Already assured a place in the best-of-seven final ring at America's premier dog competition were an American foxhound, an affenpinscher, an old English sheepdog and a bichon frise.

WSJ: Best in show: Westminster set to pick the top dog

With a bouncy step and shiny black coat, Banana Joe made up for near misses the last two years at Madison Square Garden and won America's premier dog competition.

WSJ: Banana Joe the affenpinscher wins Westminster

That's OK. At this level of competition at the Westminster dog show, having a big head helps.

WSJ: All about ego: Westminster winners walk the walk

But recently, Maynard's name has been attached to a slew of less successful series, including Pirate Master (Mark Burnett's pirate-themed competition show), Kid Nation (a highly controversial Lord of the Flies-style series) and Greatest American Dog (American Idol meets Big Brother--with canines).

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