D-O-G-S 😍🤗. Need I say more? I grew up watching The National Dog Show on Thanksgiving Day with my family (that is before food and football takeover for the day), so when I was invited by The Kennel Club of Philadelphia to attend the National Dog Show this past weekend I was ecstatic! The National Dog Show is sanctioned by the American Kennel Club (AKC) and presented by Purina. The all-breed dog show was held at the Greater Philadelphia Expo Center at Oaks on Saturday, November 18th and Sunday, November 19th. There were over 2,000 dogs and more than 150 breeds represented. Dogs on dogs, on dogs, on dogs… on dogs, on dogs. It was an unbelievable sight! As an animal lover and National Dog Show first-timer, I was in awe during the entire event!
The National Dog Show is one of the few remaining and oldest benched dog shows in the United States, it has been held annually since 1933. “Benched” dog shows refers to the requirement that all of the dogs competing remain at assigned benches when they are not being shown in the competition. This allows for the guests to interact with the dogs, handlers, breeders, and owners at the show and it was honestly one of my favorite parts of the event. I got to get up, close, and personal with so many of the different breeds. It was like a dream come true. It’s a great place to not only meet the dogs, but also gain a closer look into what it takes for each owner/handler to prepare for a show. People travelled from all over the country to compete and watch the show. There is plenty of parking at the expo but a lot, and I mean A LOT of people come out to watch so be prepared.
Saturday’s events from the National Dog Show are taped for the nationwide telecast that airs in high definition on NBC Thanksgiving Day right after the Macy’s Parade. Sunday is filled with canine competitions, enhanced athletic dog exhibitions plus family-friendly activities and hands-on fun. The show is hosted by John O’Hurley and Mary Carillo, with expert commentary by David Frei. I had the pleasure of partaking in a media conference call last Thursday before the show with John O’Hurley and David Frei where they expressed their genuine excitement to be a part of this dog show year after year. After seeing it myself firsthand, I now understand why it’s one of America’s most watched and most beloved traditions. Besides, nothing brings people together like dogs do.
The National Dog Show is a great place for families and people who love dogs. It’s a very fun and educational experience, plus the show also serves as a fundraiser that helps many canine-related causes. If you’re in the Philadelphia area next year it is definitely worth planning a trip to see the National Dog Show. I can’t wait to attend again next year. Be sure to tune in to NBC to watch the National Dog Show 2017 from noon to 2pm tomorrow Thursday, November 23rd. Below are some behind the scenes pictures and videos I snagged at this year’s show. Unfortunately my dog Rupert (@rupertthedawg) did not win best in show (shhhh don’t tell him that though), but you can catch who does on Thanksgiving Day!
