If you’re visiting this page, you likely seek guidance on engaging with [Strands](https://www.nytimes.com/games/strands), *The New York Times*’ distinctive version of a word search puzzle.
### How to Engage with Strands
Strands reimagines the classic word search format. You can create words by linking letters in any direction—vertically, horizontally, or diagonally. Unlike a conventional word search, words may alter their direction, resulting in intriguing shapes. Each letter within the grid contributes to a solution.
Every puzzle features a central theme that connects all the words, including the “spangram”—a unique word or phrase that embodies the theme and spans the grid either horizontally or vertically.
### Why Strands Presents Greater Challenges
In contrast to *Wordle* or *Connections*, Strands does not supply a list of words, offering a more mentally stimulating challenge. The game provides only a vague clue, compelling players to engage in critical thinking and invest more time deciphering the puzzle.
If you find yourself challenged or pressed for time, we have hints to assist you in tackling today’s Strands puzzle at your leisure.
—
## **Hints for Today’s NYT Strands – February 8**
### **Theme Hint: Westminster Assembly**
The words included in today’s puzzle pertain to classifications used in dog shows.
### **Theme Explanation**
The answers correspond to general categories of dogs featured in the Westminster Dog Show.
### **Spangram Hint: Horizontal or Vertical?**
Today’s spangram is positioned **horizontally**.
### **Spangram Answer**
The spangram for today is **DogGroup**.
—
## **NYT Strands Word Collection for February 8**
– **Sporting**
– **Herding**
– **Toys**
– **Hounds**
– **Working**
– **Terriers**
– **DogGroup**
—
### **Interested in Additional Games?**
If you relish daily puzzles, visit [Mashable’s Games page](https://mashable.com/category/games) for more hints and solutions. You can also try your hand at [Mahjong, Sudoku, crosswords, and more](https://games.mashable.com/).
**Did you miss yesterday’s puzzle?** [Find the solution to February 7’s Strands here.](https://mashable.com/article/strands-nyt-hint-february-7-2025)