National Dog Show: A Thanksgiving Tradition Returns for 2025

Looking for the perfect Thanksgiving entertainment? We’ve got just the thing to make your holiday even more paw-some! The National Dog Show, a beloved tradition, returns for its 22nd year, promising a tail-wagging spectacle that’ll have you glued to your screens.

What Is the National Dog Show?

The National Dog Show is an all-breed benched conformation show sanctioned by the American Kennel Club (AKC) and the Kennel Club of Philadelphia. It features purebred dogs from 212 AKC-recognized breeds and varieties competing in seven groups: sporting, hound, working, terrier, toy, non-sporting, and herding.

History and Significance

The National Dog Show’s history dates back to 1879 when the Kennel Club of Philadelphia first organized the event. Inspired by a one-time dog show at the 1876 U.S. centennial, it ran annually until 1927, resumed in 1933, and has continued every year since. It’s one of the three major dog shows in the United States, alongside the AKC National Championship and the Westminster Dog Show. As one of the last six remaining benched shows in the country, it allows spectators to meet and learn about various dog breeds. The show’s winners may receive invitations to compete at Crufts, emphasizing its prestige in the dog show industry.

Connection to Thanksgiving

The National Dog Show has become a beloved Thanksgiving tradition for millions of Americans. Broadcast annually on NBC following the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, it offers captivating family entertainment during the holiday. The show’s timing aligns perfectly with the festive atmosphere, providing a delightful distraction as families prepare their Thanksgiving meals.

Its popularity has grown significantly since its first television broadcast in 2002, attracting both dog enthusiasts and casual viewers. The event’s focus on diverse dog breeds and their unique characteristics resonates with the Thanksgiving spirit of appreciation and togetherness, making it an integral part of many households’ holiday celebrations.

How the Show Works?

The National Dog Show, presented by the Kennel Club of Philadelphia and licensed by the American Kennel Club (AKC), is an all-breed benched conformation show. This Thanksgiving tradition has been delighting dog lovers since 2002, showcasing the best of purebred dogs in a competitive and entertaining format.

Judging Process

The National Dog Show follows a multi-tiered judging process:

1. Breed Judging: Dogs of the same breed compete against each other based on AKC breed standards. The winner is named “Best in Breed.”
2. Group Judging: Best in Breed winners advance to compete within one of seven groups. Judges evaluate how well each dog conforms to its breed standard, not against other dogs. The top dog in each group is awarded “First in Group.”
3. Best in Show: The seven group winners compete for the prestigious “Best in Show” title. The dog that best represents its breed standard takes home the top honor and a $20,000 prize.

This rigorous judging process ensures that the winning dogs exemplify the ideal characteristics of their respective breeds.

Dog Group Categories

The AKC organizes the 212 recognized breeds and varieties into seven distinct groups:

1. Sporting: Breeds developed for hunting, such as retrievers and spaniels.
2. Hound: Dogs bred for hunting by sight or scent, including beagles and bloodhounds.
3. Working: Large, powerful breeds often used for tasks like guarding and rescue.
4. Terrier: Small to medium-sized dogs originally bred to hunt vermin.
5. Toy: Small companion dogs, including chihuahuas and pomeranians.
6. Non-Sporting: A diverse group with varying sizes and purposes.
7. Herding: Breeds developed to herd livestock, such as collies and shepherds.

Each group showcases dogs with unique characteristics and purposes, reflecting the rich diversity of purebred dogs. While not every AKC-recognized breed may be represented at each National Dog Show, the event offers a comprehensive display of canine excellence across these seven categories.

Watching the Thanksgiving Dog Show

The National Dog Show has become a cherished Thanksgiving tradition, offering a delightful blend of canine competition and holiday entertainment. Here’s what you need to know about tuning in to this beloved event.

Broadcast Schedule

The National Dog Show airs annually on Thanksgiving Day, perfectly timed to complement your holiday festivities. NBC broadcasts the show starting at noon in all time zones, immediately following the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. This strategic scheduling allows viewers to seamlessly transition from parade floats to furry competitors, creating a continuous stream of holiday entertainment. The show’s placement ensures it reaches a wide audience, making it an integral part of many families’ Thanksgiving traditions.

Viewing Options

Watching the National Dog Show is more accessible than ever, with multiple viewing options to suit various preferences. The primary method is tuning in to NBC television, where the show is broadcast live. For those who prefer streaming, NBC’s website offers a convenient online viewing option. Also, popular streaming services such as Hulu Live and YouTube TV include the show in their lineup, catering to cord-cutters.

The NBC app provides another versatile option, accessible on various mobile and connected devices, including Roku, Apple TV, and Amazon Fire. This array of viewing choices ensures that dog enthusiasts and casual viewers alike can enjoy the show, whether they’re at home or on the go during the holiday.

Best in Show

The Best in Show category at the National Dog Show Presented by Purina represents the pinnacle of canine excellence. This prestigious title is awarded to the dog that best exemplifies its breed standard among all competitors.

