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In this undated family handout, New York Yankees president Randy Levine poses with Labrador retrievers. The Westminster dog show begins its two-day run on Monday, Feb. 11, 2013, and warming up in the dogpen is the Bronx Bowser, a Labrador retriever named Mitch (not shown) co-owned by Levine.
NEW YORK—Ladies and gentlemen, now warming up in the Westminster dogpen, the Bronx Bowser.








"A strong field," veteran Westminster broadcaster David Frei said.




"Mitch is one of the kindest dogs ever. A very kind nature, a very kind face," said Flaherty, of Mount Bethel, Pa. "He has never met anyone or any animal he didn't like."

Labs have long been among the country's most popular dogs, but have never won at Westminster. Nor have golden retrievers, Dachshunds or Chihuahuas.

"A Labrador is not a flashy dog. They're not showy dogs. They're just not something your eye is drawn to," Flaherty said.

Levine, a former New York City deputy mayor in Rudolph Giuliani's administration and known for his rugged negotiating style, did not grow up with pets.

His first pet was a goldfish, Hoover, which he shared with wife Mindy. The couple now have four dogs living with them—over the years, they've filled their Manhattan apartment with rescue, therapy and special needs dogs, and Levine is on the board of the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.

Officially named Hedgelawn's Sharper Image, Mitch has achieved grand champion status in the dog world. He's also a descendant of Mr. Reid, Levine's beloved Lab.


"This is Mitch's first time. Let him get his paws wet," he said. "I'm excited. It's like a playoff game for me. It's Westminster, it's the whole environment."


"That's OK," he said. "Let them come to cheer for Mitch."