Celebrate Thanksgiving with the National Dog Show on NBC

The National Dog Show will air on NBC this Thanksgiving, marking its 24th year as part of holiday celebrations. Scheduled for November 27, 2025, this beloved event showcases top dogs from across the United States, bringing families together to honor these cherished companions. The show will broadcast from 12:00 to 14:00 local time, following the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.

Held earlier this month at the Greater Philadelphia Expo Center in Oaks, Pennsylvania, the event is organized by the Philadelphia Kennel Club. Viewers can expect to see nearly 2,000 dogs representing 205 breeds and varieties, all competing for prestigious titles, including Best of Breed, First in Group, and the highly coveted Best in Show.

The show will be hosted by former “Seinfeld” actor John O’Hurley, alongside David Frei, an American Kennel Club-licensed judge, and NBC Sports analyst Mary Carillo. O’Hurley expressed his enthusiasm for the event, noting the joy of being surrounded by so many dogs. He remarked, “It’s just a wonderful day, and dogs always just round off the edges in our brittle lives.”

How the Competition Works

Competitors are categorized into seven distinct groups: Terrier, Toy, Working, Sporting, Hound, Non-Sporting, and Herding. The top dog from each group will compete for the ultimate accolade of Best in Show, where the winner will receive a prize of $2,000. With over 180 breeds represented, the competition promises to be exciting and diverse.

Viewing Options

For those wishing to watch, the National Dog Show will be available on NBC, with streaming options on Peacock, NBCSports.com, and the NBC Sports app. This year marks the 24th consecutive year that NBC has broadcast this event, solidifying its place in Thanksgiving traditions.

Last year, the title of Best in Show was awarded to a pug named Vito, captivating the audience with his charm and personality. As viewers prepare for this year’s competition, anticipation is high for which dog will take home the prestigious award.

The National Dog Show not only highlights the exceptional talents of these dogs but also serves as a heartwarming reminder of the joy they bring to families around the world.