The 2025 National Dog Show will showcase 1,994 dogs from 201 different breeds. Scheduled for Thanksgiving Day, November 27, the event will air at 12 p.m. ET on NBC and Peacock. Hosted by the Kennel Club of Philadelphia, this prestigious event will take place at the Greater Philadelphia Expo Center in Oaks, Pennsylvania. The National Dog Show has a rich history, having been founded in 1879 and held annually since 1933.
Eligibility and Judging Criteria
Only purebred dogs registered with the American Kennel Club (AKC) can compete in the show. The breeds are divided into seven distinct groups:
- Herding
- Hound
- Non-Sporting
- Sporting
- Terrier
- Toy
- Working
Judges assess each dog based on how well they conform to breed standards. Criteria include appearance, temperament, and build. Winners are determined first in their breed, followed by competition at the group level for the title of Best in Show.
History of Champions
The event has produced various champions since its inception on NBC. In 2024, a pug named Vito from North Carolina clinched the Best in Show title. Other notable winners include:
- Winston, a French Bulldog, in 2022
- Jewel, an American Foxhound, in 2013
- Raisin, a Doberman, in 2003
Introducing the Danish-Swedish Farmdog
A new addition to the event this year is the Danish-Swedish Farmdog, recognized by the AKC on January 1, 2025. This breed has been a part of the AKC Foundation Stock Services Program since 2011 and belongs to the Working Group, known for being a diligent companion.
Group-Wise Breakdown of Breeds
Herding Group
- Australian Cattle Dog
- Collie (Rough)
- German Shepherd Dog
- Border Collie
- Belgian Malinois
Hound Group
- Afghan Hound
- Beagle (13 inches)
- Dachshund (Longhaired)
- Greyhound
- Irish Wolfhound
Non-Sporting Group
- Bichon Frise
- Bulldog
- Dalmatian
- French Bulldog
- Shiba Inu
Sporting Group
- Golden Retriever
- Irish Setter
- Labrador Retriever
- Pointer
- Springer Spaniel
Terrier Group
- Airedale Terrier
- Scottish Terrier
- West Highland Terrier
Toy Group
- Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
- Pomeranian
- Shih Tzu
Working Group
- Akita
- Doberman Pinscher
- Rottweiler
Event Coverage and Audience
The National Dog Show is a beloved annual tradition, attracting over 20 million viewers. It airs as a two-hour special right after the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, marking its 24th consecutive year in this slot. Fans can enjoy the show on NBC, Peacock, NBCSports.com, and the NBC Sports app.
