Romulus, the local dog who made his debut at the famed Westminster Kennel Club dog show at Madison Square Garden on Tuesday, February 15, was met with tough competition.

The pup lost the Breed Class round for cane corsos, disqualifying him from advancement to the Working Group portion of the competition that was broadcast on live TV the same night.

"It's a tough show," said Nick Jeppi, owner of Romulus and of Main Street restaurant Piper Beau's. "It was an honor to be there."

During the past five years Romulus has become the most decorated cane corsos in America, Jeppi said. Romulus comes from one of the strongest breeding bloodlines America, and has won "Best in Show" at various competitions 23 times. Both of his parents were Grand Champions.

Jeppi says Romulus has earned a break and is taking the next few months off from the competition circuit.