The National Dog Show on Thanksgiving: A Paw-Filled Holiday Tradition
Every Thanksgiving, families across the country gather around the TV after their big meal—not just for football, but for one of the most beloved canine traditions of the year: The National Dog Show. For dog lovers, this event is basically the Super Bowl of fluff, talent, and tail wags. At All Dogs, we believe in celebrating every breed, every goofy personality, and every proud pup moment, which makes this show one of our favorite holiday highlights.
🐕 What Makes the National Dog Show So Special?
Hosted by the Kennel Club of Philadelphia and televised on NBC, the National Dog Show is one of the oldest and most prestigious dog events in the country. More than 2,000 dogs from over 190 breeds compete for titles like Best in Group and the coveted Best in Show.
But the magic isn’t just in the ribbons.
It’s about celebrating the bond between dogs and their humans, showcasing the diversity of breeds, and giving dog lovers everywhere something heartwarming to enjoy between parade floats and pumpkin pie.
📺 A Thanksgiving Tradition for the Whole Family
Whether you’re cheering for a Golden Retriever, swooning over a sassy Poodle, or rooting for an underdog (literally), the show is perfect for cozy couch viewing with your own pup by your side.
Here’s why people love watching year after year:
🐾 It’s wholesome, joyful entertainment after a busy holiday morning.
🐾 Every breed gets a moment to shine, from tiny toys to giant working dogs.
🐾 Kids love it, adults love it, dogs love it — it’s a win all around.
🐾 It inspires appreciation for responsible breeding, training, and companionship.
🏆 The Breeds to Look Out For
Each year brings exciting competition, unexpected group winners, and crowd-favorite breeds that steal the show.
Some of the stars often include:
The elegant Hound Group
The always-gorgeous Sporting Group
The powerful Working Group
And the animated, playful Toy Group
Even if your dog is more “Best in Zoomies” than “Best in Show,” every pup is a champion in our book.
🐶 How All Dogs Celebrates the Show
At All Dogs, we love using the National Dog Show as a reminder of just how wonderfully different each dog is. Whether your dog is a mixed breed, a purebred, a rescue, or a senior sweetheart, Thanksgiving is the perfect day to celebrate them.
We encourage our community to:
Snap photos of their dogs enjoying the show 📸
Share their own “Best in Show” moments
Spend a little extra time cuddling, playing, or walking after the holiday meal
Because no matter what the judges say on TV, your dog is always the star in your home.
🧡 A Day to Give Thanks for Our Dogs
Dogs give us so much—love, laughter, comfort, and companionship. Thanksgiving is a chance to appreciate them just a little more. So grab a cozy blanket, put the turkey in the fridge for later, and settle in with your furry friend to watch one of the happiest traditions on TV.
From all of us at All Dogs,
Happy Thanksgiving — and may the best pup win! 🏆🐾🍁
