Westminster dog show 2021 LIVE: Four newly eligible breeds compete alongside usual contenders for Best in Show title

THE annual Westminster dog show is back – but not at Madison Square Garden.

The ongoing coronavirus pandemic has forced many changes to the treasured canine event, which is taking place in Tarrytown, New York, in 2021.

The 145th Westminster dog show launched on Friday, June 11, and will conclude Sunday, June 13.

In a change, it’s being held in a suburban riverfront estate in Tarrytown.

The event is normally held at the storied Madison Square Garden in New York City, but the pandemic forced the adjusment.

In addition, in-person spectators are not allowed.

“It’s a heartbreak because that’s definitely part of the prestige of going, and the nostalgia,” says handler Renee Rosamilla of Ocala, Florida.

“But I’m just, honestly, thrilled that they were able to let us have Westminster this year.”

The Best in Show is the highest award given at dog shows.

The sought-after trophy will be awarded under a tent outside the Lyndhurst mansion in Tarrytown, not in the sports palace of MSG.

The show also is due to feature four breeds that are eligible to compete for the first time – the barbet, the dogo Argentino, the Belgian Laekenois, and the Biewer terrier.

Read our Westminster Dog Show 2021 live blog below for the very latest news and updates…