Westminster Dog Show 2012 Results: Which Prized Pooch Will Take Best in Show?

After serious contemplation and speculation, a winner of the 2012 Westminster Dog Show has become clear. 

This was no easy task. This was a stacked field with plenty of worthy candidates. Judging for the best in breed has already been fierce and this will only intensify as the competition narrows its way down to picking a Best in Show. 

Here are two that will make a surprising push, followed by the dog that will be the ultimate winner. 

Hounds: Playing With Fire V 

Wirehaired Dachshund Raydachs Playing With Fire V was a big winner in the hound group and will look to keep surprising all the way to best in show. 

This poised pooch is handled by Cheri Koppenhaver for owners Shirley Ray, and Maria and James Sakoda.

The Dachsund is experienced and will be a serious contender for Best in Show honors. 

Non-Sporting: Ian

Ian is at a severe disadvantage. He is a dalmatian and the spotted pooches have never taken the top spot at this famous dog show. 

Ian has the goods to change that. He won the non-sporting group and nearly stole the show doing so. 

This beautiful and well-behaved dog has a fluid gate and a shocking amount of poise on the big stage. Don't be surprised to see this dog emerge as one of the fan favorites. 

Affenpinschers: Banana Joe

The undisputed favorite has to be Banana Joe. This is a show-stealing dog with a bubbly personality. Joe is owned by Zoila Truesdale and Mieke Cooymans.

This lovable and playful dog has everything a pooch needs to take top honors and will delight the crowd and judges to be this year's champion.