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Malachy sits in the trophy after being named best in show

(AP) 

NEW YORK – Malachy the Pekingese, whose smushed-in face frames a mop of flyaway fur and whose pace rivals a snail’s, is the fairest dog in the land. 

The Peke put on a peak performance Tuesday night, wobbling off with best in show at the Westminster Kennel Club,  to become America’s most prized pooch. 

“He saved all his energy for the ring today,” handler David Fitzpatrick said.

This win marks Malachy’s 115th overall Best in Show title. On Westminster’s opening night he had been named best in the Toy group, which is considered the show’s most competitive category. The crowd was clearly was on his side, hollering his name at Madison Square Garden.

Fitzpatrick gave his 11-pound champ a bit of help — he carried him onto the green carpet for the final lineup, shortening the long walk around the ring. Malachy’s pink tongue popped out from his black face, his eyes sparkling like black diamonds as he soaked in the cheers.

“No other dog moves like this,” Fitzpatrick said. It’s true, as a Pekingese is supposed to move with a “slow and dignified” gait.

Judge Cindy Vogels selected the four-year-old Pekingnese amidst a packed crowd at Madison Square Garden, where he defeated a Dalmatian, German shepherd, Doberman pinscher, Irish setter, a Kerry blue terrier and wire-haired dachshund to win the silver bowl.

Although the winner at Westminster does not receive any prize money, the prestige of a win is priceless and will undoubtedly bring in plenty in breeding potential.