Who Took Best In Breed for 2011?
The respected title of Best in Breed at the Westminster Kennel Dog Show for 2011 was captured by Kolrassa Krokridandi (AKA “Rassieâ€), an Eyjahunda Icelandic Sheepdog. This breed is new to the competition this year along with five other breeds: the Boykin Spaniel, Bluetick Coonhound, Redbone Coonhound, Cane Corso, and Leonberger.
As Iceland’s only native breed, the Icelandic Sheepdog is a very rare animal having survived near extinction early in its history due to a plague and canine distemper. Originally brought to Iceland by the Vikings in 880AD, the Icelandic Sheepdog is an exceptional herder and is often used as a guard dog due to their keen senses. This breed is also well known for its excellent temperament and unwavering loyalty to their family.
Rassie, owned by Donna McDermott, hails from Dragonfly Farm in Seattle, Washington. At the end of 2010, she earned her AKC Grand Champion title. This is only the second Champion title that has been awarded by the AKC for her breed. Handled by Tammie Wilcox, this four-year-old Westminster rookie made it all the way to the Best in Show competition where her trip sadly ended, having lost the title to a Bearded Collie named Mr. Baggins.