The first day of the 136th Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show has come to an end, and the much anticipated Best in Show competition is just a day away. Did your favorite breed place tonight? Dogs from four out of the seven groups have competed for Best of Group (Hound, Toy, Non-Sporting, Herding). The remaining three groups (Sporting, Working, Terrier) will have their Best of Group judging tomorrow evening. Group winners go on to compete for the ultimate title of Best in Show.

The following dogs won Best of Group tonight and will compete tomorrow night for the coveted Best in Show title:

• Hound Group:
  GCH Raydachs Playing With Fire V Gleishorbach SW, a Dachshund
• Toy Group:
  Ch Palacegarden Malachy, a Pekingese
• Non-Sporting:
  GCH Spotlights Ruffian, a Dalmatian
• Herding Group:
  GCH Babheim's Captain Crunch, a German Shepherd Dog

If you were not able to make it to NYC for the show, you can still watch from home. USA network will air the final competitions starting at 8:00 PM EST tonight. In the meantime, see highlights from the show as well as entertaining behind-the-scenes coverage on MSG.com. For the most recent breed competition results, visit the Westmister Kennel Club online.

Photo: Michael Nagle/Stringer/Getty Images

The Bullmastiff is a powerful dog that was originally developed for protection. English gamekeepers in the mid-19th century crossed the Mastiff and the Bulldog. The result was a powerful, fearless dog that could stop poachers in their tracks.

Today's Bullmastiff is still a highly capable guard dog, but the breed is most treasured as a companion. Despite it's powerful and somewhat intimidating appearance, this is a gentle and affectionate dog that forms a solid bond with it's family members. However, the Bullmastiff's tough side does instinctively come out when necessary. One important thing to know about this breed: be prepared for slobber. The Bullmastiff owner tends to carry around a drool rag. If this sort of thing bothers you, then look elsewhere for the breed of your dreams. Otherwise, there's a lot to love about these big sweeties. Could this breed be the choice for you? Learn all about the Bullmastiff and see for yourself.

People who know Bullmastiffs simply cannot say enough wonderful things about this breed. Have you been lucky enough to share your life with a Bullmastiff? Tell your story!

Photo © iStockphoto.com/Terry Bouvier

February has several pet-related themes, beginning with National Pet Dental Health Month. In addition, February is all about being a responsible pet owner. This month has been dubbed Responsible Pet Owners Month by several media outlets and pet product companies. This may stem from the fact that February culminates in World Spay Day and is also being called Spay and Neuter Month.

Whatever the month, spreading the word about responsible dog ownership should be important to all of us. Being a responsible dog owner means committing to take care of your dog the right way. This means providing all of his health, exercise and training needs. It also means spaying or neutering dogs that are not ideal for breeding (by an experienced breeder). Responsible owners pick up after their dogs, prevent them from constantly barking and do not allow them to roam free. By acting as a responsible dog owner, you are respecting your dog as well as your community.

Do you have what it takes to be a responsible dog owner?

The Miniature Pinscher is a bold and courageous dog breed that is sometimes called the "King of the Toys." These little guys don't quite know their size, or perhaps they just don't care. The spunky Min Pin is also known for its entertaining and mischievous character. Contrary to what many believe, the Min Pin was not bred down from the Doberman Pinscher. In fact, Min Pins came first - and they seem to know it.

The proud owners of Min Pins can tell you how delightful it is to have this breed in your life, but that it also takes some work. This is not your garden-variety "frou-frou" dog, but an extremely active and robust dog that requires plenty of exercise, attention and training. However, if you decide the breed is right for you, you'll be glad you welcomed this lovable dog into your life. Want to learn more? Read more about Miniature Pinschers. Are you devoted to the dynamic Min Pin? Tell us about your experience: Share your Min Pin Story!

Photo © Ernst Moeksis on flickr