Will Dino Win Tomorrow's Championship?

Dino the Giant Schnauzer: Miami’s Hot-Dog-Powered Superstar With a Remarkable Owner Behind Him

Every so often, a dog comes along who captures both the spotlight and the heart — and Miami’s own Dino the Giant Schnauzer is one of those unforgettable pups. Big, bold, brilliant, and hilariously devoted to hot dogs over steak or chicken, Dino is the kind of champion who reminds us that greatness and goofiness can absolutely coexist.

Fresh off earning the prestigious 2025 National Specialty Best of Breed, Dino is already a national favorite — romping through fields, collecting colorful burrs on his paws, and trotting into the ring like the king he is. Tomorrow they will announce at the National Dog Show on NBC, if Dino is the big champion.

But behind every extraordinary dog is an extraordinary human, and Dino’s owner, Joy Carr, is a Miami original with a legacy as rich as her love for the Giant Schnauzer breed.

A Dog Champion Backed by a Woman With a Pioneering Miami Legacy

Joy comes from one of Miami’s pioneer families. Her father arrived in Miami in 1917, becoming the first Publicity Director for the City of Miami. He owned the land where Bayside Marketplace and its park now stand, including the once-famous Elsa Pier, an amusement and dance hall beloved in early-20th-century Miami.

Joy continues that heritage today as the owner of the oldest historical home in Miami-Dade County, built in 1911 — a true piece of Florida history.

But Joy’s contributions didn’t stop with preserving the past. She broke barriers too.

A Trailblazing Career in Law and Public Service

Joy was one of the first women Major Crimes prosecutors in the Dade State Attorney’s Office, serving under Richard Gerstein and later Janet Reno. Her work put her at homicide scenes, high-stakes trials, and in the company of justice’s toughest challenges — always accompanied by her loyal Giant Schnauzers.

She went on to serve on multiple boards, including the Board of Directors of the Dade County Bar, where she chaired the Probate and Guardianship Committee for years, helping shape policy and professionalism in the legal community.

A Life of Horses, Orchids, and Rescue

Joy is also a lifelong horsewoman. She and her daughter have competed with both Arabian and American Saddlebred horses, winning dozens of National Championships across the U.S. and Canada. She currently serves on the Board of the Florida Horse Park, representing South Florida’s equestrian interests.

For years, Joy and her late husband also ran a commercial orchid business, participating in shows all across the country — from the Miami Orchid Show to the famous New York show once held at the Twin Towers.

Above all, Joy is a fierce champion for animals in need. She has:

• Served on the board of the South Florida SPCA

• Been honored by the American Saddlebred Rescue Association

• Rescued dozens of Giant Schnauzers

• Opened her farms to both dogs and horses needing refuge

• Recently rescued Bibi, a well-known Big Dog Rescue alum

Her life’s work is proof that love, care, and second chances can change the world — one animal at a time.

Dino’s Record-Breaking Achievements

With that kind of dedication guiding him, it’s no surprise Dino is one of the top dogs in America. He boasts:

• #1 Giant Schnauzer in America (All Breeds)

• #13 in the Working Group

• Top 100 Dogs in America overall

• Over 133 group placements

• Recognition from top national and international judges

He’s truly the best of the best — with a belly full of hot dogs to prove it.

Off to the National Dog Show Finals!

The National Dog Show, taped on November 15 and airing on Thanksgiving, is one of America’s most beloved holiday traditions.

This year, Dino won Best of Breed and then Best in the Working Group, placing him among the Top 7 dogs in the nation advancing to Best in Show.

He’ll be competing against a Belgian Shepherd, Foxhound, Shih Tzu, Bichon Frisé, English Setter, and a Miniature Schnauzer.

Will Dino Bring Home Best in Show?

We sure hope so — and South Florida is cheering loudly for him! Whether he wins the top trophy or simply wins America’s heart, he’s already a legend.

Tune in Thanksgiving Day to discover Dino’s final result — and celebrate Miami’s newest hometown hero.

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