The National Dog Show Broadcast is held annually on the fourth Thursday in November, on Thanksgiving Day and takes place on November 28. More than 200 breeds of dogs compete in the show every year — just about half of the total breeds of dogs in the world. It is a packed two-hour show of the actual event, which is a benched show. This allows breeders and spectators to chat to the owners and see the dogs up close. The dogs are judged on how closely they meet the criteria for their breed — appearance, structure, movement, and temperament.
History of National Dog Show Broadcast
Right from the beginning of prehistoric man’s journey, dogs followed man to hunt, protect their homes and families, warn them, or help to ward off predators. Dogs have evolved over the years to become friends and even an integral part of many families, making them one of the most beloved animals.
The National Dog Show began in 1879 under the name ‘The Kennel Club of Philadelphia Dog Show,’ and was hosted by The Kennel Club of Philadelphia. It had a turbulent few years to find the correct venue, until it settled on Greater Philadelphia Expo Center at Oaks, Pennsylvania. The president of NBC approached Wayne Ferguson, head of the Kennel Club. After much negotiation, the National Dog Show Broadcast was initiated. The show went on to be lauded by dog-lovers from 2001 to date. It has fast become a household tradition for the Dog Show to be watched on Thanksgiving Day.
Since gaining popularity, The Dog Show usually includes over 2,000 competitors and 197 breeds of dogs as sanctioned by the American Kennel Club. The show features categories like; ‘Best of breed,’ ‘First in a group,’ and ‘Best in show,’ bringing different breeds of dogs to compete against each other. The dogs love showing their unique qualities and what makes them the best. The National Dog Show Broadcast is always pre-recorded because the event takes place earlier in November. It is a much-loved and much-anticipated event, with over 20 million viewers every year. It brings friends, family, and loved ones together to sit in front of the television and watch these great dogs display their unique abilities.
National Dog Show Broadcast timeline
The town of Newcastle, England, holds the first Dog Show allowing only pointers and setters.
The National Dog Show begins under this name until it is eventually changed to encompass the whole country.
The show is interrupted from 1928 to 1932 due to the Great Depression, before resuming again.
The show was first broadcast on Thanksgiving Day by N.B.C. Sports and was also renamed the National Dog Show.
National Dog Show Broadcast FAQs
When does the National Dog Show air on N.B.C?
It airs on Thanksgiving Day – from noon to 2 p.m. in all time zones.
How does one watch the A.K.C. National Championship dog show live?
If you don’t have a Roku device and account, you can directly visit the A.K.C.tv homepage using your personal computer, laptop, or smartphone and watch the shows live.
Why is there a national dog show in Philadelphia?
It is held in Philadelphia because of the show’s prestige and history. The national T.V. coverage shows different group winners and the seven Best in Show competitors. More than 200 breeds are represented.
National Dog Show Broadcast Activities
Attend the Show
The show is held in Philadelphia every year, and you can attend. Get your tickets and reserve your seats way ahead of time to watch the show live and feel the energy on a more personal level.
Register your dog to participate
This makes the day even more fun. If you are a dog trainer, or you have well-trained dogs which are amongst the accepted breeds, you can register to participate and join in on the fun. Who knows? You might just be the lucky winner.
Watch the live broadcast
If you can’t be there personally or don’t have a dog to register for the show, you can join in the festivity by watching live and rooting for your favorite. Gather your family and friends together and enjoy the electrifying displays of these wonderful animals.
5 Fun Facts About Dogs
Sense of smell
A dog’s sense of smell is 40 times greater than that of humans.
Smart dogs
The average dog is as smart as a two-year-old child.
Sweaty feet
The sweat glands of dogs sit under their feet, and on hot days it is good to wet the paws.
Several breeds
There are over 300 breeds of dogs, each one unique and different in its way.
Dogs in the health sector
Dogs can be trained to detect cancer and other diseases through waste products or even a person’s breathing.
Why We Love National Dog Show Broadcast
It’s fun
The National Dog Show Broadcast is a fantastic event. It is a great feeling watching dogs go through different routines.
It’s a tradition
With years of the show being aired, it has become a tradition in families. 20 million viewers watch the show every year on Thanksgiving Day, making it one of the most loved animal shows.
It showcases animal uniqueness
The show is a wake-up call to everyone that dogs can be trained to perfect their unique talents. It is wonderful to see the speed, agility, and beauty of dogs.
National Dog Show Broadcast dates
Year | Date | Day |
---|---|---|
2022 | November 24 | Thursday |
2023 | November 23 | Thursday |
2024 | November 28 | Thursday |
2025 | November 27 | Thursday |
2026 | November 26 | Thursday |