By Heidi Clayton
Alongside the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, NBC’s annual broadcast of The National Dog Show has become a Thanksgiving tradition. The show will be pre-recorded Nov. 16-17 right here in the Delaware Valley at the Greater Philadelphia Expo Center in Oaks, Pa.
Hosted by the Kennel Club of Philadelphia, The National Dog Show invites the public to meet various dog breeds and watch group judging, agility demonstrations and other canine sports. As a “benched show,” dogs are required to remain in designated areas for the entire event, allowing attendees to meet them throughout the day.
Rare breeds like the Xoloitzcuintli, or “Xolo,” will be present, with 18 participating in this year’s show. Fans of Golden Retrievers will have a chance to meet 52 of them, while 38 French Bulldogs – the most popular registered breed in the United States – will also be featured. This year’s show boasts a record 1,868 entries.
For prospective dog owners interested in bringing a purebred dog into their lives, The National Dog Show provides a unique opportunity to learn about each breed from experienced breeders. Many attendees travel specifically to meet certain breeds, such as Bull Terriers, and to speak with breeders about what it’s like to live with one. Lines often form to meet the star canine participants.
In addition to the show, a variety of vendors will be onsite selling dog treats, collars, coats and more. Attendees may also spot show hosts David Frei, Mary Carillo and John O’Hurley visiting with the dogs. Breed winners will advance to the group judging, which will be broadcast on Thanksgiving Day, with spectators encouraged to cheer for their favorite contenders.
Families looking for a fun day trip can visit the Greater Philadelphia Expo Center at 1100 Station Ave. in Oaks, Pa., on Saturday or Sunday. Admission is $20 for adults, $10 for children ages 4-11, and free for children under 3.
The event is known for creating memorable experiences for kids who love the chance to interact with so many dogs. Stop by Row 15A to meet SoraBully’s Double Down on Sushi Pops, or “Kabuki,” a White Bull Terrier making his debut.
For more information, email heidi@fouronthefloordogtraining.net.
Heidi Clayton started Four On the Floor Dog Training to provide positive, reward-based dog training in South Jersey. She breeds, trains and shows bull terriers under the SoraBully’s Bull Terriers kennel name. Email questions to heidi@fouronthefloordogtraining.net or learn more at https://fouronthefloordogtraining.net
