‘Perfect end’: Miniature poodle Sage wins Westminster in handler’s farewell

• Miniature poodle from Houston named America's top canine
• Handler Kaz Hosaka retiring after 45 Westminster dog shows
• Sage the miniature poodle wins best in show - as it happened

A miniature poodle named Sage is America's top canine after earning the title of best in show on Tuesday night at the Westminster Kennel Club dog show, sending her veteran handler into retirement on the highest of notes.

The perfectly manicured non-sporting group winner from Houston with the shiny jet-black coat was the last dog standing after a winnowing-down process that began on Monday morning with more than 2,500 canines in 213 breeds and varieties hailing from all 50 states and a dozen other countries, including Canada, Japan, Ukraine and the United Arab Emirates.