Why is it so shocking that a beagle is in the lead at the Westminster Dog Show?

Because a beagle has not won best in group in something like 75 years. It is kind of like when the Red Sox won the championship.

EDIT: According to this article, it will be the first time ever that a beagle wins, if Uno wins.

http://ap.google.com/article/ALeqM5ibgIvow71lch7hS...

Most popular breed in the US- never won the most important dog show in the US

Well, I guess it is simply because a beagle hasn't won best in group since 1939.

If you think about it, the other two are typical best in show dogs...a Poodle and an Aussie...both present nicely. But nobody ever really thinks of Beagles when they think of Westminster (except, perhaps, if you breed and show Beagles).

because a Beagle has never won the best in show and a beagle hasnt won the Hound Group in 69 years (dont quote me on that i dont remember where i heard that)

I know! He Is SO cute! =)

I think it is GREAT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!