Dog days

NEW YORK (AP) -- From the backstage area at Madison Square Garden to the artificial turf floor, everyone in the dog world saw this coming.

It's a Bichon Frise who's already won 97 titles vs. a Kerry Blue Terrier riding high after a big run in England.

On Tuesday night, they'll meet -- along with five other dogs -- for the best-in-show trophy at the 125th Westminster Kennel Club competition.

"I wouldn't trade my dog for any of them," said handler Bill McFadden, who prompted his Kerry Blue, Torum's Scarf Michael, with bits of filet mignon. "I know how good he is."

McFadden was on the arena floor when Bichon handler Scott Sommer led Special Times Just Right! to a best-in-group victory Monday night.

The crowd of 10,000 at the Garden on Monday night was buzzing at the prospect of seeing Mick's black beard and J.R.'s furry white face going head-to-head.

A total of 2,500 dogs in 158 breeds and varieties entered the event, all hoping to become top dog. No surprise, the USA Network's telecast started with the song, "Who Let the Dogs Out?"

Terriers have taken 42 of the previous 92 best-in-show titles at Westminster. Neither a Bichon nor a Kerry Blue has ever won.