The 23rd annual National Dog Show Presented by Purina is back this Thanksgiving Day, November 28, 2024, bringing together dog lovers and enthusiasts to celebrate the best of canine beauty, agility, and charm. The show, featuring around 2,000 dogs from 205 different breeds, is one of the most anticipated traditions of the holiday season.
What Time Does the National Dog Show Start?
The National Dog Show will air nationwide on NBC immediately after the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, starting at 12:00 p.m. and ending at 2:00 p.m. local time. Whether you’re on the East or West Coast, the show will run in your local time zone, making it easy to catch during your Thanksgiving festivities.
For those who prefer streaming, the show will also be available live on Peacock, NBC Sports, and the NBC Sports app. You can also find past editions of the show on Peacock to relive the excitement of previous years.
What Is the National Dog Show?
The National Dog Show is an all-breed, open competition organized by the Kennel Club of Philadelphia and sanctioned by the American Kennel Club (AKC). Since its inception, it has become a Thanksgiving staple, offering a family-friendly event showcasing the diversity and elegance of man’s best friend.
Dogs compete for the prestigious title of “Best in Show,” vying for a $20,000 prize. The event has grown to attract nearly 20 million viewers annually, cementing its place as one of the most-watched dog shows in the United States.
How Are the Winners Chosen?
What Are the Seven Groups of Dog Breeds?
Dogs are classified into one of seven groups based on their original functions and characteristics:
- Sporting: Includes breeds like retrievers and pointers, known for their hunting and retrieving skills.
- Hound: Breeds like beagles and greyhounds, prized for their tracking abilities.
- Working: Features dogs such as boxers and Dobermans, bred for guarding and service tasks.
- Terrier: Energetic and tenacious breeds like Jack Russells and Scottish terriers.
- Toy: Small companions like Chihuahuas and Pomeranians.
- Non-Sporting: A diverse group including breeds like bulldogs and poodles.
- Herding: Breeds such as border collies and German shepherds, skilled in livestock management.
How Are Dogs Judged?
Each dog is evaluated against its breed standard, a detailed description of the ideal characteristics, movement, and temperament of the breed as set by the AKC. Judges examine the dogs’ overall appearance, structure, and personality.
The top dog from each of the seven groups advances to the final round, where they compete for Best in Show—the highest honor of the event.
Who Are the Hosts?
The show’s charming commentary team has become an integral part of its success:
- John O’Hurley: Actor and former “Dancing with the Stars” winner, known for his wit and charisma.
- Mary Carillo: Emmy-winning sports analyst who brings her storytelling expertise to the event.
- David Frei: A veteran dog show judge and analyst, who has been with the National Dog Show since its inception in 2002.
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What Is Thanksgiving and Where Did It Originate?
Thanksgiving originated as a harvest festival, symbolizing gratitude for the year’s blessings and abundance. It is closely associated with the story of the Pilgrims and Native Americans coming together for a shared meal in 1621. However, modern Thanksgiving has evolved into a cultural phenomenon marked by parades, football games, and family gatherings, primarily in the United States and Canada.
While its historical significance ties it closely to these two nations, Thanksgiving has gained traction in other countries, including Mexico, where cultural exchanges and migration play a vital role.