Recent Winners

The 2023 National Dog Show crowned a 3-year-old male Sealyham Terrier named “Stache” as Best in Show. Stache, handled by Margery Good, triumphed over nearly 2,000 dogs from over 200 breeds. In 2022, a French Bulldog named Winston took the top honor. Notably, a Scottish Deerhound named GCH Foxcliffe Claire Randall Fraser achieved back-to-back victories in 2020 and 2021, showcasing exceptional consistency in the competition. These recent winners highlight the diversity of breeds that can achieve the highest accolade in this prestigious event.

Prize and Recognition

The Best in Show winner at the National Dog Show receives more than just a title. They’re awarded the prestigious recognition of being the top dog among all breeds, earning important respect in the dog show community. While exact monetary prizes aren’t publicly disclosed for this event, the honor of winning Best in Show often leads to increased breeding value and opportunities for the winning dog. The recognition extends beyond the show itself, with the winner often featured in media coverage and gaining national attention, especially due to the show’s prime-time television broadcast on Thanksgiving Day.

Attending the Event

The National Dog Show offers an exciting opportunity for dog enthusiasts to witness the spectacle in person. Here’s what you need to know about attending this prestigious event.

Ticket Information

Tickets for the 2025 National Dog Show are available for purchase through the official website (nds.nationaldogshow.com). Adult admission is $20, while children aged 4-11 can enter for $10. Kids under 3 enjoy free admission. We recommend buying tickets in advance to guarantee your spot at this popular Thanksgiving tradition. The event takes place on November 16-17, 2024, at the Great Philadelphia Expo Center in Oaks, Pennsylvania. Doors open at 8 a.m. both days, with free parking available at the venue.

What to Expect

At the National Dog Show, you’ll experience a bustling atmosphere filled with canine excitement. The event showcases nearly 2,000 dogs from over 200 AKC-recognized breeds competing for the coveted Best in Show title. You’ll witness breed judging, group competitions, and special events throughout the day. The main show ring hosts the most anticipated events, where top dogs in each group vie for the ultimate prize.

As a benched show, you’ll have the opportunity to meet the competing dogs and their handlers up close. Expect to see a diverse array of breeds, from tiny Chihuahuas to majestic Great Danes, all groomed to perfection. The event also features various activities, demonstrations, and vendor booths, offering a full day of canine-centered entertainment for the whole family.

Impact on Dog Enthusiasts

The National Dog Show significantly influences dog enthusiasts, educating viewers about different breeds and fostering a sense of community. With around 25 million people tuning in each year, it’s become a beloved Thanksgiving tradition that brings families together.

Breed Popularity Trends

The National Dog Show plays a crucial role in shaping breed popularity trends among dog enthusiasts. By showcasing a wide variety of breeds, the show exposes viewers to dogs they might not encounter in their daily lives. This exposure often leads to increased interest in exact breeds, influencing adoption and purchasing decisions.

For example, after a particular breed wins Best in Show, it’s common to see a surge in popularity for that breed. This phenomenon, known as the “Westminster effect,” can impact breed registrations and adoptions in the months following the show. But, it’s important to note that responsible breeders and animal welfare organizations often caution against making impulsive decisions based solely on a dog’s appearance or performance in a show.

The show also highlights lesser-known breeds, potentially increasing their popularity among dog enthusiasts. This exposure can be beneficial for preserving rare breeds and educating the public about their unique characteristics and needs.

Inspiring Future Handlers

The National Dog Show serves as a powerful inspiration for aspiring dog handlers and breeders. By showcasing the skill, dedication, and bond between handlers and their dogs, the event motivates many viewers to discover the area of dog shows and competitions.

For young enthusiasts, the show provides a glimpse into potential career paths in the canine industry. It demonstrates the various roles involved in dog shows, from handlers and groomers to judges and event organizers. This exposure can spark interest in veterinary medicine, animal behavior, or professional dog training.

The show also emphasizes the importance of responsible breeding practices and proper dog care. By highlighting the standards for each breed, it educates viewers about the ideal characteristics and health considerations for different dogs. This knowledge can inspire future breeders to prioritize the health and well-being of their dogs over aesthetic qualities.

Also, the National Dog Show often features stories about handlers and their journeys, providing relatable role models for aspiring enthusiasts. These narratives can motivate viewers to pursue their passion for dogs, whether through showing, training, or other dog-related activities.

Conclusion

The National Dog Show on Thanksgiving has become a beloved American tradition. We’ve explored its rich history, intricate judging process, and widespread appeal. This annual event not only entertains millions but also educates viewers about diverse dog breeds. It inspires dog enthusiasts and shapes breed popularity trends. Whether you’re watching from home or attending in person, the National Dog Show offers a unique blend of competition, companionship, and canine celebration that perfectly complements the Thanksgiving holiday spirit.