The Results Are In...The 2025 Coonhound Top Ten Bench Show Standings Have Been Finalized!
December 31, 2025
Source: Danielle Champ
Job Title: Bench Show Program Manager
Department: Hunting Ops
Email: dchamp@ukcdogs.com
The United Kennel Club is proud to announce the finalized 2025 Top Ten Bench Show standings for coonhounds. The competition season, which ran from November 1, 2024, through October 31,2025, has ended, and the top ten dogs from each breed have officially earned their invitations to one of the most prestigious bench show events of the year: the Top Ten Coonhound Bench Show Invitational at the 2026 UKC Winter Classic.
For handlers and breeders alike, reaching the UKC Top Ten is no small feat. It represents a year full of dedication, countless miles on the road, and exceptional presentation of the breed standards that define each coonhound variety. The Top Ten title is more than just points. Its a recognition of the finest examples of conformation, temperament, and showmanship within the UKC coonhound community. It is also an opportunity for exhibitors to share in the camaraderie and sportsmanship that make UKC events so special.
The Top Ten Bench Show Invitational serves as the crown jewel of the Winter Classic weekend. This years judges, Courtney Risk, Nicole Sedlecky, and Alan Kalal, will evaluate each hound based on the UKC breed standards, balance, and presentation. Adding to the excitement, the Top Ten Invitational features a total purse of $15,000, with $2,000 awarded to each breed winner and an additional $1,000 awarded for Overall Winner. For handlers, its an opportunity to compete among the best of the best and is an honor and highlight of their show careers.
Invitations to the Top Ten event will be mailed in January 2026, and qualifying exhibitors are encouraged to attend. Everyone here at UKC wants to say congratulations to every owner, handler, and hound that earned a Top Ten position this year and we look forward to seeing everyone at Winter Classic.
Click here to view the Top Ten Standings!
Guided by the belief that dogs make a difference by being the best partner a human can have in the field, on the job, or in a competition event, UKC is a community for people and dogs to pursue excellence together. Founded in 1898, UKC has been dedicated to enhancing the lives of Dogs That Do More, and their owners, by providing essential resources to help owners and breeders make informed decisions. The dog-human bond is celebrated through family-friendly programs highlighting the instincts and heritage of purebred and mixed-breed dogs alike at over 18,000 licensed events annually.