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The Kennel Club of Philadelphia Dog Show

The Kennel Club of Philadelphia has presented dog shows for more than 125 years. Their two benched, all-breed dog shows are held this year on Saturday, November 17 and Sunday, November 18.

What to Expect

See over 2,000 of the top American Kennel Club sanctioned dogs from across the country. Over 150 different breeds and varieties compete for best of Breed, First in Group and the coveted title of Best in Show. Each day brings different competitions and attractions.

Saturday is The National Dog Show Presented by Purina, taped for telecast nationwide on Thanksgiving Day by NBC. It is the most widely viewed dog show in America.

Sunday’s show offers more canine competitions, enhanced athletic dog exhibitions plus family-friendly activities and hands-on fun.

Why is a “Benched” Dog Show so special?

Many who are not familiar with competitive dog shows may find themselves wondering what the difference is between a benched dog show and a non-benched dog show. A benched show is where the participating dogs are required to be on assigned benches when they are not being shown in competition. This allows for all interested spectators, breeders, handlers and attendees to meet all of the participating dogs, interact, ask questions, and share information about the various breeds present at the show. A non-benched dog show does not require all dogs to remain “benched” throughout the competition. The National Dog Show is one of the few remaining and oldest benched dog shows in the United States, held annually since 1933.

The National Dog Show Presented by Purina

The National Dog Show Presented by Purina is broadcasted nationwide in high definition on NBC on Thanksgiving Day immediately following the Macy’s Parade, reaching an audience of nearly 20 million viewers. This two hour family entertainment special has become a major event in the dog show world and is rapidly becoming an important American holiday tradition.

The show is hosted by John O’Hurley, former Seinfeld star, winner of Dancing with the Stars, and purebred owner, along with Mary Carillo, and with expert commentary by David Frei, the “dean of dog show commentators.”