45 Facts About National Dog Show

The National Dog Show: A Thanksgiving Tradition

The National Dog Show is a beloved event that has become a staple of Thanksgiving Day in the United States. With a rich history and a wide array of canine competitors, it offers something for everyone. Here are some fascinating facts about this prestigious event.

1. The Kennel Club of Philadelphia (KCP) started hosting dog shows in 1879, making it one of the oldest dog shows in the United States.
2. The show has been held annually since its inception, with a brief hiatus during the Great Depression from 1928 to 1932.
3. The show was rebranded as The National Dog Show in 2002 when it began to be televised on NBC, inspired by the movie "Best in Show."
4. The National Dog Show airs on NBC every Thanksgiving Day, following the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade and preceding football games.
5. The show is hosted by John O’Hurley and David Frei, with Mary Carillo also contributing to the broadcast.

The Venue and Participants

The National Dog Show is held at a specific location and features a large number of participants, making it a grand event.

6. The show is held at the Greater Philadelphia Expo Center in Oaks, Pennsylvania.
7. Judges evaluate dogs based on their breed standards, including overall appearance, structure, and temperament.
8. There are seven breed categories: Herding Group, Hound Group, Non-Sporting Group, Sporting Group, Terrier Group, Toy Group, and Working Group.
9. A total of 209 AKC registered breeds and varieties compete in the show.
10. Approximately 2,000 dogs are entered into the competition each year.

The Competition and Judging

The competition is fierce, and the judging process is meticulous, ensuring that only the best dogs win.

11. The "First In Group" from each category competes against each other for Best in Show.
12. The National Dog Show is a benched show, meaning dogs must stay on assigned benches unless they are competing, being groomed, or exercised.
13. The benched format allows spectators to interact with the dogs and ask questions to their handlers.
14. The dogs must exhibit discipline and patience while staying on their benches amidst the bustling activity of the show.
15. Judges assess dogs based on their ability to perform the job their breed was originally bred to do, their physical characteristics, fitness, and gait.

Historical Significance and Cultural Impact

The National Dog Show is not just a competition; it has a significant cultural and historical impact.

16. Judges also evaluate a dog's demeanor and expression, looking for happy and genuinely enjoying the competition.
17. The National Dog Show is one of the three major dog shows in the United States, along with the AKC National Championship and the Westminster Dog Show.
18. Winners of the National Dog Show may be invited to compete at Crufts, a prestigious international dog show.
19. The 2020 show was held behind closed doors due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
20. The show has been a part of American culture for over 140 years, with its first iteration dating back to 1879.

Behind the Scenes

A lot goes on behind the scenes to make the National Dog Show a success.

21. The format of the show was established by a one-time dog show held at the United States centennial in 1876.
22. The show traditionally takes place over two days in late November, attracting thousands of spectators and participants.
23. The show reaches almost 20 million viewers annually, making it a significant television event.
24. The National Dog Show has become a beloved family tradition, with many families gathering to watch the show on Thanksgiving Day.
25. The show is part of the larger dog show circuit, where dogs compete in various events throughout the year.

Promoting Canine Excellence

The National Dog Show aims to promote breed preservation and responsible dog ownership.

26. The show aims to promote breed preservation and responsible dog ownership, highlighting the importance of canine health.
27. The National Dog Show contributes to various dog-related charities, supporting initiatives that benefit canine welfare.
28. Contestants often have long and wacky names, adding to the show's entertainment value.
29. Judging between hundreds of dogs of different shapes, sizes, and kinds is a challenging task that requires meticulous evaluation.
30. Judges must adhere to strict breed standards, evaluating dogs based on their physical characteristics and temperament.

Public Interaction and Grooming

The show allows for public interaction and requires high standards of grooming and handling.

31. Spectators can interact with the dogs, asking questions and petting them (with permission from their handlers).
32. Dogs must be groomed and handled professionally to meet the high standards of the show.
33. The competition format involves several rounds, starting with Best in Breed within each group, followed by Best in Group, and finally Best in Show.
34. The first dog to win two consecutive Best in Show awards in the show's history is not specified in the available sources.
35. The idea for televising the National Dog Show was inspired by the 2000 comedy film "Best in Show," which follows a group of eccentric dog owners competing in a dog show.

NBC's Role and Sponsorship

NBC played a crucial role in popularizing the show, and sponsorship is vital for its success.

36. NBC Sports played a crucial role in popularizing the show, recognizing its potential as a family-friendly event that could fill the slot between the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade and football games.
37. Jon Miller, NBC Sports’ President of Acquisitions & Partnerships, was instrumental in bringing the show to television, suggesting it as a perfect fit for Thanksgiving Day programming.
38. Miller’s idea initially sounded offbeat to some, but he was soon in talks with the Kennel Club of Philadelphia to make it a reality.
39. The show requires extensive logistics, including renting out the Philadelphia Expo Center, catering, stage setup, and providing for the dogs and spectators.
40. The show relies heavily on sponsorship support from companies like Purina, Carson Events, and local media partners to cover its costs and ensure its continuation.

Event Production and Cultural Significance

The production of the event is a massive undertaking, and its cultural significance cannot be overstated.

41. The show also benefits from local media partners such as Pet Life Radio, Westover Golf Club, and Home Depot, which provide additional support and promotion.
42. Major sponsors like Purina provide the majority of the funding needed to host the event, including broadcasting costs and other expenses.
43. The show is produced by NBC, with Carson Events handling the production and packaging of canine events.
44. The National Dog Show has become an integral part of American culture, symbolizing family values and the importance of pets in our lives.
45. From its origins in 1879 to its current status as a televised spectacle, the show continues to captivate audiences with its unique blend of canine excellence and family tradition.

Celebrating Canine Excellence

The National Dog Show, with its rich history and cultural significance, has become a beloved Thanksgiving tradition. From its origins in 1879 to its rebranding in 2002, this event showcases the best of canine breeds. With around 2,000 dogs competing across seven breed categories, the show highlights the importance of breed standards, discipline, and public interaction. Televised on NBC, it reaches nearly 20 million viewers annually, making it a significant part of American culture. The show's benched format allows spectators to engage with the dogs, adding a unique touch to the experience. Supported by sponsors like Nestlé Purina PetCare, the event also contributes to various dog-related charities. Whether you're a dog enthusiast or just enjoy the spectacle, the National Dog Show offers a fascinating glimpse into the world of canine competition, celebrating the bond between humans and their four-legged friends.