The National Dog Show: 7 Shocking Secrets Behind The Thanksgiving Day Tradition

Every Thanksgiving Day, millions of Americans tune in to watch two major spectacles: the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade and the highly anticipated National Dog Show Presented by Purina. This holiday tradition, which aired its most recent broadcast on November 27, 2025, immediately following the parade, offers a delightful two-hour break from the kitchen chaos and family dynamics, showcasing hundreds of the world's most magnificent purebred dogs. The event is much more than just a beauty contest; it is a serious, high-stakes competition sanctioned by the American Kennel Club (AKC) that crowns one extraordinary dog as the coveted Best in Show winner.

The 2025 show delivered a stunning upset, with a majestic female Belgian Sheepdog named "Soleil" capturing the top prize, proving that the competition is always fierce and full of surprises. As we look ahead to the next broadcast on November 26, 2026, understanding the inner workings of this massive event—from its century-old history to the seven distinct competitive groups—is essential to fully appreciating one of the most heartwarming and enduring holiday broadcasts on television.

The National Dog Show: A Complete Guide to Its History, Hosts, and Champions

The National Dog Show is steeped in history, far predating its television debut. While its broadcast is a relatively modern tradition, the event itself is one of the oldest and most respected in the world of purebred dogs.

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Event Profile: The National Dog Show Presented by Purina

• Official Name: The National Dog Show Presented by Purina
• Organizing Body: The Kennel Club of Philadelphia (KCP)
• First Show: 1879 (as the KCP Dog Show)
• Television Debut: 2002 (on NBC, post-Macy's Parade)
• Annual Date: U.S. Thanksgiving Day (Fourth Thursday in November)
• 2026 Broadcast Date: Thursday, November 26, 2026
• Venue: Greater Philadelphia Expo Center in Oaks, Pennsylvania
• Sanctioning Body: American Kennel Club (AKC)
• Current Hosts: John O'Hurley (Lead Host) and David Frei (Expert Analyst)
• On-Site Reporter: Mary Carillo

The Most Recent Champion: Soleil the Belgian Sheepdog (2025)

In a thrilling finish to the 2025 competition, the title of Best in Show was awarded to "Soleil," a beautiful 5½-year-old female Belgian Sheepdog. Soleil, a winner from the Herding Group, captivated the judges with her flawless grace, intelligence, and poise. This win followed the previous year's surprising victor, "Vito" the Pug, who won Best in Show in 2024. The runner-up for the 2025 title, known as Reserve Best in Show, was a magnificent Standard Poodle named "George."

The televised event is actually taped over two days (typically the Saturday and Sunday before Thanksgiving) at the Greater Philadelphia Expo Center, but the final, edited broadcast is strategically timed to air on Thanksgiving Day, making it a perfect, non-controversial staple of the holiday schedule.

Decoding the 7 Competitive Groups: How a Dog Becomes Best in Show

The road to Best in Show is a rigorous process that begins with hundreds of dogs competing within their specific breeds. The winners of each breed then advance to compete against other dogs in their assigned Group. There are precisely seven groups, each categorized based on the breed's original purpose and function.

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Understanding these seven groups is the key to appreciating the judging process and predicting a potential winner. The winner of each of the seven groups advances to the final ring to compete for the ultimate Best in Show title.

The Seven Pillars of Competition

Each group represents a unique history of canine purpose, from hunting to herding, and the judges are looking for the dog that best exemplifies its breed standard.

• Sporting Group: These dogs were bred to assist hunters, often by pointing, flushing, or retrieving game. This group includes popular breeds like the Labrador Retriever, Golden Retriever, and Irish Setter.
• Hound Group: Hounds are primarily used for hunting, either by sight (like the Greyhound) or by scent (like the Beagle and Bloodhound). Their endurance and keen senses are paramount.
• Working Group: True utility dogs, this group contains breeds bred for jobs like guarding property, pulling sleds, and performing rescues. Think of the Boxer, Doberman Pinscher, and Siberian Husky.
• Terrier Group: Known for their feisty and energetic personalities, Terriers were originally bred to hunt vermin. Breeds like the Scottish Terrier, Russell Terrier, and the Wire Fox Terrier are common winners from this group.
• Toy Group: These small dogs were bred primarily to be companions and lap dogs. Despite their size, they are judged on the same high standards as the larger breeds. The Pug and Cavalier King Charles Spaniel belong here.
• Non-Sporting Group: This is a diverse group of dogs that don't fit into the other six categories. Their roles have evolved from their original purpose. The Bulldog, Dalmatian, and Poodle are prime examples.
• Herding Group: The newest official AKC group (established in 1983), these dogs were bred to move livestock. This is the group from which the 2025 winner, Soleil the Belgian Sheepdog, emerged. Other breeds include the Border Collie and German Shepherd.

The Enduring Legacy of the Thanksgiving Dog Show

The National Dog Show has cemented its place in American culture, not just as a sporting event but as a beloved holiday fixture. Its success is a testament to the universal appeal of man's best friend and the sheer dedication of the handlers and owners.

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The Star Power of the Hosts

A significant part of the show's charm is its consistent and charismatic hosting duo. Since the television broadcast began, actor and former Seinfeld star John O'Hurley and veteran dog show commentator David Frei have been the voices of the event. O'Hurley provides the light-hearted commentary, while Frei, a former director of communications for the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show, offers deep, expert analysis, creating a perfect balance of entertainment and education for the casual viewer.

More Than Just a Show: The Economics and Entities

The event is a massive undertaking, attracting thousands of spectators and competitors to the Greater Philadelphia Expo Center. It is an important showcase for the American Kennel Club (AKC), promoting the responsible breeding and ownership of purebred dogs. The primary sponsor, Purina, has been integral to the show's modern success, ensuring its high production value and wide reach. The show also serves as a crucial platform for numerous dog-related entities, from professional handlers and breeders to veterinarians and breed clubs.

As the holiday season rolls around each year, the National Dog Show remains a comforting, feel-good moment. It’s a chance to marvel at the incredible diversity and talent of the canine world, making it the perfect post-turkey viewing experience that continues to delight families well into the future, with the next spectacle already scheduled for Thanksgiving Day 2026.