955.
Nina Leen The LIFE Picture Collection/Shutterstock
Maltese, 1955.
Nina Leen The LIFE Picture Collection/Shutterstock
Ignoring a kick, a team of Maltese dogs stood motionless as owner Vincenzo Calversi tested their obedience, 1955.
Nina Leen The LIFE Picture Collection/Shutterstock
Billy, a Miniature Poodle, 1964.
Nina Leen The LIFE Picture Collection/Shutterstock
The Dilettante, a Chow, 1964.
Nina Leen The LIFE Picture Collection/Shutterstock
A Doberman in training ran behind an automobile near Roslyn, N.Y. with handler Peter Knoop.
Nina Leen The LIFE Picture Collection/Shutterstock
Painted Lady, a Boxer, 1964
Nina Leen The LIFE Picture Collection/Shutterstock
Mighty Man, a Brussels Griffon, 1964.
Nina Leen The LIFE Picture Collection/Shutterstock
Westminster Dog Show, 1955.
Nina Leen The LIFE Picture Collection/Shutterstock
A Wire Fox Terrier, Travella Superman of Harham, 1955.
Nina Leen The LIFE Picture Collection/Shutterstock
A Wire Fox Terrier, Travella Superman of Harham, 1955.
Nina Leen The LIFE Picture Collection/Shutterstock
This Whippet, Courtenay Fleetfoot of Pennyworth, won Best in Show in 1964.
Nina Leen The LIFE Picture Collection/Shutterstock
Courtenay Fleetfoot of Pennyworth won Best in Show, 1964.
Nina Leen The LIFE Picture Collection/Shutterstock
